WO2007067962A2 - A system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid - Google Patents

A system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007067962A2
WO2007067962A2 PCT/US2006/061756 US2006061756W WO2007067962A2 WO 2007067962 A2 WO2007067962 A2 WO 2007067962A2 US 2006061756 W US2006061756 W US 2006061756W WO 2007067962 A2 WO2007067962 A2 WO 2007067962A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
liquid
gas
alteration
conduit
flow
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2006/061756
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2007067962A3 (en
Inventor
Mark A. Galgano
Greg Rondy
Original Assignee
Sonivent, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/298,333 external-priority patent/US20070126132A1/en
Application filed by Sonivent, Llc filed Critical Sonivent, Llc
Publication of WO2007067962A2 publication Critical patent/WO2007067962A2/en
Publication of WO2007067962A3 publication Critical patent/WO2007067962A3/en

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Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/72—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by oxidation
    • C02F1/74—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by oxidation with air
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F23/00—Mixing according to the phases to be mixed, e.g. dispersing or emulsifying
    • B01F23/40—Mixing liquids with liquids; Emulsifying
    • B01F23/45—Mixing liquids with liquids; Emulsifying using flow mixing
    • B01F23/454—Mixing liquids with liquids; Emulsifying using flow mixing by injecting a mixture of liquid and gas
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/20—Jet mixers, i.e. mixers using high-speed fluid streams
    • B01F25/21—Jet mixers, i.e. mixers using high-speed fluid streams with submerged injectors, e.g. nozzles, for injecting high-pressure jets into a large volume or into mixing chambers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/30—Injector mixers
    • B01F25/31—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows
    • B01F25/312—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows with Venturi elements; Details thereof
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/30—Injector mixers
    • B01F25/31—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows
    • B01F25/313—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows wherein additional components are introduced in the centre of the conduit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/30—Injector mixers
    • B01F25/31—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows
    • B01F25/314—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows wherein additional components are introduced at the circumference of the conduit
    • B01F25/3141—Injector mixers in conduits or tubes through which the main component flows wherein additional components are introduced at the circumference of the conduit with additional mixing means other than injector mixers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/45—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/45—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads
    • B01F25/452—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces
    • B01F25/4521—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces the components being pressed through orifices in elements, e.g. flat plates or cylinders, which obstruct the whole diameter of the tube
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F2025/91—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings
    • B01F2025/915—Reverse flow, i.e. flow changing substantially 180° in direction
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F2025/91—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings
    • B01F2025/918—Counter current flow, i.e. flows moving in opposite direction and colliding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F2025/91—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings
    • B01F2025/919—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings characterised by the disposition of the feed and discharge openings
    • B01F2025/9191—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings characterised by the disposition of the feed and discharge openings characterised by the arrangement of the feed openings for one or more flows, e.g. for the mainflow and the flow of an additional component
    • B01F2025/91911—Direction of flow or arrangement of feed and discharge openings characterised by the disposition of the feed and discharge openings characterised by the arrangement of the feed openings for one or more flows, e.g. for the mainflow and the flow of an additional component with feed openings in the center of the main flow

Definitions

  • the subject application is directed to a system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid. More particularly, the subject application is directed to a system and method using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas.
  • the subject application relates to the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using low pressures to accomplish such aeration.
  • the subject application relates to the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using high pressures to accomplish such aeration.
  • Venturis operating at sonic or subsonic velocities have been utilized to remove sub- micron particulates from gas streams, create vacuum for industrial applications and saturate liquids with oxygen.
  • levels of absorption using sonic or subsonic velocity Venturis employing air as the motive gas have been limited to about 70 percent saturation of oxygen in water. Higher levels of saturation are desirable but have been unattainable using present venturi devices and methods of operating same.
  • a system and method for using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas employing a motive gas.
  • a system for alteration of gas content of a liquid includes a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in a first flow direction there through.
  • the system further includes a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a direction generally opposite to the first flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
  • the system further includes a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
  • the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface; or steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
  • the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
  • the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
  • a system for alteration of gas content of a liquid includes a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in a first flow direction there through.
  • the system further includes a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a second flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
  • the system further includes a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
  • the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface; or steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
  • the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
  • the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
  • Figure Ia illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device within a liquid supply line in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application
  • Figure Ib illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance0 with one embodiment of the subject application
  • Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternate form of an orifice plate within a liquid supply line in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application
  • Figure 3 is a graph of Total System Flow (GPM) versus Total System Pressure (PSI) illustrating the percent saturation of oxygen in water for slightly less than and more than 100 L5 percent saturation levels in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
  • GPM Total System Flow
  • PSI Total System Pressure
  • Figure 4 is a graph of Total System Pressure (PSI) versus Exit Saturation (%) for various system flow rates in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
  • Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application
  • Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device connected to a gas supply in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an application of the flow-through device S in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application.
  • the subject application is directed to a system and method for alteration of gas in a liquid.
  • the subject application is directed to a system and method for using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas.
  • the subject application is directed to a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using low pressures to accomplish such aeration.
  • the subject application is directed to a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using high pressures to accomplish such aeration.
  • FIG. IA there is shown is a cross-sectional view 100 of the flow- through device 102 positioned within a liquid supply line 104 in accordance with a first embodiment of the subject application.
  • suitable flow-through devices include, for example and without limitation, a vena contracta, converging nozzle, converging/diverging nozzle 102, or the like.
  • the flow-through device 102 in accordance with the first embodiment of the subject application is fabricated from a suitable metallic or non-metallic material and is typically cylindrical in cross-section.
  • the flow-through device 102 of the first embodiment of the subject application has an inlet end 106, an outlet end 108, and an orifice 110 disposed therein and interposed between the inlet end 106 and the outlet end 108.
  • the internal surface 112 of the flow-through device 102 between the inlet end 106 and the orifice 110 is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 110 whereas the internal surface 22 of the flow-through device 102 between the orifice 110 and the outlet end 108 is tapered outwardly toward the outlet end 108.
  • the converging nozzle shown in Figure IB is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 110.
  • the orifice 110 is typically round in configuration.
  • a liquid such as water, is provided within the liquid supply line 104.
  • the flow rate of the liquid is generally about 2 to 40 fps.
  • a gas such as air, having a pressure of generally about 20 to 200 psig is introduced into the flow-through device 102 via its inlet end 106. The direction of the gas flow is opposing to the direction of the flow of the liquid.
  • the pressure of the air in the portion of the flow-through device 102 defined by the orifice 110 and the outlet end 108 is generally 20 to 200 psig.
  • the air exits the outlet end 108 of the flow-through device 102 at a high velocity and moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid.
  • the high velocity air contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the supersaturation of gases within the liquid. In this manner the saturation of oxygen in the water can approach, equal or exceed 100 percent.
  • the direction of the flow of gas is opposing to the direction of the flow of liquid; that the pressure of the gas is generally about 20 to 200 psig and that the gas flow exiting the outlet end 108 of the flow-through device 102 is at a high velocity; and that the liquid flow rate is generally about 2 to 40 fps, there are other factors that affect the operation of the flow-through device 102 of one embodiment of the subject application. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, for example, the temperature of the liquid and the vapor pressure of the gas to be saturated into the liquid or stripped therefrom will have an impact on the operation of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application.
  • any type of gas and/or liquid are capable of being used with the flow-through device 102 in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application under the aforementioned operating conditions.
  • ozone is capable of being dissolved into water
  • air is capable of being used to saturate oxygen in water
  • steam gas
  • compressed air, oxygen, ozone, or other gases are capable of being used to strip volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from liquids. This latter process is known as remediation. Stripping air/oxygen from products that contain liquids such as foods, beverages, cosmetics, chemicals, paints, etc., enhances the shelf life of same.
  • FIG. 2 there is shown a cross-sectional view 200 of one embodiment of the subject application.
  • a section of pipe in the form of a pipe nipple 202, or the like, is used and is disposed within a liquid supply line 204.
  • the pipe nipple 202 is typically circular in cross-section and has an inlet end 206, an outlet end 208, and an orifice plate 210 disposed within its outlet end 208.
  • the orifice plate 210 has an orifice 212 therein.
  • the orifice 212 has a generally circular cross-section disposed generally centrally within the orifice plate 210. In this embodiment, no inlet end or outlet end tapers are required.
  • a liquid for example and without limitation, water
  • a gas for example and without limitation, air
  • the direction of the gas flow is countercurrent to the direction of the flow of the liquid.
  • the air exiting the outlet end 208 of the pipe nipple 202 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid.
  • the shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the supersaturation of gases within the liquid.
  • the supersaturated liquid passes through the area defined by the outer surface 214 of the pipe nipple 202 and the inner surface 216 of the liquid supply line 204 and exits therefrom.
  • a larger liquid supply line 204 would necessitate the use of a larger flow-through device, e.g., a larger vena contracta, converging nozzle, converging/diverging nozzle, or multiple thereof.
  • a larger orifice plate in a larger supply line 204 would necessitate the use of a larger orifice 212 in the orifice plate 210 or an orifice plate having multiple orifices therein (not shown). Certain geometric similarities must be maintained as the size of the liquid supply line is changed.
  • FIG. 3 a graph of Total System Flow (GPM) versus Total System Pressure (PSI) is shown.
  • the graph of Figure 3 illustrates that use of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application under specific operating conditions, saturation levels of oxygen in water are capable of approaching or exceeding 100 percent.
  • Figure 4 is a graph of Total System Pressure (PSI) versus Exit Saturation (%) for various system flow rates and also illustrates that use of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application under specific operating conditions, saturation levels of oxygen in water are capable of approaching or exceeding 100 percent.
  • the flow-through device 102 of the subject application is more effective than presently available apparatus used in applications involving mass transfer.
  • mass transfer applications include, but are not limited to, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes.
  • Industrial applications for the flow-through device of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste, chemical processing, food de-aeration, boiler feed water de-aeration, medical applications (i.e., blood purification, etc.), purification of pharmaceuticals, purification in metal and chemical processing, and research and development applications.
  • the system and methodology described above with respect to Figures 1-4 will be better understood in operation in a wastewater facility.
  • flotation of biological, organic and inorganic solids that are present in the wastewater occurs in a short resonance time varying from a few seconds to a few minutes.
  • the flotation efficiently appears at the flow rate of the water from 18 to 70 fps and the air pressure from about 18.5 psig at .3 SCFM to 75 psig at 2 SCFM.
  • the range of the resonance time is a function of the air pressure inside of the device of the invention and of the amount of solids in a particular wastewater facility.
  • the solids keep in a flotation mode in an enclosed containers exceeding a 24 hour period, which allows for suitable consumption of the bio and/or organic waste by suitable bacteria present. It will be appreciated that the foregoing method is effective in agricultural and industrial wastewater treatment arenas.
  • the method described above is also effective for stripping hydrogen sulfide and other volatile organic compounds from untreated or already treated water streams in water treatment plants, pulp and paper mills, and the refinery industry.
  • FIG. 5 there is shown a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment 500 of the subject application.
  • a liquid for example and without limitation, water
  • a gas for example and without limitation, air
  • the direction of the gas flow in this embodiment, is orthogonal to the direction of the flow of the liquid.
  • the air exiting the outlet end 508 of the pipe nipple 504 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid.
  • the shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the saturation of gases within the liquid.
  • the supersaturated liquid passes further in the same direction as the initial liquid flow.
  • the embodiment 500 depicted in Figure 5 also includes restriction means 510.
  • restriction means 510 is adapted to provide a resonance like effect to increase the transfer of a gas in the liquid, e.g., oxygen in water.
  • a gas in the liquid e.g., oxygen in water.
  • air is capable of being injected at a variety of points along the pipe or enclosure.
  • low air pressures are generally in the range of 0.5 to 20 psig.
  • water flow rates, pressures and velocities are a function of standard cubic feet per minute of air delivered, pipe or enclosure size and configuration, any flow enhancements made to the pipe enclosure configuration, and any restriction installed in the system.
  • FIG. 6 a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of another embodiment 600 of the subject application is shown.
  • a liquid such as water
  • a gas such as air
  • the direction of the gas flow is opposite to the direction of the flow of the liquid.
  • the air exiting the outlet end 608 of the pipe nipple 604 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid.
  • the shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the saturation of gases within the liquid.
  • the supersaturated liquid passes further in the same direction as the initial liquid flow.
  • the embodiment 600 depicted in Figure 6 includes also restriction means 610.
  • restriction means 610 is adapted to provide resonance increasing the transfer of gas in the liquid, such as oxygen in water.
  • mass transfer applications include, for example and without limitation, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes.
  • Industrial applications for the system of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste, chemical processing, beverage carbonation, food de-aeration, boiler feed water de-aeration, medical applications (i.e., blood purification, etc.), purification of pharmaceuticals, purification in metal and chemical processing, and research and development applications.
  • embodiments 500 and 600 described in greater detail above are suitably capable of effectively stripping hydrogen sulfide and other volatile organic compounds from untreated or already treated water streams in water treatment plants, pulp and paper mills, and the refinery industry.
  • FIG 7 there is shown a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a flow-through device 700 for alteration of gas content of a liquid.
  • the flow-through device 700 is suitably employed, for example and without limitation, as a vena contracta, converging nozzle, orifice plate, or converging/diverging nozzle positioned within a liquid supply (not shown in Figure 7).
  • the flow-through device 700 is preferably capable of implementation as an oxygenation device, as will be understood in the art.
  • the flow-through device 700 of the subject application includes a body 702, which is advantageously fabricated from a metallic or non-metallic material and is typically cylindrical in cross-section.
  • the flow-though device 700 has an inlet end 704, an outlet end 706, and an orifice 708 disposed therein and interposed between the inlet end 704 and the outlet end 706.
  • a first internal surface 710 of the body 702 of the flow-though device 700, between the inlet end 704 and the orifice 708 is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 708 whereas a second internal surface 712 of the body 702 of the flow-though device 700, between the orifice 708 and the outlet end 706 is tapered outwardly toward the outlet end 706.
  • the orifice 710 is typically circular in configuration. It will be further appreciated by the skilled artisan that the flow-though device 700 is similar to previously known venture-type devices, but does not include a suction port.
  • gas such as air
  • inlet end 704. gas flows through the device 700 and exits the outlet end 704 of the flow- though device 700 at a high velocity and moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid.
  • the high velocity gas stream contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface within the liquid.
  • the efficiency of the flow-through device 700 of the subject application varies in accordance with the pressure and velocity of the gas. There are other factors that affect the operation of the flow-though device 700 of the subject application. For example and without limitation, the temperature of the liquid and the vapor pressure of the gas to be saturated into the liquid also impact the operation of the flow- through device 700 of the subject application. A skilled artisan will appreciate that any type of gas and/or liquid is capable of being used with the flow-though device 700 of the subject application under the aforementioned operating conditions.
  • a liquid 802 such as water
  • a suitable container such as a tank 804, as illustrated in Figure 8.
  • the liquid 802 is capable of being advantageously contained in any other suitable type of a container, as well as in natural or man-made water holding/transfer systems, such as lagoons, ponds, and the like.
  • At least one flow-through oxygenation device of the type illustrated in the Figure 7 is installed inside of the tank 804, preferably, in the vicinity of the bottom 806 of the tank 804.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a tank 804 with a flow-through oxygenation device 808 and a flow-through oxygenation device 810 installed in it.
  • the number of flow-through oxygenation devices installed inside of the tank 804 depends on the volume of liquid contained in the tank 804. It may also depend on the configuration and performance parameters of the flow-through oxygenation devices.
  • the devices 808, 810 are installed in a predetermined pattern at some distance from each other. The pattern is determined by the volume of liquid contained in the tank 804 and by the performance parameters of the devices 808, 810. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the devices 808, 810 are located such as to provide efficient aeration of the liquid.
  • gas conduit 812 connected with the flow- through oxygenation device 808, and a gas conduit 814 connected with the flow-through oxygenation device 810.
  • gas conduits 812, 814 are implemented as any suitable gas conduits known in the art.
  • two or more flow-through oxygenation devices are capable of being connected to a common gas conduit (not shown).
  • a gas such as air
  • a gas is introduced into the devices 808, 810 through respective gas conduits 812, 814.
  • the gas flow exits the outlets of devices 808, 810.
  • the operation of the embodiment 800 will be further described with respect to the device 808.
  • the operation of the device 808 in the embodiment 800 is analogous to that of the device 808.
  • the gas flow moving at a high velocity through the device 808 meets a counter flow of liquid, thus creating a high efficiency interface within the liquid permitting saturation of gas within the liquid.
  • a flow of saturated liquid is created that is directed toward the surface 816 of the liquid 802, enveloping thereby the gas conduit 812.
  • gas is to some extent displaced with liquid.
  • the latter creates counter current liquid flows directed toward the bottom 806 of the tank 804.
  • the devices 808, 810 are, preferably spaced such that the counter current liquid flows directed toward the bottom 806 of the tank8204, do not overlap with each other.
  • low air pressures are generally in the range of 0.5 to 10 psig.
  • pressures and velocities are a function of the liquid enclosure size and configuration, and of the number and configuration of the flow through devices installed in the liquid enclosure.
  • the system for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising a gas conduit of the subject application is an effective apparatus involving mass transfer.
  • mass transfer applications include, but are not limited to, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes.
  • Industrial applications for the system of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste.
  • the subject application is directed to a system for saturating liquids with a desired gas, and separating solid components from liquids.
  • the subject application relates to wastewater management and provides efficient flotation of biological, organic and inorganic solids that are present in the wastewater. More particularly, there is provided a method and system for stripping volatile organic compounds from water.
  • the subject application also provides a method and system for conversion of certain inorganic oxides to more stable oxides and oxidation of certain organics.
  • the system and methods of the current invention can be used for prevention or dilution of hydrogen sulfide formation in lagoons, ponds, or other water holding/transfer systems, and to aeration of lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and the like.
  • the subject application also provides for extended suspension of solids in water and other liquids. Further, the application provides for efficient transfer of oxygen, ozone and other gases into water.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Physical Water Treatments (AREA)

Abstract

The subject application is directed to a system and method for alteration of gas content in a liquid. The system includes a flow-through device, such as a vena contracta, converging/diverging nozzle, or orifice plate, which allows the saturation of a gas in water to exceed 100 percent. A flow of water is directed toward the outlet end of the flow-through device and a flow of gas is directed into the inlet end thereof. The flow of air passes through an orifice in the flow-through device and creates a shock wave adjacent the outlet end thereof. The shock wave creates a mass transfer interface permitting the super-saturation of gas in the water. The supersaturated water then exits past the flow-through device for discharge through a piping system into a pond, water reservoir or such containment area as is required by a particular application.

Description

A SYSTEMAND METHOD FOR ALTERATION OF GAS CONTENT OFA LIQUID
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/298,333, filed December 7, 2005, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/344,863, filed February 1, 2006, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/868,832, filed December 6, 2006, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/868,836, filed December 6, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/868,840, filed December 6, 2006, the entirety of which are incorporated herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The subject application is directed to a system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid. More particularly, the subject application is directed to a system and method using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas. In one particular embodiment, the subject application relates to the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using low pressures to accomplish such aeration. In another embodiment, the subject application relates to the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using high pressures to accomplish such aeration.
Residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial water usage generates a tremendous volume of wastewater that, left untreated, can present health hazards and environmental concerns. Due to the increasing regulations for controlling the quality of water returned to the environment, water treatment systems such as the proposed invention are of great importance.
Present commercial practices use fine bubble diffusers and venturi type diffusers for municipal wastewater operations and surface mixers and turbo mixers for industrial applications for oxygen enhancement of waste water. The capital cost and maintenance requirements of these systems is high and a system using equivalent energy, at lower capital and maintenance cost that delivers high oxygen content is desirable for the municipal and industrial markets for waste water oxygenation.
Venturis operating at sonic or subsonic velocities have been utilized to remove sub- micron particulates from gas streams, create vacuum for industrial applications and saturate liquids with oxygen. With respect to the saturation of liquids, levels of absorption using sonic or subsonic velocity Venturis employing air as the motive gas have been limited to about 70 percent saturation of oxygen in water. Higher levels of saturation are desirable but have been unattainable using present venturi devices and methods of operating same.
SUMMARY OFTHE INVENTION
In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid.
Further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system and method for using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas.
Still further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using low pressures to accomplish such aeration.
Still further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using high pressures to accomplish such aeration.
Further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system for alteration of gas content of a liquid. The system includes a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in a first flow direction there through. The system further includes a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a direction generally opposite to the first flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
In one embodiment of the subject application, the system further includes a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
In another embodiment of the subject application, the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface; or steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
In yet another embodiment of the subject application, the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface. In a further embodiment of the subject application, the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
Still further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a method for alteration of gas content of a liquid in accordance with the system as set forth above.
Further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a system for alteration of gas content of a liquid. The system includes a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in a first flow direction there through. The system further includes a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a second flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
In one embodiment of the subject application, the system further includes a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
In another embodiment of the subject application, the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface; or steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
In yet another embodiment of the subject application, the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
In a further embodiment of the subject application, the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
Still further, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, there is provided a method for alteration of gas content of a liquid in accordance with the system as set forth above.
Still other advantages, aspects and features of the subject application will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description wherein there is shown and described a preferred embodiment of the subject application, simply by way of illustration of one of the best modes best suited to carry out the subject application. As it will be realized, the subject application is capable of other different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects all without departing from the scope of the subject application. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions will be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The subject application is described with reference to certain figures, including:
Figure Ia illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device within a liquid supply line in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure Ib illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance0 with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternate form of an orifice plate within a liquid supply line in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure 3 is a graph of Total System Flow (GPM) versus Total System Pressure (PSI) illustrating the percent saturation of oxygen in water for slightly less than and more than 100 L5 percent saturation levels in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure 4 is a graph of Total System Pressure (PSI) versus Exit Saturation (%) for various system flow rates in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
0 Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application;
Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a flow-through device connected to a gas supply in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application; and
Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an application of the flow-through device S in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The subject application is directed to a system and method for alteration of gas in a liquid. In particular, the subject application is directed to a system and method for using a flow-through device that operates at sonic or subsonic conditions, employing a motive gas. More particularly, the subject application is directed to a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using low pressures to accomplish such aeration. In addition, the subject application is directed to a system and method for the highly energy efficient aeration of liquids with a gas using high pressures to accomplish such aeration. It will become apparent to those skilled in the art that the system and method described herein are suitably adapted to a plurality of varying fields involving fluids and gases, including, for example and without limitation, water treatment, waste treatment, agriculture, aquaculture, mining, research, and the like. The subsequent description, which includes waste treatment, is for example purposes only and is not a limitation of the subject application solely to such a field.
Turning now to Figure IA, there is shown is a cross-sectional view 100 of the flow- through device 102 positioned within a liquid supply line 104 in accordance with a first embodiment of the subject application. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that suitable flow-through devices include, for example and without limitation, a vena contracta, converging nozzle, converging/diverging nozzle 102, or the like. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the flow-through device 102 in accordance with the first embodiment of the subject application is fabricated from a suitable metallic or non-metallic material and is typically cylindrical in cross-section. The flow-through device 102 of the first embodiment of the subject application has an inlet end 106, an outlet end 108, and an orifice 110 disposed therein and interposed between the inlet end 106 and the outlet end 108. The internal surface 112 of the flow-through device 102 between the inlet end 106 and the orifice 110 is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 110 whereas the internal surface 22 of the flow-through device 102 between the orifice 110 and the outlet end 108 is tapered outwardly toward the outlet end 108. The converging nozzle shown in Figure IB is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 110. A skilled artisan will recognize that the aforementioned tapers vary in different embodiments and, preferably, are covered with a respective compound. The orifice 110 is typically round in configuration.
In operation, a liquid, such as water, is provided within the liquid supply line 104.
The flow rate of the liquid is generally about 2 to 40 fps. A gas, such as air, having a pressure of generally about 20 to 200 psig is introduced into the flow-through device 102 via its inlet end 106. The direction of the gas flow is opposing to the direction of the flow of the liquid. The pressure of the air in the portion of the flow-through device 102 defined by the orifice 110 and the outlet end 108 is generally 20 to 200 psig. The air exits the outlet end 108 of the flow-through device 102 at a high velocity and moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid. The high velocity air contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the supersaturation of gases within the liquid. In this manner the saturation of oxygen in the water can approach, equal or exceed 100 percent. It was found that as the water pressure increased, the percent saturation of oxygen in water also increased. The supersaturated liquid passes through the area defined by the outer surface 116 of the flow-through device 102 and the inner surface 118 of the liquid supply line 104 and exits outwardly therefrom.
In addition to the matter that the direction of the flow of gas is opposing to the direction of the flow of liquid; that the pressure of the gas is generally about 20 to 200 psig and that the gas flow exiting the outlet end 108 of the flow-through device 102 is at a high velocity; and that the liquid flow rate is generally about 2 to 40 fps, there are other factors that affect the operation of the flow-through device 102 of one embodiment of the subject application. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, for example, the temperature of the liquid and the vapor pressure of the gas to be saturated into the liquid or stripped therefrom will have an impact on the operation of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application.
It should be noted that any type of gas and/or liquid are capable of being used with the flow-through device 102 in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application under the aforementioned operating conditions. For example and without limitation, ozone is capable of being dissolved into water, air is capable of being used to saturate oxygen in water; steam (gas) can be used to strip oxygen from a liquid; and compressed air, oxygen, ozone, or other gases are capable of being used to strip volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from liquids. This latter process is known as remediation. Stripping air/oxygen from products that contain liquids such as foods, beverages, cosmetics, chemicals, paints, etc., enhances the shelf life of same.
Turning now to Figure 2, there is shown a cross-sectional view 200 of one embodiment of the subject application. In Figure 2, a section of pipe in the form of a pipe nipple 202, or the like, is used and is disposed within a liquid supply line 204. The pipe nipple 202 is typically circular in cross-section and has an inlet end 206, an outlet end 208, and an orifice plate 210 disposed within its outlet end 208. The orifice plate 210 has an orifice 212 therein. The orifice 212 has a generally circular cross-section disposed generally centrally within the orifice plate 210. In this embodiment, no inlet end or outlet end tapers are required.
In accordance with aforementioned embodiment, a liquid, for example and without limitation, water, is provided within the liquid supply 204. A gas, for example and without limitation, air, is introduced into the pipe nipple 202 via its inlet end 206. The direction of the gas flow is countercurrent to the direction of the flow of the liquid. The air exiting the outlet end 208 of the pipe nipple 202 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid. The shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the supersaturation of gases within the liquid. The supersaturated liquid passes through the area defined by the outer surface 214 of the pipe nipple 202 and the inner surface 216 of the liquid supply line 204 and exits therefrom. It should be noted that this embodiment of the subject application illustrated in Figure 2 operates under similar conditions with respect to flow rates and pressures as in the embodiment discussed above with respect to Figure 1. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment of the subject application depicted in Figure 2 will produce results similar to those results produced by the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, i.e., the saturation of oxygen in water approaching, equaling or exceeding 100 percent, when operated under similar conditions.
A skilled artisan will appreciate that a larger liquid supply line 204 would necessitate the use of a larger flow-through device, e.g., a larger vena contracta, converging nozzle, converging/diverging nozzle, or multiple thereof. Similarly, the practice of the technology using an orifice plate in a larger supply line 204 would necessitate the use of a larger orifice 212 in the orifice plate 210 or an orifice plate having multiple orifices therein (not shown). Certain geometric similarities must be maintained as the size of the liquid supply line is changed.
Referring now to Figure 3, a graph of Total System Flow (GPM) versus Total System Pressure (PSI) is shown. The graph of Figure 3 illustrates that use of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application under specific operating conditions, saturation levels of oxygen in water are capable of approaching or exceeding 100 percent. Figure 4 is a graph of Total System Pressure (PSI) versus Exit Saturation (%) for various system flow rates and also illustrates that use of the flow-through device 102 of the subject application under specific operating conditions, saturation levels of oxygen in water are capable of approaching or exceeding 100 percent.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the flow-through device 102 of the subject application is more effective than presently available apparatus used in applications involving mass transfer. Such mass transfer applications include, but are not limited to, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes. Industrial applications for the flow-through device of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste, chemical processing, food de-aeration, boiler feed water de-aeration, medical applications (i.e., blood purification, etc.), purification of pharmaceuticals, purification in metal and chemical processing, and research and development applications.
In an example embodiment of the subject application, the system and methodology described above with respect to Figures 1-4 will be better understood in operation in a wastewater facility. In this embodiment, aside of saturation of water with oxygen, flotation of biological, organic and inorganic solids that are present in the wastewater, occurs in a short resonance time varying from a few seconds to a few minutes. A skilled artisan will appreciate that in a preferred embodiment the flotation efficiently appears at the flow rate of the water from 18 to 70 fps and the air pressure from about 18.5 psig at .3 SCFM to 75 psig at 2 SCFM. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art the range of the resonance time is a function of the air pressure inside of the device of the invention and of the amount of solids in a particular wastewater facility. The solids keep in a flotation mode in an enclosed containers exceeding a 24 hour period, which allows for suitable consumption of the bio and/or organic waste by suitable bacteria present. It will be appreciated that the foregoing method is effective in agricultural and industrial wastewater treatment arenas.
Accordingly, the method described above is also effective for stripping hydrogen sulfide and other volatile organic compounds from untreated or already treated water streams in water treatment plants, pulp and paper mills, and the refinery industry.
A skilled artisan will appreciate that the conversion of certain inorganic oxides to more stable oxides in water treatment plants or certain industrial plants according to the method described above and using the device of the subject application, is equally effective. Such applications include, for example, and without limitation those associated with the base metal ore industries, such as iron, copper, or the like, or steel processing, such as FexOy or MgxSOy to Fe2θ3 or Mg2SO4, respectively.
The prevention or dilution of hydrogen sulfide formation in lagoons, ponds, or other water holding/transfer systems by injecting high amounts of air (oxygen/aeration) using the system and method of the present invention in such industries, as the pulp and paper industries, is also in the scope of the subject application, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Another effective application of the device and method described above is consumer related industries, such as the food industry and the brewing industry. Using the method and device described above for aeration of lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and the like provides for enhancement of an environment more suitable for aquatic life and human being. Accordingly, the method and device of subject application are effective for transporting air into underground mine systems.
Turning now to Figure 5, there is shown a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment 500 of the subject application. Shown in Figure 5, a liquid, for example and without limitation, water, is provided within a liquid supply 502. A gas, for example and without limitation, air, is introduced into a pipe nipple 504 via its inlet end 506. The direction of the gas flow in this embodiment, is orthogonal to the direction of the flow of the liquid. The air exiting the outlet end 508 of the pipe nipple 504 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid. The shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the saturation of gases within the liquid. The supersaturated liquid passes further in the same direction as the initial liquid flow. The embodiment 500 depicted in Figure 5 also includes restriction means 510. A skilled artisan will appreciate that the restriction means 510 is adapted to provide a resonance like effect to increase the transfer of a gas in the liquid, e.g., oxygen in water. As will be also appreciated by those skilled in the art, there are several techniques of pipe or enclosure configuration that are capable of increasing the velocity of the water passing through the pipe or enclosure thus enhancing the oxygenation process. In addition, the skilled artisan will appreciate that, for example and without limitation, air is capable of being injected at a variety of points along the pipe or enclosure.
In practice, low air pressures are generally in the range of 0.5 to 20 psig. Those skilled in the art will recognize that water flow rates, pressures and velocities are a function of standard cubic feet per minute of air delivered, pipe or enclosure size and configuration, any flow enhancements made to the pipe enclosure configuration, and any restriction installed in the system.
Referring now to Figure 6, a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of another embodiment 600 of the subject application is shown. In the embodiment 600 of Figure 6, similar to that of Figure 5, a liquid, such as water, is provided within a liquid supply 602. A gas, such as air, is introduced into a pipe nipple 604 via its inlet end 606. The direction of the gas flow is opposite to the direction of the flow of the liquid. The air exiting the outlet end 608 of the pipe nipple 604 is at a high velocity creating a shock wave that moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid. The shock wave contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface permitting the saturation of gases within the liquid. The supersaturated liquid passes further in the same direction as the initial liquid flow. The embodiment 600 depicted in Figure 6 includes also restriction means 610. A skilled artisan will appreciate that the restriction means 610 is adapted to provide resonance increasing the transfer of gas in the liquid, such as oxygen in water.
The skilled artisan will appreciate that the system for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising a liquid conduit and a gas conduit of the subject application is effective in applications involving mass transfer. Such mass transfer applications include, for example and without limitation, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes. Industrial applications for the system of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste, chemical processing, beverage carbonation, food de-aeration, boiler feed water de-aeration, medical applications (i.e., blood purification, etc.), purification of pharmaceuticals, purification in metal and chemical processing, and research and development applications.
Accordingly, the skilled artisan will appreciate that the embodiments 500 and 600 described in greater detail above, are suitably capable of effectively stripping hydrogen sulfide and other volatile organic compounds from untreated or already treated water streams in water treatment plants, pulp and paper mills, and the refinery industry.
The skilled artisan will further appreciate that the conversion of certain inorganic oxides to more stable oxides in water treatment plants or certain industrial plants according to the embodiments 500 and 600 of the subject application, is equally effective. Such applications include, for example, and without limitation those associated with the basic metal ore industries, such as iron, copper, or the like, or steel processing, such as FexOy or MgxSOy to Fe2Cb or Mg2SO4, respectively.
The prevention or dilution of hydrogen sulfide formation in lagoons, ponds, or other water holding/transfer systems by injecting high amounts of air (oxygen/aeration) using the system and method of the subject application in such industries, as the pulp and paper industries, is also in the scope of the subject application, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the skilled artisan will appreciate the application of the aforementioned embodiments 500 and 600 to the aeration of lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and the like provides for enhancement of an environment more suitable for aquatic life and human being. In addition, the skilled artisan will appreciate the effective application of the foregoing embodiments 500 and 600 to transport air into underground mine systems.
Turning now to Figure 7, there is shown a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a flow-through device 700 for alteration of gas content of a liquid. Those skilled in art will recognize that the flow-through device 700 is suitably employed, for example and without limitation, as a vena contracta, converging nozzle, orifice plate, or converging/diverging nozzle positioned within a liquid supply (not shown in Figure 7). It will further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the flow-through device 700 is preferably capable of implementation as an oxygenation device, as will be understood in the art. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the flow-through device 700 of the subject application includes a body 702, which is advantageously fabricated from a metallic or non-metallic material and is typically cylindrical in cross-section. The flow-though device 700 has an inlet end 704, an outlet end 706, and an orifice 708 disposed therein and interposed between the inlet end 704 and the outlet end 706. A first internal surface 710 of the body 702 of the flow-though device 700, between the inlet end 704 and the orifice 708 is tapered inwardly toward the orifice 708 whereas a second internal surface 712 of the body 702 of the flow-though device 700, between the orifice 708 and the outlet end 706 is tapered outwardly toward the outlet end 706. A skilled artisan will recognize that the aforementioned tapers vary in different embodiments. The orifice 710 is typically circular in configuration. It will be further appreciated by the skilled artisan that the flow-though device 700 is similar to previously known venture-type devices, but does not include a suction port.
In operation, gas, such as air, is introduced into the flow-through device 700 via its inlet end 704. The air flows through the device 700 and exits the outlet end 704 of the flow- though device 700 at a high velocity and moves outwardly therefrom into the liquid. The high velocity gas stream contacts the liquid stream creating a high efficiency interface within the liquid.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the efficiency of the flow-through device 700 of the subject application varies in accordance with the pressure and velocity of the gas. There are other factors that affect the operation of the flow-though device 700 of the subject application. For example and without limitation, the temperature of the liquid and the vapor pressure of the gas to be saturated into the liquid also impact the operation of the flow- through device 700 of the subject application. A skilled artisan will appreciate that any type of gas and/or liquid is capable of being used with the flow-though device 700 of the subject application under the aforementioned operating conditions.
Turning now to Figure 8, there is shown a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment 800 of the subject application. In this embodiment, a liquid 802, such as water, is provided within a suitable container, such as a tank 804, as illustrated in Figure 8. As will be evident to those skilled in the art, the liquid 802 is capable of being advantageously contained in any other suitable type of a container, as well as in natural or man-made water holding/transfer systems, such as lagoons, ponds, and the like. At least one flow-through oxygenation device of the type illustrated in the Figure 7 is installed inside of the tank 804, preferably, in the vicinity of the bottom 806 of the tank 804. Figure 8 illustrates a tank 804 with a flow-through oxygenation device 808 and a flow-through oxygenation device 810 installed in it.
The number of flow-through oxygenation devices installed inside of the tank 804 depends on the volume of liquid contained in the tank 804. It may also depend on the configuration and performance parameters of the flow-through oxygenation devices. The devices 808, 810 are installed in a predetermined pattern at some distance from each other. The pattern is determined by the volume of liquid contained in the tank 804 and by the performance parameters of the devices 808, 810. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the devices 808, 810 are located such as to provide efficient aeration of the liquid.
Further included in the embodiment 800 is a gas conduit 812 connected with the flow- through oxygenation device 808, and a gas conduit 814 connected with the flow-through oxygenation device 810. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the gas conduits 812, 814 are implemented as any suitable gas conduits known in the art. As will be apparent to a skilled artisan, two or more flow-through oxygenation devices are capable of being connected to a common gas conduit (not shown).
In operation, a gas, such as air, is introduced into the devices 808, 810 through respective gas conduits 812, 814. As described in detail above with respect to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the gas flow exits the outlets of devices 808, 810. The operation of the embodiment 800 will be further described with respect to the device 808. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the operation of the device 808 in the embodiment 800 is analogous to that of the device 808. The gas flow moving at a high velocity through the device 808 meets a counter flow of liquid, thus creating a high efficiency interface within the liquid permitting saturation of gas within the liquid.
Responsive to the high efficiency interface within the liquid, a flow of saturated liquid is created that is directed toward the surface 816 of the liquid 802, enveloping thereby the gas conduit 812. As the liquid flow reaches the surface 816 of the liquid 802, gas is to some extent displaced with liquid. The latter creates counter current liquid flows directed toward the bottom 806 of the tank 804. These liquid flows when reaching the bottom 806 of the tank 804 change their directions and merge to enter again the device 208. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the devices 808, 810 are, preferably spaced such that the counter current liquid flows directed toward the bottom 806 of the tank8204, do not overlap with each other.
In practice, low air pressures are generally in the range of 0.5 to 10 psig. Those skilled in the art will recognize that pressures and velocities are a function of the liquid enclosure size and configuration, and of the number and configuration of the flow through devices installed in the liquid enclosure.
The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising a gas conduit of the subject application is an effective apparatus involving mass transfer. Such mass transfer applications include, but are not limited to, tray towers, spray towers, packed towers, static and dynamic mixers, sparger systems, cooling towers, membranes, spray ponds, distillation towers and ultraviolet purification and other advanced processes. Industrial applications for the system of the subject application and the method of operating same include, but are not limited to, purification of fresh water supplies, processing of industrial and municipal waste.
The skilled artisan will also appreciate that the subject application is directed to a system for saturating liquids with a desired gas, and separating solid components from liquids. In particular, the subject application relates to wastewater management and provides efficient flotation of biological, organic and inorganic solids that are present in the wastewater. More particularly, there is provided a method and system for stripping volatile organic compounds from water. The subject application also provides a method and system for conversion of certain inorganic oxides to more stable oxides and oxidation of certain organics. The system and methods of the current invention can be used for prevention or dilution of hydrogen sulfide formation in lagoons, ponds, or other water holding/transfer systems, and to aeration of lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and the like. The subject application also provides for extended suspension of solids in water and other liquids. Further, the application provides for efficient transfer of oxygen, ozone and other gases into water.
The foregoing description of a preferred embodiment of the subject application has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the subject application to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment was chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the subject application and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to use the subject application in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the subject application as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.

Claims

What is claimed:
1. A system for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising:
a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in first flow direction there through; and
a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a direction generally opposite to the first flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
2. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 1 further comprising a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
3. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 2 wherein the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
4. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 2 wherein the gas includes steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
5. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 3 wherein the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
6. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 4 wherein the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
7. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 3 wherein the selected pressure is in the range of 50 to 200 psig.
8. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 3 wherein the liquid flows through the liquid conduit at a rate in the range of 2 to 40 fps.
9. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 7 wherein the 5 liquid flows through the liquid conduit at a rate in the range of 2 to 40 fps.
10. A method for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising the steps of: receiving a liquid into a liquid conduit such that the liquid is transported in a first flow direction there through;
0 communicating gas via a gas conduit having at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through;
injecting gas from the gas conduit into the liquid conduit in a direction generally opposite to the first flow direction. 5
11. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 10 further comprising the step of introducing the associated gas into the gas conduit at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas. 0
12. The method for al teration of gas content of a liquid of claim 11 further
comprising the step of introducing the gas inclusive of oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface. S
13. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 11 further
comprising the step of introducing the gas inclusive of steam whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface. iθ
14. The method for alteration of gas content of claim 12 wherein the liquid
includes water, which water is super saturate with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
15. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 13 wherein the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
16. A system for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising:
a liquid conduit, the liquid conduit including means adapted for transporting an associated liquid in a first flow direction there through; and
a gas conduit, the gas conduit including means adapted for injecting an associated gas into the liquid in a second flow direction, the gas conduit including at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through.
17. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 16 further comprising a gas injector operatively connected to the gas conduit so as to introduce the associated gas therein at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
18. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 17 wherein the gas includes oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation-level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
19. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 17 wherein the gas includes steam, whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
20. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 18 wherein the liquid includes water, which water is supersaturated with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
21. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 19 wherein the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
22. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 18 wherein the selected pressure is in the range of 50 to 200 psig.
23. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 18 wherein the liquid flows through the liquid conduit at a rate in the range of 2 to 40 fps.
24. The system for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 22 wherein the liquid flows through the liquid conduit at a rate in the range of 2 to 40 fps.
25. A method for alteration of gas content of a liquid comprising the steps of: receiving a liquid into a liquid conduit such that the liquid is transported in a first flow direction there through;
communicating gas via a gas conduit having at least one constriction so as to increase a relative velocity of gas passing there through;
injecting gas from the gas conduit into the liquid conduit in a second flow direction.
26. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 25 further comprising the step of introducing the associated gas into the gas conduit at a selected pressure relative to a rate of the first flow so as to introduce a Shockwave at an interface between the liquid and the gas.
27. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 26 further comprising the step of introducing the gas inclusive of oxygen, whereby the Shockwave introduces a supersaturation level of oxygen into the liquid after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
28. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 26 further comprising the step of introducing the gas inclusive of steam whereby the Shockwave induces a lessening of a dissolved gas content of the liquid after contact between the liquid and the steam at the interface.
29. The method for alteration of gas content of claim 27 wherein the liquid includes water, which water is super saturate with oxygen after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
30. The method for alteration of gas content of a liquid of claim 28 wherein the liquid includes water, from which water oxygen is removed after contact between the liquid and the gas at the interface.
PCT/US2006/061756 2005-12-07 2006-12-07 A system and method for alteration of gas content of a liquid WO2007067962A2 (en)

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US11/298,333 US20070126132A1 (en) 2005-12-07 2005-12-07 Vena contracta
US11/344,863 US20070126133A1 (en) 2005-12-07 2006-02-01 Vena contracta
US11/344,863 2006-02-01
US86883206P 2006-12-06 2006-12-06
US86883606P 2006-12-06 2006-12-06
US86884006P 2006-12-06 2006-12-06
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