Flared-End Membrane Vessel Sealing for Low-Pressure Leak Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing membrane vessels face challenges in providing a secure and efficient sealing mechanism for membrane elements, particularly in low-pressure applications, which can lead to leaks and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A membrane vessel design featuring a cylindrical tube with a flared end and a cap with an inclined perimeter surface that fits snugly over the flared end, secured by a clamp and o-ring for enhanced sealing, allowing for a secure fit and improved retention of the membrane element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional sealing mechanism is used in membrane vessels, then the structure is simple, but leaking occurs and sealing reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism is divided into multiple functional components: a flared end section integrated with the pressure vessel, a cap with complementary geometry, and an elastomeric sealing element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while collectively providing robust sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
An elastomeric sealing element is introduced as an intermediary between the rigid flared end and the cap. This elastomeric material deforms under compression to fill gaps and create a reliable seal, mediating between the structural components and preventing fluid leakage.
2Reliability
If the cap is retained loosely on the cylindrical tube, then the structure is simple, but the membrane element retention is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flared end is designed with a curved, flared geometry that tapers outward from the cylindrical body. This curved surface complements the corresponding inclined surface on the cap, creating a wedge-shaped compression zone that securely retains the membrane element when the cap is installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flared end geometry is pre-formed during manufacturing to create the sealing and retention geometry before assembly. This preliminary shaping ensures that when the cap is installed and secured with a clamp, the membrane element is immediately and effectively retained without requiring additional adjustment or complex mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a flared end with specific angle geometry is used, then the sealing performance is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flared end is designed with a specific angle range (105-115 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis) that optimizes sealing performance. By specifying a range rather than a single precise value, the design accommodates normal manufacturing tolerances while maintaining effective sealing through the elastomeric element's compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
An elastomeric sealing element is used to accommodate variations in the flared end geometry. The elastomeric material's flexibility allows it to deform and conform to the flared surface even when manufacturing precision varies within acceptable ranges, maintaining sealing effectiveness without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing.
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 design provides a robust sealing mechanism that minimizes leaks and enhances the performance and reliability of membrane vessels in low-pressure applications.
Implementation Method 1
a clamp configured to engage a proximal perimeter surface of the cap and an outer surface of the flared end of the cylinder, and apply pressure to retain the cap on the flared end of the cylinder
Implementation Method 2
the vessel and cap further comprises an o-ring... provides a robust sealing mechanism that minimizes leaks
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a membrane vessel, the membrane vessel comprising: a cylindrical tube for holding a membrane element, the cylindrical tube having a first end and a second end; at least one flared end of the cylindrical tube wherein the tube flares outward at an angle from the end of the cylindrical tube; a cap configured to fit into the end of the cylindrical tube, the cap comprising an inclined distal perimeter surface configured to contact the inner surface of the flared tube.