CA2056760A1 - Apparatus for dissolution of gas in liquid - Google Patents
Apparatus for dissolution of gas in liquidInfo
- Publication number
- CA2056760A1 CA2056760A1 CA002056760A CA2056760A CA2056760A1 CA 2056760 A1 CA2056760 A1 CA 2056760A1 CA 002056760 A CA002056760 A CA 002056760A CA 2056760 A CA2056760 A CA 2056760A CA 2056760 A1 CA2056760 A1 CA 2056760A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- outlet
- inlet
- bubbles
- liquid
- flow chamber
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 63
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 title claims description 38
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims description 70
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 31
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 18
- 230000003134 recirculating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 239000003673 groundwater Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 5
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- UHOVQNZJYSORNB-UHFFFAOYSA-N Benzene Chemical compound C1=CC=CC=C1 UHOVQNZJYSORNB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- YXFVVABEGXRONW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Toluene Chemical compound CC1=CC=CC=C1 YXFVVABEGXRONW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000012535 impurity Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 description 3
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- YNQLUTRBYVCPMQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethylbenzene Chemical compound CCC1=CC=CC=C1 YNQLUTRBYVCPMQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000003517 fume Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000705930 Broussonetia papyrifera Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000950314 Figura Species 0.000 description 1
- CTQNGGLPUBDAKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N O-Xylene Chemical compound CC1=CC=CC=C1C CTQNGGLPUBDAKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000005273 aeration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012620 biological material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004880 explosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010808 liquid waste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 244000005700 microbiome Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002244 precipitate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 1
- BALXUFOVQVENIU-KXNXZCPBSA-N pseudoephedrine hydrochloride Chemical compound [H+].[Cl-].CN[C@@H](C)[C@@H](O)C1=CC=CC=C1 BALXUFOVQVENIU-KXNXZCPBSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002912 waste gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004065 wastewater treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000008096 xylene Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- 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
- B01F23/20—Mixing gases with liquids
- B01F23/23—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids
- B01F23/232—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids using flow-mixing means for introducing the gases, e.g. baffles
- B01F23/2321—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids using flow-mixing means for introducing the gases, e.g. baffles by moving liquid and gas in counter current
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Aeration Devices For Treatment Of Activated Polluted Sludge (AREA)
Abstract
0850i ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An apparatus for dissolving gas in a downflow of liquid, the apparatus comprising an outer vessel including an upper end having an inlet, and a lower end having an outlet, the outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting the downflow between the inlet and the outlet, a funnel member including a tubular portion which defines at least part of the inlet, and which cooperates with the outer vessel to define a collection well, and a downwardly diverging portion extending downwardly into the flow chamber from the tubular portion, the downwardly diverging portion including an outlet end, and defining a bubble contact chamber, and a mechanism for introducing bubbles of gas into the downflow, the mechanism for introducing including a source of gas under pressure, and a bubble dispersing device connected to the source, and positioned within the flow chamber adjacent the outlet end of the downwardly diverging portion so that the bubbles travel in a countercurrent direction into the bubble contact chamber and toward the inlet, and wherein the bubbles are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid exiting the outlet end, and wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid in the tubular portion is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
An apparatus for dissolving gas in a downflow of liquid, the apparatus comprising an outer vessel including an upper end having an inlet, and a lower end having an outlet, the outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting the downflow between the inlet and the outlet, a funnel member including a tubular portion which defines at least part of the inlet, and which cooperates with the outer vessel to define a collection well, and a downwardly diverging portion extending downwardly into the flow chamber from the tubular portion, the downwardly diverging portion including an outlet end, and defining a bubble contact chamber, and a mechanism for introducing bubbles of gas into the downflow, the mechanism for introducing including a source of gas under pressure, and a bubble dispersing device connected to the source, and positioned within the flow chamber adjacent the outlet end of the downwardly diverging portion so that the bubbles travel in a countercurrent direction into the bubble contact chamber and toward the inlet, and wherein the bubbles are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid exiting the outlet end, and wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid in the tubular portion is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
Description
0~350i 2~!~6~60 APPAR~TUS FOR DISSOLUTION OF GAS IN l,IQUID
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to the dissolution of gas in a liquid, and more particu:Larly to an apparatus for dissolving gas in a liquid downflow.
Reference to Prior Art In many processes it is desirable to dis~olve gases in liquids. Such processe~ include the dissolution of oxygen in water in wa~te water treatment and other water treatment technologie In U.S. Patent No. 3,643,403, issued February 22, 1972 to Speece, a downflow bubble contac~ aeration apparatu~
includes a bubble disperser mounted within a downwardly diverging funnel. 8ubbles emitted by the disperser are restricted to downward movement in the direction of water flow for cocurrent contact with the water.
In U.S. Patent No. 4,466,928, issued Augu~t 21, 1984 to Ro8, an apparatu for di~olution of gases in liquid is disclosed. In Kos, ga~ i~ introduced into a contact chamber or into the liquid stream above the contact chamber for cocurrent contact with the liquid. It i~ important in Ro~ that the downflow velocity of the liquid in the contact chamber be greater than the ri~ing velocity of the ga~ bubbla~ ~o that a continuous downward flow of bubble~ i8 accomplighed .
0850i ~`S~6~
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an apparatus for dissolving ga~ in a liquid, the apparatus utilizing countercurrent contact of gas bubbles with the liquid for efficient gas dissolution, and introduction of the bubbles into the apparatus in the area ad~acent: the outlet so that liquid leaving the apparatus is contactecl with hign quality gas.
An object of the present invention is the provision of a gas dissolution apparatus which functions to efficiently and economically dissolve gaq in a liquid, and which is easy t;o operate and maintain.
Another ob~ect of the present invention is the provision of an improved ga~ dissolution apparatus which introducs~ gas bubble~ into a downflow o~ liquid for countercurrent contact of bubble~ with the liquid.
Another object of the present invention i9 ~he provision of an improved ga~ dissolution apparatus which include~ a flow confinement member having an inlet and an outlet, and means for introducing bubbles into the liquid flowing between the inlet and the outlet in the area adjacent the outlet so that the liquid leaving the flow confinement member i3 contacted by the bubbles shortly after they are introduced.
Another ob~ect of the present invention i~ the provision of a ~as di~solution apparatu~ which include~ a flow confinement member comprisinq ~n outer ve~el having an inlet snd an outlet, and a funnel member including a downwardly diverging portion extending into the outer vessal and communicating wit:h the inlet for delivering a f~ow of liquid into ths outer vessel.
0850i 2~S6760 Another ob~ect of the present invention i~ the provision of a liquid treatment system which incorporates the aforementioned gas dissolution apparatus, and which functions to remove contaminents from the liquid. In one embodiment of the invention the liquid treatment system can be used to purify groundwater by removin~ fuel constitutent~ therefrom.
Th~ gas dissolution appa:ratu~ comprises a flow confinement member which includes an outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting liquid between an inlet and an outlet, and a funnel member extending downwardly into the flow chamber from the inlet for conducting a downflow of liquid into the flow cha~ber. The funnel member includes a downwardly diverging portion which has a lower outlet end, and which defines a contact chamber.
The ga~ di~solution apparatus also comprises me~ns for introducing bubble~ of ga~ into the liquid downflow. The introducing means includes a bubble dispersing device position~d ad~acent the lower or outlet end of the funnel member so that gas bubbles emitted by the bubble dispersing device travel upwardly into the contact chamber for countercurrent contact with the liquid. The bubble dispersinq device is preferably positioned within the flow chamber in the area adjacent the outlet of the outer vessel so that liquid leaving the gas dissolution apparatus i8 contacted with ga~
bubbles shortly after their emi~sion from the bubble dispersing device. Thi~ arrangement i intended to achieve greater dissolution of gas in the liquid.
In altexnative embodiment~ of the invention, the flow confinement member can include only the outer ve~sel or the funnel member, with the bubble dispersing device being 0850i Z~56~
positioned to accomplish countercurrent contact of the bubble~
with the liquid. In either alternative embodiment, the bubble dispersing device is preferably positioned in proximity to the outlet.
Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed descriptions, claims and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side view, partially in section, of a gas dissolution apparatus embodying the invention.
Figure 2 is a view taken along line 2-2 in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a view taken along line 3-3 in Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a liquid treatment system which utilizes the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure S is a side view, partially in section, of an altern~tive embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 6.is a ~ide view, partially in section, o~ a second al~ernative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 7 is a side view, partially in section, of a third alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 8 is a side view, partially in ssction, of the reactor shown in Figure 4.
Before one embodiment of the invention i~ explained in detail it i8 to be understood that the invention i8 not limited 0850i 5676~
in its application to the detail~ of the construction and the arrangements of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being pra~ticed or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 illustrates a gas dissolution apparatus 10 which functions to di~solve gas in a liquid, and which embodies various features of the invention. While the ga~ dissolution apparatus 10 can be used to dissolve a variety of different gases in different liquids, in the illu~trated arrang~ment the apparatus 10 dissolves oxygen in water.
The gas dissolution apparatus 10 includes a flow confinement member 12 comprising an annular outer tank or vessel 14 which is preferably a pressure vessel rated to withstand pressure of at least 30 psi. The outer vessel 14 is supported on legs 16 and includes an upper end 18 having an inlet 20, and a lower end 22 having an outlet 24 which is defined by an outlet conduit or pipe 26. A cylindrical flow chamber 30 is defined by the outer vessel 14 and conducts water between the inlet 20 and the outlet 24.
A~ shown in Figure 2, the outer ves~el 14 also includes one or more gas feed pipe~ 32 (two ara shown) which protrude through ~he lower end 22. Each fe~d pipe 32 has an outside end which i~ connectable So a pre~suri~ed ga~ source 34 (see Fig. 4). In the illu~trated arrangement the source 34 0850i 2(~56~6~) supplie~ air, oxygen enriched air, or commercial oxygen to the gas dissolution apparatus 10.
The outer vessel 14 i8 also provided with a manway pipe 36 which projects outwardly from the lower end 22 of the outer vessel 14, and which provide5 access to the flow chamber 30 to clean or maintain the gas di~;~olution apparatus 10. A
removeable cover 37 is secured to the manway pipe 36 via fasteners or other means.
The flow confinement member 12 also comprises a funnel member 38 which extend3 downwardly into the flow chamber 30 from the upper end 18 of the outer vessel 14. As shown in Figure 1, the funnel member 38 includes a tubular inlet portion 40 which extends through the upper end 18, and which defines the inlet 20. The inlet portion 40 cooperates with the outer vessel 14 to define a collection well 42 in the uppermo~t part of the flow chamber 30. The collection well 42 ha~ a small volume so that only small quantities of gas can collect therein. If the gas collecting in tha collection well 42 includes volatile fumes, the amount of these fumes which collect is limited by the size of the collection well 42, so that the ri~k and severity of fire or explosion i3 reduced.
The funnel member 38 al~o includes a frusto-conical, downwardly diverging portion 44 which extends into the flow chamber 30 from the inlet portion 40, and which has an increasinq flow area in the downward direction. The diverging portion 44 has ~ lower outlet end 46 which opens in the flow chamber area ad~acent the lower end 22, and which i~ ~paced above the outlet :24. The diverging portion 44 defines a bubble contact chamber 50 within the flow chamber 30. A downflow of liquid conducted through the funnel member 38 experiences a 0850i ~ 6~
decrease in velocity from a maximum at the inlet portion 40, to a minimum at the outlet end 46 of the diverging portion 44.
The gas dissolution apparatus 10 also includes means for introducing bubble~ of gas into the flow chamber 30 for countercurrent movement of the bubbles toward the inlet 20.
While various introducing means can be employed, in ~he illustrated construction the introducing means includes a pair of bubble dispersing units or devices 52 and 54 (see Fig. 2) positioned within the flow chamber 30 proximate the lower end 22 and ad~acent the outlet 24. Although the gas dissolution apparatus 10 will function satisfactorily with only a single bubble dispersing device, it i~ preferred that two or more dispersing devices be used so that shut-off or malfunction of one of the dispersing devices does not prevent operation of the gas dissolution apparat~s 10.
A~ shown in Figure 2, each of the bubble dispersing device~ 52 and 54 includes an intermediate gas feed conduit or pipe 56 which i~ ~upported on a bracket 58 extsnding between the inner walls of the outer vessel 14, and which i~ fitted at one end to the inside end of one of the ga~ feed pipes 32. Each of the di~persing devices 52 and 54 also includes a bubble diffuser 60 supported on the other end of the feed pipe 56.
While gas supplied to the bubble diffuser~ 60 from the source 34 can be emittecl in the form of fine bubbles or course bubbleQ, it i8 preferred that fine bubble diffuser~ be used since fine bubbles expose a larger surface area per bubble volume to contact: with the liquid than do larger bubble~. It is preferred that: bubble~ emitted generally range from lmm -3mm in diameter.
0850i ~05~6;0 While the bubble diffuser~ could have other constructions, in the illustrated arrangement they are each comprised of fine bubble membrane diffusers of the type used in waste water treatment tanks. Such diffusers are commercially available and are manufactuxed by Envirex Inc., Wauke~ha, wisconsin.
As shown in Figure 3, each fine bubble diffuser 60 includes a disc-like body member 64 having a generally circular membr~ne supporting or backing surface 66 which has one or more centrally located openingQ 68. The body member 64 also includes a central gas inlet member 70 defining a passage 72 which communicates between the openings 68 and one of the feed pipes 56. The bubble diffusers 60 can be mounted on the feed pipes 56 via a threaded connection between respective inlet members 70 and feed pipes 56.
The fine bubble diffusers 60 each also include a membrane 74 whi~h is perforated with a large number of relatively small hole~ or pores. The membrane 74 is attached at its periphery in sealing relationship to the rim of the backing surface 66. The center of the membrane 74 i9 held to the center of the backing surface 66 by a fastener 76 such as a bolt and nut. When air from ~he source 34 i8 delivered through the feed pipes 32 and 56, passage 72, and opening~ 68, the membrane 74 distends and moves away from the backing surface 66, thereby opening the pores and allowing small bubbles of ga~
to emanate therefrom. When gas under pres~ure i8 no longer provided, the me~)rane 74 collap~es against ~he backing surface 66 and the pores close.
The fine bubble diffusers 60 are located proximate the lower end 22 and above the outlet 24, and prsferably directly 0850i ~56~60 below the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 for reasons set forth more fully below. The gas bubbles emitted by the fine bubble diffusers 60 have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the water at the outlet end 46, ~o that the bubbles flow upwardly in the countercurrent direction into the bubble contact chamber 50. Similarly, the air bubbles have a buoyant velocity less than the downflow velocity of the water in the inlet portion 40. Water turbulance in the funnel member 38 generally prevents air bubbles from coalescing to form larger bubbles which may have sufficient buoyant velocity to travel upwardly into the inlet portion 40. Thus, the bubbles will tend to suspend in the contact chamber 50 where the buoyant velocity of the bubbles and the downflow velocity of the water are at equilibrium. Thi~ equilibrium area i~
generally designated by upper and lower bounds shown by dashed lines 78 and 79 in Figure 1.
Although countercurrent contact i3 expected to increase dissolution of oxygen in the water, air bubble~
entrapped in the contact chamber 50 contain some oxygen which will nevertheless remain undissolved. If left in the contact chamber 50 these air bubbles can accumulate until they are crowded out of the outlet end 46, thereaft~r rising to the collection well 42 for removal from the ga~ dissolution apparatus 10 as will be further explained below. Since commercial oxygen or the generation of oxy~en enriched air can be expensive, racirculation of these gase~ i~ desired.
Accordingly, the ~a3 dissolution apparatu~ 10 includes mean~ for recirculating the air bubbles contained within the contact chamber 50. While various recirculating means can be employed, in the illustrated arrangement the recirculating 0850i 2~5~6~
mean~ includes upper and lower recirculating conduits 80 and 82 communicating between the bubble contact chamber 50 and the inlet 20. ~hile a single recirculating conduit can be used, a pair of conduits 80 and 82 is preferred. The upper and lower recirculating conduit~ 80 and 82 respectively communicate with the bubble contact chamber 50 at the upper and lower bounds 78 and 79 of the area in which bubbles tend to accumulate in the contact chamber 50. The motive force behind the bubble recirculation is the pressure differential existing between the contact chamber 50 and the inlet 20.
As gas bubbles rise from the fine bubble diffusers 60 other gase~, xuch a nitrogen for example~ are ~tripped from the water by the oxygen in the bubble~. Impurities are thereby removed from the water as the water flows downwardly, while the ~urity of the oxygen containing gas bubble~ is reduced as the bubbles ascend. Thus, locating the fine bubble diffusers 60 proximate the lower end 22 and near the outlet 24 facilitates contacting the water exiting the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 with the be~t quality gas bubble~3 (i.e. gas bubbles which contain the highest amount of oxygen~ prior to leaving the gas dis~olution apparatu~ 10 through the outlet 24.
Contacting the water leaving the system with the best quality oxygen tends to increase the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water.
The ~tripped or waste gase~ are displaced from the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 and are contained within the flow chamber 30, traveling upwardly into the collection well 42. AccordLngly, the gas di~301ution apparatus 10 include~ means for removing contaminents such as these and other wa4te ga~e~3. Whil2 variou~ removing m~an~ can be 0850i 2~ 76q:~
employed, in the illustrated construction the removing means include~ a ga~ vent conduit 84 communicating with the collection well 42 for removing waste gases therefrom. The removal means also includes a liquid removal conduit 86 pro~ecting through the upper end 18 of the outer vessel 14. In the event liquid waste other than water collects in the upper end of the flow chamber 30, these waste products can be removed through ~he liquid removal conduit 86.
The water entering the gas dissolution apparatus 10 can include contaminants such as iron and lead. These impurities combine with the oxygen in the gas bubbles to form precipitates such as oxides of iron and lead. Accordingly, the gas dissolution apparatu~ 10 includes means for blow-down removal to remove these solid-~. In the illustrated arrangement the blow-down removal means includes a blow-dv~n removal con~uit 88 which i~ fitted with a valve 90 for controlling blow-down withdrawal.
Illustrated in Figure 4, is a liquid treatment system 92 which incorporates the gss dissolution apparatu~ 10, and which functions to remove contaminents or impurities from the liquid. While the liquid treatment sy~tem 92 can be used for treating a variety of different liquid , in the illu~trated arrangement, the system is designed to remove organics such as gasoline constitutent~ includinq benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX~) from groundwater polluted by ~ources such as leaky underground fuel storage tank~ (not ~hown).
The ~ystem 92 includes a reactor 94 which i~
preferably a fluid bed reactor of the type disclo~ed in U.S~
Patent Nos. 4,00!9,098 and 4,009,105, each is~ued on February 0850i 2~5~7~
22, 1977 to Jeri~, and each of which i8 incorporated herein by reference.
As shown in Figure 8, the reactor 94 is in the form of an upright cylindrical column and includes a water intake manifold 96 at its base. The reactor 94 also preferably includes a biologically active fluid bed having a bed material 98 which comprises granular activated carbon, although other bed materials can also be used. The bed material 98 acts as a substrate for microorqanisms ~hich consume the BTEXs and oxygen dis~olved in the water.
As shown in Figure 4, the system 92 also includes a water intake pipe 100, and a reactor feed pipe 102 communicating between the outlet pipe 26 of the gas dissolution apparatus 10 and the manifold 96 of the reactor 94.
In operation, contaminated groundwater i~ fed to the gas dissolution apparatu~ 10 through water intake pipe 100 with the assistance of a pu~p 104. The gas dis~olution apparatus 10 functions to preoxygenate the water by diss~lving oxygen from the source 34 into the groundwater, as previously de~cribed.
The oxygen enriched groundwater exiting the gas dissolution apparatus 10 is conducted through the reactor feed pipe 102 with the aid of a pump 106, for introduction into the reactor 94 via the manifold 96. The oxygenated groundwat~r then flows upwardly through the fluid bed 80 that the bed material 98 i8 bouyed between upper and lower interfaces, indicated by dashed lines 108 and 110 in Figura 8. The BTEXs and the dis~olved oxygen in the upflow are con~umed by the microorganisms car~ied by the bed material 98. BTEXs not immediately consumed by the biological material are adsorbed on the bed material 98 until they can be consumed. Purified groundwater leave~ the syst~
0850i 2 ~5~ ~6 92 through a reactor outlet pipe 112. If amounts of BTEX~
remain in the groundwater when it reaches the top of the reactor 94, this partially impure water can be recirculated through the system 92 via a groundwater recirculation pipe 114 which feeds the partially impure groundwater back into the intake pipe 10~.
A first alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus is illustrated in Fiqure 5. In this embodiment, the means for recirculating doe3 not include recirculation conduit~
80 and 82, but instead includes a recirculation conduit 116 communicating between the collection well 42 and the inlet 20, and radially located openings 118 in the downwardly diverging portion 44 of the funnel member 38. Gag bubbles traveling upwardly within the funnel member 38 exit through the openingq 118 and continue upwardly into the collection well 42. The air in the collection well is then reintroduced into the water by the recirculation conduit 108.
A second alternative embodiment of the ~a~ dissolution apparatuY 10 is illustrated in Figure 6. In thi~ embodiment, the flow confinement member 12 doe3 not include the outer vessel 14. The funnel member 38 define~ the entire flow chamber 30 and conducts the downflow of water with a decrea ing velocity from a maximum in the area ad~acent the upper end of the diverging portion 44, to a minimum at the lower end thereof. The downwardly diverging portion 44 i3 closed at its lower end and the~ outlet pipe 26 extends therefrom.
~ third alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus 10 i8 illu~trated in FigurQ 7. In this emb~diment, the flow confinement member 12 comprises only the outer ve~el 0850i ~SS7~
14, and not the funnel member 38. A flow distributor 120 spans the upper end of the flow chamber 30 to uniformly distribute the incoming water throughout the horizontal cross section of the flow chamber, and to insure that the liquid downflow velocity is not so great as to prevent countercurrent movement of the bubbles.
Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to the dissolution of gas in a liquid, and more particu:Larly to an apparatus for dissolving gas in a liquid downflow.
Reference to Prior Art In many processes it is desirable to dis~olve gases in liquids. Such processe~ include the dissolution of oxygen in water in wa~te water treatment and other water treatment technologie In U.S. Patent No. 3,643,403, issued February 22, 1972 to Speece, a downflow bubble contac~ aeration apparatu~
includes a bubble disperser mounted within a downwardly diverging funnel. 8ubbles emitted by the disperser are restricted to downward movement in the direction of water flow for cocurrent contact with the water.
In U.S. Patent No. 4,466,928, issued Augu~t 21, 1984 to Ro8, an apparatu for di~olution of gases in liquid is disclosed. In Kos, ga~ i~ introduced into a contact chamber or into the liquid stream above the contact chamber for cocurrent contact with the liquid. It i~ important in Ro~ that the downflow velocity of the liquid in the contact chamber be greater than the ri~ing velocity of the ga~ bubbla~ ~o that a continuous downward flow of bubble~ i8 accomplighed .
0850i ~`S~6~
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an apparatus for dissolving ga~ in a liquid, the apparatus utilizing countercurrent contact of gas bubbles with the liquid for efficient gas dissolution, and introduction of the bubbles into the apparatus in the area ad~acent: the outlet so that liquid leaving the apparatus is contactecl with hign quality gas.
An object of the present invention is the provision of a gas dissolution apparatus which functions to efficiently and economically dissolve gaq in a liquid, and which is easy t;o operate and maintain.
Another ob~ect of the present invention is the provision of an improved ga~ dissolution apparatus which introducs~ gas bubble~ into a downflow o~ liquid for countercurrent contact of bubble~ with the liquid.
Another object of the present invention i9 ~he provision of an improved ga~ dissolution apparatus which include~ a flow confinement member having an inlet and an outlet, and means for introducing bubbles into the liquid flowing between the inlet and the outlet in the area adjacent the outlet so that the liquid leaving the flow confinement member i3 contacted by the bubbles shortly after they are introduced.
Another ob~ect of the present invention i~ the provision of a ~as di~solution apparatu~ which include~ a flow confinement member comprisinq ~n outer ve~el having an inlet snd an outlet, and a funnel member including a downwardly diverging portion extending into the outer vessal and communicating wit:h the inlet for delivering a f~ow of liquid into ths outer vessel.
0850i 2~S6760 Another ob~ect of the present invention i~ the provision of a liquid treatment system which incorporates the aforementioned gas dissolution apparatus, and which functions to remove contaminents from the liquid. In one embodiment of the invention the liquid treatment system can be used to purify groundwater by removin~ fuel constitutent~ therefrom.
Th~ gas dissolution appa:ratu~ comprises a flow confinement member which includes an outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting liquid between an inlet and an outlet, and a funnel member extending downwardly into the flow chamber from the inlet for conducting a downflow of liquid into the flow cha~ber. The funnel member includes a downwardly diverging portion which has a lower outlet end, and which defines a contact chamber.
The ga~ di~solution apparatus also comprises me~ns for introducing bubble~ of ga~ into the liquid downflow. The introducing means includes a bubble dispersing device position~d ad~acent the lower or outlet end of the funnel member so that gas bubbles emitted by the bubble dispersing device travel upwardly into the contact chamber for countercurrent contact with the liquid. The bubble dispersinq device is preferably positioned within the flow chamber in the area adjacent the outlet of the outer vessel so that liquid leaving the gas dissolution apparatus i8 contacted with ga~
bubbles shortly after their emi~sion from the bubble dispersing device. Thi~ arrangement i intended to achieve greater dissolution of gas in the liquid.
In altexnative embodiment~ of the invention, the flow confinement member can include only the outer ve~sel or the funnel member, with the bubble dispersing device being 0850i Z~56~
positioned to accomplish countercurrent contact of the bubble~
with the liquid. In either alternative embodiment, the bubble dispersing device is preferably positioned in proximity to the outlet.
Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed descriptions, claims and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side view, partially in section, of a gas dissolution apparatus embodying the invention.
Figure 2 is a view taken along line 2-2 in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a view taken along line 3-3 in Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a liquid treatment system which utilizes the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure S is a side view, partially in section, of an altern~tive embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 6.is a ~ide view, partially in section, o~ a second al~ernative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 7 is a side view, partially in section, of a third alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus shown in Figure 1.
Figure 8 is a side view, partially in ssction, of the reactor shown in Figure 4.
Before one embodiment of the invention i~ explained in detail it i8 to be understood that the invention i8 not limited 0850i 5676~
in its application to the detail~ of the construction and the arrangements of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being pra~ticed or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 illustrates a gas dissolution apparatus 10 which functions to di~solve gas in a liquid, and which embodies various features of the invention. While the ga~ dissolution apparatus 10 can be used to dissolve a variety of different gases in different liquids, in the illu~trated arrang~ment the apparatus 10 dissolves oxygen in water.
The gas dissolution apparatus 10 includes a flow confinement member 12 comprising an annular outer tank or vessel 14 which is preferably a pressure vessel rated to withstand pressure of at least 30 psi. The outer vessel 14 is supported on legs 16 and includes an upper end 18 having an inlet 20, and a lower end 22 having an outlet 24 which is defined by an outlet conduit or pipe 26. A cylindrical flow chamber 30 is defined by the outer vessel 14 and conducts water between the inlet 20 and the outlet 24.
A~ shown in Figure 2, the outer ves~el 14 also includes one or more gas feed pipe~ 32 (two ara shown) which protrude through ~he lower end 22. Each fe~d pipe 32 has an outside end which i~ connectable So a pre~suri~ed ga~ source 34 (see Fig. 4). In the illu~trated arrangement the source 34 0850i 2(~56~6~) supplie~ air, oxygen enriched air, or commercial oxygen to the gas dissolution apparatus 10.
The outer vessel 14 i8 also provided with a manway pipe 36 which projects outwardly from the lower end 22 of the outer vessel 14, and which provide5 access to the flow chamber 30 to clean or maintain the gas di~;~olution apparatus 10. A
removeable cover 37 is secured to the manway pipe 36 via fasteners or other means.
The flow confinement member 12 also comprises a funnel member 38 which extend3 downwardly into the flow chamber 30 from the upper end 18 of the outer vessel 14. As shown in Figure 1, the funnel member 38 includes a tubular inlet portion 40 which extends through the upper end 18, and which defines the inlet 20. The inlet portion 40 cooperates with the outer vessel 14 to define a collection well 42 in the uppermo~t part of the flow chamber 30. The collection well 42 ha~ a small volume so that only small quantities of gas can collect therein. If the gas collecting in tha collection well 42 includes volatile fumes, the amount of these fumes which collect is limited by the size of the collection well 42, so that the ri~k and severity of fire or explosion i3 reduced.
The funnel member 38 al~o includes a frusto-conical, downwardly diverging portion 44 which extends into the flow chamber 30 from the inlet portion 40, and which has an increasinq flow area in the downward direction. The diverging portion 44 has ~ lower outlet end 46 which opens in the flow chamber area ad~acent the lower end 22, and which i~ ~paced above the outlet :24. The diverging portion 44 defines a bubble contact chamber 50 within the flow chamber 30. A downflow of liquid conducted through the funnel member 38 experiences a 0850i ~ 6~
decrease in velocity from a maximum at the inlet portion 40, to a minimum at the outlet end 46 of the diverging portion 44.
The gas dissolution apparatus 10 also includes means for introducing bubble~ of gas into the flow chamber 30 for countercurrent movement of the bubbles toward the inlet 20.
While various introducing means can be employed, in ~he illustrated construction the introducing means includes a pair of bubble dispersing units or devices 52 and 54 (see Fig. 2) positioned within the flow chamber 30 proximate the lower end 22 and ad~acent the outlet 24. Although the gas dissolution apparatus 10 will function satisfactorily with only a single bubble dispersing device, it i~ preferred that two or more dispersing devices be used so that shut-off or malfunction of one of the dispersing devices does not prevent operation of the gas dissolution apparat~s 10.
A~ shown in Figure 2, each of the bubble dispersing device~ 52 and 54 includes an intermediate gas feed conduit or pipe 56 which i~ ~upported on a bracket 58 extsnding between the inner walls of the outer vessel 14, and which i~ fitted at one end to the inside end of one of the ga~ feed pipes 32. Each of the di~persing devices 52 and 54 also includes a bubble diffuser 60 supported on the other end of the feed pipe 56.
While gas supplied to the bubble diffuser~ 60 from the source 34 can be emittecl in the form of fine bubbles or course bubbleQ, it i8 preferred that fine bubble diffuser~ be used since fine bubbles expose a larger surface area per bubble volume to contact: with the liquid than do larger bubble~. It is preferred that: bubble~ emitted generally range from lmm -3mm in diameter.
0850i ~05~6;0 While the bubble diffuser~ could have other constructions, in the illustrated arrangement they are each comprised of fine bubble membrane diffusers of the type used in waste water treatment tanks. Such diffusers are commercially available and are manufactuxed by Envirex Inc., Wauke~ha, wisconsin.
As shown in Figure 3, each fine bubble diffuser 60 includes a disc-like body member 64 having a generally circular membr~ne supporting or backing surface 66 which has one or more centrally located openingQ 68. The body member 64 also includes a central gas inlet member 70 defining a passage 72 which communicates between the openings 68 and one of the feed pipes 56. The bubble diffusers 60 can be mounted on the feed pipes 56 via a threaded connection between respective inlet members 70 and feed pipes 56.
The fine bubble diffusers 60 each also include a membrane 74 whi~h is perforated with a large number of relatively small hole~ or pores. The membrane 74 is attached at its periphery in sealing relationship to the rim of the backing surface 66. The center of the membrane 74 i9 held to the center of the backing surface 66 by a fastener 76 such as a bolt and nut. When air from ~he source 34 i8 delivered through the feed pipes 32 and 56, passage 72, and opening~ 68, the membrane 74 distends and moves away from the backing surface 66, thereby opening the pores and allowing small bubbles of ga~
to emanate therefrom. When gas under pres~ure i8 no longer provided, the me~)rane 74 collap~es against ~he backing surface 66 and the pores close.
The fine bubble diffusers 60 are located proximate the lower end 22 and above the outlet 24, and prsferably directly 0850i ~56~60 below the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 for reasons set forth more fully below. The gas bubbles emitted by the fine bubble diffusers 60 have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the water at the outlet end 46, ~o that the bubbles flow upwardly in the countercurrent direction into the bubble contact chamber 50. Similarly, the air bubbles have a buoyant velocity less than the downflow velocity of the water in the inlet portion 40. Water turbulance in the funnel member 38 generally prevents air bubbles from coalescing to form larger bubbles which may have sufficient buoyant velocity to travel upwardly into the inlet portion 40. Thus, the bubbles will tend to suspend in the contact chamber 50 where the buoyant velocity of the bubbles and the downflow velocity of the water are at equilibrium. Thi~ equilibrium area i~
generally designated by upper and lower bounds shown by dashed lines 78 and 79 in Figure 1.
Although countercurrent contact i3 expected to increase dissolution of oxygen in the water, air bubble~
entrapped in the contact chamber 50 contain some oxygen which will nevertheless remain undissolved. If left in the contact chamber 50 these air bubbles can accumulate until they are crowded out of the outlet end 46, thereaft~r rising to the collection well 42 for removal from the ga~ dissolution apparatus 10 as will be further explained below. Since commercial oxygen or the generation of oxy~en enriched air can be expensive, racirculation of these gase~ i~ desired.
Accordingly, the ~a3 dissolution apparatu~ 10 includes mean~ for recirculating the air bubbles contained within the contact chamber 50. While various recirculating means can be employed, in the illustrated arrangement the recirculating 0850i 2~5~6~
mean~ includes upper and lower recirculating conduits 80 and 82 communicating between the bubble contact chamber 50 and the inlet 20. ~hile a single recirculating conduit can be used, a pair of conduits 80 and 82 is preferred. The upper and lower recirculating conduit~ 80 and 82 respectively communicate with the bubble contact chamber 50 at the upper and lower bounds 78 and 79 of the area in which bubbles tend to accumulate in the contact chamber 50. The motive force behind the bubble recirculation is the pressure differential existing between the contact chamber 50 and the inlet 20.
As gas bubbles rise from the fine bubble diffusers 60 other gase~, xuch a nitrogen for example~ are ~tripped from the water by the oxygen in the bubble~. Impurities are thereby removed from the water as the water flows downwardly, while the ~urity of the oxygen containing gas bubble~ is reduced as the bubbles ascend. Thus, locating the fine bubble diffusers 60 proximate the lower end 22 and near the outlet 24 facilitates contacting the water exiting the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 with the be~t quality gas bubble~3 (i.e. gas bubbles which contain the highest amount of oxygen~ prior to leaving the gas dis~olution apparatu~ 10 through the outlet 24.
Contacting the water leaving the system with the best quality oxygen tends to increase the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water.
The ~tripped or waste gase~ are displaced from the outlet end 46 of the funnel member 38 and are contained within the flow chamber 30, traveling upwardly into the collection well 42. AccordLngly, the gas di~301ution apparatus 10 include~ means for removing contaminents such as these and other wa4te ga~e~3. Whil2 variou~ removing m~an~ can be 0850i 2~ 76q:~
employed, in the illustrated construction the removing means include~ a ga~ vent conduit 84 communicating with the collection well 42 for removing waste gases therefrom. The removal means also includes a liquid removal conduit 86 pro~ecting through the upper end 18 of the outer vessel 14. In the event liquid waste other than water collects in the upper end of the flow chamber 30, these waste products can be removed through ~he liquid removal conduit 86.
The water entering the gas dissolution apparatus 10 can include contaminants such as iron and lead. These impurities combine with the oxygen in the gas bubbles to form precipitates such as oxides of iron and lead. Accordingly, the gas dissolution apparatu~ 10 includes means for blow-down removal to remove these solid-~. In the illustrated arrangement the blow-down removal means includes a blow-dv~n removal con~uit 88 which i~ fitted with a valve 90 for controlling blow-down withdrawal.
Illustrated in Figure 4, is a liquid treatment system 92 which incorporates the gss dissolution apparatu~ 10, and which functions to remove contaminents or impurities from the liquid. While the liquid treatment sy~tem 92 can be used for treating a variety of different liquid , in the illu~trated arrangement, the system is designed to remove organics such as gasoline constitutent~ includinq benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX~) from groundwater polluted by ~ources such as leaky underground fuel storage tank~ (not ~hown).
The ~ystem 92 includes a reactor 94 which i~
preferably a fluid bed reactor of the type disclo~ed in U.S~
Patent Nos. 4,00!9,098 and 4,009,105, each is~ued on February 0850i 2~5~7~
22, 1977 to Jeri~, and each of which i8 incorporated herein by reference.
As shown in Figure 8, the reactor 94 is in the form of an upright cylindrical column and includes a water intake manifold 96 at its base. The reactor 94 also preferably includes a biologically active fluid bed having a bed material 98 which comprises granular activated carbon, although other bed materials can also be used. The bed material 98 acts as a substrate for microorqanisms ~hich consume the BTEXs and oxygen dis~olved in the water.
As shown in Figure 4, the system 92 also includes a water intake pipe 100, and a reactor feed pipe 102 communicating between the outlet pipe 26 of the gas dissolution apparatus 10 and the manifold 96 of the reactor 94.
In operation, contaminated groundwater i~ fed to the gas dissolution apparatu~ 10 through water intake pipe 100 with the assistance of a pu~p 104. The gas dis~olution apparatus 10 functions to preoxygenate the water by diss~lving oxygen from the source 34 into the groundwater, as previously de~cribed.
The oxygen enriched groundwater exiting the gas dissolution apparatus 10 is conducted through the reactor feed pipe 102 with the aid of a pump 106, for introduction into the reactor 94 via the manifold 96. The oxygenated groundwat~r then flows upwardly through the fluid bed 80 that the bed material 98 i8 bouyed between upper and lower interfaces, indicated by dashed lines 108 and 110 in Figura 8. The BTEXs and the dis~olved oxygen in the upflow are con~umed by the microorganisms car~ied by the bed material 98. BTEXs not immediately consumed by the biological material are adsorbed on the bed material 98 until they can be consumed. Purified groundwater leave~ the syst~
0850i 2 ~5~ ~6 92 through a reactor outlet pipe 112. If amounts of BTEX~
remain in the groundwater when it reaches the top of the reactor 94, this partially impure water can be recirculated through the system 92 via a groundwater recirculation pipe 114 which feeds the partially impure groundwater back into the intake pipe 10~.
A first alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus is illustrated in Fiqure 5. In this embodiment, the means for recirculating doe3 not include recirculation conduit~
80 and 82, but instead includes a recirculation conduit 116 communicating between the collection well 42 and the inlet 20, and radially located openings 118 in the downwardly diverging portion 44 of the funnel member 38. Gag bubbles traveling upwardly within the funnel member 38 exit through the openingq 118 and continue upwardly into the collection well 42. The air in the collection well is then reintroduced into the water by the recirculation conduit 108.
A second alternative embodiment of the ~a~ dissolution apparatuY 10 is illustrated in Figure 6. In thi~ embodiment, the flow confinement member 12 doe3 not include the outer vessel 14. The funnel member 38 define~ the entire flow chamber 30 and conducts the downflow of water with a decrea ing velocity from a maximum in the area ad~acent the upper end of the diverging portion 44, to a minimum at the lower end thereof. The downwardly diverging portion 44 i3 closed at its lower end and the~ outlet pipe 26 extends therefrom.
~ third alternative embodiment of the gas dissolution apparatus 10 i8 illu~trated in FigurQ 7. In this emb~diment, the flow confinement member 12 comprises only the outer ve~el 0850i ~SS7~
14, and not the funnel member 38. A flow distributor 120 spans the upper end of the flow chamber 30 to uniformly distribute the incoming water throughout the horizontal cross section of the flow chamber, and to insure that the liquid downflow velocity is not so great as to prevent countercurrent movement of the bubbles.
Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (29)
1. An apparatus for dissolving gas in a liquid, said apparatus comprising a flow confinement member including an inlet, and an outlet, said flow confinement member defining a flow chamber for conducting the liquid between said inlet and said outlet, and means for introducing bubbles of the gas into said flow chamber for countercurrent movement of the bubbles towards said inlet.
2. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said means for introducing introduces the bubbles into the flow chamber area adjacent said outlet, and wherein the bubbles entering the liquid are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid adjacent said outlet.
3. An apparatus a set forth in Claim 2, wherein said flow confinement member includes an upper end having said inlet, and a lower end having said outlet, and wherein said means for introducing includes a bubble dispersing device positioned within said flow chamber proximate said lower end and above said outlet.
4. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 3, wherein said flow chamber conducts the liquid between said inlet and said outlet with a decreasing downflow velocity from a maximum downflow velocity in the area adjacent said upper end to a minimum downflow velocity in the area adjacent said lower end.
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5. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 3, wherein said flow confinement member is a vessel, and wherein said apparatus includes a flow distributer positioned within said the flow chamber proximate said upper end, and said means for introducing includes a bubble dispersing device in the flow chamber proximate said lower end and above said outlet.
6. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 3, wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid in the area adjacent said upper end is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
7. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 6, wherein said flow confinement member includes a funnel member having a downwardly diverging portion which defines a bubble contact chamber between said inlet and said outlet.
8. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 7, wherein said downwardly diverging portion entraps the bubbles in said contact chamber, and wherein said apparatus includes means for recirculating the entrapped bubbles including a recirculation conduit communicating between said contact chamber and said inlet.
9. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said flow confinement member comprises an outer vessel including an upper end and a lower end having said outlet, and a funnel member extending downwardly into said flow chamber from said upper end.
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10. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 9, wherein said funnel member includes a downwardly diverging portion defining a bubble contact chamber, and having an outlet end which opens in the flow chamber area adjacent said lower end, and wherein said means for introducing introduces the bubbles into the flow chamber area adjacent said lower end for upward movement of the bubbles into said bubble contact chamber, said bubbles being sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid exiting said outlet end.
11. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 10, wherein said funnel member includes an inlet portion which extends between said downwardly diverging portion and said upper end, and which defines said inlet, and wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid flowing through said inlet portion is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
12. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 11, wherein said means for introducing include a bubble dispersing device positioned in the area adjacent said outlet end of said downwardly diverging portion and above said outlet.
13. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 11, wherein said apparatus includes means for recirculating the bubbles in said contact chamber.
14. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 13, wherein said means for recirculating includes a recirculation conduit communicating between said contact chamber and said inlet.
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15. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 13, wherein said inlet portion cooperates with said outer vessel to define a gas collection well in the uppermost part of said flow chamber.
16. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 15, wherein said downwardly diverging portion has therein an opening, and wherein said means for recirculating includes a recirculation conduit communicating between said collection well and said inlet.
17. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 15, wherein said apparatus comprises means for removing contaminants from said flow chamber, said means for removing including a gas vent conduit communicating with said collection well, a liquid removal conduit extending through said upper end and into said flow chamber, and means for removing blow-down from said flow chamber.
18. An apparatus for dissolving gas in a liquid, said apparatus comprising a flow confinement member including an inlet, and an outlet, said flow confinement member defining a flow chamber for conducting the liquid between said inlet and said outlet, and means for introducing bubbles of the gas into said flow chamber, said means for introducing including a bubble dispersing device positioned in the flow chamber area adjacent said outlet.
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19. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 18, wherein said flow confinement member includes an upper end having said inlet, and a lower end having said outlet, and wherein said bubble dispersing device is positioned proximate said lower end and above said outlet.
20. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 19, wherein the bubbles introduced into the flow chamber by said bubble dispersing device are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid in the flow chamber area adjacent said lower end so that the bubbles travel in a countercurrent direction towards said inlet.
21. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 19, wherein said flow confinement member includes an outer vessel having said upper end and said lower end, and a funnel member including a tubular portion which defines said inlet, and a downwardly diverging portion extending into said flow chamber from said tubular portion, and including an outlet end opening in the flow chamber area adjacent said lower end, and wherein said bubble dispersing device is positioned adjacent said outlet end.
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22. An apparatus for dissolving gas in a liquid, said apparatus comprising a flow confinement member including an outer vessel which has an outlet, and which defines a flow chamber, and a funnel member having a tubular portion which defines an inlet in said flow confinement member, land a downwardly diverging portion extending into said flow chamber from said tubular portion, and means for introducing bubbles of the gas into the flow chamber.
23. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 22, wherein said funnel member conducts a downflow of the liquid into said outer vessel, and wherein said means for introducing introduces the bubble into said downflow.
24. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 22, wherein said downwardly diverging portion defines a bubble contact chamber, and wherein said bubbles emitted by said means for introducing travel within said bubble contact chamber.
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25. An apparatus for dissolving gas in a downflow of liquid, said apparatus comprising;
an outer vessel including an upper end having an inlet, and a lower end having an outlet, said outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting the downflow between said inlet and said outlet, a funnel member including a tubular portion which defines at least part of said inlet, and which cooperates with said outer vessel to define a collection well, and a downwardly diverging portion extending downwardly into said flow chamber from said tubular portion, said downwardly diverging portion including an outlet end, and defining a bubble contact chamber, and means for introducing bubbles of gas into the downflow, said means for introducing including a source of gas under pressure, and a bubble dispersing device connected to said source, and positioned within said flow chamber adjacent said outlet end of said downwardly diverging portion so that the bubbles travel in a countercurrent direction into said bubble contact chamber and toward said inlet, and wherein the bubbles are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid exiting said outlet end, and wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid in the tubular portion is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
0850i
an outer vessel including an upper end having an inlet, and a lower end having an outlet, said outer vessel defining a flow chamber for conducting the downflow between said inlet and said outlet, a funnel member including a tubular portion which defines at least part of said inlet, and which cooperates with said outer vessel to define a collection well, and a downwardly diverging portion extending downwardly into said flow chamber from said tubular portion, said downwardly diverging portion including an outlet end, and defining a bubble contact chamber, and means for introducing bubbles of gas into the downflow, said means for introducing including a source of gas under pressure, and a bubble dispersing device connected to said source, and positioned within said flow chamber adjacent said outlet end of said downwardly diverging portion so that the bubbles travel in a countercurrent direction into said bubble contact chamber and toward said inlet, and wherein the bubbles are sized to have a buoyant velocity greater than the downflow velocity of the liquid exiting said outlet end, and wherein the downflow velocity of the liquid in the tubular portion is greater than the buoyant velocity of the bubbles.
0850i
26. An apparatus for removing contaminants from a liquid, said apparatus comprising a gas dissolution apparatus for dissolving a gas in the liquid, said gas dissolution apparatus including a flow confinement member having an inlet and an outlet, said flow confinement member defining a flow chamber for conducting a downflow of the liquid between said inlet and said outlet, and means for introducing bubbles of gas into said flow chamber, a source of gas communicating with said means for introducing, and a reactor communicating with said outlet.
27. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 26, wherein the gas includes oxygen, and the liquid includes water, and said reactor is a fluid bed reactor which contains a bed material and a biological growth on said bed material for removing the contaminants from the water.
28. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 27, wherein said flow confinement member includes an upper end having said inlet, and a lower end having said outlet, and wherein said means for introducing includes a bubble dispersing device positioned in said flow chamber proximate said lower end and above said outlet.
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29. An apparatus as set forth in Claim 27, wherein said flow confinement member comprises an outer vessel defining said flow chamber, and a funnel member extending downwardly into said flow chamber from said inlet, said funnel member including a downwardly diverging portion defining a bubble contact chamber, and wherein the bubbles introduced by said means for introducing travel in a countercurrent direction into said contact chamber.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US72799791A | 1991-07-10 | 1991-07-10 | |
| US727,997 | 1991-07-10 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2056760A1 true CA2056760A1 (en) | 1993-01-11 |
Family
ID=24925006
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002056760A Abandoned CA2056760A1 (en) | 1991-07-10 | 1991-12-02 | Apparatus for dissolution of gas in liquid |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0524376A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH06142681A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1068276A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU8709491A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2056760A1 (en) |
| MX (1) | MX9102495A (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE19537698A1 (en) * | 1995-10-11 | 1997-04-17 | Hoechst Ag | Biological wastewater treatment at high sludge concentrations |
| JP2896333B2 (en) * | 1995-12-19 | 1999-05-31 | 光正 村上 | Fine bubble forming device |
| CN100453480C (en) * | 2005-11-21 | 2009-01-21 | 桂林电子工业学院 | Inner aeration type aeration method and device |
| JP4724552B2 (en) * | 2005-12-19 | 2011-07-13 | 株式会社神鋼環境ソリューション | Wastewater treatment equipment |
| CN103983575B (en) * | 2014-05-21 | 2016-03-16 | 南京麒麟科学仪器集团有限公司 | Carbon and sulfur analytical instrument gas absorbing device |
| US9498756B2 (en) * | 2014-12-24 | 2016-11-22 | Thomas E. Frankel | Assembly for wastewater treatment |
| CN107823977A (en) * | 2017-08-29 | 2018-03-23 | 广东粤电靖海发电有限公司 | Bubble distributing air filtration unit for power plant water manufacturing system sweet-water tank |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE1020001B (en) * | 1955-03-09 | 1957-11-28 | Benckiser Gmbh Joh A | Device for saturating and aerating liquids with air or other gases |
| US3804255A (en) * | 1972-10-18 | 1974-04-16 | R Speece | Recycling gas contact apparatus |
-
1991
- 1991-11-08 AU AU87094/91A patent/AU8709491A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1991-11-26 JP JP3355446A patent/JPH06142681A/en active Pending
- 1991-12-02 CA CA002056760A patent/CA2056760A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1991-12-11 MX MX9102495A patent/MX9102495A/en unknown
-
1992
- 1992-04-14 EP EP92106451A patent/EP0524376A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1992-07-07 CN CN92105406A patent/CN1068276A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| MX9102495A (en) | 1993-01-01 |
| JPH06142681A (en) | 1994-05-24 |
| CN1068276A (en) | 1993-01-27 |
| AU8709491A (en) | 1993-01-14 |
| EP0524376A1 (en) | 1993-01-27 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Discontinued |