Flexible Membrane Distributor for PSA Vessels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flow distribution systems in pressure swing adsorption (PSA) vessels face issues with localized bending stresses, erosion, corrosion, and impractical replacement, particularly when processing embrittling fluids, leading to potential leaks and safety risks due to high momentary pressure gradients and clogging.

Innovation Solution

A distributor system with a lower distributor having flow permitting surfaces and structural support fins that centralize and support the flow distribution, allowing for uniform flow distribution while preventing particle migration and liquid accumulation, and featuring a design that can be removably attached to minimize stress on the pressure vessel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If stiff flow distribution apparatus are used to resist collapse, then structural strength is improved, but localized bending stresses increase causing cracks in the pressure vessel

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidlocalized bending stresses

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The flow distribution apparatus uses a flexible membrane structure instead of rigid stiff components. The membrane can deform elastically under pressure loads, distributing stresses uniformly across the pressure vessel surface rather than creating localized bending stresses that cause cracks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the mechanical properties of the flow distribution apparatus from rigid to flexible by using membrane materials with appropriate elasticity. This parameter change allows the structure to accommodate pressure variations without generating harmful localized stresses while maintaining sufficient strength to resist collapse.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If screens or flow distribution devices are installed to prevent adsorbent loss, then adsorbent retention is improved, but erosion and corrosion increase due to liquid accumulation and welding imperfections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadsorbent retentionVSAvoiderosion and corrosion

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible membrane structure prevents adsorbent particles from passing through while avoiding the erosion and corrosion problems associated with rigid screens. The membrane's flexibility prevents liquid accumulation and eliminates welding imperfections that would otherwise create corrosion sites.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The membrane structure can be constructed from composite materials that combine high strength with resistance to erosion and corrosion. This allows the flow distribution apparatus to retain adsorbent effectively while withstanding the harsh chemical and mechanical environment without degrading.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Stability of the object's composition

If distributors are welded to the pressure vessel head, then structural stability is improved, but replacement becomes impractical once installed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidreplacement difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The flow distribution apparatus is designed as a separable component that can be independently removed and replaced. The membrane structure is configured to fit within the pressure vessel and attach to the head without permanent welding, allowing for practical replacement while maintaining structural stability during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from a static welded connection to a dynamic, removable connection system. The membrane structure can be installed and removed as needed, providing both structural stability during operation and ease of replacement when maintenance is required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Manufacturing precision

If fine screens are used within the distributor, then flow distribution precision is improved, but clogging increases leading to pressure gradients and potential failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflow distribution precisionVSAvoidclogging resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible membrane structure provides effective flow distribution without the clogging problems of fine screens. The membrane's porous or perforated structure can be designed with appropriate opening sizes to distribute flow uniformly while resisting clogging from particles and liquid accumulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS9034084B2Apparatus for distributing flow

Publication Date: 2015.05.19 LUMMUS TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

Embodiments herein relate generally to distribution of flow into vessels containing packed beds of media. An example application of such beds is to pressure swing or temperature swing adsorption systems. Systems herein may include a vessel and a distributor for distributing flow into a lower portion of the vessel. The system may include: a vessel comprising a top head and a bottom head; and a bottom head feed/effluent nozzle. A lower distributor having at least one flow permitting surface is disposed within the vessel and encompasses an inlet of the bottom head feed/effluent nozzle. A flow gap is formed between a bottom portion of the lower distributor and the bottom head feed/effluent nozzle.