In-Line Steam Trap Separator Using a Conical Deflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steam traps are complex, costly, and prone to mechanical issues, requiring additional plumbing and space due to their off-line installation, which complicates the efficient separation of liquid from gas in steam systems.
Innovation Solution
A compact, in-line steam trap with a conical deflector and thermo-electric valve that deflects liquid into a separate channel while allowing gas to pass around it, eliminating the need for additional plumbing and ensuring efficient condensate removal with minimal vapor loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional steam traps with moving mechanical parts are used, then reliable steam trap function is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the moving mechanical parts from the steam trap design. The separator uses a fixed conical deflector and stationary liquid channel to achieve separation based on fluid dynamics alone, removing the need for mechanical moving components while maintaining reliable condensate discharge function
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical operation system with a fluid dynamics-based separation system. Instead of using moving parts to open/close valves, the design uses the natural density difference between condensate and steam combined with a fixed conical deflector to achieve automatic separation and discharge
2Reliability
If conventional steam traps with complex linkages are used, then steam trap function is achieved, but susceptibility to sticking and clogging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes complex linkages and levers from the design, replacing them with a simple fixed conical deflector and stationary liquid channel. This elimination of mechanical linkages removes the sources of sticking and clogging while preserving the essential steam trap function
Solution Approach 2:
The separator design allows condensate to flow through the liquid channel and exit via gravity and pressure differential without requiring mechanical actuation. The system serves itself by using the natural fluid dynamics to prevent condensate accumulation and potential clogging
3Reliability
If conventional steam traps are installed off-line from the steam transportation line, then steam trap function is achieved, but additional plumbing installation and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the steam trap function directly into the steam transportation line by installing the separator in-line. The conical deflector and liquid channel are integrated within the pipe flow path, combining the separation function with the existing steam line rather than requiring separate off-line installation
Solution Approach 2:
The in-line separator design serves multiple functions: it separates condensate from steam, maintains steam flow, and integrates with the existing pipe system. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional plumbing while achieving reliable steam trap operation
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 solution provides a reliable, cost-effective, and space-efficient method for condensate removal in steam systems, reducing maintenance costs and rust, and ensuring efficient steam system operation by integrating directly into the steam line.
Implementation Method 1
a conical deflector that deflects the liquid into a liquid channel
Implementation Method 2
the valve is a thermo-electric valve
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4B
Figure 5
AI summary
A device for separating liquid from gas including: a fluid inlet configured to receive a fluid that includes a liquid and a gas; a gas outlet; a deflector positioned between the fluid inlet and the gas outlet, the deflector obstructing a path from the fluid inlet to the gas outlet; and a liquid channel adjacent to a liquid outlet; wherein the deflector is configured to deflect the liquid to the liquid channel; wherein the liquid deflected to the liquid channel exits the device through the liquid outlet; and wherein the gas flows around the deflector and exits the device through the gas outlet.