Device for separating gas from a vector fluid in a circuit of a thermal system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas separation devices for vector fluids in thermal systems are inefficient, requiring multiple passages to evacuate most of the gas and are difficult to integrate with the piping of the thermal system.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cylindrical chamber and tangentially positioned inlet and outlet, featuring a gas collecting tube and intercepting disc, induces swirling motion to separate and collect gas bubbles, allowing nearly complete gas evacuation in a single passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional gas separation devices are used, then gas evacuation is achieved, but multiple passages are required to evacuate most of the gas and installation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the separation chamber into distinct functional zones: a swirling flow generation zone, a gas accumulation zone, and a gas evacuation zone. The dividing wall with opening creates segmented flow paths that enhance gas-liquid separation efficiency within a single passage, allowing complete gas evacuation without requiring multiple sequential passages.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a vertical dimension to gas evacuation by positioning the gas evacuation port at the highest point of the separation chamber. This three-dimensional arrangement allows gas bubbles to rise naturally to the top and be evacuated vertically, maximizing separation efficiency within a single passage and eliminating the need for multiple horizontal passages.
2Productivity
If conventional gas separation devices are used, then gas evacuation is achieved, but installation along the piping is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with standard threaded connections (G1/2" or NPT 1/2") that are universally compatible with common piping systems. The compact cylindrical body can be installed in various orientations (horizontal, vertical, or inclined) within piping circuits, making it adaptable to different thermal system configurations without requiring custom installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical chamber design with smooth curved surfaces facilitates easy integration into piping systems. The rounded geometry reduces flow resistance and allows the device to be installed in tight spaces along pipes, while the tangential inlet/outlet positioning maintains smooth fluid flow transitions that are easy to connect to existing piping.
3Reliability
If gas separation device is installed in thermal system, then gas is removed from vector fluid, but system efficiency, noise, safety and durability are affected by gas presence
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes the natural properties of the flowing vector fluid itself to generate the swirling motion required for separation. The tangential inlet positioning causes the fluid to enter with rotational momentum, creating a vortex that automatically separates gas bubbles without requiring external power sources, moving parts, or additional energy input, thus eliminating gas-related efficiency losses and noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful presence of gas bubbles in the vector fluid into a beneficial separation process. By designing the chamber with a dividing wall and strategic opening positioning, the device harnesses the upward buoyancy of gas bubbles and directs them into dedicated evacuation zones, transforming the problematic gas-containing fluid into separated phases where gas is efficiently removed through the highest port.
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 device effectively removes nearly all gas from the vector fluid in a single passage, ensuring easy installation and integration with thermal system piping.
Implementation Method 1
the liquid generates a swirling motion inside the lower chamber itself
Implementation Method 2
the device described in the French patent application FR2043048A5... place the vector fluid itself in a swirling motion
Implementation Method 3
the bubbles thus generated rise to the upper chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A device for separating gas from a vector fluid in a circuit of a thermal system has internally a cylindrical chamber provided upperly with an inlet for the fluid which is offset with respect to the axis of the chamber and provided lowerly with an outlet for the fluid; in the upper part of the chamber a gas collecting tube is coaxially located which extends along the chamber and communicates upperly with an automatic gas vent valve; around the tube a swirling motion develops and inside the tube gas bubbles rise to the gas vent valve; near and upstream of the outlet in the chamber an intercepting disc is provided which is spaced away from the lower edge of the tube and prevents the central part of the fluid in swirling motion that forms between the edge of the tube and the disc to flow into the outlet area. The device allows all or almost all the amount of gas flowing in the circuit to be evacuated in a single passage and can be easily assembled.