CA2393162A1 - Modular gas diffuser - Google Patents
Modular gas diffuser Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2393162A1 CA2393162A1 CA002393162A CA2393162A CA2393162A1 CA 2393162 A1 CA2393162 A1 CA 2393162A1 CA 002393162 A CA002393162 A CA 002393162A CA 2393162 A CA2393162 A CA 2393162A CA 2393162 A1 CA2393162 A1 CA 2393162A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- diffuser
- end piece
- diffuser element
- gas
- inlet end
- 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
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims 4
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims 4
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims 4
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 abstract description 4
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 36
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 8
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 7
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 238000009360 aquaculture Methods 0.000 description 6
- 244000144974 aquaculture Species 0.000 description 6
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 6
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910002092 carbon dioxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000001569 carbon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 241000251468 Actinopterygii Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 description 2
- CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ozone Chemical compound [O-][O+]=O CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009792 diffusion process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004065 wastewater treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 101150034533 ATIC gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000005273 aeration Methods 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005350 fused silica glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010979 pH adjustment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013049 sediment Substances 0.000 description 1
- 241000894007 species Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2311—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers
- B01F23/23115—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers characterised by the way in which the bubbling devices are mounted within the receptacle
- B01F23/231154—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers characterised by the way in which the bubbling devices are mounted within the receptacle the bubbling devices being provided with ballast to keep them floating under the surface, i.e. when the bubbling devices are lighter than the liquid
-
- 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2311—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers
-
- 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2311—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers
- B01F23/23114—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers characterised by the way in which the different elements of the bubbling installation are mounted
- B01F23/231142—Mounting the gas transporting elements, i.e. connections between conduits
-
- 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2311—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers
- B01F23/23115—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers characterised by the way in which the bubbling devices are mounted within the receptacle
- B01F23/231151—Mounting the bubbling devices or the diffusers characterised by the way in which the bubbling devices are mounted within the receptacle the bubbling devices being fixed or anchored in the bottom
-
- 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2312—Diffusers
- B01F23/23123—Diffusers consisting of rigid porous or perforated material
-
- 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
- B01F23/231—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids by bubbling
- B01F23/23105—Arrangement or manipulation of the gas bubbling devices
- B01F23/2312—Diffusers
- B01F23/23126—Diffusers characterised by the shape of the diffuser element
- B01F23/231262—Diffusers characterised by the shape of the diffuser element having disc shape
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Aeration Devices For Treatment Of Activated Polluted Sludge (AREA)
Abstract
A modular diffuser assembly for diffusing gas bubbles into a liquid. The modular diffuser assembly comprising the following component parts: diffuser elements, an inlet end piece and an outlet end piece. Each component part of said diffuser assembly containing a means of connection, allowing one or more diffuser elements to be connected together to construct a diffuser assembly of desired capacity. The modular design also allows replacement of a single component part instead of the entire diffuser should a failure of one of the component parts occur.
Description
"Modular Gas Diffuser"
Background of The Invention I . Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to gas diffusers and more particularly to an improved gas diffuser for use in aquaculture.
Background of The Invention I . Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to gas diffusers and more particularly to an improved gas diffuser for use in aquaculture.
2. Prior Art Diffusers are used in many water treatment applications including aquaculture, wastewater treatment and other water treatment applications, such as stripping of dissolved gases or pH adjustment. A variety of gases may also be used in diffusers including, but not limited to, air, oxygen, ozone or carbon dioxide.
In aquaculture applications, the application of each gas used is as follows:
air and oxygen are used to increase the oxygen content of the water, carbon dioxide is used for anesthetizing aquatic species and ozone is used top disinfect water.
When using a pure gas, such as oxygen ui an aquaculture application, it is very important that the diffuser bubble size is as tine as possible. Smaller bubble size increases gas transfer rate and gas transfer efficiency in two ways:
1 ) Smaller bubbles rise slower, increasing their residence time.
2) Smaller bubbles have a higher surface area for a given volume of gas, increasing the rate at which gas is transferred to the water.
C~trently, there are a variety of diffusers available, including: air stones, disk diffusers, tube diffusers, porous tubing and rectangular diffusers. A variety of materials may be used as diffusion media including porous ceramic, rubber or plastic. The diffusion media and type of diffuser selected is application dependent.
Large disk and tube diffusers are have been well developed and can be exemplified by U.S, Pat. Nos. 4,046,845, 6,244,574 B I, 4,865,778, 6,367,783 B 1, 4,118,447, 5,788,847, 3,977,606 and 4,243,616. The large disk and tube diffusers generally produce relatively large bubbles and are used extensively for wastewater treatment as well as for aeration of lakes and ponds. This style of diffuser is not useful in most aquaculture applications for the following reasons: the bubble size is too coarse for use with pure gases such as oxygen and the diffusers do not present a low enough profile to be useful in culture or transport tanks.
Air stones are generally rectangular or tubular in shape and are constructed of fused silica or plastic beads. Air stones produce relatively coarse bubbles and for that reason are unsuitable for use with pure gases such as oxygen.
Porous tubing includes: drilled ("leaky") pipe, porous rubber tubing and porous plastic tubing. Porous tubing, like air stones, produces relatively coarse bubbles and is generally considered unsuitable for use with pure gases.
Plate diffusers consist of a very fine porous ceramic or porous plastic plate, bonded to a plastic or aluminum support frame using an adhesive such as epoxy. Porous ceramic is the preferred material because it tends to produce finer bubbles than porous plastic and is more robust. Plate diffusers are used extensively in aquacultare to dissolve pure gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. The fine pore structure of plate diffusers creates a cloud of bubbles, generally 10 - 500 ~m in diameter, which allows higher gas transfer efficiencies than for other diffusers with coarser bubbles.
Plate diffusers are generally rectangular and are supplied in a variety of lengths depending on the required gas flow. The main disadvantages of ceramic plate diffusers are that if even a small part of the ceramic plate cracks, the entire diffuser must be discarded also, if additional diffusing capacity is required, more diffusers must be added to increase capacity. To help mitigate the cost involved when a single, large diffuser breaks, a large number of smaller diffusers may be used. The use of smaller diffusers is undesirable, however, because they are unwieldy and inconvenient. Another disadvantage of the plate diffusers is that there is no ability to easily adjust weight with ballast. In some applications, it is desirable to maximize the diffuser weight (for example in fast flowing water so that the diffuser doesn't move). In other applications (stagnant water) it is desirable to minimize the diffuser weight to increase ease of handling.
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a device to diffuse small gas bubbles into a liquid wherein the said device consists of a number of interlocking diffuser elements, each of which is replaceable, should it fail. It is also an object of the present invention to provide such a device, which is of simple and inexpensive construction.
Another object is to provide such a device that can easily be disassembled for cleaning and is of modular construction so that a diffuser of the desired capacity may be easily assembled from the component parts. A further object is to provide a diffuser where the weight of the component parts can easily be adjusted to achieve the desired buoyancy for the specific application.
Summary of The Invention The above objects are satisfied with a diffuser made in accordance with the present invention. The diffuser generally includes three component parts: an inlet end piece, a diffuser element and a cap end piece.
The inlet end piece consists of a molded housing containing an inlet fitting for connection to the gas supply line and an outlet, which provides a pressure tight connection with a diffuser element, or cap end piece. The inlet fitting may consist of, but is not limited to:
either a threaded metallic insert or a "push to-connect" fitting. A cavity in the interior of the inlet end piece allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A
bottom plate attaches to the end piece to contain and protect the ballast. On the side of the inlet end piece with the outlet, two dovetail connectors, one male and one female, allow the inlet end piece to mechanically connect to a diffuser element, or cap end piece. Two small locking tabs on the outlet side of the inlet end piece ensure that the mechanical connection will not unintentionally disengage. Vertical holes through the inlet end piece allow attachment to a tank floor with screws or bolts.
The diffuser element consists of a molded housing containing a cavity on the upper surface where a porous material is attached to the housing. The porous material may be bonded to the housing using an adhesive, such as epoxy or it may be attached by mechanical means using a retaining ring and a rubber seal. The upper cavity is designed to allow unimpeded gas flow while providing sul$cient support for the porous material.
A cavity in the lower interior of the diffuser element allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A bottom plate attaches to the diffuser element to contain and protect the ballast. The diffuser element contains an inlet and outlet. The inlet consists of a female socket that fits the outlet of another diffuser element or the outlet of the inlet end piece and the outlet provides a pressure tight connection with the inlet of another diffuser element or a cap end piece. On the ends of the diffuser element with inlet and outlet fittings, there are two dovetail connectors, one male and one female on each end, which allow the diffuser element to mechanically connect to another diffuser element or to the appropriate end piece. Two small locking tabs on the each of the inlet and outlet ends of the diffuser element ensure that the mechanical connections will not unintentionally disenga~.
The cap end piece consists of a molded housing containing an inlet that connects to the fitting of a diffuser element. A cavity in the interior of the cap end piece allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A bottom plate attaches to the cap end piece to contain and protect the ballast. On the end of the cap end piece with the inlet, two dovetail connectors, one male and one female; allowing the cap end piece to mechanically connect to a diffuser element. Two small locking tabs on the outlet side of the cap end piece ensure that the mechanical connection will not unintentionally disengage.
Vertical holes through the cap end piece allow attachment to a tank floor with screws or bolts.
Sloped sides on the inlet end piece, diffuser element and outlet end piece allow unimpeded fluid flow over a diffuser assembly and helps prevent sediment from building up on the upstream side of the diffuser assembly.
An assembled diffuser consists of one inlet end piece to which is attached a plurality of diffuser elements to which is attached a cap end piece. During operation, the inlet end piece is connected to a gas supply line and pressurized gas travels through the assembled diffuser by means of the inlet and outlet connection on each of the component parts. The cap end piece prevents gas leakage from the diffuser assembly. Once the pressure within the diffuser assembly has reached a threshold value, which depends on the pore diameter of the porous material, gas travels through the porous material in each diffuser element and diffuses into the process liquid. The dovetail connectors allow the diffuser assembly components to quickly be assembled and disassembled without tools.
Further details and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description, claims and drawings.
Brief Description of the Drawings FIG. 1 is a diagra~nrr~atic, fragmentary sectional elevation through a fish culture tank depicting the manner in which plate diffusers are typically installed.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled four-element diffuser.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a diffuser element.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an inlet end piece.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cap end piece.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a single element diffuser.
FLG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the single element diffuser depicted in FIG. 6, showing an alternative means of securing the porous material.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a typical plate diffuser 3 installation in a fish culture tank 1. The diffusers 3 are typical of plate diffusers currently used in aquaculture applications and are connected to a main gas supply by means of supply lines 2. The gas used FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled diffuser containing four diffuser elements. The diffuser is connected to a main gas supply by means of a supply line 2. The diffuser assembly is comprised of three component parts: an inlet end piece 4, a plurality of diffuser elements 5 and a cap end piece 6. Each of the component parts attaches to an adjoining part by means of male and female dovetail connectors 7 allowing a "twist-and-lock" method of assembly. Sloped sides 8 streamline the diffuser assembly and allow water and debris to flow over the diffuser without obstniction. Mounting holes 9 in each of the end pieces allow the diffuser assembly to be bolted to a mounting surface, if desired. A gap filling adhesive 10 is used to secure the porous media to the diffuser element housing and provide a pressure-tight seal. A plate of porous media 11 allows gas bubbles to diffuse into the process liquid when the diffuser is pressurized.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a single diffuser element. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating ends of the diffuser element allow connection with other component parts using a "twist-and-lock" motion.
Detent 16 and indent 17 locking tabs prevent mating parts from unintentionally disengaging. The gas outlet 14, allows gas to flow to adjoining diffuser elements. Dual o-rings 15 on the gas outlet prevent gas leakage when the diffuser element is pressurized.
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an inlet end piece. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating end of the inlet end piece allows connection with a diffuser element using a "twist-and-lock" motion. Detent 16, and indent 17 locking tabs prevent the connection from unintentionally disengaging. A "push to-connect" fitting 18 provides a means whereby the inlet end piece may be connected to a gas supply line. The outlet 14, equipped with sealing o-rings 15 provides a pressure-tight connection to a connected diffuser element. A mounting hole 9 provides a means whereby the inlet end piece may be attached to a mounting surface.
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a cap end piece. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating side of the cap end piece allows connection with the outlet side of a diffuser element using a "twist-and-lock" motion.
Detent 16, and indent 17 locking tabs prevent said connection from unintentionally disengaging. The inlet 19 is a blind hole which, when connected to the outlet of a diffuser element, blocks it and prevents gas from escaping. A mounting hole 9 provides a means whereby the cap end piece may be attached to a mounting surface by means of bolts.
FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view of an assembled, single-element diffuser.
Bottom plates 20 and 21 contain the ballast 23. The housing of the diffuser element 5 contains a series of ridges 24 and 25, which support the porous element. The inner ridge 24 is not continuous so that it does not impede gas flow. A cavity 26 beneath the porous media allows gas to flow through the diffuser element and into the porous media.
FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the diffuser element. In this case, the porous material 11 is attached to the housing 5 by means of a mechanical seal. The mechanical seal consists of a threaded retaining ring 26 and a rubber seal 27.
In aquaculture applications, the application of each gas used is as follows:
air and oxygen are used to increase the oxygen content of the water, carbon dioxide is used for anesthetizing aquatic species and ozone is used top disinfect water.
When using a pure gas, such as oxygen ui an aquaculture application, it is very important that the diffuser bubble size is as tine as possible. Smaller bubble size increases gas transfer rate and gas transfer efficiency in two ways:
1 ) Smaller bubbles rise slower, increasing their residence time.
2) Smaller bubbles have a higher surface area for a given volume of gas, increasing the rate at which gas is transferred to the water.
C~trently, there are a variety of diffusers available, including: air stones, disk diffusers, tube diffusers, porous tubing and rectangular diffusers. A variety of materials may be used as diffusion media including porous ceramic, rubber or plastic. The diffusion media and type of diffuser selected is application dependent.
Large disk and tube diffusers are have been well developed and can be exemplified by U.S, Pat. Nos. 4,046,845, 6,244,574 B I, 4,865,778, 6,367,783 B 1, 4,118,447, 5,788,847, 3,977,606 and 4,243,616. The large disk and tube diffusers generally produce relatively large bubbles and are used extensively for wastewater treatment as well as for aeration of lakes and ponds. This style of diffuser is not useful in most aquaculture applications for the following reasons: the bubble size is too coarse for use with pure gases such as oxygen and the diffusers do not present a low enough profile to be useful in culture or transport tanks.
Air stones are generally rectangular or tubular in shape and are constructed of fused silica or plastic beads. Air stones produce relatively coarse bubbles and for that reason are unsuitable for use with pure gases such as oxygen.
Porous tubing includes: drilled ("leaky") pipe, porous rubber tubing and porous plastic tubing. Porous tubing, like air stones, produces relatively coarse bubbles and is generally considered unsuitable for use with pure gases.
Plate diffusers consist of a very fine porous ceramic or porous plastic plate, bonded to a plastic or aluminum support frame using an adhesive such as epoxy. Porous ceramic is the preferred material because it tends to produce finer bubbles than porous plastic and is more robust. Plate diffusers are used extensively in aquacultare to dissolve pure gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. The fine pore structure of plate diffusers creates a cloud of bubbles, generally 10 - 500 ~m in diameter, which allows higher gas transfer efficiencies than for other diffusers with coarser bubbles.
Plate diffusers are generally rectangular and are supplied in a variety of lengths depending on the required gas flow. The main disadvantages of ceramic plate diffusers are that if even a small part of the ceramic plate cracks, the entire diffuser must be discarded also, if additional diffusing capacity is required, more diffusers must be added to increase capacity. To help mitigate the cost involved when a single, large diffuser breaks, a large number of smaller diffusers may be used. The use of smaller diffusers is undesirable, however, because they are unwieldy and inconvenient. Another disadvantage of the plate diffusers is that there is no ability to easily adjust weight with ballast. In some applications, it is desirable to maximize the diffuser weight (for example in fast flowing water so that the diffuser doesn't move). In other applications (stagnant water) it is desirable to minimize the diffuser weight to increase ease of handling.
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a device to diffuse small gas bubbles into a liquid wherein the said device consists of a number of interlocking diffuser elements, each of which is replaceable, should it fail. It is also an object of the present invention to provide such a device, which is of simple and inexpensive construction.
Another object is to provide such a device that can easily be disassembled for cleaning and is of modular construction so that a diffuser of the desired capacity may be easily assembled from the component parts. A further object is to provide a diffuser where the weight of the component parts can easily be adjusted to achieve the desired buoyancy for the specific application.
Summary of The Invention The above objects are satisfied with a diffuser made in accordance with the present invention. The diffuser generally includes three component parts: an inlet end piece, a diffuser element and a cap end piece.
The inlet end piece consists of a molded housing containing an inlet fitting for connection to the gas supply line and an outlet, which provides a pressure tight connection with a diffuser element, or cap end piece. The inlet fitting may consist of, but is not limited to:
either a threaded metallic insert or a "push to-connect" fitting. A cavity in the interior of the inlet end piece allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A
bottom plate attaches to the end piece to contain and protect the ballast. On the side of the inlet end piece with the outlet, two dovetail connectors, one male and one female, allow the inlet end piece to mechanically connect to a diffuser element, or cap end piece. Two small locking tabs on the outlet side of the inlet end piece ensure that the mechanical connection will not unintentionally disengage. Vertical holes through the inlet end piece allow attachment to a tank floor with screws or bolts.
The diffuser element consists of a molded housing containing a cavity on the upper surface where a porous material is attached to the housing. The porous material may be bonded to the housing using an adhesive, such as epoxy or it may be attached by mechanical means using a retaining ring and a rubber seal. The upper cavity is designed to allow unimpeded gas flow while providing sul$cient support for the porous material.
A cavity in the lower interior of the diffuser element allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A bottom plate attaches to the diffuser element to contain and protect the ballast. The diffuser element contains an inlet and outlet. The inlet consists of a female socket that fits the outlet of another diffuser element or the outlet of the inlet end piece and the outlet provides a pressure tight connection with the inlet of another diffuser element or a cap end piece. On the ends of the diffuser element with inlet and outlet fittings, there are two dovetail connectors, one male and one female on each end, which allow the diffuser element to mechanically connect to another diffuser element or to the appropriate end piece. Two small locking tabs on the each of the inlet and outlet ends of the diffuser element ensure that the mechanical connections will not unintentionally disenga~.
The cap end piece consists of a molded housing containing an inlet that connects to the fitting of a diffuser element. A cavity in the interior of the cap end piece allows a ballast of the desired density to be added. A bottom plate attaches to the cap end piece to contain and protect the ballast. On the end of the cap end piece with the inlet, two dovetail connectors, one male and one female; allowing the cap end piece to mechanically connect to a diffuser element. Two small locking tabs on the outlet side of the cap end piece ensure that the mechanical connection will not unintentionally disengage.
Vertical holes through the cap end piece allow attachment to a tank floor with screws or bolts.
Sloped sides on the inlet end piece, diffuser element and outlet end piece allow unimpeded fluid flow over a diffuser assembly and helps prevent sediment from building up on the upstream side of the diffuser assembly.
An assembled diffuser consists of one inlet end piece to which is attached a plurality of diffuser elements to which is attached a cap end piece. During operation, the inlet end piece is connected to a gas supply line and pressurized gas travels through the assembled diffuser by means of the inlet and outlet connection on each of the component parts. The cap end piece prevents gas leakage from the diffuser assembly. Once the pressure within the diffuser assembly has reached a threshold value, which depends on the pore diameter of the porous material, gas travels through the porous material in each diffuser element and diffuses into the process liquid. The dovetail connectors allow the diffuser assembly components to quickly be assembled and disassembled without tools.
Further details and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description, claims and drawings.
Brief Description of the Drawings FIG. 1 is a diagra~nrr~atic, fragmentary sectional elevation through a fish culture tank depicting the manner in which plate diffusers are typically installed.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled four-element diffuser.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a diffuser element.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an inlet end piece.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cap end piece.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a single element diffuser.
FLG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the single element diffuser depicted in FIG. 6, showing an alternative means of securing the porous material.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a typical plate diffuser 3 installation in a fish culture tank 1. The diffusers 3 are typical of plate diffusers currently used in aquaculture applications and are connected to a main gas supply by means of supply lines 2. The gas used FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled diffuser containing four diffuser elements. The diffuser is connected to a main gas supply by means of a supply line 2. The diffuser assembly is comprised of three component parts: an inlet end piece 4, a plurality of diffuser elements 5 and a cap end piece 6. Each of the component parts attaches to an adjoining part by means of male and female dovetail connectors 7 allowing a "twist-and-lock" method of assembly. Sloped sides 8 streamline the diffuser assembly and allow water and debris to flow over the diffuser without obstniction. Mounting holes 9 in each of the end pieces allow the diffuser assembly to be bolted to a mounting surface, if desired. A gap filling adhesive 10 is used to secure the porous media to the diffuser element housing and provide a pressure-tight seal. A plate of porous media 11 allows gas bubbles to diffuse into the process liquid when the diffuser is pressurized.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a single diffuser element. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating ends of the diffuser element allow connection with other component parts using a "twist-and-lock" motion.
Detent 16 and indent 17 locking tabs prevent mating parts from unintentionally disengaging. The gas outlet 14, allows gas to flow to adjoining diffuser elements. Dual o-rings 15 on the gas outlet prevent gas leakage when the diffuser element is pressurized.
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an inlet end piece. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating end of the inlet end piece allows connection with a diffuser element using a "twist-and-lock" motion. Detent 16, and indent 17 locking tabs prevent the connection from unintentionally disengaging. A "push to-connect" fitting 18 provides a means whereby the inlet end piece may be connected to a gas supply line. The outlet 14, equipped with sealing o-rings 15 provides a pressure-tight connection to a connected diffuser element. A mounting hole 9 provides a means whereby the inlet end piece may be attached to a mounting surface.
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a cap end piece. A female dovetail connector 12 and male dovetail connector 13 on the mating side of the cap end piece allows connection with the outlet side of a diffuser element using a "twist-and-lock" motion.
Detent 16, and indent 17 locking tabs prevent said connection from unintentionally disengaging. The inlet 19 is a blind hole which, when connected to the outlet of a diffuser element, blocks it and prevents gas from escaping. A mounting hole 9 provides a means whereby the cap end piece may be attached to a mounting surface by means of bolts.
FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view of an assembled, single-element diffuser.
Bottom plates 20 and 21 contain the ballast 23. The housing of the diffuser element 5 contains a series of ridges 24 and 25, which support the porous element. The inner ridge 24 is not continuous so that it does not impede gas flow. A cavity 26 beneath the porous media allows gas to flow through the diffuser element and into the porous media.
FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the diffuser element. In this case, the porous material 11 is attached to the housing 5 by means of a mechanical seal. The mechanical seal consists of a threaded retaining ring 26 and a rubber seal 27.
Claims (8)
1) A modular diffuser assembly comprising a diffuser element, an inlet end piece and a cap end piece, said diffuser element comprising:
A pressure bearing housing and a porous material, said housing containing an gas inlet, a gas outlet, a means of coupling said diffuser element with said inlet end piece, said cap end piece or another of said diffuser elements and a cavity capable of containing a weighting ballast;
Said inlet end piece comprising:
A pressure bearing housing, a gas inlet fitting that allows connection of said inlet end piece with to a gas distribution line, a gas outlet, a means of coupling said inlet end piece with said diffuser element and a cavity capable of containing a weighting ballast;
Said outlet end piece comprising:
A pressure bearing housing, a gas inlet, a means of coupling said cap end piece with said diffuser element and a cavity capable of containing weighting ballast.
A pressure bearing housing and a porous material, said housing containing an gas inlet, a gas outlet, a means of coupling said diffuser element with said inlet end piece, said cap end piece or another of said diffuser elements and a cavity capable of containing a weighting ballast;
Said inlet end piece comprising:
A pressure bearing housing, a gas inlet fitting that allows connection of said inlet end piece with to a gas distribution line, a gas outlet, a means of coupling said inlet end piece with said diffuser element and a cavity capable of containing a weighting ballast;
Said outlet end piece comprising:
A pressure bearing housing, a gas inlet, a means of coupling said cap end piece with said diffuser element and a cavity capable of containing weighting ballast.
2) The diffuser assembly in claim 1 wherein said means of coupling consists of male and female dovetail connectors.
3) The diffuser assembly in claim 1 wherein said porous material is porous ceramic.
4) The diffuser assembly in claim 2 wherein the outline of said diffuser element is substantially rectangular.
5) The diffuser assembly in claim 3 wherein said diffuser element, inlet end piece and outlet end piece have sloped sides.
6) The diffuser assembly in claim 4 wherein said porous material is a porous ceramic disk.
7) The diffuser assembly in claim 6 wherein said ceramic disk is attached to said housing of said diffuser element by means of an adhesive.
8) The diffuser assembly in claim 6 wherein said ceramic disk is attached to said housing of said diffuser element by means of a threaded retaining ring said attachment made impermeable by means of a sealing gasket.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002393162A CA2393162A1 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2002-07-15 | Modular gas diffuser |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002393162A CA2393162A1 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2002-07-15 | Modular gas diffuser |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2393162A1 true CA2393162A1 (en) | 2004-01-15 |
Family
ID=30774490
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002393162A Abandoned CA2393162A1 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2002-07-15 | Modular gas diffuser |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2393162A1 (en) |
-
2002
- 2002-07-15 CA CA002393162A patent/CA2393162A1/en not_active Abandoned
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |