JP2009518161A - Recovery of solids using a crossflow microfilter and an automatic piston discharge centrifuge - Google Patents

Abstract

In a combined centrifuge and microfiltration system, the retentate from the crossflow microfilter is fed to an automatic piston discharge centrifuge for solids removal, thereby increasing the efficiency of both. The centrifuge contains a cylindrical bowl with a conical lower end with an opening into which the feed liquid is injected. When the bowl is rotated at high speed, the solids are separated from the feed and collected along the inner surface of the bowl. Microfiltration membranes can be added to improve the retention of solids in the bowl and provide a filtered concentrate. While discharging solids, the piston is propelled downward along the longitudinal axis. The downward movement of the piston pushes the collected solids out of the bowl through a conical lower end opening.
[Selection] Figure 13

Description

[Cross-reference of related applications]
This application is a US patent application no. 11 / 218,280, partial continuation relating to the filing date September 1, 2005 and international application PCT / IB2006 / 002411, partial continuation of the filing date August 25, 2006. This application is a US preliminary application no. 60 / 742,558, filing date December 5, 2005 and US Preliminary Application No. Claims 60 / 756,381, January 4, 2006 priority. Each said application is hereby incorporated by reference.

[Background of the invention]
Many types of centrifuges are known for separating heterogeneous mixtures into compositions based on specific gravity. Typically, a heterogeneous mixture, also feed or liquid, is charged into the rotating bowl of the centrifuge. The rotating bowl rotates at high speed and exerts force to separate the composition of the mixture having high specific gravity by sedimentation. As a result, the dense solid matter adheres to the inner surface or wall of the bowl and is compressed into a cake, and the purified liquid becomes radial in the cake. The bowl rotates at a sufficient speed to produce a force of 20,000 times gravity to separate solids from the concentrate.

  As solids collect along the wall of the bowl, the cleaning liquid exits the bowl and leaves the separator as a “centrate”. When it is determined that the desired amount of solids has been collected, the separator is placed in a discharge mode in which solids are removed from the separator. Often, for example, internal scrapers scrape solids off the walls of the bowl.

  Conventional separators have many disadvantages when discharging special solids and liquids. For example, some separators cannot completely discharge sticky solids, resulting in low yields. Low yields are particularly problematic for expensive solids such as encountered in pharmaceutical processes. Traditional separator machines have a very high cutting force on the feed material when accelerating the material to the rotational speed of the bowl, for example damaging to sensitive chemicals or biological materials such as living cells.

  Yet other separators do not provide a convenient means of handling and recovering sensitive solids. For example, an operator is typically used to assist in the discharge and recovery of solids. Operator-mediated separators often suffer from contamination problems. In addition, in order to facilitate the recovery of solids, some separators employ a number of mechanical components that affect durability. Such parts are generally external to the separator or are additional devices that are both a matter of size and suitability. Conventional separators also tend to make cleaning and disinfection difficult without greatly increasing maintenance costs.

  It would be desirable to have a centrifuge that can effectively handle solids of the above form, i.e., sticky or susceptible solids that take away the forces generated during centrifugation. It would also be beneficial to have a separator that can easily recover solids without the possibility of external contamination or additional mechanical equipment. Such separators should also be easily cleaned and sterilized at that location.

  In addition, a typical crossflow microfiltration system pretreats the feed liquid so that the solids concentration is well below the filter membrane fouling limit. Backwashing is often necessary to reduce the concentration of solids collected on the filter membrane that would delay the process. In addition, machinery must be provided to squeeze solids collected from the retentate tank. Such machinery will remove solids moistened by a significant amount of retentate. The pre-treatment of liquids and the installation of solids removal machinery will prepare a semi-optional solids drying operation, increasing process time, complexity and cost.

[Summary of Invention]
To alleviate the problems associated with conventional microfilter filtration, the system disclosed herein uses an automatic piston discharge (APD) centrifuge coupled with a microfilter filtration system. When the solid concentration in the retentate, measured by turbidity or concentration, reaches a threshold, the retentate is introduced into a centrifuge that separates efficiently. Separately or additionally, the pressure of the clean filtrate is measured due to the collected solids indicator and the need to remove the solids using a centrifuge. The dried solids are removed by the centrifuge solids discharge cycle, and the removed concentrate is analyzed for suspended solids. If present, the concentrate is returned to the process flow path. Otherwise, clean concentrate is removed from the system.

  In order to avoid solids that accumulate in the filter membrane, a high flow rate through the microfilter is achieved. The solids removed by the centrifuge are sufficiently dry compared to the conventional technique. Since the feed stream is concentrated, a relatively small centrifuge is employed. A large-sized storage tank is not required due to dynamic control of the storage solids concentration, which further contributes to cost reduction.

  In accordance with the present invention, the system provides separation and recovery of solid and / or liquid components from a suspension containing solids by a combination of microfilter filtration and a centrifuge. The system consists of a microfilter filtration subsystem and a centrifuge subsystem.

  The microfilter filtration subsystem consists of a crossflow microfilter, a reserve tank, a reserve pump, a first valve and a first detector. The microfilter has a feed inlet for introducing the suspension into the system, a filtrate outlet for diverting the filtrate from the system, and a retentate outlet. The storage tank is supplied from the storage outlet of the microfilter. The reserve pump is supplied from the exit of the reserve tank. The first valve is fluidly connected to the outlet of the reserve pump. The first detector detects the solids concentration in the retentate and controls the first valve. Below the first preset solids concentration, the first valve returns the retentate to the feed inlet of the microfilter. Above the first preset solids concentration, the first valve branches the retentate to the centrifuge subsystem.

  The centrifuge subsystem consists of an automatic piston discharge centrifuge with a feed inlet, a solids outlet for diverting solids from the system and a concentrate outlet. The centrifuge subsystem further comprises a second valve fluidly connected to the concentrate outlet and a second detector for detecting the solids concentration in the concentrate and controlling the second valve. Second, above the preset solids concentration, the second valve returns the concentrate to the reserve tank. Second, below the preset solids concentration, the second valve diverts the concentrate from the system.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a method for recovering solids and liquid compositions from a suspension containing solids by a combination of microfiltration and centrifugation. This method comprises the steps of providing a system consisting of the microfiltration subsystem and the centrifuge subsystem described above, adding a suspension containing solids to a retentate tank and suspending it through a microfilter with a retentate pump. The first detector detects the concentration of solids in the retentate, the second detector detects the concentration of solids in the concentrate, collects the filtrate from the microfilter, and from the centrifuge Collect the concentrate and collect the solids from the centrifuge. If the solids concentration in the retentate is greater than or equal to the first preset solids concentration, the first valve is adjusted to branch the retentate to the centrifuge subsystem. If the solids concentration in the concentrate is greater than or equal to the second preset solids concentration, the second valve returns the concentrate to the reserve tank. If the solids concentration in the concentrate is less than or equal to the second preset concentration, the second valve is adjusted to branch the concentrate for collection.

  In another aspect, the present invention provides an automatic piston discharge centrifuge comprising a bowl, a solid discharge assembly, a microfilter, a diaphragm, and a solid discharge valve. The cylindrical bowl has a lower end with an opening and is operated during a feed operation mode that rotates at high speed to separate solids from the feed liquid; solids are collected along the inner surface of the bowl. The solids discharge assembly consists of a cylindrical outer piston located and moved along the inner surface of the bowl and an inner piston located at the end of the shaft extending along the central axis of the bowl. The inner piston has a substantially cylindrical portion and a substantially conical portion. The microfilter is arranged in a cylindrical shape around the central axis of the bowl and keeps solids in the outer gap between the outer surface of the microfilter and the inner surface of the bowl. The microfilter allows the filtered concentrate to exit the bowl through an inner gap adjacent to the inner surface of the microfilter. The outer diameter of the microfilter is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer piston. The diaphragm is cylindrical and is arranged around the central axis of the bowl and is adjacent to the inner gap.

  Further consistent with the present invention, a centrifuge is disclosed that works well for viscous solids and exhibits low shear acceleration of the feed material. Separators are particularly effective for sensitive solids such as chemical or biological materials. The separator of the present invention can recover sensitive solids, liquids, materials or combinations thereof without operator intervention or additional mechanical equipment. The separator is easily cleaned and can be disinfected in situ.

  The separator includes a cylindrical bowl with a conical lower end with an opening through which feed material or liquid is injected during the feed mode of operation. When the bowl is spun or rotated at high speed, the injected feed liquid faces the inclined surface at the conical lower end of the bowl. The rotational acceleration force is transmitted relatively slowly so that the liquid continues to move outward in the radial direction. The solids are then separated from the feed liquid and collect on the inner surface of the bowl, for example as a cake.

  In addition, the separator includes a piston that is placed in close contact with the inner surface of the bowl. The piston is characterized by an upper part and a lower conical part which are connected by air pressure or liquid pressure during different separation modes of operation. For example, in the solid discharge mode, a fluid such as pressurized gas or pressurized liquid will cause the upper portion of the piston to apply axially downward force on the solid collected from the bowl through an opening at the lower end of the cone. To work. The types of pressurized gas that move the piston to be implemented are nitrogen and argon. Similarly, the pressurized liquid that moves the piston in the bowl of practice contains distilled water. In one embodiment, the lower end of the bowl and the lower portion of the piston are complementary to relatively facilitate solids discharge. For example, the lower end of the bowl and the lower portion of the piston are characterized by a cone that is substantially smaller below the top.

  For the separator of the present invention, the piston is at the top during the feed operation mode by operation with water pressure from the feed liquid as well as frictional force between one or more piston seals and the inner surface or wall of the bowl. Kept in position. Such a seal is placed around the piston and adjacent to the inner surface of the bowl. The piston is open during the feed mode for feeding the feed liquid, and after the solids are separated therefrom, it flows out of the bowl as a cleaned liquid and in the concentrate case with a passage leading to the concentrate outlet Includes a concentrate valve, which drains into the Since the piston acts downwardly by the fluid acting on the upper part during solid discharge, the concentrate valve is automatically closed to prevent the collected solids from passing into the concentrate case.

  When the piston is in its uppermost position, it rotates with the bowl so that high speed rotational separation of solids from the feed liquid takes place. During solids separation in feed mode, the cleaned liquid exits the bowl and enters the concentrate case. The concentrate case also has an isolation valve that opens and closes by air pressure or water pressure. For example, the isolation valve opens in feed mode to allow the cleaned liquid to flow through the concentrate outlet and the concentrate outlet valve that is open to exit the separator as a concentrate. At the end of the feed mode, the water pressure from the feed liquid is applied to the inner wall of the bowl as well as the solids collected in or between the one or more seals and the inner surface of the bowl, with the piston at its top position. The frictional force between them is reduced to keep essentially. When the feeding mode of operation is complete, the bowl stops rotating and any remaining or residual liquid in the separator flows by gravity through the opening at the lower end of the cone.

  The separator also features a branch assembly that includes a movable branch valve located below the rotatable residue diverter valve, where the residual branch valve is the conical lower end of the bowl. In the opening inside. When the residual liquid is drained from the bowl, the residue branch valve is in the closed position, allowing the liquid to flow from the bowl to the residual liquid drain passage. This liquid drainage channel leads to a drain, where the residual liquid exits the separator. The solid discharge mode of operation begins, for example, after the residual liquid has been completely drained from the separator bowl.

  In the solids discharge mode, the residue branch valve actuator rotates in conjunction with the opening of the bowl to an open position where the solids branch valve is directed upward by the solids branch piston. The concentrate outlet valve is then closed and the solid outlet valve for the branch assembly is opened. The isolation valve is also closed by a liquid such as pressurized gas or pressurized water acting on a circular member associated with the isolation valve that is controlled by operation. Furthermore, as described above, the piston is directed downward along the longitudinal central axis by the fluid acting on its upper portion during solid discharge. The piston pushes or “pumps” essentially solids collected from the bowl into a solids passage leading to a solids outlet featuring a solids outlet valve open.

  In one embodiment, the solids discharge assembly for the separator is characterized in that the piston is arranged to be movable relative to the inner surface of the bowl. The piston is composed of an upper part and a lower part. The solids discharge assembly also features a bifurcation that operates to introduce fluid into the bowl above the upper portion of the piston. When the fluid pressure in the bowl above the upper part of the piston increases compared to the pressure in the lower part of the piston, the piston moves in the bowl. For example, during solid discharge, introduction of fluid into the bowl above the upper portion of the piston moves the piston down the central axis. Desirably, the piston moves the central axis down with respect to the bowl. As described above, during the solids discharge mode of operation, the introduction of fluid into the upper portion of the bowl will push the solids collected by the piston along the inner surface of the bowl.

  The solids discharge assembly also comprises a mouth that operates for the introduction of fluid into the bowl below the lower portion of the piston. When the fluid pressure in the bowl below the lower part of the piston increases compared to the pressure above the upper part of the piston, the piston moves in the bowl. For example, introduction of fluid into the bowl below the lower portion of the piston moves the piston toward the upper end of the bowl. In other embodiments, the separator also has a valve in the upper end region and can be operated to allow pressurization of the bowl above the upper portion of the piston. Such a valve is propelled in response to fluid pressure exerted on a circular member operated with the valve.

  In another embodiment, the separator of the present invention consists of a cylindrical bowl with a lower end with an opening. During the feed operation mode, the bowl rotates at a high speed to separate solids from the feed liquid. As described above, solids collect along the inner surface of the bowl. The separator also features a first valve member that defines a solids discharge assembly and a drainage passage. The drainage passage is operated to drain liquid from the opening of the bowl when the first valve member is in the closed position. Desirably, the opening of the bowl and the drainage channel are configured to allow liquid to drain from the bowl to the channel by gravity.

  The first valve member also defines a supply passage that cooperates with or close to the opening of the bowl during the supply mode of operation. The supply passage causes the supply liquid to be injected into the bowl. The first valve member can also be operated in conjunction with a valve propulsion device as the member rotates about the central axis of rotation. In one embodiment, the separator also comprises a second valve member that interlocks with the lower surface of the first valve member when the first valve member is in the closed position. Further, the separator features a valve piston having an uppermost end with a second valve member disposed nearby. The valve piston operates to move the second valve member relative to the bowl. For example, during solids discharge, the valve piston moves upward along the longitudinal central axis so that the second valve member interlocks with the bowl opening. Similarly, during the supply mode of operation, the first valve member is in a closed position and, as described above, defines a supply passage that interlocks with the opening of the bowl for injecting supply liquid into the bowl.

  In one embodiment, the separator of the present invention comprises a first passage located partially within the valve piston. For example, the first passage is interlocked with the second valve member at the uppermost end of the valve piston. The opening in the separator bowl and the first passage are configured to allow solids to pass through the first passage from the bowl during solid discharge. The first passage is also associated with a second passage that is partially disposed in the valve piston to enter the first passage so that fluid introduced through the port for the second passage contacts the solids there. Desirably, the fluid introduced through the mouth for the second passage enters the first passage for contact with the solids there when the valve member of the first passage is open. Desirably, the fluid introduced through the port for the second passage enters the first passage for contact with the solids there when the valve member of the first passage is open. The valve piston of the separator also features an annular flange disposed around it so that the valve piston moves in response to the fluid pressure on the annular flange.

  In one embodiment, the separator also comprises a first passage partially disposed within the valve piston. The first passage merges with the second valve member, for example, a second passage located at the top end of the valve piston and partially disposed within the valve piston. Desirably, fluid introduced through the port for the second passage enters the bowl below the lower portion of the piston when the valve member of the first passage is closed. Fluid introduced through the mouth increases the fluid pressure in the bowl below the lower part of the piston as compared to the bowl above the upper part of the piston so that the piston moves toward the upper end of the bowl. .

  The present invention also provides a method for discharging solids from a centrifuge. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a separator and / or solids discharge assembly as described above and introducing fluid through a drive port. Increase the fluid pressure in the bowl above the upper portion of the piston as compared to the bowl below the lower portion so that the piston moves within the bowl. The method also consists of discharging solids that collect along the inner surface of the bowl. Further, the method consists of injecting a feed liquid into the bowl for solids separation by high speed rotation of the bowl. Desirably, the feed liquid is injected into the bowl prior to introducing fluid through the drive port. The method of the present invention also includes essentially returning the piston to the uppermost position. The piston can be essentially returned to its uppermost position by introducing fluid into the bowl below the lower part of the piston as compared to the bowl above the upper part of the piston. The piston desirably returns essentially to its uppermost position after discharging solids collected along the inner surface of the bowl. The present invention also contemplates performing the method in any special order or method.

[Explanation of drawings]
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[Detailed Description of the Invention]
FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal section excluding the central portion to better illustrate the horizontal section of the centrifuge. The centrifuge includes a cylindrical separation bowl 10 attached to the central region 11 of the separation box 13. Desirably, the separation bowl is longer than its own diameter. By having a bowl length greater than its diameter, the “terminal effect” within the bowl is minimized. In general, the end effect is caused at the end of the fluid along an inclined part in the bowl and especially near the end of the bowl. In one embodiment, the separation bowl 10 is a cylindrical bowl with a relatively small diameter D and length L and an L / D ratio of 5/1 or greater. Such L / D tends to prevent the wave so that the axial wave produced in the bowl essentially loses energy as it travels back and forth the length of the bowl. Roughly, when the L / D ratio is 5/1 or greater, the separator of the present invention avoids the need for the bulkheads used in conventional separators to reduce axial undulations in the bowl. it can.

  The separator of FIG. 1 also includes a piston assembly consisting of piston 12. As shown, the piston 12 has a lower conical portion that mates with the conical lower end 17 of the bowl 10. The conical lower end 17 serves as a rotating accelerator for the feed liquid during the separator feed operation mode. The separator also features a concentrate case 30 in the upper end 19 having an isolation valve 26 that opens and closes with air or water pressure.

  The variable speed drive motor 16 is connected by a drive belt 5 to a mounting bearing located on the upper end collar extension 22 for the centrifuge box 13 and to a drive pulley 18 of the spindle assembly. The separator of the present invention can also be operated using other conventional motors and drive systems. Desirably, the bearing and spindle assembly 23 comprises a hemispherical portion 1 and a short cylindrical spindle portion 20, although other suitable assembly arrangements may be used consistent with the present invention. In one embodiment, the hemispherical portion comprises an upper hemispherical portion and a lower hemispherical portion. Optionally, hemispherical portion 1 is attached to one or more paired surfaces. For example, FIG. 1 shows sheets 24 and 25 in compression contact with the upper and lower hemispherical portions, respectively, of the hemispherical portion. The hemispherical portion of the embodiment employed in the present invention is the US patent application no. 10 / 874,150, which is incorporated herein by reference.

  Example sheets 24 and 25 are separated, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon-based materials (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998). It consists of a low coefficient of friction part that extends somewhat into the hemispherical part 1 around the central longitudinal axis of the machine. Sheets 24 and 25 prevent hemispherical portion 1 from moving up and down in the radial direction and axis. Further, the sheets 24 and 25 limit the vertical and horizontal rotation of the spindle 20 so that the spindle 20 rotates about the central longitudinal axis 41 of the separator that rotates at high speed during operation. The turning of the spindle part 20 is also blunted by an arbitrary anti-swaying ring 21 made of rubber, for example. By preventing such radial and axial movements and restricting a certain turn, vibration associated with natural vibration of the rotating bowl 10 can be reduced. Sheets 24 and 25 are also arcuate sealing components that substantially prevent transmission, such as transmission of rotation of assembly 23 or the box itself. In general, prevention of such transmission stabilizes the hemispherical portion 1 in operation.

  In one embodiment, the sheets 24 and 25 are formed as a continuous ring member, separate stabilization members, or a combination of such members. The sheets 24 and 25 are adjusted so that the compressed contact with the hemispherical part 1 can be corrected, for example in response to special process requirements for the separator. The possibility of such adjustment of the sheets 24 and 25 is facilitated, for example, by the use of one or more adjustment members combined therewith. As indicated above, the present invention also contemplates employing individual sheets that are in compression contact with the upper and / or lower hemispherical portions of the hemispherical portion 1.

  Rotation of the mounted bearing and spindle assembly 23 can also be prevented by a positioning member such as a counter-rotating pin 29, for example. For example, FIG. 1 shows a pin 29 positioned to extend through an enlarged opening in the spindle assembly 23. In one embodiment, such a positioning member is integral with the bearing and mounting member for assembly 23 to prevent transmission, eg, rotation transmission of assembly 23 or its box. As shown, the anti-rotation pin 29 can move within the opening of the assembly 23 so as not to interfere with the swiveling of the spindle portion 20. The degree of rotation and rotation experienced by the separator is related to the speed at which high speed separation occurs. The drive motor 16 can also be controlled and operated to rotate the separator bowl 10 at a desired speed for separation of the feed liquid.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a concentrate case 30, a concentrate outlet 32, a concentrate outlet valve 33, and a concentrate valve 34, all of which are used for cleaning liquid from the bowl 10 and concentrate from the separator during operation. Including removing. As described in more detail below, the concentrate case 30 includes an isolation valve 26 that is open to allow supply liquid to enter the bowl 10 in the supply mode. The isolation valve 26 comprises the annular member 9 and is preferably disposed around the isolation valve. During the feed mode, the concentrate outlet valve 33 is also kept open. In contrast, both isolation valve 26 and concentrate outlet valve 33 are closed when solids are pumped from the separator. The isolation valve is described in more detail by reference in FIG. 10, which shows the upper part 19 of the separator during the feed mode. The concentrate outlet valve 33 can be closed manually or via a convenient automatic valve control assembly. Further, the separator comprises a lower end region 39 of the separator box 13.

  FIG. 1 also illustrates an embodiment of a separator box, such as a movable solid branch located in the lower end region 39 of the separator box 13 and located below the lower surface of the rotatable residue branch valve 92. A valve 90 is illustrated. Optionally, the lower surface of residue branch valve 92 has a feature that extends partially into solid branch valve 90. A residue branch valve 92 located at an opening 76 in the conical lower end 17 of the bowl 10 indicates a closed position that is maintained during the feed mode. When closed, the valve 92 defines a supply liquid passage 94 connected to the supply liquid port 96, and similarly, a residue liquid drain passage 98 is connected to the residue drain port 100. The residue branch valve 92 is also installed to connect within a valve receiving member 120 that is fully assembled with the lower end 39 of the separation box 13. The valve 92 also rotates from a closed position around the shaft 6 and directs the solid branch valve 90 upward to connect with the opening 76 to the bowl.

  In the separator of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, the solid passage 104 is desirably disposed centrally within the solid branch piston 102 to communicate the solid outlet 106 and the solid outlet valve 107. It consists of extending beyond the branch piston 102 at its lowest end. The passage 104, piston 102, port 106 and valve 107 are each associated with the removal of collected solids from the centrifuge during the solids discharge mode of operation. While the solids are being pumped out of the separator bowl 10, the solids discharge valve 107 is open, for example, to send the solids through the solids outlet valve 106 from the solids passage 104 to the separator.

  The solids discharge valve 107 can be opened manually or via a simple automatic valve control assembly. The solids discharge mode usually pumps and collects sensitive solids, such as intact cells, and can, for example, transfer these solids to other processes or storage containers without further handling. There are no solids handled by the operator and the solids are not likely to be damaged or contaminated. The separator of the present invention is also characterized by the structure and arrangement of any passages, valves, pistons, propulsion units, assemblies, ports, members, such as the separator of FIG. 1, and as described above. Suitable for special applications.

  The cleaning passage 108 is disposed within the solid branch piston 102 and preferably extends parallel to the solid passage 104 and beyond the piston 102 at the lowest end to optionally connect to the cleaning port 111. At the uppermost end, the cleaning passage 108 is connected to the solid passage 104. At the top end, the cleaning passage 108 is connected to the solid passage 104. Following the solids discharge mode, the cleaning port 111 and the passage 108 together help to recover any solids remaining in the passage 104 and also help to clean or disinfect the separator. When the solid discharge mode is completed, the cleaning port 111 and the passage 108 are also operated so that the piston 12 faces the central axis upward.

  In particular, after the solids are pumped out of the separator, the solids discharge valve 107 allows the fluid, for example, pressurized gas or pressurized liquid introduced through the cleaning port 111 and the passage 108, to pass through the piston 12. Close to contact the lower conical section and push the piston upward until the piston 12 is substantially returned to its uppermost position for the next delivery mode of operation. The working compressed gases for driving the piston 12 are nitrogen and argon. Similarly, the working pressurized liquid used to drive the piston 12 in the bowl 10 includes distilled water.

  In another embodiment, the separator of the present invention features, for example, a pinch or ball type assembly that facilitates solids discharge. Conventional pinch valve assemblies are desirable for separators that encounter pasty solids during operation. The ball valve assembly in practice comprises a hemispherical discharge valve located in the lower end region of the separator box. The ball valve assembly drain valve also includes a passage for the feed liquid and residual liquid drained from the separator bowl. For example, the discharge valve rotates between a closed position and an open position during the feed operation mode and the solid discharge mode, respectively.

  During the feed mode, the separator box closes except for the ball-type valve assembly feed and residue liquid passages connected to the conical lower end opening of the bowl, for example. The ball type valve assembly also includes one or more ports for cleaning or disinfecting, for example, piston retraction and separators. An implementation ball type valve assembly used in the separator of the present invention is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,776,752, which is incorporated herein by reference.

  FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a separator comprising a ball-type valve assembly 40 disposed in the lower end region 39 of the separator box 13 of the present invention. Desirably, the ball valve assembly 40 features a drain valve 42 as shown. For example, the discharge valve 42 is provided below the flange 43 facing inward. In one embodiment, the discharge valve 42 incorporates a supply liquid passage 44 that is connected to the supply liquid port 45, as is a residue liquid drain passage 46 that is connected to a residual liquid drain port 47. A valve seal 48 is also disposed on the lower surface of the flange 43.

  During the delivery mode, the separator of FIG. 2 features a drain valve 42 in a closed position, with the outer upper surface of the valve against the valve seal 48. The valve seal 48 is inflated by a fluid introduced through the valve driver 49, such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid. Desirably, valve seal 48 remains inflated throughout the delivery mode. FIG. 2 shows that solid-bearing feed liquid is introduced through feed liquid port 45. The supply liquid flows from the supply liquid port 45 into the supply liquid passage 44. Desirably, the supply liquid passage 44 is connected to a main passage 50 disposed in the direction of the central axis in the piston pull-back drive machine 52. The upper end of the main passage 50 incorporates an injection port 154 for injecting supply liquid into an opening in the conical lower portion 17 of the bowl 10 during the supply mode.

  The feed mode of operation for the present invention is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 4, which is below the lower surface of the residue branch valve that can rotate within the lower end region 39 of the separator box 13. Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a separator featuring a movable solid branch valve placed. With reference to FIG. 2, the feed mode is characterized, for example, by having a piston pull-back drive 52 in contact with the conical lower end 17 of the separator bowl. As shown in the figure, the piston pull-back drive unit 52 moves up and down the central axis in accordance with a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid.

  After the solids are separated from the feed liquid, the piston remains in contact with the separator bowl 10 so that residual liquid in the bowl drains through openings 76 onto the surface in the form of the discharge valve 42; The drain valve also remains in the closed position as described above. As shown in FIG. 2, the residual liquid is then connected to pass through the residual liquid drain passage 46 by a surface in the form of a discharge valve 42. Residual liquid passes through drainage passage 46 and eventually exits the separator through residual liquid drain 47.

  In one embodiment, the fluid pressure introduced into the fluid port 58 acts on the lower surface of the annular drive flange 57 located around the piston pull back drive 52 and moves the pull back drive 52 upward. Movement along the central axis of the piston pullback drive 52 is also controlled by fluid introduced through the drive control port 54. For example, the drive control port 54 is prepared in the lower end region of the separator box so that fluid enters the port 54 and contacts the upper surface of the annular drive flange 57 disposed around the piston retract drive 52. The

  Actuator control port 54 and fluid port 58 also serve to actuate and move piston pullback drive 52 in concert by simultaneously contacting the upper and lower surfaces of annular drive flange 57. For example, the piston pullback drive 52 moves upward when the pressure acting on the upper surface of the annular drive flange 57 is lower than the pressure acting on the lower surface. During the feed mode, the annular drive flange 57 is raised upward along the central axis and maintains a gas leak free connection with the opening 76 of the bowl 10. The inner surface of the piston pull-back drive 52 and the contact surface of the bowl opening 76 are made of a PTFE or TEFLON-based elastic seal (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street) disposed between them. , Wilmington, Delaware (1998)).

  Desirably, the piston pull-back drive 52 is also coupled to the opening 10 of the bowl 10 without any gas leakage while the piston 12 is substantially returned to its uppermost position where it normally returns to solid discharge mode. As noted above, a gas-free connection is achieved through fluid pressure introduced through the fluid port 58 and acting against the lower surface of the annular drive flange 57 disposed around the piston pullback drive 52. Although fluid also enters the separator at the drive control port 54, the pressure inserted into the upper surface of the flange 57 is lower than it acts against the lower surface of the flange to maintain a gas leak-free connection. It is also desirable for the drive control port 54 not to introduce fluid to the upper surface of the flange 57 so that the fluid port 58 fully controls the movement of the piston pull back drive 52.

  To substantially return the piston 12 to the uppermost position, the piston pull-up drive 52 is raised upward so that fluid pressure is connected to the bowl opening 76 along the longitudinal central axis, and the separator bowl 10 is fed to the feed liquid port 45. After insertion through the fluid, the fluid contacts the lower conical portion of the piston 12. When the piston is substantially returned to the uppermost position, the fluid introduced through the supply liquid port 45 is stopped. The piston 12 is then substantially held in the uppermost position by frictional forces between one or more piston seals adjacent to the inner wall of the bowl 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the annular piston seal 59 is disposed around the piston 12 and contacts the inner wall of the bowl 10. The seal 59 is made of an elastic material such as PTFE or TEFLON (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998).

Before the piston 12 substantially returns to the uppermost position, the separator is typically operated in a solids discharge mode in which solids are pumped from the bowl 10. In the separator of the present invention shown in FIG. 2, the solid discharge mode is such that the rotating shaft 6 is in an open position so that solids can leave the separator as the piston 12 moves downward along the central axis. Characterized by a discharge valve 42 that rotates about.
Desirably, after the solids discharge mode, the discharge valve 42 rotates to an open position and the separator is easily cleaned or disinfected in situ.

  For example, in order to rotate the discharge valve 42 from the closed position, the valve seal is squeezed into the open position during the supply mode and during the solid discharge mode. The valve seal can be tightened, for example, by stopping the introduction of fluid with the valve driver 49. The upper branch portion position of the discharge valve 42 including the piston retractor 52 is rotated about the rotating central shaft 6 away from the opening defined by the blade inside the flange 43 and then preferably 90 °. In one embodiment, prior to rotating the discharge valve to the open position for the solid discharge mode, the piston pullback drive 52 is disconnected from the opening 76 of the bowl 10 and a gas leak free connection. The drive unit 52 moves away from the bowl 10 and moves down the central axis as described above, for example.

  The piston pull-back drive 52 away from the gas-free connection with the bowl opening 76 and the drain valve 42 rotated to the open position, solids are pumped from the separator through the conical lower end 17 of the bowl 10. Is issued. Desirably, solids are pumped out of the separator bowl as the piston 12 moves down the central axis. In general, the separator discharge mode begins at the upper part 19 of the separator as described in more detail below with reference to the separator of FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the piston 2 also features a knife-like blade 62 that assists in the separation of a special pasty solid stuck near the conical lower end 17 or in the opening 76 of the separator bowl 10. .

  FIG. 3 is a cutaway view of the separator of FIG. 2 featuring a laser detector assembly 122. For example, the assembly 122 is installed inside or outside the separator box 13 by an appropriate method. In general, an optical element, such as a focusing and reflecting member, is used to facilitate construction or placement for the assembly 122, with suitable mounting accessories. As shown, the laser detector assembly is located above or in the upper portion 19 of the separator. Desirably, the assembly 112 is positioned above the collar extension 22 at the upper end for the separator 13. The laser detector assembly 122 is utilized to detect movement of the piston 12 in the central axis direction within the separator bowl. In one embodiment, the separator is, for example, a conventional type of laser light emitting device.

  For example, the laser detector assembly 122 of FIG. 3 detects the axial movement of the piston 12 by emitting pulsed laser light 124. As is well known to those having ordinary skill in the art, assembly 122 provides a time-versus-movement that can determine the position of piston 12 within bowl 10 by emitting pulsed laser light 124. In one embodiment, the reflective surface or member associated with the piston 12 and desirably optically in line with the laser detector assembly 122 via an optical path within the hub 60 of the bowl 10 is The laser beam is reflected back to the assembly 122. Furthermore, the time-versus-movement measurement provides the operator with input regarding the axial distance that the piston 12 travels. The laser detector assembly 122 of FIG. 3 detects the piston 12 in which the piston in the bowl moves axially upward or downward, and similarly detects, for example, the function of the pressure used to move the piston 12. Use to do. The present invention also contemplates using other conventional assemblies or devices based on, for example, ultrasonic, infrared or radiation energy emitting means to detect movement of the piston 12.

  FIG. 4 illustrates the separator of the present invention operating during a feed mode in which the bowl 10 and piston 12 rotate together at high speed. For example, a feed liquid containing solids is poured into the bowl and flows through the passage 64 to the inner surface of the conical lower end 17 of the bowl. Desirably, the piston 12 is held in its uppermost position by water pressure from the cleaning liquid 72 to the bowl hub 60 while maintaining the concentrate valve 34 in the open position. In one embodiment, the concentrate valve 34 is opened by a pin 67 extending from the hub 60 into the piston 12, pushing the valve 34 downward along the longitudinal central axis 41. The concentrate valve 34 is closed during solid discharge mode, for example, the spring 66 closes to work upward as described in detail below.

  Concentrate valve 34 and piston 12 may, for example, also include one or more seals. Desirably, one or more seals are used with the concentrate valve 34 to prevent the cleaning liquid from returning into the separator bowl 10 after it exits. Such a seal is also used to prevent solids from entering the concentrate case 30 during downward movement of the piston 12 in the solids discharge mode. Furthermore, such a seal causes the portion of the separator bowl 10 above the piston 12 to be pressurized and maintained so that the piston is lowered sufficiently by the fluid pressure during the solid discharge mode. The seal associated with the concentrate valve 34 and the piston 12 also prevents cleaning liquid from flowing between the internal surface of the bowl 10 and the piston 12. The present invention also contemplates the use of one or more seals combined with one or all of the passages, valves, pistons, drives, assemblies, ports, members, and the like described herein.

  The seal performed on the concentrate valve 34 and the piston 12 may be a composition such as PTFE or TEFLON based on an elastomeric material (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998). It consists of things. For example, such a seal is described in more detail below with reference to the separator shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the piston 12 is substantially held in the uppermost position by the frictional force between the piston seals 56 adjacent to the inner wall of the bowl 10. Desirably, these seals 56 are disposed around the interface between the piston 12 and the inner wall of the bowl 10. In one embodiment, seals 56 are separated from each other by straight portions on piston 12. The seal 56 prevents the uneven alignment of the pistons during, for example, axial movement of the pistons, and the inner surface of the bowl so that the bowl effectively applies pressure on either the upper or lower side of the piston 12. Provides uniform contact. In another embodiment, the piston 12 features a plurality of seals disposed around it and bounding the inner wall of the bowl. Further, instead of the seal 56, a single seal, for example as shown in FIG.

  In one embodiment, the interior of the separator bowl 10 of the present invention features a scratch-resistant coating. For example, such a coating is disposed on the entire surface portion of the bowl 10. Implementation coatings for the inner surface of the separator bowl include chromium oxide, boron nitride, titanium oxide, or combinations thereof. Desirably, a scratch-resistant coating prevents wear of the bowl. Such attrition causes shearing of the feed liquid that prevents effective solids separation and recovery. The scratch resistant coating in the bowl also provides uniform contact between the inner surface of the bowl and one or more seals disposed around the piston 12. Uniform contact between the inner surface of the bowl and one or more seals located around the piston 12 aids in effective pressurization of the bowl and effective recovery of collected solids as described above.

  FIG. 4 shows the collected liquid separated into the solid 70 and the cleaning liquid collected under the separation force generated by the high speed rotation of the bowl 10. The cleaning liquid continues upward along path 72, passes through the concentrate valve 34, and exits the bowl at the concentrate discharge hole 74. In one embodiment, the concentrate discharge hole 74 is located or substantially located at the upper end of the separator bowl 10. Desirably, the drain hole 74 leads into the concentrate case 30 featuring the open isolation valve 26 during the supply mode of operation, for example. The isolation valve 26 is opened and held by compressed gas or pressurized liquid acting on the annular member 9 disposed around the valve 26.

  For example, in the supply mode, fluid is introduced through the lower port 4 to the lower surface of the annular member 9. The cleaning liquid 72 then passes from the concentrate case 30 into the concentrate outlet 32 featuring the concentrate outlet valve 33. Desirably, the concentrate outlet valve 33 is open to exit the separator with the cleaning liquid 72 as the concentrate 73 during the feed mode.

  The separator of the present invention is also employed in applications where it is necessary to ensure the quality of the concentrate 73 exiting therefrom. For example, sensitive organic polymers exiting the separator as a concentrate are the best desired yield from a given separation. In fact, the present invention also contemplates applications where both concentrates and solids are in desirable yields. In applications where it is important to preserve the quality of the concentrate exiting the separator, the separator of the present invention is used to reduce the overall shear of the cleaning liquid and concentrate obtained therefrom. Such shear typically reduces the quality of sensitive concentrates, for example.

  In one embodiment, the separator of the present invention uses, for example, a separation and / or solids collection means in addition to or instead of the rotating bowl. One example of a separating means is a conventional pairing-disc assembly. The separator of the present invention comprises, for example, a counter-disc assembly that reduces the shear of the cleaning liquid and concentrate obtained therefrom. For example, pair-disk assemblies can be used in applications for separators where it is desired to ensure the quality of the concentrate of the present invention. As can be appreciated by those having ordinary skill, the pair-disc assembly can continuously separate solids, eg, the desired concentrate, from the feed liquid, usually with minimal shear.

  The separator of the present invention also comprises one or more features such as means for securing and attaching, for example, the bowl 10 is unpaired from the separator box 13. Desirably, along with the unpaired bowl 10, the piston 12 and its associated assembly are replaced by separation and / or solids collection means such as the pair-disk assembly described above. Separator bowls suitable for alternative separation and / or solids recovery are essentially combined with the separator of the present invention by one or more features. The separator of the present invention can be used for special applications. The ability to modify the separator arrangement of the present invention for a given solids separation application is described in US Pat. Allows the use of separation and / or solids recovery means such as an axial scraper or piston-extrusion assembly as described in US 6,776,752.

  As shown in the separator of FIG. 4, in the feed mode of operation, the solid branch valve 90 is kept upward on the lower surface of the residue branch valve 92 in an arrangement that does not leak gas. In one embodiment, the solid branch valve 90 features, for example, one or more seals disposed thereon. For example, such a seal is desirably utilized to allow pressurization of separator box 13 and bowl 10 to cause piston 12 to move above the upper portion of piston 12. Such seals comprise, for example, a composition such as PTFE or TEFLON (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998) based on an elastomeric material. With a seal that allows pressurization of the separator box 13 and bowl 10, preferably above the upper portion of the piston 12, for example, the isolation valve 26 is held open during the solids discharge mode. The An arrangement in which the separator valve 26 of the separator of FIG. 4 is maintained open during, for example, a solids discharge mode of operation is advantageous for special applications.

  Desirably, the separator shown in FIG. 4 features a solid branch valve 90 having one or more seals. Such a seal provides effective pressurization to the separator bowl 10, preferably above the upper portion of the piston 12, for example when the branch valve 26 is in a closed position during the solids discharge mode. To do. For example, during the solids discharge mode of operation, the isolation valve 26 is closed, reducing the pressurization capacity and the time required for pressurization to move the piston in the bowl. The separator of the present invention is as described above with reference to FIG. 2, for example, a separation that is above the upper portion of the piston 12 to move the piston axially, such as during a solid discharge mode of operation. When it is desired to pressurize the machine bowl 10, the isolation valve is preferably characterized by being in a closed position. Since the isolation valve is closed, the volume between the box 13 and the bowl 10 need not be pressurized, and the box need not be constructed to maintain such pressurization.

  For example, a seal made of a composition such as PTFE or TEFLON-based elastomeric material (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998) also preferably includes a valve 92 and a solid material. To seal the interface between the branch valves 90, for example, it is placed on or combined with the residue branch valve 92. In one embodiment, the solid branch valve 90 is directed upward by the solid branch piston 102, and the valve 90 is disposed at the uppermost end connected to the solid passage 104 of the piston 102. As shown in FIG. 4, the air or water pressure introduced at the control port 113 acts on the lower surface of the annular flange disposed around the solid branch piston to cause the piston 102 to face upward.

  The solid branch piston 102 moves upward and downward in the axial direction in response to air pressure or water pressure. The axial movement of the solid branch piston 102 is also controlled by compressed gas or pressurized fluid introduced from the control port 113. A control port 113 is provided in the lower end region of the separator so that compressed gas or pressurized fluid enters the port 113 and contacts the upper surface of the annular flange 110 disposed around the solid branch piston 102. The control port 113 and the control port 113 also work in unison to propel and move the branch piston by simultaneously contacting the upper and lower surfaces of the annular flange 110 with compressed gas or pressurized fluid.

Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the residue branch valve 92 is in a closed position disposed in the opening 76 at the bottom of the bowl 10. The valve 92 defines a supply liquid passage 94 connected to the liquid port 96 so that supply liquid is injected into the bowl 10 along the path 64.
The supply liquid is injected across the gap into the bowl 10 so that the residue branch valve 92 does not need to contact the bowl 10 as the bowl is rotating, preventing mechanical fatigue of the valve 92 and the bowl 10. Residue branch valve propulsion device 114 operates in pairs with valve 92. The propulsion device 114, which is a gas pressure or water pressure cylinder, rotates the residue branch valve 92 from a closed position along the periphery of the shaft 6. While the feed liquid is fed through the feed liquid passage 94 to the bottom of the bowl 10, the solids outlet 106 of the solids branch piston is characterized by the solids outlet valve 107 being closed.

  In one embodiment, the separator of the present invention allows the cleaning liquid 72 to pass upward through the concentrate valve 34 along the path 64 and exit the bowl at the concentrate discharge aperture 74 so that the cleaning liquid 72 Reduce the overall degree of shear. For example, the overall shearing degree of the cleaning liquid 72 is reduced by the movement of the cleaning liquid 72 as shown in FIG. FIG. 5 shows that the separator of the present invention, in particular the concentrate valve 34, by design, causes a downflow effect of the cleaning liquid along the downflow path 129.

  The downflow path 129 shown in FIG. 5 is submerged underneath the outer boundary 130 of the cleaning liquid, for example during the feed mode, by the structure and / or arrangement of the bowl 10 and the concentrate valve 34. Desirably, having a downflow path 129 submerged in water below the outer boundary 130 generally does not tend to disturb the movement of the cleaning liquid, such as airflow, surface waves, and non-concentric effects of the bowl 10. . For example, by not disturbing the movement of the cleaning liquid, the overall degree of shear can be minimized using the separator of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the downflow path 129 also tends to avoid contact with the solids 70 collected along the inner surface of the bowl 10, thereby avoiding shearing of the cleaning liquid resulting from such contact. . Typically, in a conventional separator, the flow of cleaning liquid is along a surface boundary such as, for example, collected solids or a boundary within the surface of the separator bowl. In particular, the Coriolis acceleration effect in conventional separators causes the cleaning liquid to flow along the internal surface boundary of the bowl and to be exposed to shear forces that are manifested in the bowl. The separator cleaning liquid 72 downflow path 129 of the present invention avoids such surface boundaries to limit the degree of overall shear.

  FIG. 6 illustrates a separator with a residue branch valve 92 that is closed so that the residue liquid 132 drains from the bowl 10 to the residue liquid drainage passage 98. The drainage passage 98 leads to the residue liquid drain 100 where the residue liquid 132 is finally drained from the separator. In one embodiment, the residual liquid 132 is also returned to, for example, a supply tank that is attached to the separator. The feed tank then provides a separator with residual liquid, eg, residual liquid within the supply liquid for solids separation. The liquid 132 is typically drained from the separator by gravity after the supply mode is complete and the high speed rotary separation is complete. Supply liquid port 96 is also closed to prevent liquid 132 from entering the separator through supply liquid passage 132, or there is sufficient back pressure. Although the bowl 10 and the piston 12 are no longer rotating, the collected solids 70 remain tightly compressed against the inner surface of the separator bowl 10. The collected solid 70 is recovered from the bowl 10 during the solid discharge operation mode.

  As the residual liquid 132 is drained from the bowl 10, the piston 12 is also substantially kept in its highest position and substantially by the friction between the piston seal or the seal 56 adjacent to the inner surface of the bowl 10. In FIG. 6, the separator is also shown with a closed solids outlet valve 107 and an open concentrate outlet valve 33. The isolation valve 26 of the concentrate case 30 is kept open during the supply operation mode. Further, an annular flange 110 and a solid branch piston 102 arranged around the piston 102 are shown. The lower surface of the annular flange 110 is introduced through the propulsion port 112 such that the solid branch piston 102 holds the solid branch valve 90 upwardly in a gas leak free coincidence with the residue branch valve 92, for example Contacted by a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid. The coincidence between the solid branch valve 90 and the residue branch valve 92 drains the residual liquid 132 from the bowl 10 to the residual liquid drain passage 98 where the liquid exits the separator.

  After the residual liquid 132 is substantially discharged from the bowl 10, the separator is ready to pump the collected solid 70 during the solid discharge mode. Concentrate outlet valve 33 and isolation valve 26 are closed prior to pumping solids. As described above, the concentrate outlet valve 33 is closed manually or via an automatic valve control assembly. The isolation valve 26 is closed by stopping the fluid introduced through the lower port 4 of the separator. The fluid acts on the lower surface of the annular member 9 disposed around it to keep the isolation valve 26 open. During the solid discharge mode, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid instead contacts the upper surface of the annular part 9 to propel and close the isolation valve 26. Fluid is introduced through the top port 61 during solid discharge and contacts the isolation valve 26 against a flange 51 located in the upper portion 19 of the separator during the solid discharge mode of operation.

  FIG. 7 illustrates the separator operating during the solids discharge operating mode. FIG. 7 shows a vertical split of the piston 12 at two separate positions. The left side is in the middle of the downward movement of the piston, the right side is at the lowest point of the stroke where the piston completes the discharge operation, and the lower conical part of the piston is at the lower conical end 17 of the bowl 10 On the inner surface. As shown, the piston is directed downward along the longitudinal central axis by, for example, compressed gas or pressurized liquid acting against the upper portion of the piston 12. Also shown is the concentrate valve 34 in a position closed by the upward force of the spring 66. During the downward movement of the piston 12, the spring 66 acts upward due to the interaction between the collected solid 70 and the lower cone of the piston 12. With the downward movement of the piston 12, the collected solid material 70 is pushed out of the opening 76 at the bottom of the bowl 10.

The lower conical portion of the piston 12 and the inner surface of the lower conical end 17 of the bowl 10 are machined for accurate fit to efficiently remove as much collected solids 70 as possible. The movement of the piston 12 along the longitudinal central axis is first caused by the fluid introduced through the propulsion port 2 in the upper part 19 of the separator.
The fluid pressure introduced into the drive port 2 finally comes into contact with the upper part of the piston 12, at which time the concentrate case 30 and the part of the bowl 10 above the upper part of the piston 12 arranged there are completely sealed and pressurized. Is done. The portion of the bowl 10 above the concentrate case 30 and the upper portion of the piston 12 is sealed and pressurized when the isolation valve 26 is closed.

  Further, the isolation valve 26 is closed because it acts downward with respect to the flange 51 by the compressed gas or pressurized liquid introduced through the upper port 61. The compressed gas or pressurized liquid contacts the upper surface of the annular member 9 that propels the isolation valve 26 evenly. The concentrate outlet valve 33 for the concentrate outlet 32 is also closed by a manual or automatic control assembly during the solids discharge mode. The isolation valve 26 will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 11 showing the upper portion of the separator during the solids discharge mode.

  The solid discharge mode begins in the upper part 19 of the separator when the piston 12 is axially downward. In the lower end region 39 of the separator, the pump discharge mode begins when the residue branch valve 92 is rotated by the residue branch valve propulsion device 114 from the closed position. The valve propulsion device 114 rotates the residual branch valve around the central shaft 6 according to, for example, the fluid pressure. After the solid branch piston 90 is lowered along the longitudinal central axis from contact with the residue branch valve 92, the valve 92 rotates completely 90 ° from the closed position. The solids branch valve 90 is connected to the longitudinal shaft 41 when a fluid such as, for example, compressed gas or pressurized liquid is supplied through the propeller port 112 to act on the lower surface of the annular flange 110. Along the direction. The movement of the solid branch piston 102 is also controlled by the fluid pressure introduced through the control port 113 which works in unison with the propeller port 112. The control port 113 puts fluid to contact the upper surface of the annular flange 110. The solid branch piston 102 then moves upward when the pressure acting on the upper surface of the annular flange 110 is less than the pressure acting on its lower surface.

  As shown, the solid branch piston 102 moves axially upward such that the solid branch valve 90 is maintained in a gas leak free connection with the opening 76 at the bottom of the separator bowl 10. The inner surface of the solid branch valve 90 and the contact surface of the bowl opening 76 may also be made of, for example, PTFE or TEFLON-based resilient materials (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware). (1998)) and a seal placed between them to seal solids pumped out of bowl 10 from contamination by contact with the surrounding environment. The sealed contact surface also prevents the collected solids from being lost during recovery.

  Solids 70 pushed through an opening 76 at the bottom of the bowl 10 pass into a solids passage 104 that is partially disposed within the solids branch piston 102 below the solids branch valve 90. The solid passage 104 extends beyond the lowest end of the piston 102 leading to the solid outlet 106. As described above, the solids outlet valve 107 for the outlet 106 opens before the pumped solids exit the separator and pass through the outlets and valves 106,107. The solids outlets and valves 106, 107 are also constructed so that the pumped solids can pass to other processes or storage vessels without further handling by the operator, reducing the likelihood or chance of contamination.

Solid discharge is complete when the piston 12 reaches the lowest end of its downward stroke and stops at the inner surface of the conical lower end 17 for the bowl 10.
After the collected solids 70 are discharged from the bowl 10, the piston 12 is substantially returned to its uppermost position by the fluid acting against the lower conical portion of the piston 12, as shown in FIG. A fluid acting on the upper part of the piston 12 introduced at the drive port 2 in the upper part 19 of the separator, for example compressed gas or pressurized liquid, moves the piston upwards along the longitudinal central axis 41. Stop the connection before. Also shown in FIG. 8 is the fluid that contacts the lower conical portion of the piston 12 after entering the separator from the cleaning port 111 through the cleaning passageway 108. When the solid material outlet valve 107 is closed, the fluid introduced at the cleaning port 111 passes through the bowl opening to move the piston 12 upward. Separator bowl 10 is also cleaned or sterilized in-situ while piston 12 moves upward or substantially after the piston reaches the top position.

  The solids outlet valve 107 transitions from an open position to a closed position after the collected solids are substantially pumped from the separator. The solids outlet valve 107 remains in the closed position with the piston 12 facing upwards and throughout the next feeding operation cycle. FIG. 8 further shows that the isolation valve 26 and the concentrate outlet valve 33 for the concentrate case 30 are opened before the lower conical portion of the piston 12 is contacted by, for example, compressed gas or pressurized liquid. ing. Fluid is also no longer introduced through the upper port 61 in the upper part 19 of the separator. Instead, a lower port is used to finally contact a lower surface of the annular member 9 disposed around the isolation valve 26 to open the isolation valve 26, such as a compressed gas or pressurized liquid. Enter the separator through 4. After the upward stroke of the piston 12 is completed, the piston is substantially held in the uppermost position by friction between the piston seals adjacent to the inner wall of the bowl 10.

  The solid branch piston 102 is connected to the opening 76 at the bottom of the bowl 10 without gas leakage while the piston 12 is directed upward. A leak-free connection is introduced through the propellant port 112 and is achieved by fluid pressure acting against the lower surface of the annular member 110 located around the solid branch piston 102. For example, although fluids such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid also enter the separator at the control port 113, the pressure on the upper surface of the annular flange 110 is against the lower side of the flange to maintain a tight connection without gas leakage. Lower than working. It is also desirable for the control port 113 not to introduce fluid to the upper surface of the annular flange 110 so that the propulsion port 112 fully controls the movement of the solid branch piston 102.

  When the piston 12 reaches a substantially uppermost position, the solid branch valve 90 rotates along the longitudinal central axis to a closed position where the residue branch valve 92 is around the rotatable shaft 6. Then, it is pulled downward by the solid branch piston 102. The residue branch valve 92 is rotated and closed by the residue branch valve propulsion device 114. The solid branch piston 102 is lowered by turning off or reducing the fluid pressure previously applied to the propeller port 112. The movement of the solid branch piston 102 is also controlled by the fluid pressure introduced through a control port 113 which works in unison with the propeller port 112. The control port 113 brings a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid into contact with the upper surface of the annular flange 110, for example. The solid branch piston 102 is then directed downward when the pressure acting on the upper surface of the annular flange 110 is greater than the pressure acting on its lower surface.

  FIG. 9 illustrates in more detail the residue branch valve 92 returning the lower end region 39 of the separator to the closed position. Although not shown, the piston has substantially returned to its uppermost position in the bowl. As described above, the piston is held in the uppermost position by the frictional force between the piston seals adjacent to the inner wall of the bowl. In FIG. 9, the solid branch valve 90 is held downward by the solid branch piston 102 with respect to the lower surface of the solid branch piston 102. As shown, the fluid introduced at the propulsion port 112, such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid, is centered vertically with respect to the lower surface of the annular flange 110 disposed around the propulsion port 112. Work upward along the axis 41. Although the solid discharge mode is complete, solids remain in the solid passage 104 of the piston 102. In order to remove the remaining solids, for example, a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid is introduced through the cleaning port 111 of the cleaning passage 108 while the solids outlet valve 107 is open.

  The cleaning passage 108 and the cleaning port 111 extend with the cleaning passage partially disposed in the piston 102 beyond the lowermost end of the solid matter branching piston 102. The cleaning passage 108 is also connected at the uppermost end together with the solid passage 104 of the piston 102. The connection allows the fluid introduced at the cleaning port 111 to pass through the cleaning passage 108 to the solid passage 104. The fluid pushes solids remaining in the solids passage 104 toward the solids outlet 106 when the solids outlet valve 107 is open. As described above, when the solids outlet valve 107 is closed, the cleaning passage 108 and the cleaning port 111 operate the piston 12 upward in the central axis direction and are substantially at the uppermost position for the next operating supply cycle. Return the piston 12 to.

  As shown, the solids passage 104 is connected to the solids outlet 106 so that the solids remaining in the solids passage 104 exit the separator by passing through the solids outlet valve 107. The solid matter outlet 106 passes, for example, solid matter collected in another process or storage container without further handling by the operator. The cleaning passage 108 and the cleaning port 111 are also used to clean or disinfect the solid passage 104, the solid outlet 106 and the valve 107. In-situ cleaning or in-situ disinfection steps are convenient for preparing the centrifuge for the next cycle of operations. Such a process also increases the yield of solids and reduces the likelihood or chance of contamination.

  FIG. 10 illustrates more details of the upper part 19 of the separator along with the isolation valve 26 in the piston in the open position during the feed mode of operation. In the supply mode, as described above, the piston 12 is held in the uppermost position by the fluid pressure from the supply liquid, as well as the frictional force between the piston seals adjacent to the inner wall of the bowl 10. As shown in the drawing, the isolation valve 26 is opened or closed by an upward or downward movement along the longitudinal central axis 41, respectively. The isolation valve 26 is moved upward by a compressed gas or a pressurized liquid acting on the lower surface of the annular member 9 disposed around the valve 26. Compressed gas or pressurized liquid is supplied to the lower surface of the annular member 9 through the lower port 4.

  FIG. 10 also shows an additional seal 140 for the concentrate valve 34 and a seal 145 for the piston 12. Desirably, the seal 145 prevents cleaning liquid from flowing between the piston 12 and the inner surface of the separator bowl 10. As described above, the seal 140 is used to prevent solids from entering the concentrate case 30 during downward movement of the piston 12 in the solids discharge mode. The seal 145 maintains the bowl 10 above the piston 12 under pressure so that the piston is effectively directed downward by fluid pressure during the solid discharge mode. The present invention also contemplates additional seals that can also be utilized in any one embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 10 also shows the isolation valve 26 away from the flange 51 so that the piston 12 and the bowl 10 can rotate freely without significant mechanical wear. With the isolation valve in the open position, the concentrate 70 enters the concentrate case 30 by passing through the concentrate discharge opening 74. After passing through the concentrate outlet 32 and the concentrate outlet valve 33 held in the open position in feed mode, the concentrate 70 finally exits the separator. The concentrate outlet valve 33 is opened manually or by automatic valve control.

  FIG. 11 shows the upper part 19 of the separator in more detail during the solids discharge operation mode. As shown, the isolation valve 26 opens and closes by moving upward or downward along the longitudinal central axis, respectively. The isolation valve 26 is directed downwards with respect to the upper surface of the annular member 9 arranged around the valve 26, for example by a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid. The fluid is supplied to the upper surface of the annular member 9 through the upper port 61. Prior to the solids discharge mode, the fluid supplied to the lower surface of the annular member 9 is held open with the isolation valve 26 desirably closed. The bowl 10 and the piston 12 no longer rotate because the isolation valve 26 is stationary with respect to the flange 51.

  Together with the isolation valve 26 in contact with the flange 51 and the closed concentrate outlet valve 33 as described above, the portion of the bowl 10 above the concentrate case 30 and the upper portion of the piston 12 is pressurized. . Pressurization of the portion of the bowl 10 above the concentrate case 30 and the upper portion of the piston 12 occurs, for example, when a fluid such as compressed gas or pressurized liquid is introduced into the separator at the drive port 2. Fluid does not enter the concentrate case or bowl 10 due to the non-gas leaking agreement between the valve 26 and the flange 51. For example, seals made from a composition such as PTFE or TEFLON-based resilient material (EI du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 1998) have flanges 51 and valves A valve 26 is also placed to seal the 26 interface. For example, in one embodiment, a seal in combination with valve 26 prevents cleaning liquid from entering the separator box.

  Since the portion of the bowl 10 above the concentrate case 30 and the piston 12 is pressurized, the isolation valve 26 is held closed against the flange 51. The pressurization of the concentrate case 30 and the portion of the bowl 10 above the upper portion of the piston 12 is finally supplied at a higher pressure on the piston 12 than below the lower conical portion of the piston 12. The differential pressure directs the piston 12 downward along the longitudinal central axis because the fluid is in contact with the upper portion of the piston. The downward movement of the ston 12 pushes solids gathered along the inner wall of the bowl through the opening 76 in the conical lower end 17 of the bowl 10 as described above and shown in FIG.

  The following table provides a characterization and description of all the modes of operation of the various embodiments of the present invention described above. Table 1 is an example, but the isolation valve 26, the concentrate valve 34, the concentrate outlet valve 33, the solids outlet valve 107, the solids during the feed and solids discharge mode of the separator of FIG. The positions and environmental conditions of the material branch valve 90 and the residue branch valve 92 are shown. Table 1 is also an example, but when the concentrate drains from the bowl and the piston is substantially returned to the topmost position following solids discharge and the separator of FIG. 1 provides the position and environmental status of each valve of the separator of FIG. 1 when disinfected in the field. Valves 26, 34, 33, 107, 90, 92 are each shown in the separator illustrated in FIG. Table 1 is not intended to limit the disclosure or the particular embodiment of the invention in any way.

[System combining APD centrifuge and crossflow microfiltration]
When operating the system by itself, the cross-flow microfilters continuously contain solids in the retentate until the solids concentration in the retentate is so high that the filter membrane is soiled and the filtrate flow is reduced. Concentrate the product. With the addition of an APD centrifuge, solids are continuously removed from the retentate stream at a high concentration and the retentate solids concentration is kept low enough so that the filtrate flow is not reduced.

  A schematic of an embodiment of a system that combines microfiltration and APD centrifugation is shown in FIG. A suspension 207 containing solids is supplied to a tank 202 and then pumped to a microporous membrane filter. The solids concentration in the retentate stream can be controlled by measuring with a turbidimeter or densitometer 204 used to control the retentate pump 203, or can be reduced from the filtrate outlet pressure 205 or flow rate. be able to. For example, this information is used to determine whether the retentate 236 is returned to the microfilter 201 or the retentate is branched by the valve 235 as a supply 230 to the APD centrifuge. This information is also used to control the feed rate through the practical displacement variable speed pump 234, so that controlled solids removal is possible. A turbidimeter or densitometer 220 is also installed at the concentrate outlet of the APD centrifuge 210 to indicate when the APD bowl is full of solids and the solid discharge 104 sends the necessary signal. The turbidity or concentration of the concentrate is also used to control the concentrate pump 222 and is used to determine whether the concentrate 224 is returned to the retentate tank 202 via valve 223 or the concentrate is discharged 228 from the system. .

  There are several advantages of using a system that combines APD centrifugation and cross-flow microfiltration. The microfilter is operated in an optimal condition since there is no excess concentration of solids in the retentate line. It is a low solids fouling and the flow rate across the filter remains relatively constant. APD centrifuges can be made smaller because the feed stream is more concentrated than when microfiltration is not used. The APD centrifuge discharges a drier solids discharge during microfiltration than other devices that can be used for solids removal. In this way both devices are operated optimally and capital costs are reduced. Continuous solids removal by APD results in continuous operation of the combined system. Solid deposits do not occur in the retentate stream due to the low solids concentration in the retentate. Eventually, the retentate / feed tank is about 10 times smaller than a microfiltration system operated without an APD centrifuge for solids removal.

  The APD centrifuge for use in combination with microfiltration is preferably a pending US patent application no. 11 / 218,280, filed September 1, 2005, in the form of a gas-driven solid discharge and pumping piston for a centrifuge (GAS DRIVEN SOLIDS DISCHARGE AND PUMPING PISTON FOR A CENTRIFUGAL SEPARATOR) . Other centrifuge systems are also employed, including the systems described in the following patents and pending patents: US Pat. No. 6,632,166, CENTRIFUGE HAVING AXIARY MOVABLE SCRAPING ASSEMBLY FOR AUTOMATIC REMOVAL OF SOLIDS; US Pat. No. 6,632,166 6,776,752, automatic tube-bowl centrifuge for separation of liquids and solids with a scraper or solid discharge using a piston (AUTOMATIC TUBE-BOWL CENTRIFUGE SEPARATION OF LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS WILLS SOLIDS DISCHARGE USING A SCRAPER OR PISTON); 10 / 874,150, centrifuge for separation of liquids and solids with solid discharge using piston or scraper (CENTRIFUGE FOR SEPARATION OF LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS WITH SOLIDS DISCHARGE USING A PISTONOR) US patent application no. No. 10 / 823,844, titled “CONICAL PISTON SOLIDS DISCHARGE CENTRIFUGAL SEPARATOR” and US patent application no. 10 / 973,949, titled Conical PISTON SOLIDS DISCHARGE AND PUMPING CENTRIFUGAL SEPARATOR. All of the foregoing are incorporated herein by reference.

  US patent application no. 11/218 and 280 show that a cylindrical centrifuge has a one-part gas propelled piston. The piston head is located at the upper end of the cylinder during feed liquid introduction and centrifugation. After separation and bowl rotation stop, gas pressure is used to move the piston head down through the bowl, pushing the collected solids and out of the bowl.

  The system for APD centrifugation and microfiltration is integrated in a single housing. For example, a microfilter is incorporated into an APD centrifuge so that piston extrusion is compatible with the presence of a microfiltration membrane. In this embodiment, US patent application no. The single piston of 11 / 218,280 is replaced with a circumferential outer piston and inner piston. FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of an APD centrifuge combined with a microfilter. The apparatus indicates the start of a solids discharge cycle. The cylindrical bowl 10 is slowed because the drive motor 16 is stopped and brakes are applied. Solids 70 collect on the inner surface of the bowl. The supply port 96 is closed and the residual liquid 132 is drained from the bowl through the residual liquid port 100. A cylindrical microporous membrane 180 is located in the bowl. Within the membrane is a cylindrical rubber diaphragm 190. The outer piston 12a is cylindrical and has a downwardly inwardly inclined surface as also referred to by the outer solids discharge piston. The inner piston 12b is disposed at the end of a hollow shaft 12c extending along a symmetrical central axis of the cylindrical bowl. The inner piston is a combined structure composed of a cylindrical portion and a substantially conical portion. The inner piston has a concave recess that squeezes the center downwards.

  At the upper end of the inner piston shaft, an outwardly radiating circular flange has a lower surface suitable for correspondence with a spring located just below the flange and around the upper end of the shaft. The upper end of the shaft also comprises an upwardly projecting cylindrical member with a circular seal disposed around the shaft. The circular member projecting upward has a hollow interior connected to the hollow interior of the shaft. The shaft is suitable for limited longitudinal movement, as discussed below.

  There is a pressure coupling that moves in the vertical direction above the vertical shaft, and is selectively dimensioned on one side and has no fluid leakage with a circular member protruding upwards of the shaft. When the water channel formed in the coupling coincides with the cylindrical member and the water channel, the coupling is driven downward with respect to the shaft. The mouth at the upper end of the coupling is connected to a pressurized gas source. A circumferential flange on the coupling is placed in the box of the system, where the introduction of pressurized gas above or below the coupling flange drives the coupling downward or upward, respectively.

An inner piston thruster is provided around the lower portion of the coupling. Like the coupling, the propulsion unit is provided with a circumferential flange and is placed in each box, and the propulsion unit has a mouth for the introduction of pressurized gas above or below the propulsion unit flange, thereby Move the propellers downward or upward respectively. When driven down, the propulsion machine pushes the upper end of the shaft and drives the inner piston downwards and eventually to the lower end of the cylindrical bowl, and the propulsion machine is also as a low shear cone feed accelerator Applied. The lower end of the spring located at the upper end of the shaft presses against the shoulder portion of the bowl box, thereby biasing the shaft in the upper position. The lower surface of the inner piston and the conical feed accelerator have a matching mold, and the solids in between are squeezed out from the lower outlet when the inner piston is driven downward.

  Within the cylindrical bowl is a tubular rubber diaphragm 190 adjacent to the shaft. The upper and lower ends of the diaphragm are fixed to the bowl. The mouth formed in the shaft inflates the diaphragm with pressurized gas introduced at the mouth in the coupling, which will be discussed further.

  The cylindrical microfiltration membrane 180 is made of, for example, ceramic or sintered metal, is disposed around a rubber diaphragm, and is fixed to the upper and lower ends of the cylindrical bowl. A cylindrical internal air gap exists between the membrane and the diaphragm when the diaphragm is not expanded by the pressurized gas.

  A cylindrical external air gap is formed between the outer surface of the membrane and the inner surface of the cylindrical bowl. It is within this outer air gap that the outer piston moves through the subsequent solid deposit. The lower end of the cylindrical bowl, which defines the bottom of the outer air gap, is the same shape as the inward and diagonal lower surface of the outer piston, and when the outer piston is driven downward, the inner air The solid matter gathered in the gap is completely pushed out.

  A plurality of channels for draining residual liquid from the bowl after separation are formed between the inner and outer air gaps, below the membrane and above the inner piston, to drain residual liquid from the bowl after separation. Similarly, a plurality of channels are formed between the outer air gap and the upper area of the low shear cone feed accelerator to pass liquid through the outer air gap during the introduction of the feed liquid and remain after separation. The product liquid is drained, solids are pushed out of the bowl by the outer piston, and pressurized gas is introduced into the lower end of the bowl to drive the outer piston to its upper position.

  The upper end of the cylindrical bowl is provided with two sets of circular channels. There is a concentrate case isolation valve close to the outermost pair of channels and outward in the radius. The valve has a circumferential flange on either side that produces a differential pressure to drive the concentrate valve during the open and closed positions. In this context, open means that there is no barrier between the concentrate or the cleaning liquid case above the cylindrical bowl and the air gap between the box and the outer surface of the cylindrical bowl. In the closed position, the concentrate valve creates a gas leak-free barrier between these areas. During the rotation of the bowl, the concentrate valve is held in an open position to avoid interference between the valve and the bowl. Movement between the open and closed positions is accomplished by selectively introducing pressurized gas from an isolation valve piston control port formed outside the box.

  A water channel is also formed through the concentrate case isolation valve itself. Depending on the orientation of the bowl, at least one of these channels is in line with a solids discharge piston gas supply port formed on the outer surface of the box. When the concentrate case isolation valve is closed, the pressurized gas supplied to the solids discharge piston gas supply port forces the outer piston downward, so that the outermost of the concentrate case isolation valve channel and the upper end of the bowl Pass through the waterways.

  The innermost set of channels formed in the upper end of the bowl, together with the cleaning liquid or concentrate case, connects to the inner air gap between the tubular rubber diaphragm and the microfiltration membrane. As discussed below, during the initial separation, these innermost channels enter or exit the process of drawing the cleaning liquid into the concentrate case of the cylindrical bowl and through the concentrate port.

  A solid valve 91 is prepared at the lower end of the cylindrical bowl. The solid valve is in an open or closed position according to the orientation of the valve around the rotation center axis orthogonal to the rotation center axis of the cylindrical bowl. FIGS. 13-14 and 17 illustrate the solid valve in the closed position, while FIGS. 15-16 have the solid valve rotated 90 degrees around the central axis of rotation (as viewed by the observer) in the open position. Is illustrated. Solids valve propulsion machine 95 and related operations control the position of this valve. The propulsion device is gas pressure or water pressure.

  A piston is disposed in the solid valve having a piston pull-back propulsion device 52 that selectively positions the solid valve piston in mechanical connection with the bowl underside spread. A circumferentially arranged flange provides a gas pressure differential on the opposite side of the flange to control the position of the piston. The two air ports formed in the solid valve form these pressure differences. In order to seal the lower end of the cylindrical bowl box with respect to the solid valve, a solid valve seal 93 which is circular and expands is prepared. The mouth formed outside the box connects to a pressurized gas source 195 for this seal for selective expansion.

  A supply liquid channel is also formed in the solid valve. This channel has a mouth 155 on the outside of the solid valve and ends under the lower extension of the solid valve piston. The hollow interior of the piston and the conical bottom extension of the inner solid discharge piston are the type that forms the feed inlet pool of radius R1, as shown at 184 in FIG.

  Residual liquid drainage (shown as 100 in FIG. 13) connected to dispose of the drained liquid on the opposite side of the piston propulsion control path (paths) in the solid valve and the supply liquid channel or to circulate or recover to the system )

  FIG. 14 illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 13 in the supply mode. The inner piston 12b is held at the upper position by the spring weight. The outer piston 12a is held in its upper position via pressure applied by the supply liquid introduced for friction and separation. The concentrate case isolation piston 194 rises to its open position and the concentrate 73 flows out by gravity. The solid valve closes and the solid valve seal expands. Within the solids valve, the piston pull-up propulsion machine 52 is driven downward from the lower extent of the bowl. The motor 16 is driven at high speed, so that the bowl 10 rotates quickly.

  The supply liquid 155 supplied through the solid valve 91 exits the solid valve piston and forms a jet 154. The jet impinges on the inner conical lower surface and forms an inlet pool of radius R1 with respect to the conical surface 17 of the low shear feed accelerator. The supply liquid then passes through the water channel to the outer air gap. The solid 70 collects against the inner wall of the bowl. The filtered concentrate 182 passes diametrically inside the membrane and bowl. Air or water pressure 195 keeps the piston pullback propeller 52 down and keeps the expanded solid valve seal 93.

  While the tubular rubber diaphragm 190 is forced outward by centrifugal action, the filtered concentrate 182 pushes the concentrate away from the membrane because the concentrate outlet radius R2 185 is larger than the feed pool radius R1 184.

  Subsequent to the supply mode, the drainage mode is started. Here, the rotation of the bowl is stopped and the residual liquid passes from the gap between the inner and inner air, passes through the underside of the bowl, into the area above the sealed solids valve, and the residual liquid drain Drained through the mouth. Supply liquid pressure is desirably maintained so that residual liquid does not pass through the solids valve piston and the supply liquid path. Collected solids remain on the outer wall of the bowl.

  The discharge mode is shown in FIGS. The air or water pressure of FIG. 15 is used to drive down a longitudinally movable pressure coupling in a gas leak free connection with a cylindrical member on the inner piston shaft. Pressurized gas 195 is also used to close the concentrate case isolation valve. The solid discharge valve seal 93 is vented, the solid discharge valve piston is pulled back, and the solid discharge valve itself rotates to the open position. Pressurized gas applied to the pressure coupling pressurizes the inner air gap in the shaft and between the rubber diaphragm and the shaft, and forces the diaphragm 190 to contact the inner surface of the membrane. This thus seals the membrane and prevents solids from entering the membrane as the solids are scraped out by the outer piston 12a. The latter occurs because pressurized gas is introduced into the outer solid piston pressure supply on the box surface. The gas flows through the isolation valve channel, through the outermost set of channels formed at the upper end of the cylindrical bowl, and into the outer air gap above the outer piston. This pressure drives the outer piston downwards, and the collected solids are scraped from the outer surface of the membrane and the inner surface of the cylindrical bowl, through the water channel leading to the outer air gap and the location under the inner piston, and the bowl It is squeezed 71 through the opening.

  In FIG. 16, all the solids under the outer piston 12a are forced out of the bowl or at a location below the inner piston. The diameter of the water channel between the outer air gap and the inner piston is minimized to minimize waste. Gas pressure 195 is used to drive the inner piston thruster in the longitudinally movable pressure coupling. This gas pressure overcomes the bias of the spring and the resistance of the solids collected under the inner piston. Since the inner piston is driven downward, the remaining solids are driven from the bowl. The circumference of the recessed area formed in the lower extension of the inner piston is such that the remaining solid 71 can be cut out from the opening of the bowl.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the solid branch valve 91 is closed, the solid valve seal 93 is expanded, and the solid discharge valve piston 93 is raised after the solid discharge. The gas pressure 195 is used to return the inner piston thruster to its upper position, thereby pulling back the inner piston 12a. The gas pressure is also supplied to a supply port in the solid branch valve. This also forces the inner piston upward, as well as the outer piston 12a upward. Gas pressure 195 continues to be supplied to the pressure coupling to hold an expanded rubber diaphragm against the inner surface of the membrane.

  As shown in FIGS. 18, 19 and 20, membrane fouling can cause the supply liquid to pass through the membrane holes 183 in the path toward the supply liquid outlet (ie, the innermost set of channels in the upper end of the cylindrical bowl). Occurs because it travels through. Dirt is caused by solids carried by the feed liquid to the outer surface of the membrane, forming particulates 181 or all or a thin deposit 70a on the membrane. Due to the high rotational speed, the particulates and thin deposits are forced away from the outer surface of the membrane by centrifugation and eventually become a sufficient mass.

  Various resilient and non-responsive seals are featured and will not be discussed in detail here. The benefits associated with semi-circular bearings and bearing boxes are discussed in related patent applications. The material is US patent application no. Preferably utilized in the system as described in 11 / 218,280. The microfiltration membrane is preferably provided by sintered metal or ceramic.

  Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiment, those of ordinary skill in the art should read the following specifications and then make various changes to the structures, components, methods, and apparatus disclosed herein. Can affect equivalents, alternatives and other exchanges. For example, fluid pressure can be replaced by other embodiments by electromechanical forces without restriction. Similarly, although a superior conical shape is desirable for solids recovery, the lower portion of the piston and bowl need not be conical in each mold.

  The present invention further contemplates that various passages, valves, pistons, propulsion devices, assemblies, ports, members, and the like described herein are structures or arrangements suitable for the operation of a centrifuge. ing. The above-described embodiments also include or relate to variations of any of the other embodiments. For example, the laser detection assemblies described herein can also be utilized in conjunction with any or all embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the protection guaranteed by the document patent here is intended to be limited only by the definitions contained in the appended patent application and its equivalents.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a centrifuge embodiment consistent with the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a centrifuge embodiment consistent with the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the separator of FIG. 2 featuring a laser detector. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the separator of FIG. 1 illustrating a supply operation mode. FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view including the piston and bowl of the separator of FIG. 1 illustrating a feed operation mode. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the separator of FIG. 1 illustrating the operation when residual liquid is drained from the bowl. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the separator of FIG. 1 illustrating operation in a solid discharge mode. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 illustrating the operation after the solids discharge mode when the piston is substantially returned to the uppermost position. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the lower end region of the separator of FIG. 1 when the solids passage is cleaned. FIG. FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the separator of FIG. 1 in feed mode. FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the separator of FIG. 1 in solid discharge mode. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a system combining microfiltration and centrifugation according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a centrifuge according to the present invention. This embodiment has a circumferential outer piston and inner piston as well as a microfiltration membrane and diaphragm. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 in a supply mode. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 in a discharge mode. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 in a discharge mode. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 in a retract mode. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 and illustrates the passage of solids across the microfiltration membrane. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 and illustrates the passage of solids across the microfiltration membrane. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the centrifuge of FIG. 13 and illustrates the passage of solids across the microfiltration membrane.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Hemispherical part 2 Drive port 4 Lower side port 5 Drive belt 6 Shaft 9 Ring member 10 Bowl 11 Center area | region 12, 102 Piston 12a Outer piston 12b Inner piston 12c Hollow shaft 13 Separation box Centrifuge box 13
16 Drive motor 17 Conical lower end 18 Drive pulley 19 Upper part of separator 20 Spindle part 21 Prevention ring 22 Collar-like extension body 23 Spindle assembly 24, 25 Seat 26 Isolation valve 29 Anti-rotation pin 30 Concentrate Case 32 Concentrate outlet 33 Concentrate outlet valve 34 Concentrate valve 39 Lower end 40 Ball valve assembly 41 Central longitudinal axis 42 Drain valve 43, 51 Flange 44 Supply liquid passage 45 Supply liquid port 46 Residual liquid drain passage 47 Residual liquid drain 48 Valve seal 49 Valve drive 50 Main passage 52 Drive 54 Drive control port 56 Piston seal 57 Annular drive flange 58 Fluid port 59 Annular piston seal 60 Hub 61 Upper port 62 Knife blade 64 Passage 66 Spring 67 pin 70 solid 72 cleaning liquid 73 Condensate 74 Discharge hole 76 Open 90 Solid branch valve 91 Solid valve 92 Residue branch valve 93 Solid valve seal 94 Supply liquid passage 96 Supply liquid port 98 Residual liquid drainage passage 100 Residual drainage port 104 Solid matter passage 106 Solid material outlet 107 Solid material outlet valve 108 Cleaning passageway 110 Annular flange 111 Cleaning port 112 Assembly 113 Control port 114 Distillation branch valve propulsion device 120 Valve receiving member 124 Pulse laser beam 129 Downflow path 130 External boundary 132 Residue Liquid 140, 145 Seal 154 Injection port 155 Supply liquid 180 Cylindrical microfiltration membrane, cylindrical microporous membrane 182 Concentrate 183 Membrane pores 184 Supply pool radius R1
185 Concentrate outlet radius R2
190 Diaphragm 194 Concentrate case isolation piston 195 Pressurized gas 201 Microfilter 202 Tank 203 Pump 204, 220 Concentration meter 205 Filtrate outlet pressure 207 Suspension 210 Centrifuge 222 Concentrate pump 223, 235 Valve 230 Supply 234 Replacement type Variable speed pump

Claims (32)

A system for separating and recovering solids and / or liquids from a suspension containing solids by a combination of microfiltration and centrifugation, said system comprising a microfiltration subsystem and a centrifugation subsystem:
The microfiltration subsystem consists of:
A cross-flow microfilter having a feed inlet for introduction of the suspension into the system, a filtrate outlet for diverting the filtrate from the system, and a retentate outlet;
Retention tank supplied from the retentate outlet of the microfilter;
Retention pump supplied from the retentate tank outlet;
A first fluid valve connected to the outlet of the retentate pump; and first, below the preset solids concentration, the first valve returns the retentate to the feed inlet of the microfilter, and first a preset solid A first detector capable of controlling the first valve by branching the retentate to the centrifuge subsystem above the concentration of matter, detecting the concentration of solids in the retentate;
The centrifuge subsystem consists of:
An automatic piston discharge centrifuge with a feed inlet, a solids discharge outlet for diverting solids from the system, and a concentrate outlet;
A second fluid valve connected to the concentrate outlet; and secondly above a preset solids concentration, the second valve returns the concentrate to the retentate tank and secondly below the preset solids concentration The second valve is a second detector that can branch the concentrate from the system, detect the solids concentration in the concentrate, and control the second valve.   The system of claim 1 wherein a suspension containing solids is fed to a retentate tank.   The system of claim 1, wherein the first detector measures the turbidity or concentration of the retentate.   The system of claim 1, wherein the first detector measures the pressure of the filtrate.   The system of claim 1, wherein the second detector measures the turbidity or concentration of the concentrate.   The system of claim 1 wherein the second detector controls the centrifuge solids discharge cycle.   The system of claim 1, further comprising a concentrate tank in which the concentrate is collected in a concentration tank.   The system of claim 1, wherein the filtrate and the concentrate are combined.   The system of claim 1 further comprising a concentrate pump.   The system of claim 9, wherein the concentrate pump delivers concentrate to the retentate tank.   The system of claim 9, wherein the concentrate pump delivers the concentrate out of the system.   Further comprising a variable speed centrifuge supply pump, the inlet of which is fluidly connected to the first part of the outlet of the reserve pump, the second part of the outlet of the reserve pump is directed to the microfilter, and the variable speed The system of claim 1 wherein the outlet of the centrifuge pump is connected to the supply inlet of the centrifuge.   13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first detector controls a variable speed pump.   14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first detector measures the turbidity or concentration of the retentate and controls the variable speed pump based on the turbidity or concentration of the retentate.   14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first detector measures filtrate pressure and controls a variable speed pump based on the filtrate pressure.   The system of claim 1, wherein the microfiltration subsystem, the centrifugation subsystem, or both are temperature controlled. An automatic piston discharge centrifuge consisting of:
A centrifuge having a lower end with an open bottom, where the solids collect along the inner surface of the bowl, operated during a feed operation mode that rotates at high speed to separate the solids from the feed liquid Cylindrical bowl for;
A movable cylindrical outer piston located against the inner surface of the bowl, and an inner piston located at the end of the shaft extending along the central axis of the bowl, essentially a cylindrical part and essentially conical Solids discharge assembly consisting of an inner piston with part;
The microfilter holds solids in the outer gap between the outer surface of the microfilter and the inner surface of the bowl, and the microfilter allows the filtered concentrate to exit the bowl through the inner gap adjacent to the inner surface of the microfilter. The outer diameter of the filter is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer piston and is a cylindrical microfilter installed around the central axis of the bowl;
A cylindrical diaphragm installed around the central axis of the bowl and adjacent to the internal gap; and a solids discharge valve at the lower end of the bowl.   The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the microfilter is made of ceramic or sintered metal.   18. The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein during the solids discharge mode of operation, the pressurized gas or fluid independently moves the outer and inner pistons down the central axis with respect to the bowl.   The centrifuge of claim 19, wherein the outer piston first moves downward and then the inner piston moves downward.   21. The centrifuge of claim 19, wherein during downward movement of the outer piston, pressurized gas or liquid is introduced inside the diaphragm, the diaphragm closing the inner gap and sealing the inner surface of the microfilter.   The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the bowl comprises a conical bottom portion.   23. The centrifuge of claim 22, wherein the lower surface of the inner piston has a conical mold that complements the conical bottom portion of the bowl.   18. The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the outer and inner pistons are springs biased on the upper portion.   The centrifuge of claim 17, further comprising one or more attachment ports for introducing pressurized gas or liquid.   The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the solids discharge valve switches between an open position and a closed position by rotating on a central axis orthogonal to the central axis of rotation of the bowl.   The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the solids discharge valve comprises a passage for introducing feed liquid into the bowl.   The centrifuge of claim 17, wherein the solids discharge valve comprises a passage for draining residual liquid from the bowl after separation of the supplied solids and liquid.   When the concentrate valve is in the closed position with a concentrate valve having an open and closed position, a gas tight seal is formed between the concentrate and the air gap between the outer surface of the bowl and the box surrounding the bowl. The centrifuge of claim 17 comprising:   18. The centrifuge of claim 17, further comprising a solid valve seal between the solid discharge valve and the box surrounding the bowl, wherein the seal is expanded with pressurized gas or liquid. A method of recovering a solid or liquid component from a suspension containing solids by a combination of microfiltration and centrifugation, said method comprising the following steps:
Providing a microfiltration subsystem and a centrifugation subsystem;
The microfiltration subsystem consists of:
A cross-flow microfilter having a feed inlet for introduction of the suspension into the system, a filtrate outlet for diverting the filtrate from the system, and a retentate outlet;
Second, below the preset solids concentration, the second valve is adjusted to branch the concentrate for collection;
Collecting filtrate from the microfilter;
Collect the concentrate from the centrifuge; and collect the solid from the centrifuge. A method for recovering solids components from a suspension containing solids by a combination of microfiltration and centrifugation, said method comprising the following steps:
Providing automatic piston discharge centrifuge,
The centrifuge consists of:
A centrifuge having a lower end with an open bottom, where the solids collect along the inner surface of the bowl, operated during a feed operation mode that rotates at high speed to separate the solids from the feed liquid Cylindrical bowl for;
A movable cylindrical outer piston located against the inner surface of the bowl, and an inner piston located at the end of the shaft extending along the central axis of the bowl, essentially a cylindrical part and essentially conical Solids discharge assembly consisting of an inner piston with part;
The microfilter holds solids in the outer gap between the outer surface of the microfilter and the inner surface of the bowl, and the microfilter allows the filtered concentrate to exit the bowl through the inner gap adjacent to the inner surface of the microfilter. The outer diameter of the filter is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer piston and is a cylindrical microfilter installed around the central axis of the bowl;
A cylindrical diaphragm installed around the central axis of the bowl and adjacent to the internal gap; and a solids discharge valve at the lower end of the bowl.
Introducing a suspension containing solids into the bowl during high-speed rotation of the bowl;
Stop the rotation of the bowl;
Open the solids discharge valve;
Pressurize the diaphragm against the inner surface of the microfilter; and drain the collected solids from the inner surface of the bowl through the opening of the bowl by first lowering the outer piston and then the inner piston.

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