Vent Pin Flame Path for Explosion-Proof Pump Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Explosion-proof fluid transfer pumps are susceptible to moisture ingress due to pressure differentials caused by temperature changes, which can damage internal components and lead to premature corrosion.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a vent pin within the pump enclosure that forms a controlled flame path through the enclosure wall, allowing air exchange to equalize pressure while meeting certification requirements for explosion-proof designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pump enclosure is tightly sealed to prevent moisture ingress, then protection against corrosion is improved, but pressure equalization capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vent assembly segments the sealing function from the venting function by using a removable cap that can be positioned in different states (sealed or vented), allowing the system to switch between protection mode and pressure equalization mode as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The vent assembly transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic vented state through removal or rotation of the cap, enabling the system to adapt between maintaining seal integrity and allowing pressure equalization based on operational requirements
2Productivity
If the pump operates in rain to transfer fluid, then fluid transfer capability is maintained, but pressure differential-induced moisture ingress worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The vent assembly prevents pressure differential buildup before moisture ingress can occur by providing advance pressure equalization capability, allowing the pump to operate in rain without the harmful vacuum effect that would otherwise draw moisture into the enclosure
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
Prevents moisture ingress by maintaining pressure equilibrium, protecting internal components from damage and corrosion while ensuring compliance with explosion-proof standards.
Implementation Method 1
The space between the extended flange and collar provides a pathway that will extinguish any flames generated by an explosion inside the enclosure
Implementation Method 2
a pressure differential is created between the interior of the pump housing (where the motor and motor controller are contained) and the outside environment
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
A fluid transfer pump assembly is provided that includes an electronic device enclosure, a bore, and a vent pin. The electronic device enclosure includes a wall separating an interior from an exterior of the explosion-proof fluid transfer pump assembly. The electronic device enclosure includes a bore extending through the wall of the electronic device enclosure from the interior of the electronic device enclosure to the exterior of the explosion-proof fluid transfer pump assembly. The bore is formed by at least one peripheral surface extending from the interior of the electronic device enclosure to the exterior of the explosion-proof fluid transfer pump assembly. The vent pin extends into the bore. The vent pin fills space within the bore and engages the at least one peripheral surface except that at least one portion of a pin surface of the vent pin is spaced apart from at least one portion of the at least one peripheral surface of the bore.