Rotating Feed Channel Separator for Turbulent Flow Fractionation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for separating flowing medium mixtures into fractions with differing mass density are inefficient, particularly at high volumes, as they require extensive time, large equipment, and are not selective enough, especially when the difference in mass density is small, and current centrifugal separation techniques are not effective at high pressures.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a rotating assembly of feed channels with turbulent flow conditions, where the rotational speed satisfies specific conditions (Ω.τ≦α.(L/dh)) to enhance separation efficiency, allowing for faster and more selective separation of fractions with differing mass densities, even at high pressures, by maintaining a Reynolds number greater than 2500 and using higher pressures up to 100 bar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If centrifugal separation techniques are used to separate fractions with differing mass density, then separation can be achieved, but the selectivity is insufficient and the process is too slow for large volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow regime parameter from laminar to turbulent flow in the feed channels. This parameter change enables much higher rotational speeds to be used while maintaining effective separation, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing selectivity. The turbulent flow condition is achieved by designing feed channels with specific dimensions and rotation speeds that satisfy Re > 2000.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic rotation of the feed channel assembly at controlled speeds. By dynamically adjusting the rotational speed within specific ranges (satisfying Ω.τ≦α.(L/dh) and Re > 2000), the system optimizes both separation speed and selectivity. The dynamic operation allows the system to process large volumes rapidly while maintaining high separation efficiency through precise speed control.
2Productivity
If high pressure is applied to increase processing speed, then productivity improves, but conventional centrifugal separation becomes ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow regime parameter from laminar to turbulent flow in the feed channels. This parameter change enables much higher rotational speeds to be used while maintaining effective separation, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing selectivity. The turbulent flow condition is achieved by designing feed channels with specific dimensions and rotation speeds that satisfy Re > 2000.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic rotation of the feed channel assembly at controlled speeds. By dynamically adjusting the rotational speed within specific ranges (satisfying Ω.τ≦α.(L/dh) and Re > 2000), the system optimizes both separation speed and selectivity. The dynamic operation allows the system to process large volumes rapidly while maintaining high separation efficiency through precise speed control.
3Manufacturing precision
If sedimentation is used to separate fractions, then separation of fractions with small mass density differences is achieved, but large voluminous reservoirs are required which increases cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous medium mixture into discrete fractions through rapid centrifugal separation in rotating feed channels. This segmentation occurs in a compact rotating structure rather than requiring large continuous sedimentation reservoirs. The feed channels are divided into multiple segments that can process different portions of the mixture simultaneously, achieving high selectivity in a compact volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic rotation of the feed channel assembly at controlled speeds. By dynamically adjusting the rotational speed within specific ranges (satisfying Ω.τ≦α.(L/dh) and Re > 2000), the system optimizes both separation speed and selectivity. The dynamic operation allows the system to process large volumes rapidly while maintaining high separation efficiency through precise speed control.
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 approach enables rapid and efficient separation of medium mixtures into fractions with improved selectivity and reduced equipment size, achieving comparable separation efficiency to laminar flow methods without the need for large volumes or lengthy processes, suitable for various mixtures including those with solid particles.
Implementation Method 1
rotating the flowing mixture for separating in rotation means, said rotation means having a rotating assembly of feed channels
Implementation Method 2
wherein the flow of the medium mixture in the feed channels is substantially turbulent
Data Source
AI summary
A device for separating a flowing medium mixture into at least two fractions, comprising rotating means (7) in the form of a rotating assembly of feed channels (6) for rotating the flowing mixture for separating, a feed for the medium mixture (5) for separating connecting to the rotating means, and an outlet connecting to the rotating means for discharging one of the fractions of the separated medium mixture, wherein the medium mixture can display a substantially turbulent flow during separation. Also disclosed is a method for separating a flowing medium mixture.