Separator Drive Motor Cooling Cycles for Low Coolant Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolant systems for electric motors in centrifuge drives consume excessive coolant regardless of load, ambient temperature, and incoming coolant temperature, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A method involving controlled cooling cycles with a control apparatus that measures coolant temperature and adjusts coolant flow based on measured values, using a simple valve system to minimize coolant consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If continuous cooling is applied to the electric motor, then the motor temperature is maintained within permissible limits, but coolant consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic cooling cycles where the coolant supply valve is opened only during specific time intervals when the motor temperature approaches the upper limit. The control apparatus measures temperature continuously and activates cooling only when necessary, creating a periodic on-off cooling pattern that reduces coolant consumption while maintaining motor temperature within permissible limits.
2Loss of substance
If coolant flow is restricted by orifice or needle valve, then coolant consumption is limited, but the motor may overheat under high load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static flow restriction (fixed orifice/needle valve) with a dynamic control system that adjusts coolant flow based on real-time temperature measurements and motor load conditions. The control apparatus modifies the valve opening degree continuously according to the measured temperature and operational parameters, enabling the system to adapt cooling intensity to actual thermal demands while maintaining reliable temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus continuously measures the motor temperature and uses this feedback to adjust the coolant supply valve opening degree. When temperature approaches the upper limit, the valve opens wider to increase cooling; when temperature is acceptable, the valve closes to reduce coolant consumption. This closed-loop feedback control ensures reliable temperature management while optimizing coolant usage.
3Temperature
If coolant supply valve remains open during operation, then motor cooling is ensured, but coolant consumption is not optimized according to actual thermal load
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses the motor's own temperature measurements to automatically regulate its cooling requirement. The control apparatus monitors temperature continuously and autonomously adjusts the coolant valve without external intervention, allowing the motor to essentially self-regulate its cooling needs based on its actual thermal state and load conditions.
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
Maintains the electric motor at the maximum permissible temperature with the lowest possible coolant consumption, adapting to varying loads and temperatures, and can be easily retrofitted to existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
measuring an instantaneous temperature of the coolant Tinst after a predetermined time tmeas has elapsed at the coolant discharge line by a temperature measuring device
Implementation Method 2
controlled cooling of the electric motor at least during step b) for a limited cooling phase in cycles interrupted by breaks
Implementation Method 3
opening an opening valve of the coolant supply system to generate a flow of coolant through a cooling fluid system of the electric motor
Data Source
AI summary
The coolant temperature of an electric motor of a drive device of a rotor of a centrifuge is controlled by supplying the electric motor with a coolant. The rotor is driven during execution of the centrifugal separation of a suspension into at least two different product phases and the electric motor is cooling, in a controlled manner while the rotor is driven in cooling cycles interrupted by breaks.