Liquid Jet Ejector Asphalt Oxidation Air Blowing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current asphalt oxidation processes are inefficient in modifying the physical properties of asphalt, particularly in increasing the softening temperature, which is essential for applications beyond road paving such as roofing and pipe coating, and there is a need for more cost-effective methods.
Innovation Solution
A process utilizing a liquid jet ejector with a diptube positioned below the oxidizer vessel liquid level to enhance air/asphalt mixing and stripping, reducing the cumulative air required for oxidation, thereby increasing the softening temperature of asphalt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional air blowing methods are used to oxidize asphalt, then the asphalt can be modified to soften at higher temperatures, but the process requires large amounts of air and is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a liquid jet ejector system that uses hydraulic principles to generate high-velocity liquid jets for mixing asphalt with air. The system utilizes a pump to circulate water through nozzles, creating powerful jets that entrain and mix with air in the oxidation vessel, replacing conventional mechanical agitation and reducing air consumption while maintaining effective oxidation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the oxidation process by using high-velocity liquid jets to create intense mixing conditions. The system operates at controlled temperatures and uses the kinetic energy of the liquid jets to enhance mass transfer between air and asphalt, improving oxidation efficiency while reducing the total air volume required
2Temperature
If conventional air blowing is used to increase softening temperature, then asphalt can be modified for applications beyond paving, but the process is costly and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid jet ejector system uses hydraulic energy to drive the oxidation process. Water is pumped through nozzles to create high-velocity jets that efficiently mix with air and asphalt, providing intense circulation and heat transfer that accelerates oxidation reactions and improves productivity compared to conventional air blowing methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical mixing systems with a hydraulic jet system. Instead of using mechanical agitators or compressors to force air through asphalt, the system uses high-velocity liquid jets to create turbulent flow and enhance mass transfer, resulting in more efficient oxidation with lower energy consumption and higher productivity
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 process achieves a significant reduction in the amount of air needed to produce the same softening point, improving air blowing efficiency by up to 70% compared to conventional methods, resulting in a higher softening temperature of the asphalt.
Implementation Method 1
providing a liquid jet ejector comprising a motive inlet, a motive nozzle, a suction port, a main ejector body, a venturi throat and diffuser
Implementation Method 2
mixing the preheated asphalt within the main ejector body with the air from the suction port of the liquid jet ejector to form an air/asphalt mixture
Implementation Method 3
oxidation produces an asphalt material that softens at a higher temperature than non-oxidized asphalts. Oxidation is conventionally done by air blowing
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a process for increasing the softening temperature of asphalts by use of liquid jet ejector with a diptube connected to the discharge connection of the liquid jet ejector for ejecting an air/asphalt mixture below a liquid level in an oxidizer vessel. The liquid jet ejector is used as both an air compressor and an air/oil mixer. The liquid jet ejector motive fluid is hot asphalt and the entrained vapor is air. The combined liquid jet ejector with a diptube process provides for an improvement in asphalt air blowing efficiency by requiring less cumulative air to produce a given asphalt softening temperature.