IT201900000769A1 - METHOD FOR DOSING INORGANIC COMPOUNDS INTO THE WATER OF A HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT AND DOSING DEVICE FOR DOSING INORGANIC COMPOUNDS IN THE WATER OF A HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT - Google Patents

Description

METHOD FOR DOSING INORGANIC COMPOUNDS INTO THE WATER OF A HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT AND DOSING DEVICE FOR DOSING INORGANIC COMPOUNDS IN THE WATER OF A HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is part of the technical sector relating to the water treatment of a hydraulic circuit. In particular, the present invention refers to a method for dosing inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit and a relative dosing device for dosing inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit.

To date, most of the dosing devices present on the market are used to dose polyphosphate in a liquid, generally water, circulating in a hydraulic circuit, such as, for example, a heating circuit.

Furthermore, these dosing devices can also be arranged upstream of an appliance, which involves the use of water and its heating, such as dishwashers, washing machines and washer-dryers.

By way of example, a heating circuit includes a boiler, which heats the water circulating in the heating circuit, and pipes to convey the water in relation to the desired use.

During the heating of the water, the calcium ions present in the water, as the temperature increases, tend to react chemically forming calcium carbonates which, in turn, tend to precipitate as a calcareous solid and, therefore, to adhere along the conducted by forming limestone encrustations. The polyphosphate dispenser is placed upstream of the boiler to release polyphosphate into the water of the heating circuit: in this way, as the temperature increases, the polyphosphate will exert a chelating action on compounds such as calcium ions, reducing the precipitation of these as a limestone solid. In addition, during the heating of the water, a complex calcium polyphosphate will tend to form which does not create limescale encrustations and is eliminated through the pipes.

With reference to fig. 1, a known metering device (100), comprises: a chamber (101) comprising a first opening (102) for the entry of water into the chamber (101) and a second opening (103) for the exit of water from the room (101); a retention net (104), which is mobile and is designed to divide the chamber (101) into a lower portion (101a) and an upper portion (101b), which are in fluid communication with each other, so that it is It is possible to insert in the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101) an inorganic compound (105) in granular or powder form. This inorganic compound (105) is suitable for at least partially solubilization in water. Furthermore, the retention net (104) retains said inorganic compound (105) in the lower portion (101a) as explained in detail below.

The known metering device (100) comprises: a main duct (106) for the passage of water, which, in turn, comprises a third opening (107) for the entry of water and a fourth opening (108) for the outlet of water into and from the metering device (100); a first auxiliary duct (109) that connects the main duct (106) to the first opening (102) for the entry of water into the chamber (101); a second auxiliary duct (110) that connects the second opening (103) to the main duct (106) for the outlet of water from the chamber (101). Furthermore, the known metering device (100) comprises a third auxiliary duct (111) which originates from the second auxiliary duct (110) and ends at the retention network (104). In detail, the third auxiliary duct (111) is longitudinally elastically compressible so as to always be in contact with the retention network (104), as the thickness of the relative quantity of inorganic compound (105) in the lower portion (101a) it decreases in relation to consumption.

A known method for dosing inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit is disclosed below, namely the known method for dosing inorganic compounds by means of the known dosing device (100). Initially, the water entering the third opening (107) passes through the first auxiliary duct (109) and the first opening (102) to arrive in the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101); once in the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101) it will reach the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101) containing the inorganic compound (105) and will come into contact with the inorganic compound (105) solubilizing it at least partially; subsequently, the water, having part of the solubilized inorganic compound (105), flows towards the fourth opening (108) of the main duct (106), crossing the third auxiliary duct (111) and the second opening (103). As the inorganic compound (105) is solubilized, the size of the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101) containing the inorganic compound (105) will also be reduced. In other words, as the inorganic compound (105) is solubilized, the thickness of the space occupied by the inorganic compound (105) is reduced and, therefore, the dimensions of the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101). This, also in relation to the fact that the third auxiliary duct (111) will tend to elongate in order to remain in contact with the retention net (104).

Therefore, with the aforementioned method for dosing inorganic compounds, inside the known dosing device (100), a water circulation path is created which provides for the forced passage of water in the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101 ), in the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101) containing the inorganic compound (105) and in the third auxiliary duct (111), to then exit towards the main duct (106).

Consequently, the water entering the known metering device (100), before leaving the latter, is forced to cross the inorganic compound (105) and, therefore, at least partially solubilize the inorganic compound (105).

Therefore, in this way there is a continuous consumption of the inorganic compound (105), as the water that comes into contact with the inorganic compound (105) solubilizes it at least partially.

Consequently, in the case in which for example the inorganic compound (105) is polyphosphate, with the known metering device (100) there is a rapid consumption of polyphosphate with the risk that the water leaving the metering device (100) has a polyphosphate concentration greater than 5 mg / l, i.e. greater than the maximum value required by current legislation, according to Presidential Decree 59/09, in the water leaving a heating circuit.

Furthermore, the use of the known metering device (100) and of the known method for metering inorganic compounds causes a further drawback linked to a variable concentration of inorganic compound (105) in the water leaving the hydraulic circuit, for the reasons set out below.

During the above known method, a filling stage initially takes place during which the chamber (101) and the third auxiliary duct (111) will be completely filled with water. Immediately after the filling stage, an operating stage begins, in which the further amount of incoming water will pass through the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101), the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101), containing the inorganic compound (105), and the third auxiliary duct (111), to then exit towards the main duct (106) with a first concentration of inorganic compound (105).

At the end of the water request, a stasis stage begins, in which the metering device (100) will not have any quantity of water inlet but, since the chamber (101) and the third auxiliary duct (111) contain water, the inorganic compound (105) will continue to solubilize to make the water present in the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101) and in the third auxiliary duct (111) take on a second concentration, higher than the first concentration, and more and more with increasing weather. Subsequently, at the time of the next water request, a second operating stage will begin, in which the quantity of water entering the metering device (100) will pass into the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101), dragging with it the water already present in the upper portion (101b) of the chamber (101) having said second concentration of inorganic compound (105), will pass into the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101), containing the inorganic compound (105), solubilizing it at least partially , until a third concentration of inorganic compound (105) is higher than the second concentration of inorganic compound (105). At this point, this quantity of water will pass into the third auxiliary duct (111), dragging with it the water already present in the third auxiliary duct (111), and, finally, it will pass through the second opening (103) and then exit towards the main duct (106). Therefore, the quantity of water leaving the metering device (100), during the second stage of operation, will have a concentration of inorganic compound (105) greater than that at the output during the first stage of operation. Subsequently, a further stasis stage will begin, in which the further quantity of water entering the metering device (100) at least partially solubilizes the inorganic compound (105), while it passes through the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101), until a fourth concentration of inorganic compound (105) is output from the metering device (100). In relation to this stasis stage, the quantity of water at the outlet will have a concentration of inorganic compound (105) lower than that of the second stage of operation. Therefore, since the known method provides for an alternation of the aforementioned stages of stasis and operation, the amount of water leaving the known metering device (100) will have a concentration of inorganic compound (105) which varies over time. In fact, this concentration varies over time over a rather wide interval.

In light of the above, the object of the present invention consists in overcoming the aforementioned drawbacks.

In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for dosing inorganic compounds and a dosing device such as to allow a more regular consumption of the inorganic compound over time and, at the same time, to ensure a concentration of inorganic compound in the water flow. at the outlet, towards the hydraulic circuit, more constant over time (ie with a relative variation in concentration over time within a relative narrower range than in the known art) and, preferably, almost constant over time.

The aforesaid object is achieved by means of a method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit in accordance with claim 1 and by means of a dosing device for inorganic compounds in accordance with claim 2. Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the rest of this discussion, in accordance with what is reported in the claims and with the aid of the attached drawing tables, in which:

Figure 1 is a sectional view of the known metering device;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the metering device object of the present invention;

Figure 3 is an exploded view of the metering device object of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a side view of the metering device object of the present invention;

figure 5 is a side sectional view of fig.4;

- figures 6 and 7 are sectional views along the line IV-IV of fig. 4, respectively, of two configurations of the metering device object of the present invention;

- Figure 8 is a sectional view of the metering device, object of the present invention, according to another embodiment.

With reference to the attached drawing tables, a dosing device for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit has been generically indicated with the reference (1).

The method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit includes the following steps: inserting an inorganic compound (3) into a storage chamber (2) to be dosed in the water of a hydraulic circuit; the storage chamber (2) being communicating with a communication chamber (4) by means of a connecting duct (5); introduce water into the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in a relative quantity such as to put the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication with each other, through the connection duct (5); obtaining in the storage chamber (2) a first solution having a first concentration of inorganic compound (3); obtain in the communication chamber (4) a second solution having a second concentration of inorganic compound (3), by diffusion of the inorganic compound (3) dosed in the first solution from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4) by means of said connection conduit (5); which second concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the first concentration of inorganic compound (3); hydraulically connecting the communication chamber (4) with the hydraulic circuit at a first opening (6) and a second opening (7) provided in the communication chamber (4); introduce in the communication chamber (4) a quantity of water coming from the hydraulic circuit, through said first opening (6), so as to obtain in the communication chamber (4) a third solution having a third concentration of inorganic compound (3), which third concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the second concentration of inorganic compound (3). The third solution emerges from the communication chamber (4) through the second opening (7) towards the hydraulic circuit.

Advantageously, it follows that the third solution, emerging from the communication chamber (4) through the second opening (7), has a relative third concentration which varies over time in a narrower range than in the prior art.

Furthermore, with respect to the known method for dosing inorganic compounds, for the same amount of inorganic compound (3) used, the method for dosing inorganic compounds, object of the present invention, ensures a slower consumption of the inorganic compound (3), since it reduces the concentration of inorganic compound (3) in the third solution coming out of the communication chamber (4). In other words, the introduction of the quantity of water coming from the hydraulic circuit into the communication chamber (4) dilutes the second solution, having the second concentration of inorganic compound (3), and this allows to obtain the third solution, which will be that flowing towards the hydraulic circuit, having the third concentration of inorganic compound (3) lower than the second concentration of inorganic compound (3). Therefore, with the same inorganic compound (3) used, with the method for dosing inorganic compounds object of the present invention it is possible to dose the inorganic compound (3) in a greater quantity of water in the hydraulic circuit.

Furthermore, the third solution, protruding from the communication chamber (4) towards the hydraulic circuit, will flow in the pipes of the hydraulic circuit to be conveyed in relation to the desired use.

It should be noted that by inorganic compound (3) we mean chemical compounds that do not contain carbon atoms.

Furthermore, it should be noted that a hydraulic circuit is intended as a pressurized hydraulic circuit.

In the present description by inorganic compound (3) is meant, for example, polyphosphate or chlorine. The inorganic compound (3) can be in solid form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially soluble when it is in solid form.

Alternatively, the inorganic compound (3) can be in powdery and / or granular form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially soluble when it is in powdery and / or granular form.

Still alternatively, the inorganic compound (3) can be in liquid / gel form. The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially miscible and dilutable when it is in liquid / gel form.

The storage chamber (2) and the communication chamber (4) can be in fluid communication with each other by means of the connection duct (5) (see Figs. 3 and 5-8).

The step of obtaining a first solution in the storage chamber (2) can provide for at least partially solubilization of the inorganic compound (3), when this inorganic compound (3) is in solid form, in the relative quantity of water introduced into the storage chamber ( 2).

The step of obtaining a first solution in the storage chamber (2) can provide for at least partially solubilization of the inorganic compound (3), when this inorganic compound (3) is in powdery and / or granular form, in the relative quantity of water introduced into the storage chamber (2).

The step of obtaining a first solution in the storage chamber (2) can provide for mixing and at least partially diluting the inorganic compound (3), when this inorganic compound (3) is in liquid / gel form, in the relative quantity of water introduced into the storage chamber (2).

The step of obtaining a second solution in the communication chamber (4) may involve putting the storage chamber (2) and the communication chamber (4) in fluid communication with each other so that the first solution can partly spread towards the communication chamber (4) and mixing and at least partially diluting the first solution, having the first concentration of inorganic compound (3), in the relative quantity of water introduced into the communication chamber (4).

The step of obtaining a third solution in the communication chamber (4) may involve mixing and at least partially diluting the second solution having the second concentration of inorganic compound (3) in the quantity of water coming from the hydraulic circuit introduced into the communication chamber (4 ) through the first opening (6).

It should be noted that it is possible to perform the aforementioned method to dose inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit with the metering device (1) object of the present invention.

The metering device (1) for metering inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit, object of the present invention, comprises: a communication chamber (4) comprising a first opening (6), which can be hydraulically connected to a hydraulic circuit, for inlet of water coming from the hydraulic circuit into the communication chamber (4) and a second opening (7), which can be connected hydraulically to said hydraulic circuit, for the outlet of water from the communication chamber (4) towards the hydraulic circuit; a storage chamber (2) intended to receive an inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of the hydraulic circuit and including a third opening (8) for the insertion of the inorganic compound (3) in the storage chamber (2); first closing means (9) for closing the third opening (8); a connection duct (5) which is interposed between the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) and which is shaped to put the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication between them for, when a first solution, having a first concentration of inorganic compound (3) to be dosed, is present in the storage chamber (2) and water or a second solution, having a second concentration of inorganic compound (3) lower than first concentration, is present in the communication chamber (4), diffuse the inorganic compound (3) from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4) (see Figs. 2-8).

Furthermore, the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) are in fluid communication only through the connection duct (5) (see Figs. 2-5).

Advantageously, the connection duct (5), by putting the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication, allows to regulate the consumption of the inorganic compound (3) by means of its diffusion from the storage chamber ( 2) and to the communication chamber (4).

Furthermore, since the storage chamber (2) is intended to receive the inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of the hydraulic circuit, the connection duct (5), putting the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2), also allows to regulate the concentration of inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of the hydraulic circuit present in the communication chamber (4).

In other words, the connection duct (5) determines a regulation of the dosage of the inorganic compound (3) in the water of the hydraulic circuit.

By way of example, the dosing device (1) for dosing inorganic compounds can be a dosing device (1) of polyphosphate or chlorine in the water of a hydraulic circuit.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially soluble in water. The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially miscible and dilutable in water.

The dosage of the inorganic compound (3) in the water of the hydraulic circuit can be determined by the at least partial solubilization of the inorganic compound (3). The dosage of the inorganic compound (3) in the water of the hydraulic circuit can be determined by mixing and at least partial dilution of the inorganic compound (3).

The inorganic compound (3) can be in solid form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially soluble in water, when it is in solid form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be in powder and / or granular form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially soluble in water, when it is in powder and / or granular form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be in liquid / gel form.

The inorganic compound (3) can be at least partially miscible and dilutable in water, when it is in liquid / gel form.

Advantageously, when the inorganic compound (3) is at least partially soluble, the quantity of inorganic compound (3) at least partially solubilized in the water coming out of the communication chamber (4) is adjusted with the metering device (1). towards the hydraulic circuit.

With the dosing device (1) it is possible to realize the aforementioned method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit, comprising the following steps: insert in the storage chamber (2) the inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of the hydraulic circuit; introduce water into the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in a relative quantity such as to put the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication with each other, through the connection duct (5); at least partially solubilize the inorganic compound (3), when this inorganic compound (3) is in solid form, in the water present in the storage chamber (2) to obtain the first solution, having the first concentration of inorganic compound (3) ; at least partially dissolve the first solution in the water present in the communication chamber (4) to obtain the second solution, having a second concentration of inorganic compound (3), which second concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the first concentration of inorganic compound (3); putting the communication chamber (4) in fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit at a first opening (6) and a second opening (7) provided in the communication chamber (4); introduce in the communication chamber (4) a quantity of water coming from the hydraulic circuit, through said first opening (6), so as to obtain in the communication chamber (4) a third solution having a third concentration of inorganic compound (3), which third concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the second concentration of inorganic compound (3). The third solution emerges from the communication chamber (4) through the second opening (7) towards the hydraulic circuit.

Alternatively, the step of at least partially solubilizing the inorganic compound (3) can provide for at least partially solubilizing the inorganic compound (3), when said inorganic compound (3) is in powdery and / or granular form.

Alternatively, the step of at least partially solubilizing the inorganic compound (3) can provide for mixing and at least partially diluting the inorganic compound (3), when this inorganic compound (3) is in liquid / gel form.

Preferably, the first opening (6) has a relative section and in which the connecting duct (5) has a relative section which is greater than the section of the first opening (6) (see Figs. 5 and 8).

It should be noted that, in the present description, by section we mean the cross section.

Advantageously, since the section of the first opening (6) is smaller than the section of the connection duct (5), an adjustment of the consumption of the inorganic compound (3) is ensured: in fact, by reducing the size of the section of the first opening (6), the it reduces the quantity of water entering the communication chamber (4) and, consequently, the quantity of water that will at least partially dissolve or dilute the inorganic compound (3) is reduced.

By way of example, the section of the connection duct (5) can assume a value from 1 mm to 6 mm.

Preferably, the dimension of the section of the connection duct (5) can assume a value of 3 mm.

By way of example, the size of the section of the first opening (6) can assume a value from 0.1 mm to 2 mm.

Preferably, the size of the section of the first opening (6) can assume a value of 0.5 mm.

Preferably, the metering device (1) comprising adjustment means (10) for adjusting the section area of the connecting duct (5) so as to adjust, when the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit and when said first solution is present in the storage chamber (2) and water or said second solution is present in the communication chamber (4), the diffusion of the inorganic compound (3) from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4) (see figs. 3, 6 and 7).

Similarly, the method for dosing inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit can provide for adjusting the area of the section of the connection duct (5) so as to regulate, when the communication chamber (4) is hydraulically connected with the hydraulic circuit, the diffusion of the inorganic compound (3) from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4). Advantageously, the adjustment of the area of the section of the connection duct (5) regulates an amount of the first solution, having the first concentration of inorganic compound (3), which diffuses from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4 ), once the connection duct (5) puts the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication with each other.

Preferably, the connection duct (5) has a circular section and the adjustment means (10) comprise a flow control valve (11), which is arranged in correspondence with the connection duct (5) and is designed to assume: a first position (A) to allow fluid communication between the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) (see fig.

7) and a second position (C) to prevent fluid communication of the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) with each other (see fig.

6).

For example, the flow control valve (11) can be a needle valve (see figs. 6 and 7).

The flow control valve (11) can be designed to assume additional intermediate positions between the first position (A) and the second position (C) in order to regulate the area of the connection duct section (5).

In other words, advantageously, the flow control valve (11) assumes further intermediate positions to vary the area of the section of the connection duct (5) and, therefore, the relative quantity of water entering the communication chamber (4) and in the storage chamber (2).

Advantageously, the flow control valve (11) allows an increase and a reduction in the area of the connection duct section (5).

In situations of temporary inactivity, for example, the flow control valve (11) can assume the second position (C) to avoid reaching a condition of equilibrium between the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) while mixing and diluting the first solution and the second solution with each other.

Advantageously, during the operations for inserting the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2), when the flow control valve (11) assumes the second position (C), fluid communication of the communication chamber (4) is prevented. and of the storage chamber (2) between them and it is possible to open the third opening (8), by deactivating the first closing means (9), and insert the inorganic compound (3) without unwanted leaks of water, coming from the communication chamber (4), from the storage chamber (2). Similarly, the method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit can comprise putting into fluid communication, through the connection duct (5), the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) between them and to prevent fluid communication of the first communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) with each other.

The advantages linked to this step of the method for dosing inorganic compounds are similar to those reported above for the dosing device (1).

Preferably, the storage chamber (2) comprises a fourth opening (12) and second closing means (13) for closing the fourth opening (12) (see Figs. 5-8). Furthermore, the metering device (1) is shaped in such a way that, when the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit, the fourth opening (12) is available in correspondence with a portion bottom (2a) of the storage chamber (2) to allow the storage chamber (2) to be emptied.

Advantageously, through the fourth opening (12) it is possible to empty the storage chamber (2) either of the water present in it or of the first solution present in it.

Advantageously, during the operations for inserting the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2), it is possible, when the flow control valve (11) assumes the second position (C), to empty the storage chamber (2) without having to hydraulically disconnect the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) from the hydraulic circuit, and open the third opening (8), deactivating the first closing means (9), to insert the inorganic compound (3) without unwanted leaks of water from the storage chamber (2).

Alternatively, when the flow control valve (11) assumes the first position (A), it is possible to empty the storage chamber (2) through the fourth opening (12), and consequently also the communication chamber (4), as in fluid communication with the storage chamber (2) through the connection duct (5), after having hydraulically disconnected the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) from the hydraulic circuit.

Let's see below how to insert the inorganic compound (3) at the end of the one already present in the storage chamber (2). Initially, the communication chamber (4) and the hydraulic circuit are hydraulically disconnected. Subsequently, the flow control valve (11) assumes the second position (C) to prevent fluid communication of the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) with each other. At this point, the second closing means (13) are deactivated to open the fourth opening (12) and to allow fluid communication between the storage chamber (2) and the outside and so that the water present in the chamber storage chamber (2) spreads outwards from the metering device (1) and the storage chamber (2) is completely emptied. Then, the fourth opening (12) is closed by the second closing means (13) and the first closing means (9) are deactivated to insert the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2) through the third opening. (8).

Similarly, the method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit can comprise putting the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication with the outside by means of a fourth opening (12) of the storage chamber (2) to empty the storage chamber (2).

The advantages linked to this step of the method for dosing inorganic compounds are similar to those reported above for the dosing device (1).

Furthermore, when the flow control valve (11) assumes the second position (C) and the second closing means (13) are deactivated, it is possible to completely empty the storage chamber (2) of the water present inside and the subsequent operations of inserting the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2) without undesirable leaks of water from the storage chamber (2).

Advantageously, the insertion of the inorganic compound (3) in the metering device (1) object of the present invention is quick and simple compared to that of the known metering device, for the following reasons.

With the known metering device (100), the insertion of the inorganic compound (105) in the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101) provides for separating the chamber (101) from the first auxiliary duct (109) and from the second auxiliary duct (110); subsequently, the third auxiliary duct (111) is separated from the chamber (101) and the retention net (104) is taken from the chamber (101). At this point, the chamber (101) is emptied of the water present in its entirety and the inorganic compound (105) is introduced into the relative lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101). Once the inorganic compound (105) has been inserted into the lower portion (101a) of the chamber (101), the known metering device (100) is assembled again to put it in fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit again by means of the first auxiliary duct (109) and the second auxiliary conduit (110). The aforementioned operations are laborious and time-consuming.

Furthermore, the first closing means (9) comprise a lid (14), having a protuberance (16) configured to fit into the inorganic compound (3) in a first solid form to support it in order to insert it into the storage chamber (2) and to close it inside to allow its solubilization. The storage chamber (2) can have a cylindrical shape (see fig. 3 and 8). Preferably, the first closing means (9) comprise a lid (14), having an internal surface (15) engageable with a retaining element (17) at least partially permeable to an aqueous solution of the inorganic compound (3) and in which the inorganic compound (3) in a first solid form can be inserted into the holding element (17) to be held between the lid (14) and the holding element (17), in order to insert it into the storage chamber (2) and to close it inside to allow its solubilization (see fig. 8).

Advantageously, it is possible to close the third opening (8) and insert the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2) at the same time. Preferably, the storage chamber (2) can have a development axis (A1) which is transverse to the development axis (A2) of the connection duct (5) (see fig. 5).

The communication chamber (4) can be arranged interposed between the hydraulic circuit and the storage chamber (2) and can be arranged above the storage chamber (2).

Advantageously, this configuration of the metering device (1), which provides for the communication chamber (4) arranged between the hydraulic circuit and the storage chamber (2) and arranged above the storage chamber (2), facilitates the operations of insertion and connection of the metering device (1) itself to the boiler of a hydraulic circuit.

Preferably, the communication chamber (4) comprises a first end portion (4a) and a second end portion (4b), opposite the first end portion (4a); the second opening (7) is arranged at the first end portion (4a) and the connecting duct (5) opens into the communication chamber (4) at the second end portion (4b); the metering device (1) comprises an outlet conduit (18) which originates from the second opening (7) of the communication chamber (4) and ends at a distance of less than 6 millimeters from the connection conduit (5). As an alternative to this embodiment, it is possible to have the second opening (7) in proximity to the connection duct (5) (see Figures 6 and 7).

Advantageously, the outlet duct (18) adjusts the dosage of the inorganic compound (3) in the water leaving the dosing device (1) itself. In other words, in relation to the pressure of the water entering the metering device (1), the need may arise for an outlet duct (18) having a different diameter value. This diameter value will be smaller as the pressure of the water entering the metering device increases (1). In this way, by adjusting the diameter of the outlet duct (18), the dosage of inorganic compound (3) in the water flowing out to the hydraulic circuit is adjusted.

By way of example, the outlet duct (18) can extend from the second opening (7) of the communication chamber (4) up to a distance from the connection duct (5) ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm.

Preferably, the outlet duct (18) can extend from the second opening (7) of the communication chamber (4) up to a distance of 3 mm from the connection duct (5).

Preferably, the outlet duct (18) has the relative opening (not shown) on the relative lateral surface (not shown) and develops along a development axis (A3) parallel, but not coincident, to the relative development axis (A2) of the connection duct (5) (see fig. 8).

Advantageously, the relative opening of the outlet duct (18) on the relative lateral surface avoids the formation of an outgoing water stream and ensures that a dilution process is established in the communication chamber (4).

In detail, in the communication chamber (4) there will be a variable concentration gradient from the first end portion (4a) to the second end portion (4b) and, therefore, the outlet duct (18) ensures that it flows out through it. the third solution having a certain desired concentration of inorganic compound (3).

The metering device (1) can comprise a plurality of interchangeable outlet ducts and having a different diameter value from each other. Advantageously, it is possible to vary the outlet duct (18) present in the metering device (1) with another outlet duct (18) having a different diameter according to requirements. In detail, it is possible to use an outlet duct (18) with a smaller diameter value as the pressure of the water entering the metering device (1) increases.

Preferably, the storage chamber (2) comprises a fifth opening (19), which is reclosable; and in which the metering device (1) is shaped so that, when the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit, the fifth opening (19) is available at a relative upper portion (2b) of the storage chamber (2) to allow the insertion, due to the force of gravity, of the inorganic compound (3) in a second liquid / gel form in the storage chamber (2). Advantageously, the fifth opening (19) is arranged in correspondence with the relative upper portion (2b) of the storage chamber (2) so that the inorganic compound (3) in a second liquid / gel form is inserted into the storage chamber (2 ) due to the force of gravity.

Alternatively, in a configuration of the metering device (1) in which only the third opening (8) is present, this third opening (8) can be arranged in correspondence with the relative upper portion (2b) of the storage chamber (2) to insert the inorganic compound (3) into the first solid form or the second liquid / gel form.

A method for connecting the metering device (1) of inorganic compounds, in accordance with the aforementioned embodiments, to a hydraulic circuit, comprising the following steps, is disclosed below: putting the first opening (6) in fluid communication with the circuit hydraulic; put the second opening (7) in fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit downstream of the first opening (6) with respect to a direction of advancement of the water in said hydraulic circuit; arrange the storage chamber (2) and the communication chamber (4) so that the latter is arranged between the storage chamber (2) and the hydraulic circuit.

The dosing device (1) for dosing inorganic compounds in the water of a hydraulic circuit, disclosed above, can be a dosing device (1) for dosing polyphosphate in the water of a heating circuit.

It is understood that what above has been described by way of non-limiting example, therefore any constructional variants are understood to fall within the protective scope of the present technical solution, as claimed hereinafter.

Claims (10)

CLAIMS 1. Method for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit, comprising the following steps: insert in a storage chamber (2) an inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of a hydraulic circuit; the storage chamber (2) being communicating with a communication chamber (4) by means of a connecting duct (5); introduce water into the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in a relative quantity such as to put the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication with each other, through the connection duct (5); obtaining in the storage chamber (2) a first solution having a first concentration of inorganic compound (3); obtain in the communication chamber (4) a second solution having a second concentration of inorganic compound (3), by diffusion of the inorganic compound (3) dosed in the first solution from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4) by means of said connection conduit (5); which second concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the first concentration of inorganic compound (3); hydraulically connecting the communication chamber (4) with the hydraulic circuit at a first opening (6) and a second opening (7) provided in the communication chamber (4); introduce in the communication chamber (4) a quantity of water coming from the hydraulic circuit, through said first opening (6), so as to obtain in the communication chamber (4) a third solution having a third concentration of inorganic compound (3), which third concentration of inorganic compound (3) is lower than the second concentration of inorganic compound (3); the third solution emerging from the communication chamber (4) through the second opening (7) towards the hydraulic circuit. 2. Dosing device (1) for dosing inorganic compounds into the water of a hydraulic circuit, comprising: a communication chamber (4) comprising a first opening (6), which can be hydraulically connected to a hydraulic circuit, for the entry of water from the hydraulic circuit into the communication chamber (4) and a second opening (7), which can be hydraulically connected to said hydraulic circuit, for the outlet of water from the communication chamber (4) towards the hydraulic circuit; characterized by the fact that: comprises a storage chamber (2) intended to receive an inorganic compound (3) to be dosed in the water of the hydraulic circuit and comprising a third opening (8) for the insertion of the inorganic compound (3) into the storage chamber (2) ; comprises first closing means (9) for closing the third opening (8); comprises a connection duct (5) which is interposed between the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) and which is shaped to put the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) in fluid communication ) between them for, when a first solution, having a first concentration of inorganic compound (3) to be dosed, is present in the storage chamber (2) and water or a second solution, having a second lower concentration of inorganic compound (3) of the first concentration, is present in the communication chamber (4), to diffuse the inorganic compound (3) from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4); and by the fact that the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) are in fluid communication only through the connection duct (5). 3. Metering device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the first opening (6) has a relative section and in which the connecting duct (5) has a relative section which is greater than the section of the first opening (6) . The metering device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, comprising adjustment means (10) for adjusting the area of the section of the connecting duct (5) and so as to adjust, when the first opening (6) is the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit and when said first solution is present in the storage chamber (2) and water or said second solution is present in the communication chamber (4), the diffusion of the inorganic compound (3) from the storage chamber (2) to the communication chamber (4). 5. Metering device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the connection duct (5) has a circular cross-section and the adjustment means (10) comprise a flow-rate regulating valve (11), which is arranged in correspondence with the connection duct (5) and is designed to assume: a first position (A) to allow fluid communication between the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) and a second position (C) to prevent fluid communication of the communication chamber (4) and the storage chamber (2) with each other. Metering device (1) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the storage chamber (2) comprises a fourth opening (12) and second closing means (13) for closing the fourth opening (12); in which the metering device (1) is shaped in such a way that, when the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit, the fourth opening (12) is available in correspondence with a portion bottom (2a) of the storage chamber (2) to allow the storage chamber (2) to be emptied. Metering device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the first closing means (9) comprise a lid (14), having a protuberance (16) configured to fit into the inorganic compound (3) in a first solid form to support it in order to insert it into the storage chamber (2) and to close it inside to allow its solubilization. Dosage device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the first closing means (9) comprise a lid (14), having an internal surface (15) engageable with a retaining element (17 ) at least partially permeable to an aqueous solution of the inorganic compound (3) and in which the inorganic compound (3) in a first solid form can be inserted into the retaining element (17) to be retained between the lid (14) and the withholding element (17), in order to insert it into the storage chamber (2) and to close it inside to allow its solubilization. Dosage device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: the communication chamber (4) comprises a first end portion (4a) and a second end portion (4b), opposite to the first end portion (4a); the second opening (7) is arranged at the first end portion (4a) and the connecting duct (5) opens into the communication chamber (4) at the second end portion (4b); the metering device (1) comprises an outlet conduit (18) which originates from the second opening (7) of the communication chamber (4) and ends at a distance of less than 6 millimeters from the connection conduit (5). Metering device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the storage chamber (2) comprises a fifth opening (19), which is reclosable; and in which the metering device (1) is shaped so that, when the first opening (6) and the second opening (7) are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit, the fifth opening (19) is available at a relative upper portion (2b) of the storage chamber (2) to allow the insertion, due to the force of gravity, of the inorganic compound (3) in a second liquid / gel form in the storage chamber (2).