Reflux Divider Liquid Collector for Continuous Flow Division
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reflux dividers in dividing wall columns are prone to high loads and frequent replacement due to intermittent operation, leading to inconsistent flow currents and the need for custom-made, expensive control devices.
Innovation Solution
A reflux divider with a liquid collector featuring an annular channel and controlled throttle valve, allowing for continuous and constant flow of partial streams through commercially available measuring and control devices, eliminating the need for custom-made products and reducing wear and tear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a motor-driven shuttle valve is used to form partial flows intermittently, then the reflux divider can separate liquid streams, but the valve and drive are subjected to high loads and must be replaced frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the intermittent shuttle valve operation with a continuous flow division mechanism. The liquid collector continuously receives liquid from the column and continuously divides it into two partial streams through fixed outlets, eliminating the need for intermittent valve actuation and thereby increasing valve reliability and service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the moving valve mechanism from the system entirely. Instead of using a motor-driven shuttle valve that must move and actuate, the invention uses a stationary liquid collector with fixed outlets that passively divide the liquid stream based on flow distribution, removing the mechanical wear and load issues.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a motor-driven shuttle valve operates intermittently, then partial flows can be formed, but the flow currents fed to distributors are inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid collector provides continuous operation without interruption. Liquid flows continuously into the collector and is continuously divided into two stable partial streams, ensuring consistent flow currents are fed to the distributors, which improves separation efficiency by maintaining stable operating conditions.
3Measurement precision
If a controlled throttle valve with flow meters is used, then partial flows can be controlled precisely, but custom-made expensive control devices are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs commercially available flow meters and throttle valves that can be purchased off-the-shelf rather than requiring custom-made control devices. These standard components are integrated into the liquid collector system to achieve precise flow control while reducing manufacturing costs and improving ease of manufacture.
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 enables continuous and constant feeding of partial streams to distributors, reducing wear on components and eliminating the need for expensive custom-made products, thereby enhancing the stability and longevity of the reflux divider.
Implementation Method 1
in the wall of this partial container space there is at least one opening for a throttled passage of liquid to form the second partial flow
Implementation Method 2
at least two flow meters (81, 82) for controlling the throttle valve, with a flow meter (81) in the first connecting line (21)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The reflux divider (2) for a column (1) with parallel mass transfer sections (3a, 3b) separated from each other by a vertical partition (30) comprises devices for the controlled division of a liquid to be treated. These devices are connected to a liquid collector (13) located above the partition inside the column. The devices, including connecting lines (21, 22) for two partial flows (210, 220), are advantageously located outside the column. The collector (13) comprises a container (14), in particular an annular channel (14'), in which the quantity of collected liquid can vary between a minimum and a maximum level. Below the minimum level (37), a first connecting line (21) for the first partial flow (210) and a second connecting line (22) for the second partial flow (220) are connected.Upstream of the second connecting line, a compartment (70) separated by a wall (7) is arranged in the container. At least one opening (71) is provided in the wall of this compartment (70) for a throttled flow of liquid to form the second partial flow. The components are a controlled throttle valve (8) in the first connecting line and flow meters (81, 82) for controlling the throttle valve.