Rotational Separator Plate Circumferential Support Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plate type rotational separators are limited by high mechanical stress at increased rotation speeds, structural integrity issues at larger scales, and high manufacturing costs due to the need for rigid materials like steel, which restricts their efficiency and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A plate type rotational separator design featuring a carrier with alternating plates of different radial distances and support arrangements, allowing for improved force distribution and absorption, enabling higher rotation speeds and the use of lighter, easier-to-process materials like polymers and carbon fiber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If rotation speed is increased to improve separation efficiency, then separation throughput is improved, but mechanical stress on the separator increases leading to damage or performance inhibition
Solution Approach 1:
The separator is divided into multiple plates arranged in a stack, with each plate being a separate structural element. The plates are connected through a carrier system that distributes mechanical stresses across multiple connection points rather than concentrating them at a single location, allowing the structure to withstand higher rotation speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material construction for the plates and carrier assembly, combining materials with different mechanical properties to achieve both high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to centrifugal forces, enabling operation at higher rotation speeds without structural failure
2Productivity
If physical dimensions are increased to accommodate larger fluid volumes, then processing capacity is improved, but structural integrity is lost during operation at higher rotation speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The separator is divided into multiple plates arranged in a stack, with each plate being a separate structural element. The plates are connected through a carrier system that distributes mechanical stresses across multiple connection points rather than concentrating them at a single location, allowing the structure to withstand higher rotation speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical stacking dimension to the plate arrangement, creating a three-dimensional structure that increases processing capacity without proportionally increasing the radial dimensions. This multi-dimensional approach allows larger fluid volume accommodation while maintaining structural integrity through the distributed plate-and-carrier architecture
3Strength
If rigid materials like steel are used to withstand high rotation forces, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by transitioning from traditional steel to alternative materials such as aluminum alloys, titanium, or composite materials. These materials provide sufficient structural strength for high-speed operation while offering advantages in weight reduction, corrosion resistance, and ease of manufacturing through modern fabrication processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material construction for the plates and carrier assembly, combining materials with different mechanical properties to achieve both high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to centrifugal forces, enabling operation at higher rotation speeds without structural failure
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 design allows for higher rotation speeds, increased separation efficiency, and scalability while reducing material costs and manufacturing complexity, enabling the use of lighter materials without compromising performance.
Implementation Method 1
Such separators exploit the centrifugal force acting upon any component particles suspended in the fluid from which they are to be separated
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention related to plate type rotational separator, comprising: a carrier (110) that is rotatable around an axial axis thereof; and a plurality of plates (121) extending in an axial direction of, and in a radial outward direction relative to, the axial axis of the carrier, wherein each of the plurality of plates (121) comprises at least one support (122) extending transverse to a surface of the plate and in a circumferential direction relative to the axial axis of the carrier, to thereby provide circumferential support for said plate when the support of said plate is supported on an adjacent plate of the plurality of plates during rotation of the carrier.