Hybrid Composite Discharge Electrode for Wet ESP

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing discharge electrodes in electrostatic precipitators face challenges with corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost, particularly in wet electrostatic precipitators where traditional metal alloys are expensive and heavy, and carbon fiber composites have inadequate through-thickness conductivity.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid composite discharge electrode combining metal layers and carbon fiber layers, which provides improved stability, uniformity, and corrosion resistance, while being lightweight and compact, with the metal mesh enhancing conductivity and protecting the carbon fibers from abrasion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional metal alloys are used for discharge electrodes in wet electrostatic precipitators, then corrosion resistance is improved, but weight and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrosion resistanceVSAvoidelectrode weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by combining carbon fiber reinforcement with a polymer matrix to create a discharge electrode that is both lightweight and corrosion-resistant. The carbon fiber provides structural strength and electrical conductivity, while the polymer matrix provides corrosion resistance, eliminating the need for heavy metal alloys in wet electrostatic precipitator environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Weight of moving object

If carbon fiber composites are used for discharge electrodes, then weight and corrosion resistance are improved, but through-thickness electrical conductivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode weightVSAvoidthrough-thickness conductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by orienting carbon fibers in specific directions within the composite structure to optimize electrical conductivity in the through-thickness direction while maintaining lightweight properties. The fiber orientation is strategically designed to conduct electricity effectively across the electrode thickness without requiring heavy metal materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If carbon fiber composites are used for discharge electrodes, then corrosion resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to conductivity control requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrosion resistanceVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the polymer matrix composition and curing parameters to achieve the desired balance between corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity. By adjusting the resin system, fiber volume fraction, and processing conditions, the manufacturing process is simplified while maintaining the required performance characteristics for corrosion-resistant applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 hybrid composite discharge electrode achieves a stable and uniform corona at lower voltages, reducing sparking and improving particulate collection efficiency, while being more cost-effective and durable than traditional metal electrodes.

Implementation Method 1

the corona current emitted from them charge the particles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCorona discharge: Corona Discharge

Implementation Method 2

driving the particulate to grounded collector plates

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS11623227B2Hybrid composite discharge electrode for use in an electrostatic precipitator
Publication Date: 2023.04.11 OHIO UNIV
  • US11623227B2 patent drawing
  • US11623227B2 patent drawing
  • US11623227B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid composite discharge electrode (HCDE) (20) includes at least one metal layer (22) and at least one carbon fiber layer (26). The HCDE (20) improves the stability and uniformity of the corona while being corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and compact. Additionally, a method of making a HCDE (20) is provided. In another aspect, an electrostatic precipitator (60) is provided and includes a hybrid composite discharge electrode (62).