Pressure-Regulated Filter for Cold Solid-Liquid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate for effectively separating solids from liquids in cold suspensions, particularly for CO2 particles at temperatures below ambient, which is crucial for cold processing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A solids separation method involving a filter with a mesh or metal structure that allows liquids to pass through while retaining solids, using a compactor to pressurize and discharge solids into a pressurized chamber, where the pressure is dynamically regulated based on temperature and solids content, allowing for efficient separation and potential melting of solids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional separation methods are used for cold suspensions, then the separation process becomes complex and inefficient, but the patent introduces a pressure-regulated filter system that simplifies and improves separation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines filtration and compaction functions into a single integrated pressure-regulated filter system. The filter simultaneously performs solid-liquid separation and solids compaction under pressure, eliminating the need for separate filtration and dewatering equipment, thus improving productivity while reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure-regulated filter serves multiple functions: it acts as a filtration barrier to separate solids from liquids, a compaction device to densify the solids, and a pressure regulation mechanism to control the separation process. This multi-functionality increases separation efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If a fine filter mesh is used to separate small solid particles, then separation precision improves, but liquid flow through the filter decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies hydraulic pressure to force liquid through the fine filter mesh. By providing sufficient pressure differential across the filter, the system overcomes the flow resistance caused by fine mesh structures, maintaining high liquid flow rates while achieving precise particle separation through the small pore sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters including pressure, temperature, and flow rate to optimize both separation precision and liquid flow. By changing these parameters in response to process conditions, the system maintains efficient operation with fine filter meshes without sacrificing flow rate
3Loss of substance
If solids are compacted at high pressure to remove liquid, then liquid removal efficiency improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure-regulated filter maintains continuous operation at optimized pressure levels, avoiding the energy-intensive intermittent high-pressure cycles. The system continuously removes liquid at moderate pressure rather than applying brief high-pressure pulses, reducing overall energy consumption while achieving effective liquid removal
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates pressure regulation mechanisms that monitor and adjust compaction pressure in real-time. By providing feedback control, the system applies only the necessary pressure to achieve liquid removal without excessive energy input, optimizing the balance between liquid removal efficiency and energy consumption
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
This method enables efficient separation and compaction of solids from liquids at low temperatures, allowing for the effective handling of CO2 suspensions and broader applications in cold processing, improving the efficiency of CO2 de-sublimation processes.
Implementation Method 1
providing a filtering size large enough to allow the liquid to pass but small enough to contain the solids
Implementation Method 2
separating the solids from the liquid by pressing the solids into a pressure regulating solids discharge port on the first side of the filter, thereby compacting solids on the first side of the filter at a predetermined pressure
Implementation Method 3
The frame may additionally connect the pressure regulating solids discharge port to a pressurized chamber for melting the solids
Data Source
AI summary
A method of separating solids from a slurry or suspension is disclosed. The method includes: providing a slurry or suspension containing solids and liquid to an input port of a first side of a filter, the filter providing a filtering size between 2 microns and 70 microns; providing a liquid discharge port on a second side of the filter which receives the liquid that passes through the filter; and separating the solids from the liquid by pressing the solids into a pressure regulating solids discharge port on the first side of the filter, thereby compacting solids on the first side of the filter, forcing at least some of the liquid of the slurry or suspension through the first side of the filter to the second side of the filter causing pressure regulated solids to be discharged through a pressure regulating solids discharge port into a pressurized chamber.