Centrifugal Separator Feedback Loop for Natural Gas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for separating medium mixtures with small differences in mass density are inefficient and environmentally unfriendly, requiring large volumes and time, especially when processing large volumes, and lack sufficient selectivity and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that incorporates a feedback loop with second separating means reconnecting to the inlet of the first separating means, along with physical influences like temperature changes to enhance mass density differences, utilizing rotating assemblies or cyclones to separate fractions efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If sedimentation is used to separate fractions with small mass density differences, then separation is achieved, but the process requires large voluminous reservoirs and time, making it expensive and inefficient for large volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic separation using rotating separating means that create centrifugal forces to separate fractions based on mass density differences. This dynamic approach replaces static sedimentation reservoirs with rotating mechanisms that achieve separation in a compact, time-efficient manner while maintaining high selectivity for fractions with small mass density differences
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the separation parameter from gravitational sedimentation to centrifugal separation by rotating the separating means. This parameter change enables effective separation of fractions with small mass density differences without requiring large reservoir volumes, as the centrifugal force enhances the separation effect based on mass density differences
2Manufacturing precision
If chemical absorption techniques are used to separate gas/gas mixtures, then separation is achieved, but the process is less economical and environmentally friendly when processing large volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical absorption techniques with a mechanical/physical separation method using centrifugal forces generated by rotating separating means. This substitution eliminates the need for chemical agents, making the process more economical and environmentally friendly while maintaining high separation selectivity and enabling efficient processing of large volumes
3Device complexity
If a single separation stage is used, then the device is simpler, but separation efficiency and selectivity are insufficient for fractions with small mass density differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the separation process into multiple sequential stages, where the output of one separating means feeds into another. This segmentation allows each stage to progressively improve separation selectivity, achieving high purity fractions while keeping individual separating means relatively simple in design
4Ease of operation
If filtration and screening are used to separate fractions with great differences in particle size, then separation is simple and effective, but these methods cannot separate fractions with small mass density differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the separation parameter from particle size-based filtration to mass density-based centrifugal separation. This parameter change enables the separation of fractions with small mass density differences while maintaining operational simplicity through the use of rotating separating means that automatically differentiate fractions based on their density
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly increases separation efficiency and selectivity, reduces the presence of undesired fractions, and allows for a compact, time-efficient process, achieving purer fractions with reduced contamination, suitable for various applications including gas/gas mixtures and natural gas cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
In a rotating feed channel the heavier fraction of the mixture for separating is moved further outward towards the wall thereof than the lighter fraction under the influence of the centrifugal force, thus resulting in a separation
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for separating a flowing medium mixture into at least two fractions with differing mass density. The device comprises an inlet for the medium mixture to be separated, which connects to first separating means for separating the flowing mixture in at least a first and a second fraction, and that connect to first and second outlet means for discharging the first and second fractions. The device further comprises a feedback loop comprising second separating means between the second outlet means and the inlet means of the first separating means. The invention also relates to a method for separating a flowing medium mixture into at least two fractions with differing mass density, using the claimed device. The device and method allow to obtain a more selective separation, particularly in purifying natural gas.