Modular Sparger Assembly with Separate Base Plates for Fatigue Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sparger configurations in bioprocessing systems lack flexibility in positioning and are prone to cyclic fatigue due to drag forces from impeller operation, compromising sparger integrity.
Innovation Solution
A modular sparger assembly with separate impeller and sparger base plates allows for customizable sparger layout and minimizes cyclic fatigue by spacing sparger elements independently from the impeller, using tubing fixturing arrangements to secure sparger tubing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spargers are integrated directly into the agitator/impeller base plate, then sparger and agitator are in close proximity for optimal gas distribution, but flexibility in positioning sparger elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is divided into a first base plate portion and a second base plate portion that are mechanically separate from each other. The first portion supports the impeller while the second portion supports sparger elements. This segmentation allows independent positioning of spargers relative to the impeller, providing flexibility in gas distribution configuration while maintaining close proximity for optimal performance.
2Strength
If sparger elements are mounted on a fixed base plate with the impeller, then structural integrity is maintained, but cyclic fatigue occurs due to drag forces from impeller operation
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented into separate first and second portions that are mechanically connected but can move independently. The sparger elements are mounted on the second portion while the impeller is mounted on the first portion. This segmentation isolates the sparger mounting from the cyclic drag forces generated by impeller operation, reducing fatigue while maintaining structural integrity through the mechanical connection between portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The first base plate portion acts as an intermediary between the impeller and the second base plate portion supporting the spargers. This intermediary structure absorbs and isolates the cyclic drag forces from the impeller, preventing direct transmission of fatigue-inducing vibrations to the sparger mounting fixtures while maintaining the mechanical connection needed for structural support.
3Ease of operation
If sparger tubing is secured with fixed mounting fixtures, then sparger elements are held in position, but tubing is prone to oscillations from impeller drag forces
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented into separate portions for impeller and sparger support, allowing the sparger tubing mounting fixtures to be positioned on the second portion away from the impeller's direct drag force path. This reduces oscillations while maintaining secure positioning through the mounting fixtures on the stable base plate surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A sparging assembly includes a first base plate having at least one mounting element for receiving a first sparger device, and a second base plate having at least one mounting element for receiving a second sparger device. The first base plate and the second base plate are mechanically separate from one another.