Steam Evacuation in Pulp Refiner Discs
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing refining processes in pulp or fiber refiners face challenges in efficiently evacuating steam generated during the refining process, leading to turbulence, energy inefficiency, and non-uniform fiber quality due to irregular steam flow interfering with the material flow.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a steam evacuating channel in the refining disc with a steam inlet opening on one side and a steam outlet opening on the opposite side, centrally or peripherally positioned relative to the material flow, to separate and redirect back-streaming steam away from the incoming material flow, thereby avoiding feed conflicts and enhancing steam evacuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If steam is evacuated from the central space between refining discs, then steam flow speed increases, but material flow stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The steam evacuation system is segmented into multiple channels distributed around the refining disc, with each channel serving a specific angular position. This segmentation allows steam to be evacuated from different locations simultaneously, distributing the steam flow and reducing localized turbulence that would otherwise disrupt material flow stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary steam channel structure that acts as a mediator between the refining space and the steam evacuation path. This channel system provides a controlled intermediate pathway for steam, separating the steam flow from the material flow paths and reducing their direct interaction, thereby maintaining material flow stability while still achieving effective steam evacuation.
2Productivity
If steam evacuation channels are added to the refining disc, then steam removal efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The refining disc is designed with multi-functionality by integrating steam evacuation channels directly into its structure. The same disc component that performs mechanical refining also serves as a steam evacuation device, eliminating the need for separate steam removal equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high steam removal efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the steam evacuation function with the refining disc structure by incorporating channels directly into the disc body. This combining of functions reduces the number of separate components needed in the system, simplifying the overall device structure while achieving effective steam removal from the refining space.
3Loss of energy
If steam flows backwards towards the feed location, then steam evacuation occurs, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steam evacuation channels are strategically positioned and oriented to intercept steam flow before it can travel all the way back to the feed location. By providing preliminary evacuation paths at intermediate positions, the system prevents steam from completing its full backward journey to the feed area, reducing the energy losses associated with extensive steam back-flow.
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 solution reduces turbulence and energy consumption, improves fiber quality uniformity, and extends the lifespan of refining segments by ensuring stable and efficient steam evacuation without disrupting the material flow.
Implementation Method 1
The steam flow through the refining space assumes a very high speed and can negatively affect the flow of fibrous material
Data Source
AI summary
A first refining disc (5) for a defibrator (1) for refining fibrous material, adapted to receive a flow of incoming fibrous material (7) from a feed screw (3a) through a material inlet opening (4) arranged in the first refining disc (5), is provided with at least one steam evacuating channel (21) comprising at least one steam inlet opening (22) arranged on a side of the first refining disc (5) adapted to face a second refining disc (6), and at least one steam outlet opening (23) arranged on a side of the first refining disc (5) adapted to face away from the second refining disc (6). The at least one steam outlet opening (23) is arranged centrally of the at least one steam inlet opening (22) with respect to the center of the first refining disc (5), and centrally of a position where the flow of incoming material (7) is to be received into the first refining disc (5) from the feed screw (3a), with respect to the center of the first refining disc (5).