Hinged Flapper Degasser for Automatic Solids Purging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional degasser systems clog due to high solids content in the liquid-gas stream, requiring frequent manual cleaning and are not suitable for applications with significant solids, such as pulp processing, where automatic or easy cleaning is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A degasser design featuring a cylindrical tank with a hinge-connected bottom that opens to allow automatic purging of liquids and solids, combined with a reduced inlet velocity to prevent clogging, and a vent pipe for gas separation, facilitated by a counterweight mechanism and non-planar bottom shape for efficient solid collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional degasser with a fixed bottom is used, then gas separation is achieved, but solids accumulate and cause clogging requiring manual cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom of the tank is made movable through a hinge connection, allowing it to dynamically open and close based on liquid level. This dynamic structure enables automatic purging of solids without manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between continuous operation and manual cleaning requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own liquid weight to automatically open the hinge and purge solids when the liquid level rises, and automatically closes when the level drops. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external manual cleaning operations while maintaining continuous operation
2Productivity
If the inlet velocity is high, then gas-liquid separation is efficient, but solids are carried into the tank causing clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet system is segmented into two functional zones: an upper region for efficient gas-liquid separation and a lower region with reduced velocity for solid deposition. This segmentation allows high separation efficiency while preventing solids from being carried deep into the tank where they would cause clogging
Solution Approach 2:
Different velocity conditions are created in different locations within the degasser. The upper portion maintains high velocity for effective separation, while the lower portion near the hinge has reduced velocity that allows solids to settle and be periodically purged, preventing clogging
3Extent of automation
If a flapper opening with hinge and counterweight is used, then automatic purging of solids is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A counterweight is attached to the hinge mechanism to provide the necessary force to open the flapper when liquid accumulates. This simple mechanical counterbalance system achieves automatic purging functionality with minimal complexity, avoiding the need for complex sensors, actuators, or control systems
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 prevents clogging and allows for automatic cleaning, ensuring continuous operation without manual intervention, even in high-solids applications, by facilitating the separation and removal of solids and gases efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
the bottom of the tank is connected to the circumferential side wall by a hinge such that the hinge at least partially opens when a sufficient mass of liquid weighs down on the bottom of the tank
Implementation Method 2
As the liquid-gas mixture enters the pipe 122, the liquids tend to fall, while the gasses tend to rise and exit out of the top of the degasser 102
Data Source
AI summary
A degasser having a flapper opening including a hinge. The hinge may permit purging of any liquids and solids without regular human intervention. There may be a fixed opening at the base of the degasser, such that there is a constant emptying from the bottom of the tank. The separation of gas from liquid may be involved in applications pertaining to pulping and oxygen delignification.