Solid-Liquid Separator With Vibrational Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid-liquid separation technologies, such as those used in the oilfield and industrial applications, face challenges in efficiently separating solids from liquids and entrained gases, with a need to enhance the separation process beyond current methods that rely on electro-floculation and vacuum-assisted separators.
Innovation Solution
The integration of vibrational energy sources into the solid-liquid separator system, utilizing mechanical, electrical, air-driven, or hydraulic-driven devices, or sonic waves, to disrupt molecular bonding and enhance the settling of solids within a tortuous flow path, combined with vacuum assistance for clarification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If electro-floculation and vacuum-assisted separators are used for solid-liquid separation, then separation capability is provided, but separation efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration through a vibratory element coupled to the separator housing or internal components to enhance the separation process. The vibration disrupts molecular bonding between solids and liquids, accelerates particulate settling, and improves the efficiency of the vacuum-assisted separation process without compromising the fundamental separation capability.
2Speed
If conventional separation methods are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but solids settling is slow
Solution Approach 1:
A vibratory element is integrated into the separator system to induce mechanical vibrations that accelerate solids settling. The vibration can be applied to the housing or internal components, creating a more rapid separation process while maintaining relatively simple equipment architecture through the use of a single added vibratory mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibratory element operates in periodic cycles, applying vibrational energy intermittently to the solid-liquid mixture. This periodic action enhances settling rates by repeatedly disrupting molecular bonds and repositioning particles, achieving faster separation without requiring continuous complex mechanical intervention.
3Ease of operation
If molecular bonds between solids and liquids are strong, then mixture stability is maintained, but separation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vibratory element applies mechanical vibrations that directly disrupt the molecular bonds holding solids and liquids together in the mixture. This vibration-induced bond disruption makes separation easier by reducing the adhesive forces between phases, while the overall mixture stability is maintained during normal operation without vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of vibration frequency and amplitude to optimize the disruption of molecular bonds. By adjusting these parameters, the separation process becomes easier without permanently altering the mixture composition, allowing flexible control over the separation ease based on specific application requirements.
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 significantly improves the separation efficiency of solids from liquids and the removal of entrained gases, allowing for more effective clarification and handling of solids-laden fluids, such as drilling mud, by disturbing molecular bonds and facilitating the rapid settling of particulate matter.
Implementation Method 1
one or more sources of vibration to enhance the solid-liquid separation occurring in a solid-liquid separator system
Implementation Method 2
disturb the molecular bonding of the liquids and causes rapid settling of solid particulate matter
Implementation Method 3
A vacuum can be applied to the system to assist in moving the solid-liquid mixture through the system and to provide vacuum clarification
Implementation Method 4
A vacuum apparatus to provide a lowered pressure or vacuum inside the vessel
Implementation Method 5
As solids fall out of solution, they are collected
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for improved separation or clarification of solids from a solids-laden liquid. Entrained gasses can also be removed. A liquid to be treated is introduced into the inlet of a solid-liquid separator modified to include one or more sources of vibrational energy. The liquid to be treated is directed through a conduit within the separator. Preferably the conduit within the separator is configured into a tortuous flow path to assist in the separation of solids from the liquid. Vibrational energy is applied to the flow path, preferably through the flow path conduit. As solids fall out of solution, they are collected. The clarified liquid is also collected. A vacuum can be applied to the system to assist in moving the solid-liquid mixture through the system and to provide vacuum clarification. Electrocoagulation electrodes and gas sparging can also be employed.