US20070137152A1 - Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement - Google Patents
Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement Download PDFInfo
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- US20070137152A1 US20070137152A1 US10/569,235 US56923504A US2007137152A1 US 20070137152 A1 US20070137152 A1 US 20070137152A1 US 56923504 A US56923504 A US 56923504A US 2007137152 A1 US2007137152 A1 US 2007137152A1
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- precleaner
- vane
- air
- arrangement
- orientation
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02M—SUPPLYING COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL WITH COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURES OR CONSTITUENTS THEREOF
- F02M35/00—Combustion-air cleaners, air intakes, intake silencers, or induction systems specially adapted for, or arranged on, internal-combustion engines
- F02M35/02—Air cleaners
- F02M35/022—Air cleaners acting by gravity, by centrifugal, or by other inertial forces, e.g. with moistened walls
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D45/00—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces
- B01D45/12—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by centrifugal forces
- B01D45/16—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by centrifugal forces generated by the winding course of the gas stream, the centrifugal forces being generated solely or partly by mechanical means, e.g. fixed swirl vanes
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/0039—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices
- B01D46/0041—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices for feeding
- B01D46/0045—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices for feeding by using vanes
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/52—Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material
- B01D46/521—Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material using folded, pleated material
- B01D46/525—Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material using folded, pleated material which comprises flutes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D50/00—Combinations of methods or devices for separating particles from gases or vapours
- B01D50/20—Combinations of devices covered by groups B01D45/00 and B01D46/00
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02M—SUPPLYING COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL WITH COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURES OR CONSTITUENTS THEREOF
- F02M35/00—Combustion-air cleaners, air intakes, intake silencers, or induction systems specially adapted for, or arranged on, internal-combustion engines
- F02M35/02—Air cleaners
- F02M35/024—Air cleaners using filters, e.g. moistened
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to air filtration.
- a typical application is in air cleaner arrangements to be used for air filtration, for example filtration of intake air for internal combustion engines.
- the invention particularly concerns advantageous features of precleaner assemblies for air cleaner arrangements, which provide for a precleaning of dust or other material from the air, prior to the air being passed through filter media within an air cleaner.
- Gas streams often carry material entrained (for example dust or moisture) therein.
- material entrained for example dust or moisture
- air intake streams to engines for motorized vehicles, construction equipment or for power generation equipment often include moisture or particulate material therein.
- the particulate material should it reach the internal workings of the various mechanisms involved, can cause substantial damage thereto.
- the moisture can also damage equipment. It is therefore preferred, for such systems, to reduce the level of particulate material and moisture in the gas flow upstream of the engine or other equipment involved.
- a variety of air filter arrangements have been developed for such removal. In general, however, continued improvements are sought.
- an adjustable air deflector vane structure or arrangement for use in precleaners for air cleaner assemblies.
- Typical precleaners would be used with air cleaner assemblies configured, for example, to filter engine intake air for vehicles, construction equipment, power generation equipment or similar equipment.
- the adjustable air deflection vane structure or arrangement comprises providing portions of at least one, and typically more than one, air deflection vane in a form which utilizes a flexible material to form at least a portion of the vane surface, with each vane being mounted so that the flexible portion can bend or deflect (deform) in a downstream direction with selected increases in air flow, during use.
- the flexible material is preferably chosen to have an appropriate memory, so that as the air flow rate reduces, the vane tends to return to its normal, non-deflected, position, configuration or orientation.
- Such vane structures can be utilized to configure and construct preferred precleaner arrangements that: provide for a desirable level of efficiency of operation at relatively low air flow rates; and, provide for a preferred opening to reduce restriction increase, under higher air flow conditions.
- FIG. 1 is an enlarged side elevational view of a precleaner arrangement according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is a side view of an air cleaner assembly having a precleaner arrangement according to FIG. 1 mounted thereon.
- FIG. 3 is an end view of the arrangement depicted in FIG. 2 , FIG. 3 being a view toward an inlet end of the precleaner arrangement.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly, taken generally along line 4 - 4 , FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged end view of the precleaner arrangement of FIG. 1 , FIG. 5 being viewed toward the air inlet end.
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 6 - 6 , FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is an outside perspective view of a component of the precleaner depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 8 is an inside perspective view of the component depicted in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a vane component of the precleaner assembly, taken along lines 9 - 9 , FIGS. 5 and 11 .
- FIG. 10 is a view of the component shown in FIG. 9 , with phantom lines indicating a second vane orientation.
- FIG. 11 is a front view of the component depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 .
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the air cleaner arrangement depicted in FIG. 2 , the perspective view showing a portion of the inlet end.
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged, fragmentary, view of z-filter media useable in the air cleaner assembly of FIG. 4 .
- the reference numeral 1 depicts a precleaner arrangement according to the present disclosure.
- the precleaner arrangement 1 is depicted comprising a component of an overall air cleaner assembly 3 .
- the assembly 3 also includes main air cleaner 4 , as discussed below.
- the air cleaner assembly 3 is of the type typically used for filtering engine intake air for internal combustion engines.
- the air cleaner assembly 3 can comprise an air cleaner for use with a vehicles such as trucks or tractors.
- the precleaner could be used with class 2-class 4 trucks, such as pickup trucks, SUVs, tow trucks, and delivery trucks, although many other applications are possible.
- such air cleaners include a housing 5 having, positioned therein, a serviceable air filter or air filter element, not shown in FIG. 2 .
- a serviceable air filter or air filter element not shown in FIG. 2 .
- the housing 5 is provided with an access panel or cover, in this instance indicated at 6 , which can be removed from a remainder 7 of the housing 5 , for access to the interior, by loosening of bolts 7 a (one bolt not being viewable in FIG. 1 , see FIG. 3 ).
- the air cleaner assembly 3 can be mounted on the equipment, by posts 3 d.
- serviceable air filter elements comprise media through which the air to be filtered is passed, in use.
- the media captures or traps a portion of particulate contaminant, such as dust or ash, carried within the air.
- the service interval is generally related to the time of operation it takes for the filter element to become sufficiently loaded with dust or other material such that the restriction across the air filter element, and thus across the air cleaner, is undesirably increased. That is, as material is loaded onto the filter element during the filtering operation, restriction across the air filter increases.
- the service interval is recommended by the engine manufacturer or vehicle manufacturer to occur at a point in time prior to an undesirable restriction having been reached. This service interval can be defined, for example, by hours of operation or miles of operation for the equipment involved.
- the particular air cleaner 3 depicted in FIG. 2 includes thereon a restriction indicator 8 .
- the restriction indicator 8 can be configured to indicate when the restriction across the air filter has reached a point that service is required or is recommended.
- a precleaner is an arrangement that allows for separation of a portion of dust or other material entrained within the air to be cleaned, prior to the air passing through the serviceable air filter element.
- Precleaners generally operate by imparting a circular, cyclonic or coiled momentum to the incoming air, and the entrained material, as opposed to passage of the air through a filter media. This circular (cyclonic or coiled) momentum causes a deposition of a portion of the entrained material from the air flow, before the air is transferred into a region of the air cleaner assembly that includes the serviceable filter element.
- Precleaners of this type are described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos.
- the precleaner comprises an arrangement which drives inlet air to the air cleaner into a cyclonic flow around the serviceable filter element, combined with a drop tube for ejection of the material separated by the precleaner from the system.
- the precleaner comprises a panel of individual dust separator tubes, each of which provides for some separation prior to air entry into the main body of the air cleaner which includes the serviceable element(s).
- separator tubes of this type are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,008,059; 4,050,913; 4,289,611; 3,448,563; 3,713,280; 4,985,058; 4,976,748; 5,403,367; and 5,480,464; all nine of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- a precleaner including a plurality of separator tubes
- PCT application number PCT/US03/10258 filed Jul. 18, 2003.
- the precleaner arrangement including separator tubes, a down flow tube and an evacuator valve, is positioned upstream of a main air cleaner which includes therein a serviceable filter element comprising z-filter media.
- Precleaners generally provide for some restriction to air flow.
- ramps or vanes sometimes called blades or fins
- ramps or vanes which divert the air into a circular (cyclonic or coiled) pattern generally need to be positioned in extension across the direction of inlet air flow, to impart the desired circular (cyclonic or coiled) momentum to the flow. This causes restriction.
- vane axial length in this context is meant to refer to the length of distance, axially, i.e., in the axial direction of air flow over which the blades extend.
- vane outer size is meant to refer to a length corresponding to a smallest distance between opposite outer edges of oppositely directed portions of the vane structure. An example of this will also be described in connection with precleaner 1 , below.
- the volume of the space needed for the air cleaner, in a vehicle is in part a function of the specification for operation of the engine, i.e., the amount of air flow expected for proper engine operation and the length of service interval required, for the serviceable filter element. Larger serviceable filter elements will occlude slower. However, larger serviceable filter elements require more space. Especially with vehicles in which the air cleaner is to be contained under the hood or within an engine compartment, available space may be severely limited. This leads to limitation on the size and shape of space available for containing the air cleaner.
- these definitions are provided with respect to some identified operating flow of air through the air cleaner.
- an engine or vehicle manufacturer may define the desired efficiency for a precleaner when the air flow demand is at some desired rate, for example, 350 cfm. (cubic feet per minute), and couple it with another specification for a defined total restriction not to be surpassed when the engine is operated at a higher air flow rate, for example, 900 cfm.
- Precleaner efficiency and restriction for dust can be defined, for example, according to SAE Standard J726C.
- Air Cleaner Assembly 3 Generally
- FIG. 3 is an end view of the air cleaner assembly 3 depicted in FIG. 2 .
- the view point is toward an air inlet end for the precleaner 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly 3 , taken along line 4 - 4 , FIG. 3 .
- the air cleaner assembly 3 comprises precleaner 1 and a main air cleaner 4 .
- Main air cleaner 4 comprises housing 5 having an access cover 6 , which is selectively removable from a remainder 7 of the housing 5 .
- the housing 5 can be mounted in position (in equipment for use) by post(s) 3 d.
- the housing 5 defines an interior 10 , in which is operably placed a removable and replaceable, i.e., serviceable, primary filter element 11 .
- the air then passes into the main air cleaner 4 through inlet end 20 , in the direction of arrow 21 .
- the air then passes through the main filter element 11 and outwardly through outlet 3 b .
- the region 25 defines a clean air plenum, into which air cannot pass until it has been filtered.
- a secondary or safety filter element may be positioned between the primary filter element 11 and the clean air plenum 25 .
- Examples of secondary or safety elements of this type, for such applications, are described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,221,122 and 6,179,890, incorporated herein by reference.
- the housing 5 would need to be configured to accommodate such a secondary or safety filter element.
- vane structure 30 imparts circular, (i.e., coiled or cyclonic) momentum to the air flow.
- This cyclonic momentum will cause at least a portion of material entrained within the air, to be directed against inner surface 35 of the precleaner 1 .
- a portion of this dust, moisture, or other material will eventually be ejected through slot 36 a into down tube 36 and evacuation valve 37 .
- Down tubes and evacuation valves similar in construction to down tube 36 and evacuation valve 37 are known and are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,241 and 6,039,778 and PCT application PCT/US03/10258 filed Jul. 18, 2003; all three of these references being incorporated herein by reference.
- air cleaner 3 is provided with an exit skirt 38 at a junction 39 between the precleaner 1 and the main air cleaner 4 .
- the skirt 38 comprises a portion of the precleaner 1 ; however it could be constructed as a portion of the main air cleaner 4 .
- the skirt 38 has an inlet end 38 a and an exit end 38 b ; the inlet end 38 a having a smaller cross-sectional size than the interior defined by wall 35 in the same region. This defines a space 35 a between the skirt 38 and wall 35 , in which a portion of the entrained material will be driven, during this particular cyclonic flow.
- the relatively narrow inlet 38 a ensures that air passing in the direction of arrow 21 will be reduced in amount of entrained material, by comparison to air entering the precleaner 1 in the direction of arrow 3 a.
- skirt 38 will define a circular opening 38 a , even though wall 35 may define a non-circular outer wall; however, skirt 38 is not required to define a circular opening 38 a .
- skirt 38 a will define a cross-sectional opening having an area no more than 85%, and typically no more than 70% of an area corresponding to a cross-sectional area defined by inner wall 35 .
- skirt 38 will extend into precleaner 1 , and along wall 35 , a distance of at least 0.5 inch, typically at least 0.75 inch.
- skirt 38 a is viewed extending about one-half of the extension across slot 36 a .
- slot 36 a will extend from edge 36 b no further than the edge of skirt 38 a .
- the slot 36 a depicted in FIG. 6 is longer than preferred. Most preferably the slot would extend only from point 36 b to about point 36 c.
- the vane structure 30 is generally shown at inlet end 40 of precleaner 1 (corresponding to inlet end 9 of air cleaner assembly 3 ).
- the vane structure 30 generally comprises one or more individual air deflection vanes 43 .
- the particular number of air deflection vanes in any given precleaner is a matter of choice based upon desired operation. It is anticipated that, typically, preferred precleaners according to the present disclosure for use with engines rated for operation at about 150 cfm to 1500 cfm (typically 300 cfm to 900 cfm), will include at least three vanes 43 , typically at least five vanes 43 , and usually a number of vanes within the range of three to fifteen (usually five to ten), inclusive. The particular example shown, includes seven (7) vanes 43 .
- the vanes 43 will be sometimes referenced as air deflection vanes, since their intended operation is to deflect incoming air in the direction of arrow 3 a , FIG. 4 , into a circular (cyclonic or coiled) pattern within the precleaner 1 .
- the vanes 43 are positioned to direct the air into a counter-clockwise flow pattern viewed from the perspective of FIG. 3 .
- an opposite flow pattern could be accommodated.
- each vane will extend at an angle relative to a plane perpendicular (or orthogonal) to the direction of air flow into the precleaner.
- the vanes be perfectly flat, and indeed as described below, preferred blades or air deflection vanes 43 may have some curvature to them.
- angle R is typically within the range of 25° to 45°.
- angle S is typically the range of 5° to 15°.
- the precleaner portion of arrangements such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,241 and 6,039,778 mentioned above, is located such that the ramp arrangement that causes the air to adopt a cyclonic or swirl pattern, actually surrounds a portion of the replaceable (serviceable) filter element, and is included within the same compartment that contains the serviceable filter element, spaced from the element by a shield.
- the type of precleaner 1 that is described in connection with the figures of the present disclosure, is positioned such that the swirl arrangement does not surround the serviceable filter element, and indeed such that separation occurs before the air even enters the region of the air cleaner 3 in which the serviceable filter cartridge 11 is located.
- FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of precleaner 1 .
- FIG. 5 an end view of precleaner arrangement 1 is depicted.
- FIG. 6 comprises a cross-sectional view of the precleaner arrangement 1 taken generally along line 6 - 6 , FIG. 5 .
- FIGS. 7 and 8 are opposite side perspective views of a component of the precleaner 1 .
- FIG. 7 will sometimes be referred to as a “outside,” or “upstream side” view of a vane structure portion of a precleaner 1 , according to the present disclosure. This is because the view point of FIG. 7 is toward an outside surface of the vane structure, and toward a surface toward which air directed into the precleaner 1 flows.
- the view point of FIG. 8 is sometimes referred to as an “inside” or “downstream side” view of the vane structure of precleaner 1 , since it is directed toward a portion which is typically inside an air cleaner in use, and which is a side from which the air exits the main structure arrangement, in use.
- the precleaner arrangement 1 generally comprises an outer housing portion 50 having vane structure 30 positioned therein.
- the outer housing portion 50 generally comprises outer perimeter wall 55 defining inlet end 40 and outlet end 57 .
- the outlet end 57 includes, positioned thereon, precleaner outlet skirt 38 .
- down tube 36 Also included in the outer housing portion 50 is down tube 36 , with evacuation valve 37 positioned thereon.
- the vane structure 30 comprises a separately formed vane assembly or component 51 which is inserted within an end 58 of outer housing part 50 , during assembly, to form precleaner 1 .
- the vane assembly 51 is depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 .
- the vane assembly 51 comprises: outer sidewall or rim 60 , mounting flange 61 , vane structure 30 comprising air deflection vanes 43 ; and, center hub 65 .
- the air deflection vanes 43 are mounted to extend from the center hub 65 toward an inside surface 60 a of outer rim 60 .
- Vane structure 30 comprises a plurality of spaced vanes 43 that are spaced and configured to allow for air flow path between them.
- the outer perimeter of the rim 60 is shaped or configured to match an inside surface of the wall 55 of the outer wall housing part 50 , FIG. 6 to form inlet end 40 .
- the mounting flange 61 is configured to project radially outwardly from side wall 60 sufficiently, so that it is positioned to engage wall 55 at an end 55 a , FIG. 6 , when a remainder of the rim 60 is projected internally of outer perimeter wall 55 , during insertion of vane structure 30 into the outer housing part 50 , to assemble precleaner 1 .
- the vane assembly 51 for the preferred embodiment shown, includes (mounted projecting outwardly from rim 60 ), an interference tab 68 .
- an interference tab 68 for the particular arrangement shown, only a single tab 68 is viewable. However, there would typically be two, oppositely directed, tabs 68 used.
- Each tab 68 is configured with a forward directing cam surface 68 a , to facilitate snap-fit into a slot (not viewable) in wall 55 and to inhibit disassembly.
- the particular precleaner 1 depicted does not have a perfectly circular outer perimeter. Rather, it comprises two curved sections 70 , 71 each connected to two, opposite, straight sections 72 , 73 .
- the two straight sections 72 , 73 do not extend parallel to one another; and, section 71 has larger radius of curvature than section 70 .
- the specific outer perimeter configuration for the precleaner assembly 1 is a matter of choice, within operating limits, for a given application. It will typically be selected, based upon the available space for installation of the precleaner assembly 3 and the size needed for adequate air flow.
- the precleaner and thus the outer perimeter
- the selection again, is a matter of choice, within operating limits, depending on the circumstances.
- the center hub 65 is generally circular. Alternate shapes are possible.
- the center hub 65 generally comprises a cup 65 a , having a base 65 b and a circular side wall 65 c , FIG. 7 .
- each one of the vanes 43 can be characterized as having an outer perimeter shape defined by four segments comprising: lead edge 79 , tail edge 80 , inner edge 81 and outer edge 82 .
- the outer perimeter of each one of the vanes 43 be identical to all of the others. Indeed, for the particular embodiment depicted, they are not.
- each vane typically in each case, each vane includes a lead or upstream edge 79 , a tail or downstream edge 80 , a radially inner edge 81 , and a radially outer edge 82 .
- the view point for the viewer is toward the inlet end 40 of the precleaner 1 .
- the lead edge 79 is the edge of each vane 43 , closest to the viewer, from the view point of FIG. 5 , i.e., lead edge 79 is the edge of the vane 43 closest to inlet end 40 .
- the lead edge 79 can be characterized as the upstream edge, with respect to normal air flow in use.
- the tail edge 80 of each vane 43 is the edge furthest from the viewer for the view point of FIG. 5 , i.e., edge 80 is further from end 40 than edge 79 .
- Edge 80 can also be characterized as the downstream edge.
- each vane is the edge adjacent center piece 65 .
- the radially outer edge 82 for each vane is the opposite edge and is adjacent side wall 60 .
- the axial length of a vane system in a precleaner.
- the axial length would be the projected distance; i.e., distance projected in a plane or in the direction of arrow 30 a , FIG. 6 , between the lead edge 79 and the tail edge 80 , of the vanes 43 .
- the axial length is approximated in FIG. 6 , by dimension X.
- vane outer size is generally the smallest or shortest distance between the outer edges 82 of two oppositely directed deflector vanes 43 .
- the vane outer size is approximated by dimension Y.
- the vane outer size would simply be a diameter of the circular vane outer perimeter.
- the vane perimeter size would typically be measured as the shortest distance between opposite outside edges of oppositely directed vanes 43 . If no two vanes 43 are precisely oppositely directed, an approximation will suffice.
- the vane axial length X will be less than the vane outer size Y. Typically and preferably the vane axial length X will be no greater than 0.7 times the vane outer size. In an example such as that described, the axial length is typically less than 0.5, and usually less than 0.3, times, the vane outer size.
- the total precleaner axial length Z, FIG. 1 is less than the vane outer size Y, FIG. 5 .
- the dimension Z i.e., axial length of the precleaner
- the precleaner axial length Z is the distance between dirty inlet 40 and clean air exit 38 b ends of the precleaner structure, disregarding the outlet skirt 38 .
- a dimension of interest is dimension T which reflects the distance between the entry to the precleaner 40 , and the innermost extension of skirt 38 a , i.e. the exit point from inner region 95 of precleaner 1 , of clean air in the direction of arrow 21 .
- the blade axial dimension X is less than dimension T, often it is less than 0.6 times T, typically less than 0.5 times T.
- each air deflection vane 43 has first and second opposite surfaces 85 , 86 .
- surface 85 will be considered to be the surface directed toward the inlet end 40 of the precleaner arrangement 1 , FIG. 5 , thus surface 85 faces the viewer, from the view point of FIG. 5 .
- Surface 86 will be considered to be the opposite surface from surface 85 , i.e., the surface directed toward the outlet end 87 , FIG. 1 , of the precleaner 1 .
- surface 85 is an outside or upstream surface, with respect to air flow into precleaner 1 , i.e., into vane assembly 30 .
- Surface 86 FIG. 6 , is an opposite, inside or downstream, surface, for each vane 43 .
- Surface 85 is an impact surface for air entering the precleaner 1 , in the direction of arrow 39 , to be diverted into a circular, cyclonic or coiled air flow.
- upstream surface 85 of each vane 43 is somewhat concave or scooped shaped.
- the overall radius of curvature for each can be within the range of about five to twelve inches, although alternatives are possible.
- opposite surface 86 of each vane 43 has an approximately opposite convex shape.
- the swirling motion 90 will allow the air to enter region 95 , FIG. 6 , of the precleaner arrangement 1 , with a circular or cyclonic momentum. This will cause centrifugal separation of at least a portion of selected entrained material, with eventual ejection through down tube 36 .
- the smaller diameter of air cleaner outlet skirt 38 , FIG. 6 , at the precleaner outlet 57 , relative to side wall section 55 , and the extension of skirt 38 inwardly to housing 50 , spaced therefrom to form space 35 a helps ensure that the separated material does not re-entrain to an undesirable extent as the air exits the precleaner, FIG. 6 , in the direction of arrow 21 .
- adjacent vanes 43 do not overlap.
- edge 79 of each vane is spaced from a next adjacent tail, downstream, edge 80 of a next adjacent vane 43 , by a space corresponding to a projection angle A of at least about 17°, typically at least 20°, usually within the range of 20° to 30°, and typically not more than 35°.
- projection angle A is meant to refer to the angle viewable from the orientation of FIG. 3 , i.e., toward an upstream surface of the precleaner vanes 43 . It is meant to be a reference to the angle as projected in such a plane, as viewed FIG. 3 .
- the issue of whether the vanes 43 overlap, or provide an angle A of the type defined is an issue of design parameters relating, for example, to: (a) an overall restriction level acceptable for operation of the precleaner 1 in use; (b) the efficiency of separation desired, for the air cleaner, under some defined operation parameters; and, (c) ease of construction.
- design parameters relating, for example, to: (a) an overall restriction level acceptable for operation of the precleaner 1 in use; (b) the efficiency of separation desired, for the air cleaner, under some defined operation parameters; and, (c) ease of construction.
- the provision of a space corresponding to angle A provides for less restriction, than in its absence.
- a variety of configurations are possible.
- the particular vane assembly 51 depicted includes a vane configuration adjustment arrangement to allow for the adjustment in the angle across the air flow of one of more air deflection vanes 43 , as air flow is increased.
- FIG. 8 the downstream view of vane assembly 51 is depicted.
- air would be exiting vane arrangement 51 in the general direction of arrow 91 .
- the air would be in a swirling pattern.
- the positions 110 , 111 shown are meant to exemplify principles of operation.
- the specific position taken by vane piece 108 will be a matter of design choice, based upon both efficiency of operation parameters and restriction parameters, desired for the two extreme positions. It is meant that it be understood that member 108 can flex as air flow increases, thus opening vane structure 30 to air flow there through, and offering lower restriction. Of course a price for this lower restriction, under high flow operating conditions, is less efficiency of operation for the precleaner 1 .
- a change in configuration of an air deflection vane 43 to educe the extent to which it is directed across air flow in the direction of arrow 3 a , FIG. 7 will result in: (a) reduction in efficiency of the precleaner; and, (b) reduction in restriction offered by the vane arrangement 30 to inlet air flow.
- a vane configuration adjustment arrangement is provided that allows for an automatic, designed, level of adjustment in the configuration of one or more selected vanes relative to inlet air flow, in response to anticipated air flow rate increase.
- the particular vane angle adjustment arrangement depicted was developed in response to a need for a precleaner efficiency of at least 50%, typically at least 60%, for example 65% at 350 cfm operation, with preferably no greater than 6′′ water restriction increase (from the 350 cfm restriction) at 900 cfm operation, within a space of limited dimensions, in particular one in which the axial length of the precleaner blades or vanes would need to be less than the vane outer size of the vane construction.
- efficiency is meant to be precleaner dust efficiency when measured by SAE Standard J726C.
- the arrangement can be configured for a total restriction of the precleaner of ⁇ 1′′ of water at 350 cfm and no more than 7′′ of water, at 900 cfm, while still achieving at least 60% efficiency when measured by SAE Standard J726C.
- the vane configuration adjustment arrangement is automatic. That is, it is designed for adjustment in vane configuration in direct response to selected air flow rate increases.
- one or more of the air deflection vanes 43 can be constructed to be adjustable in configuration, according to the principles of the present disclosure. Whether one of the vanes 43 is constructed to offer this, more than one of the vanes, or all of the vanes, is a matter of choice. It is anticipated that in a typical application, all of the vanes 43 will be constructed to be adjustable in configuration, however there is no requirement of this in all practices of the principles disclosed herein. In general, any air deflection vane which is constructed to be adjustable in configuration, in response to air flow, can be termed herein to be an “adjustable air deflection vane” or by similar terminology.
- the adjustable air deflection vanes are constructed, as indicated below, by providing at least a portion of the vane of a flexible, deflectable, material.
- the material is “deflectable” it is the method the material can distort or bend in configuration, in response to pressure there against. A preferred arrangement for accomplishing this, is indicated.
- FIG. 9 The construction of vane 105 is shown in cross-section, in FIG. 9 ; FIG. 9 being taken along the cross-sectional line 9 - 9 , FIGS. 5 and 11 .
- vane 105 comprises at least two components: (a) a rigid structural piece 107 ; and, (b) a flexible member 108 .
- vane 105 is depicted as it would appear under conditions of no air flow and also under a relatively low, flow rate, for preferred efficiency precleaner operation.
- the configuration of vane 105 FIGS. 5 and 9 , will be characterized as a “first” orientation, position or configuration.
- first orientation, position or configuration reference is generally meant to the configuration which the corresponding vane, in this instance vane 105 , takes when there is no air flow through the precleaner 1 .
- flexible member 108 is also shown under a normal low flow rate or no flow rate position; in a first orientation or position.
- Position 111 shown in phantom, depicts a high flow rate position for flexible member 108 . That is, the material of the flexible member 108 is selected such that end 80 can bend (distort or deflect) in the direction of air flow, as air flow is increased.
- the vane 105 can be constructed such that position 110 generally indicates the flexible member 108 configuration under an air flow rate of 350 cfm, or less and, such that position 111 generally indicates the configuration taken by flexible member 108 under a flow rate of 900 cfm.
- configuration 110 would be a first orientation, position or configuration for vane 105
- configuration 111 would be a second orientation, position or configuration, for vane 105 .
- FIG. 9 depicts a particular convenient construction for the vane 105 .
- rigid structure 107 is positioned adjacent upstream edge 79 of the vane 105 .
- rigid structure 107 has an upstream edge 107 a and a downstream edge 107 b .
- rigid structure 107 includes a beveled edge 107 c , to advantage. The beveling is from tip 107 b toward upstream side 107 d of structure 107 .
- upstream when used in connection with characterizations of the vanes 43 or their precleaner assembly 1 , is meant to refer to a portion of the referenced structure which is most toward the inlet end 40 of the precleaner 1 .
- downstream when the term “downstream” is used in reference to any portion of vanes 43 , vane structure 30 or precleaner 1 , reference is meant to the portion furthest from upstream edge 40 , or closest to downstream edge 38 b.
- the vane structure 30 comprises seven adjustable air deflection vanes 43 .
- each vane 43 has a two piece construction including a rigid structural piece analogous to rigid structural piece 107 and a flexible, bendable, member or portion analogous to flexible member 108 .
- the specific shape of each rigid structural piece and each flexible member may differ from the precise shape of piece 107 and member 108 , for vane 105 .
- the general structure, with a rigid structural section and a flexible member will be analogous.
- FIG. 8 is a view of vane structure 30 toward a downstream side 115 .
- Vane 105 is viewable, then, from the backside (or downstream side) relative to the view point of FIG. 7 .
- Rigid structural piece 107 and flexible member 108 are thus viewable. Indeed the rigid structural pieces 116 for each of the vanes 43 can be viewed.
- the side wall 60 , mounting flange 61 , center piece 65 and rigid structural pieces 116 can be molded integrally as a one piece construction from a plastic material such as polypropylene.
- the flexible members 117 will comprise pieces of thermoplastic elastomer, for example Santoprene. Typically they will be chosen from materials having a durometer of 45-85 Shore A, typically 50-6 Shore A, inclusive.
- the convenient one would be to use a two shot molding technique.
- typically the polypropylene plastic resin would first be injected into the mold to eventually form all rigid structure, including rigid portions 107 .
- a top portion of the mold could be switched to provide for a second shot molding by injecting the plastic elastomer into the mold, for the flexible vane portions 108 . This would cause a binding of flexible portions to the rigid portions of the structure, without an extra step or use of adhesive.
- FIG. 11 is an enlarged plan view of vane structure 30 . It is important that a portion of each flexible member 117 be left in a position such that it can bend, in general accord with FIG. 10 , under increased flow.
- point 120 shows the most downstream edge of the rigid structural member, behind flexible member 108 . This downstream edge corresponds to edge 107 b , FIG. 9 . From this location, to point 121 , a small gap 122 is provided between piece 108 and side wall 60 . A gap on the order of about 0.1-0.8 mm., will be sufficient, although larger ones could be used in some systems.
- portion 125 of flexible member 108 is a flexible, outside or perimeter, downstream ear that can bend away from the viewer in FIG. 11 , under increased air pressure against surface 126 .
- the flexible material used for the flexible member 117 is chosen with a memory (or memory bias) such that, as air flow rate is reduced, or air flow rate is stopped, it will tend to return to its first orientation position or configuration.
- a memory or memory bias
- each vane has a similar construction.
- the corresponding rigid structural member (out of view) terminates at a downstream edge 131 .
- the flexible member 132 is not secured to rim 30 in extension between point 131 and edge 133 .
- flexible member 132 can bend in region 134 , away from the viewer (i.e., downstream) like an outside ear, at this location.
- point 141 indicates the downstream end of the corresponding rigid structural member.
- the flexible member 142 then, can bend, away from the viewer, like an outside ear at a location between point 141 and point 143 , i.e., in region 144 since it is not secured to rim 60 in this location.
- the downstream most point for the rigid structural member is located at 156 , and thus the flexible member 157 can bend like an ear, in region 158 away from the viewer, between point 156 and point 159 .
- the downstream most point of the rigid structural member is indicated at 161 , and thus flexible member 162 can bend like an ear in region 163 , away from the viewer, between point 161 and point 164 , since a gap is provided between the flexible member 162 and the rim 60 , along this location.
- the point at downstream position for the rigid structural member is indicated at 167 .
- the flexible member 168 can flex or bend like an ear, in region 169 , away from the viewer, between point 167 and point 170 , since member 168 is not secured to rim 60 along this extension.
- the flexible members are secured to the hub 65 .
- the vanes adopt a first position, configuration or orientation.
- the first orientation and stiffness of the flexible member will be chosen, to provide for a preferred level of precleaner efficiency at selected flow rates.
- the material from which the flexible portions of the vanes are made will also be chosen, such that the air flow increases beyond a selected point, the flexible portions will tend to bend downstream, opening the precleaner air flow for less increase in restriction but also with less efficiency of precleaner performance.
- the air flow again reduces, the memory of the flexible material will return the flexible material toward the first orientation, thus increasing the efficiency of the precleaner.
- the vane angle adjustment arrangement discussed in Section IV above can be applied in a variety of precleaners. Further, the precleaners can be used with a variety of air cleaners. In FIGS. 3 and 4 , a particular air cleaner arrangement is depicted, as an example. Attention is directed to FIG. 4 , with respect to various air cleaner features.
- reference numeral 11 indicates the primary filter element which, periodically, is removed and refurbished or replaced, i.e., serviced.
- the particular filter element 11 depicted utilizes z-filter media.
- Z-filter media is generally configured for straight through flow from a most upstream face 195 to a most downstream 196 .
- the media typically comprises an arrangement of corrugated media secured to flat media, and then stacked or coiled (sometimes with a center core, not shown) to form a plurality of flutes.
- One set of flutes (inlet flutes) is open at the upstream face 195 and closed at the downstream face 196 ; and, a second set of flutes (outlet flutes) is closed at the upstream face 195 and open at the downstream face 196 .
- the air to be filtered can enter the inlet set of flutes, but in order to exit the element 11 it must pass through the media and into the outlet flutes.
- FIG. 13 A fragmentary schematic view of useable z-filter media is indicated at FIG. 13 , at 300 .
- media 300 has an upstream edge 301 and a downstream edge 302 , corresponding to faces 195 and 196 , FIG. 4 .
- the media 300 comprises a corrugated piece 303 secured to a facing sheet 304 , to define flutes 305 therebetween.
- the media is coiled around itself, to create multiple layers.
- the media is formed inlet flutes 307 and exit flutes 308 .
- the exit flutes 308 are sealed closed, at or adjacent the upstream edge 301 .
- the inlet flutes 307 would be sealed closed adjacent downstream edge 302 .
- General indication of air flow direction in use, is provided at arrow 310 .
- the flutes can be provided with a variety of individual shapes, and which a variety of types of closures at the opposite ends 301 , 302 .
- the material 300 depicted in FIG. 3 is meant to generally indicate a typical example of z-filter media.
- precleaners according to the present disclosure can be applied in constructions which utilize primary filter elements involving media other than z-filter media.
- the particular precleaner depicted is conveniently applied with a z-filter, because with a z-filter arrangement the air flow does not make a 90° turn in flow, while from the inlet flow direction to the outlet flow direction, for the element.
- z-filter media is provided with, opposite, planar upstream or downstream faces, analogous to faces 195 , 196 .
- alternate configurations are possible, in which one of the other faces is step or conical, or is slanted.
- precleaners according to the present characterization can be used when air cleaners are adapted to receive filter elements with such configurations.
- Z-filter media constructions can also be arranged in a variety of perimeter shapes. For example they can be coiled into shapes having a circular outer perimeter, or can be coiled into shapes having a race track perimeter comprising two curved sections separated by two straight sections.
- a circular shape construction is shown for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,291 at FIG. 1 .
- a race track shape arrangement is shown for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,291 at FIG. 10 .
- Still other configurations are possible.
- the preferred features of the precleaner 1 characterized above, can be adapted for application with a variety of air cleaner housings having media constructions, z-filter or otherwise, shaped in a variety of perimeter shapes.
- Filter constructions can be sealed to housings in a variety of manners.
- a gasket material is secured at some location to the z-filter construction, either directly or indirectly.
- directly in this context, it is meant that the seal is secured directly to the media.
- indirectly it is meant that the gasket material secured to some structure which is itself secured to the media.
- FIG. 4 shows an example.
- a seal at 198 is secured to a framework 199 which is itself secured to the media 200 .
- the particular air cleaner housing 4 depicted in FIG. 7 is constructed for “side load” or “side service.” That is, element 11 is inserted (or dismounted) through a side of housing 5 , by passage through an opening made available by removal of access cover 6 .
- the element 11 is provided with an end piece 205 , at upstream end 195 , which is positioned engage a cam or ramp structure, to drive the element in the direction of arrow 207 , and thus into sealing engagement, when installed.
- Side mounting arrangements are described, for example, in PCT application number US03/14350, filed May 8, 2003 in which claimed priority to U.S. provisional application 60/379,824 which was filed on May 9, 2002 entitled “Filter Arrangements, Side-Entry Housings; and Methods,” is made.
- the referenced application is incorporated herein by reference.
- a connector is depicted attached to the precleaner assembly 1 .
- the connector 214 allows for attachment to various vehicle framework or similar structure.
- vane 142 includes a notch 215 therein, to accommodate the connector 214 .
- the precleaner 1 can be separately assembled from the remainder of the air cleaner housing, and can be secured to the air cleaner housing by mounting projections 220 .
- a friction fit or snap-fitted arrangement can be used.
- an adhesive or sonic weld can be used.
- a gasket or seal ring can be provided, between the precleaner 1 and main air cleaner housing 4 .
- a seal at this location will be required.
- the axial length of the precleaner would be about 100 mm., for example 101.2 mm.; dimension X of the perimeter dimension of the vanes 43 , would be about 190 mm., for example 192.8 mm.; referring to FIG. 4 , the projected axial length of the main air cleaner 4 between points 400 and 401 would be about 196 mm.; and, the projected axial distance between points 401 and 402 would be about 145 mm., for example 145.5 mm.
- the projected axial distance between points 405 , 406 would be about 27 mm., for example 27.2 mm., with the rim 61 being less than 2 mm., thick, for example about 1.8 mm. thick.
- the thickness of region 110 between points 412 and 413 , would be less than 1 mm., for example about 0.7 mm.
- the thickness in region 413 , of the flexible material of axial vane piece 108 would be about 1 mm.
- Flexible member 108 includes two sections: (a) an upstream section 108 a which, in the example, extends to overlap with rigid structural piece 107 on an upstream side; and, a downstream bendable section 108 b , which extends from beveled section tip 107 b of rigid piece 107 to downstream edge 80 , of vane 105 .
- the particular section 108 b depicted has a beveled end 108 c .
- beveled section 108 c is beveled from the downstream tip 108 d toward upstream side 85 of piece 108 .
- the overall dimensions to the precleaner would be about 4 inches to 20 inches in an outside dimension, approximating diameter is not round; and about 2 inches to 10 inches in length; typically about 6 inches to 12 inches in approximate outside diameter by about 3 inches to 6 inches in length.
- the precleaner arrangement can be constructed for separating a portion of entrained material, such as dust or moisture, from air entering an air stream of an air cleaner.
- the precleaner arrangement would include a vane structure arrangement having at least a first adjustable air deflection vane.
- the first adjustable air deflection vane would have a flexible portion deflectable from a first orientation or position toward, and in some instances to, a second orientation or position.
- the flexible portion would have a memory bias toward the first orientation.
- the flexible portion would be configured to deflect toward the second orientation or position, in response to sufficient air flow increase through the precleaner arrangement in use.
- the term “memory bias” is meant to refer to a characteristic of the flexible material which tends to cause it to return to its rest or first orientation.
- the vane structure would include a plurality of adjustable air deflection vanes positioned around a central hub. Preferably a single hub, with a set of vanes therearound, would be in the vane structure arrangement.
- each adjustable air deflection vane would be analogous to the first adjustable air deflection vane, although variations and specific vane shape may be used to accommodate different shapes of vane structures. Vane structures having outer circular perimeters, or obround perimeters, or a variety of alternate shapes, are possible.
- each adjustable air deflection vane includes a flexible member and a rigid structural member.
- the vane structure arrangement includes at least three adjustable air deflection vanes, typically 5-15 such vanes.
- the vane structure has a first axial vane length X and a first vane perimeter size Y, with a precleaner being configured such that X is less than Y.
- a precleaner is configured such as X is less than 0.7 times Y. Indeed it can be configured such that X is less than 0.3 Y.
- the arrangement is constructed such that the perimeter length X is less than an axial length Z of the precleaner, typically less than 0.8 Z and preferably less than 0.6 Z.
- the vanes are configured to have an outer, downstream, flexible ear portion not supported by any rigid structure, which can bend downstream to open up the precleaner to air flow, under increased air flow rates.
- the precleaner arrangement can be adapted for incorporation in a variety of air cleaners, using a variety of types of elements. It is particularly well configured to be incorporated within an air cleaner that utilizes, as the primary air filter element, filter element having z-type media with an upstream face directed toward the vane arrangement of the precleaner.
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Abstract
A precleaner arrangement for use in separating a portion of entrained material in air from air entering an air cleaner, is provided. The precleaner arrangement includes a vane structure positioned to direct air into a circular or cyclonic pattern, to facilitate material separation. The vane structure includes one or more adjustable air deflection vanes. Each adjustable air deflection vane is constructed: to have a first position under no air flow or low air flow rate conditions; and, to deflect to import a more open, lower restriction, orientation under increased air flow rates. Preferred precleaner arrangement constructions, assemblies utilizing in the precleaner arrangement and methods are described.
Description
- The present disclosure relates to air filtration. A typical application is in air cleaner arrangements to be used for air filtration, for example filtration of intake air for internal combustion engines. The invention particularly concerns advantageous features of precleaner assemblies for air cleaner arrangements, which provide for a precleaning of dust or other material from the air, prior to the air being passed through filter media within an air cleaner.
- Gas streams often carry material entrained (for example dust or moisture) therein. In many instances, it is desirable to remove some or all of the entrained material from a gas flow stream. For example, air intake streams to engines for motorized vehicles, construction equipment or for power generation equipment, often include moisture or particulate material therein. The particulate material, should it reach the internal workings of the various mechanisms involved, can cause substantial damage thereto. The moisture can also damage equipment. It is therefore preferred, for such systems, to reduce the level of particulate material and moisture in the gas flow upstream of the engine or other equipment involved. A variety of air filter arrangements have been developed for such removal. In general, however, continued improvements are sought.
- According to the present disclosure an adjustable air deflector vane structure or arrangement is provided, for use in precleaners for air cleaner assemblies. Typical precleaners would be used with air cleaner assemblies configured, for example, to filter engine intake air for vehicles, construction equipment, power generation equipment or similar equipment.
- The adjustable air deflection vane structure or arrangement comprises providing portions of at least one, and typically more than one, air deflection vane in a form which utilizes a flexible material to form at least a portion of the vane surface, with each vane being mounted so that the flexible portion can bend or deflect (deform) in a downstream direction with selected increases in air flow, during use. The flexible material is preferably chosen to have an appropriate memory, so that as the air flow rate reduces, the vane tends to return to its normal, non-deflected, position, configuration or orientation.
- Such vane structures can be utilized to configure and construct preferred precleaner arrangements that: provide for a desirable level of efficiency of operation at relatively low air flow rates; and, provide for a preferred opening to reduce restriction increase, under higher air flow conditions.
- Examples of dimensions, configurations and materials are provided, to indicate various ways in which the principles can be implemented. Also according to the present disclosure, methods of assembly and use are provided. In addition, an example of an air cleaner assembly, utilizing such a precleaner, is provided.
-
FIG. 1 is an enlarged side elevational view of a precleaner arrangement according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is a side view of an air cleaner assembly having a precleaner arrangement according toFIG. 1 mounted thereon. -
FIG. 3 is an end view of the arrangement depicted inFIG. 2 ,FIG. 3 being a view toward an inlet end of the precleaner arrangement. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly, taken generally along line 4-4,FIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged end view of the precleaner arrangement ofFIG. 1 ,FIG. 5 being viewed toward the air inlet end. -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6,FIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is an outside perspective view of a component of the precleaner depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 8 is an inside perspective view of the component depicted inFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a vane component of the precleaner assembly, taken along lines 9-9,FIGS. 5 and 11 . -
FIG. 10 is a view of the component shown inFIG. 9 , with phantom lines indicating a second vane orientation. -
FIG. 11 is a front view of the component depicted inFIGS. 7 and 8 . -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the air cleaner arrangement depicted inFIG. 2 , the perspective view showing a portion of the inlet end. -
FIG. 13 is an enlarged, fragmentary, view of z-filter media useable in the air cleaner assembly ofFIG. 4 . - The
reference numeral 1,FIG. 1 , depicts a precleaner arrangement according to the present disclosure. InFIG. 2 , theprecleaner arrangement 1 is depicted comprising a component of an overallair cleaner assembly 3. Theassembly 3 also includesmain air cleaner 4, as discussed below. - Referring to
FIG. 3 , theair cleaner assembly 3 is of the type typically used for filtering engine intake air for internal combustion engines. For example, theair cleaner assembly 3 can comprise an air cleaner for use with a vehicles such as trucks or tractors. As an example, the precleaner could be used with class 2-class 4 trucks, such as pickup trucks, SUVs, tow trucks, and delivery trucks, although many other applications are possible. - In general, such air cleaners include a
housing 5 having, positioned therein, a serviceable air filter or air filter element, not shown inFIG. 2 . By the term “serviceable” in this context, it is meant that the air filter element can be removed, to be refurbished or to be replaced. In general, to accommodate this, thehousing 5 is provided with an access panel or cover, in this instance indicated at 6, which can be removed from aremainder 7 of thehousing 5, for access to the interior, by loosening of bolts 7 a (one bolt not being viewable inFIG. 1 , seeFIG. 3 ). - In typical operation, air enters
air cleaner 3 by entrance intoprecleaner 1 in the direction of arrow 3 a. Air exits through outlet 3 b in the direction of arrow 3 c, to be directed to an engine intake manifold, or other equipment structure. - The
air cleaner assembly 3 can be mounted on the equipment, byposts 3 d. - Typically, serviceable air filter elements comprise media through which the air to be filtered is passed, in use. The media captures or traps a portion of particulate contaminant, such as dust or ash, carried within the air. The service interval is generally related to the time of operation it takes for the filter element to become sufficiently loaded with dust or other material such that the restriction across the air filter element, and thus across the air cleaner, is undesirably increased. That is, as material is loaded onto the filter element during the filtering operation, restriction across the air filter increases. Generally, the service interval is recommended by the engine manufacturer or vehicle manufacturer to occur at a point in time prior to an undesirable restriction having been reached. This service interval can be defined, for example, by hours of operation or miles of operation for the equipment involved.
- The
particular air cleaner 3 depicted inFIG. 2 , includes thereon arestriction indicator 8. Therestriction indicator 8 can be configured to indicate when the restriction across the air filter has reached a point that service is required or is recommended. - Some air cleaners are provided with precleaners. A precleaner is an arrangement that allows for separation of a portion of dust or other material entrained within the air to be cleaned, prior to the air passing through the serviceable air filter element. Precleaners generally operate by imparting a circular, cyclonic or coiled momentum to the incoming air, and the entrained material, as opposed to passage of the air through a filter media. This circular (cyclonic or coiled) momentum causes a deposition of a portion of the entrained material from the air flow, before the air is transferred into a region of the air cleaner assembly that includes the serviceable filter element. Precleaners of this type are described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,241; 6,039,778; and 5,401,285, all three of the identified patents being incorporated herein by reference. For the types of systems described in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,454,241 and 6,039,778 patents, the precleaner comprises an arrangement which drives inlet air to the air cleaner into a cyclonic flow around the serviceable filter element, combined with a drop tube for ejection of the material separated by the precleaner from the system.
- For the type of air cleaner described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,401,285, the precleaner comprises a panel of individual dust separator tubes, each of which provides for some separation prior to air entry into the main body of the air cleaner which includes the serviceable element(s). A variety of separator tubes of this type are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,008,059; 4,050,913; 4,289,611; 3,448,563; 3,713,280; 4,985,058; 4,976,748; 5,403,367; and 5,480,464; all nine of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- Another example of a precleaner including a plurality of separator tubes is provided in PCT application number PCT/US03/10258 filed Jul. 18, 2003. In this example, the precleaner arrangement, including separator tubes, a down flow tube and an evacuator valve, is positioned upstream of a main air cleaner which includes therein a serviceable filter element comprising z-filter media.
- Precleaners generally provide for some restriction to air flow. A reason for this is that ramps or vanes (sometimes called blades or fins) which divert the air into a circular (cyclonic or coiled) pattern generally need to be positioned in extension across the direction of inlet air flow, to impart the desired circular (cyclonic or coiled) momentum to the flow. This causes restriction.
- With some prior art types of precleaners that use a separate precleaner with a vane or blade arrangement for separation, prior to the air being directed into or around the serviceable element, the vane or blade systems used to impart the circular momentum, have a vane axial length which is greater than a corresponding vane outer size. In this context the term “vane axial length” in this context is meant to refer to the length of distance, axially, i.e., in the axial direction of air flow over which the blades extend. An example of vane axial length will be described for
precleaner 1, and drawings below. - In the context of the definition in the previous paragraph the term “vane outer size” is meant to refer to a length corresponding to a smallest distance between opposite outer edges of oppositely directed portions of the vane structure. An example of this will also be described in connection with
precleaner 1, below. - Examples of precleaners with vane arrangements in which the vane axial length is greater than the vane outer size, are provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,480,464 and 4,976,748, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The volume of the space needed for the air cleaner, in a vehicle, is in part a function of the specification for operation of the engine, i.e., the amount of air flow expected for proper engine operation and the length of service interval required, for the serviceable filter element. Larger serviceable filter elements will occlude slower. However, larger serviceable filter elements require more space. Especially with vehicles in which the air cleaner is to be contained under the hood or within an engine compartment, available space may be severely limited. This leads to limitation on the size and shape of space available for containing the air cleaner.
- It should be apparent that maximizing the size of the serviceable filter element in many instances is desirable, to provide for increase in filter life with a reduction in restriction. However, of course, other componentry of the air cleaner must be managed. Ultimately, the amount of space available to accommodate vane axial length and outer size in a precleaner, may be somewhat limited.
- Another issue of concern to the vehicle manufacturers and engine manufacturers, is definition of: (a) restriction under certain operating conditions, and, (b) preferred precleaner efficiency under certain operating conditions. Typically, these definitions are provided with respect to some identified operating flow of air through the air cleaner. In some instances, for example, an engine or vehicle manufacturer may define the desired efficiency for a precleaner when the air flow demand is at some desired rate, for example, 350 cfm. (cubic feet per minute), and couple it with another specification for a defined total restriction not to be surpassed when the engine is operated at a higher air flow rate, for example, 900 cfm. Precleaner efficiency and restriction for dust can be defined, for example, according to SAE Standard J726C.
- Attention is now directed to
FIG. 3 .FIG. 3 is an end view of the aircleaner assembly 3 depicted inFIG. 2 . InFIG. 3 , the view point is toward an air inlet end for theprecleaner 1. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the aircleaner assembly 3, taken along line 4-4,FIG. 3 . - Referring to
FIG. 4 , the aircleaner assembly 3 comprisesprecleaner 1 and amain air cleaner 4.Main air cleaner 4 compriseshousing 5 having anaccess cover 6, which is selectively removable from aremainder 7 of thehousing 5. Thehousing 5 can be mounted in position (in equipment for use) by post(s) 3 d. - The
housing 5 defines an interior 10, in which is operably placed a removable and replaceable, i.e., serviceable,primary filter element 11. - In operation, air enters the air
cleaner assembly 3 by flow in the direction of arrow 3 a intoprecleaner 1. The air then passes into themain air cleaner 4 throughinlet end 20, in the direction ofarrow 21. The air then passes through themain filter element 11 and outwardly through outlet 3 b. Theregion 25 defines a clean air plenum, into which air cannot pass until it has been filtered. - In some applications, a secondary or safety filter element may be positioned between the
primary filter element 11 and theclean air plenum 25. Examples of secondary or safety elements of this type, for such applications, are described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,221,122 and 6,179,890, incorporated herein by reference. Of course, thehousing 5 would need to be configured to accommodate such a secondary or safety filter element. - Referring again to
FIG. 4 , within theprecleaner 1,vane structure 30 imparts circular, (i.e., coiled or cyclonic) momentum to the air flow. This cyclonic momentum will cause at least a portion of material entrained within the air, to be directed againstinner surface 35 of theprecleaner 1. A portion of this dust, moisture, or other material will eventually be ejected through slot 36 a intodown tube 36 andevacuation valve 37. Down tubes and evacuation valves similar in construction to downtube 36 andevacuation valve 37 are known and are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,241 and 6,039,778 and PCT application PCT/US03/10258 filed Jul. 18, 2003; all three of these references being incorporated herein by reference. - To facilitate separation of entrained material from the air,
air cleaner 3 is provided with anexit skirt 38 at ajunction 39 between theprecleaner 1 and themain air cleaner 4. In this instance, theskirt 38 comprises a portion of theprecleaner 1; however it could be constructed as a portion of themain air cleaner 4. Theskirt 38 has an inlet end 38 a and an exit end 38 b; the inlet end 38 a having a smaller cross-sectional size than the interior defined bywall 35 in the same region. This defines a space 35 a between theskirt 38 andwall 35, in which a portion of the entrained material will be driven, during this particular cyclonic flow. The relatively narrow inlet 38 a ensures that air passing in the direction ofarrow 21 will be reduced in amount of entrained material, by comparison to air entering theprecleaner 1 in the direction of arrow 3 a. - In some applications,
skirt 38 will define a circular opening 38 a, even thoughwall 35 may define a non-circular outer wall; however,skirt 38 is not required to define a circular opening 38 a. Typically skirt 38 a will define a cross-sectional opening having an area no more than 85%, and typically no more than 70% of an area corresponding to a cross-sectional area defined byinner wall 35. Preferably skirt 38 will extend intoprecleaner 1, and alongwall 35, a distance of at least 0.5 inch, typically at least 0.75 inch. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , the most inward projection of skirt 38 a is viewed extending about one-half of the extension across slot 36 a. Typically and preferably, slot 36 a will extend from edge 36 b no further than the edge of skirt 38 a. Thus, the slot 36 a depicted inFIG. 6 is longer than preferred. Most preferably the slot would extend only from point 36 b to aboutpoint 36 c. - Attention is now directed to
FIG. 3 , in which thevane structure 30 is generally shown atinlet end 40 of precleaner 1 (corresponding to inlet end 9 of air cleaner assembly 3). Thevane structure 30 generally comprises one or more individual air deflection vanes 43. The particular number of air deflection vanes in any given precleaner, is a matter of choice based upon desired operation. It is anticipated that, typically, preferred precleaners according to the present disclosure for use with engines rated for operation at about 150 cfm to 1500 cfm (typically 300 cfm to 900 cfm), will include at least threevanes 43, typically at least fivevanes 43, and usually a number of vanes within the range of three to fifteen (usually five to ten), inclusive. The particular example shown, includes seven (7)vanes 43. - Herein, the
vanes 43 will be sometimes referenced as air deflection vanes, since their intended operation is to deflect incoming air in the direction of arrow 3 a,FIG. 4 , into a circular (cyclonic or coiled) pattern within theprecleaner 1. For the particular arrangement depicted,FIG. 3 , thevanes 43 are positioned to direct the air into a counter-clockwise flow pattern viewed from the perspective ofFIG. 3 . Of course an opposite flow pattern could be accommodated. - A variety of different specific configurations can be used for the air deflection blades or
vanes 43. Typically each vane will extend at an angle relative to a plane perpendicular (or orthogonal) to the direction of air flow into the precleaner. There is no requirement that the vanes be perfectly flat, and indeed as described below, preferred blades orair deflection vanes 43 may have some curvature to them. - Referring to
FIG. 9 , discussed in detail below, cross-section of thevanes 43 is depicted. The angle of the vane, relative to a plane Q perpendicular to air inlet flow, is different at theinlet edge 79 than at theexit edge 80. At theinlet edge 79, this angle would be greater than at theexit edge 80, for typical curved vanes. At theinlet edge 79, the angle, represented at approximately by angle R, is typically within the range of 25° to 45°. Atexit end 9, the angle, represented by angle S, is typically the range of 5° to 15°. - It is noted that the precleaner portion of arrangements such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,241 and 6,039,778 mentioned above, is located such that the ramp arrangement that causes the air to adopt a cyclonic or swirl pattern, actually surrounds a portion of the replaceable (serviceable) filter element, and is included within the same compartment that contains the serviceable filter element, spaced from the element by a shield. The type of
precleaner 1 that is described in connection with the figures of the present disclosure, is positioned such that the swirl arrangement does not surround the serviceable filter element, and indeed such that separation occurs before the air even enters the region of theair cleaner 3 in which theserviceable filter cartridge 11 is located. - It is also noted, referring to
FIG. 3 , that for theprecleaner 1 depicted, arrangement is provided in which all of thevanes 43 are positioned to circumscribe a single circular hub. Although the principles described herein could be applied in other arrangements, they are particularly well adapted for such a configuration. In many prior art precleaners, for example one such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,367 atFIG. 3 , a plurality of separators and thus a plurality of center hubs, each of which has a vane structure surrounding it, are provided. - Attention is now directed to
FIGS. 1, 5 , 6, 7 and 8.FIG. 1 , is a side elevational view ofprecleaner 1. InFIG. 5 , an end view ofprecleaner arrangement 1 is depicted.FIG. 6 comprises a cross-sectional view of theprecleaner arrangement 1 taken generally along line 6-6,FIG. 5 .FIGS. 7 and 8 are opposite side perspective views of a component of theprecleaner 1. Herein,FIG. 7 will sometimes be referred to as a “outside,” or “upstream side” view of a vane structure portion of aprecleaner 1, according to the present disclosure. This is because the view point ofFIG. 7 is toward an outside surface of the vane structure, and toward a surface toward which air directed into theprecleaner 1 flows. - The view point of
FIG. 8 , on the other hand, is sometimes referred to as an “inside” or “downstream side” view of the vane structure ofprecleaner 1, since it is directed toward a portion which is typically inside an air cleaner in use, and which is a side from which the air exits the main structure arrangement, in use. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , theprecleaner arrangement 1 generally comprises anouter housing portion 50 havingvane structure 30 positioned therein. Theouter housing portion 50 generally comprisesouter perimeter wall 55 defininginlet end 40 andoutlet end 57. Theoutlet end 57 includes, positioned thereon,precleaner outlet skirt 38. - Also included in the
outer housing portion 50 is downtube 36, withevacuation valve 37 positioned thereon. - For the particular
preferred precleaner arrangement 1 depicted, thevane structure 30 comprises a separately formed vane assembly orcomponent 51 which is inserted within anend 58 ofouter housing part 50, during assembly, to formprecleaner 1. Thevane assembly 51 is depicted inFIGS. 7 and 8 . - Referring to
FIG. 7 , thevane assembly 51 comprises: outer sidewall orrim 60, mountingflange 61,vane structure 30 comprisingair deflection vanes 43; and,center hub 65. Theair deflection vanes 43 are mounted to extend from thecenter hub 65 toward aninside surface 60 a ofouter rim 60. - Typically, the
center hub 65 is impervious to passage of air therethrough.Vane structure 30, however, comprises a plurality of spacedvanes 43 that are spaced and configured to allow for air flow path between them. - The outer perimeter of the
rim 60 is shaped or configured to match an inside surface of thewall 55 of the outerwall housing part 50,FIG. 6 to forminlet end 40. The mountingflange 61 is configured to project radially outwardly fromside wall 60 sufficiently, so that it is positioned to engagewall 55 at an end 55 a,FIG. 6 , when a remainder of therim 60 is projected internally ofouter perimeter wall 55, during insertion ofvane structure 30 into theouter housing part 50, to assembleprecleaner 1. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , thevane assembly 51, for the preferred embodiment shown, includes (mounted projecting outwardly from rim 60), aninterference tab 68. For the particular arrangement shown, only asingle tab 68 is viewable. However, there would typically be two, oppositely directed,tabs 68 used. Eachtab 68 is configured with a forward directing cam surface 68 a, to facilitate snap-fit into a slot (not viewable) inwall 55 and to inhibit disassembly. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , theparticular precleaner 1 depicted does not have a perfectly circular outer perimeter. Rather, it comprises two curved sections 70, 71 each connected to two, opposite, straight sections 72, 73. For the particular arrangement shown, the two straight sections 72, 73 do not extend parallel to one another; and, section 71 has larger radius of curvature than section 70. - The specific outer perimeter configuration for the
precleaner assembly 1 is a matter of choice, within operating limits, for a given application. It will typically be selected, based upon the available space for installation of theprecleaner assembly 3 and the size needed for adequate air flow. Thus, for example, the precleaner (and thus the outer perimeter) can be circular; it can have the configuration of two curved sections of the same relative curvature radius, attached by two parallel straight sections; it can have an arrangement analogous to that shown inFIG. 5 ; or it can have another shape. The selection, again, is a matter of choice, within operating limits, depending on the circumstances. - For the
particular vane assembly 51 depicted, thecenter hub 65,FIG. 5 , is generally circular. Alternate shapes are possible. - For the particular embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 7 and 8 , thecenter hub 65 generally comprises a cup 65 a, having a base 65 b and a circular side wall 65 c,FIG. 7 . - Referring to
FIG. 5 , each one of thevanes 43 can be characterized as having an outer perimeter shape defined by four segments comprising: leadedge 79,tail edge 80,inner edge 81 andouter edge 82. There is no requirement that the outer perimeter of each one of thevanes 43 be identical to all of the others. Indeed, for the particular embodiment depicted, they are not. However typically in each case, each vane includes a lead orupstream edge 79, a tail ordownstream edge 80, a radiallyinner edge 81, and a radiallyouter edge 82. - Again, for
FIG. 5 , the view point for the viewer is toward theinlet end 40 of theprecleaner 1. Thelead edge 79 is the edge of eachvane 43, closest to the viewer, from the view point ofFIG. 5 , i.e., leadedge 79 is the edge of thevane 43 closest toinlet end 40. Thelead edge 79 can be characterized as the upstream edge, with respect to normal air flow in use. Thetail edge 80 of eachvane 43, is the edge furthest from the viewer for the view point ofFIG. 5 , i.e.,edge 80 is further fromend 40 thanedge 79.Edge 80 can also be characterized as the downstream edge. - The radially
inner edge 81 of each vane is the edgeadjacent center piece 65. The radiallyouter edge 82 for each vane is the opposite edge and isadjacent side wall 60. - Hereinabove, reference was made to the vane “axial length” of a vane system in a precleaner. In the example of
precleaner 30, the axial length would be the projected distance; i.e., distance projected in a plane or in the direction of arrow 30 a,FIG. 6 , between thelead edge 79 and thetail edge 80, of thevanes 43. The axial length is approximated inFIG. 6 , by dimension X. - Also, above, reference was made to the term “vane outer size.” Referring to
FIG. 5 , the vane outer size is generally the smallest or shortest distance between theouter edges 82 of two oppositely directeddeflector vanes 43. InFIG. 5 , the vane outer size is approximated by dimension Y. - Of course if the vanes were identical and configured in a circular pattern, the vane outer size would simply be a diameter of the circular vane outer perimeter. With an obround configuration such as that shown in
FIG. 5 , the vane perimeter size would typically be measured as the shortest distance between opposite outside edges of oppositely directedvanes 43. If no twovanes 43 are precisely oppositely directed, an approximation will suffice. - In general, in preferred precleaners according to the present disclosure, as indicated above, the vane axial length X will be less than the vane outer size Y. Typically and preferably the vane axial length X will be no greater than 0.7 times the vane outer size. In an example such as that described, the axial length is typically less than 0.5, and usually less than 0.3, times, the vane outer size.
- Indeed, as is apparent from a comparison of
FIG. 1, 5 and 6 the total precleaner axial length Z,FIG. 1 , is less than the vane outer size Y,FIG. 5 . It is an advantage of constructions according to the present disclosure, that such relative dimensions can be accommodated. Indeed in typical applications, the dimension Z, i.e., axial length of the precleaner, will be less than 0.8 times Y, typically less than 0.6 times the vane outer size Y. In this context, the precleaner axial length Z is the distance betweendirty inlet 40 and clean air exit 38 b ends of the precleaner structure, disregarding theoutlet skirt 38. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , a dimension of interest is dimension T which reflects the distance between the entry to theprecleaner 40, and the innermost extension of skirt 38 a, i.e. the exit point frominner region 95 ofprecleaner 1, of clean air in the direction ofarrow 21. In general, the blade axial dimension X is less than dimension T, often it is less than 0.6 times T, typically less than 0.5 times T. - To summarize, the principles described herein for preferred precleaner configurations, can be implemented in spaces that are of relatively short length (axial), with still achieving accomplishment of preferred operation.
- In general, each
air deflection vane 43 has first and secondopposite surfaces inlet end 40 of theprecleaner arrangement 1,FIG. 5 , thus surface 85 faces the viewer, from the view point ofFIG. 5 .Surface 86, will be considered to be the opposite surface fromsurface 85, i.e., the surface directed toward theoutlet end 87,FIG. 1 , of theprecleaner 1. - Alternately stated,
surface 85 is an outside or upstream surface, with respect to air flow intoprecleaner 1, i.e., intovane assembly 30.Surface 86,FIG. 6 , is an opposite, inside or downstream, surface, for eachvane 43.Surface 85 is an impact surface for air entering theprecleaner 1, in the direction ofarrow 39, to be diverted into a circular, cyclonic or coiled air flow. - For the particular arrangement shown,
FIG. 7 ,upstream surface 85 of eachvane 43 is somewhat concave or scooped shaped. The overall radius of curvature for each can be within the range of about five to twelve inches, although alternatives are possible. Also, in the particular embodiment shown, oppositesurface 86 of eachvane 43 has an approximately opposite convex shape. - The term “concave” or “scooped shaped” in the previous paragraph, in connection with
surface 85, is not meant to refer to any specific curvature, circular or otherwise, except to indicate thatsurface 85 tends to bend toward the upstream direction, in extension fromupstream edge 79 todownstream edge 80, for eachvane 43. The particular configuration is a matter of choice, for desired operating affects of thevanes 43 in causing the swirling action and restriction desired. For any given air cleaner for any conditions, it can be designed using modeling software such as FLUENT software available from Fluent Corp., Boston, Mass. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , as air flow occurs in the direction of arrow 3 a, it will encounter the air deflection vanes 43. The vanes will cause the air to begin to swirl in the direction ofarrows 90. Again, thevanes 43 are configured, so that this flow will generally be counter clockwise when thevane assembly 51 is viewed from the view point ofFIG. 7 . However, an opposite orientation is possible. - Because the
lead edge 79 of each vane is positioned upstream of the nextadjacent tail edge 90 of a next adjacent vane, the swirlingmotion 90 will allow the air to enterregion 95,FIG. 6 , of theprecleaner arrangement 1, with a circular or cyclonic momentum. This will cause centrifugal separation of at least a portion of selected entrained material, with eventual ejection throughdown tube 36. The smaller diameter of aircleaner outlet skirt 38,FIG. 6 , at theprecleaner outlet 57, relative toside wall section 55, and the extension ofskirt 38 inwardly tohousing 50, spaced therefrom to form space 35 a, helps ensure that the separated material does not re-entrain to an undesirable extent as the air exits the precleaner,FIG. 6 , in the direction ofarrow 21. - Referring to
FIG. 5 ,adjacent vanes 43, for the embodiment shown, do not overlap. Generally lead, upstream,edge 79 of each vane is spaced from a next adjacent tail, downstream,edge 80 of a nextadjacent vane 43, by a space corresponding to a projection angle A of at least about 17°, typically at least 20°, usually within the range of 20° to 30°, and typically not more than 35°. - Herein, in this context, the term “projection angle A” is meant to refer to the angle viewable from the orientation of
FIG. 3 , i.e., toward an upstream surface of theprecleaner vanes 43. It is meant to be a reference to the angle as projected in such a plane, as viewedFIG. 3 . - The issue of whether the
vanes 43 overlap, or provide an angle A of the type defined, is an issue of design parameters relating, for example, to: (a) an overall restriction level acceptable for operation of theprecleaner 1 in use; (b) the efficiency of separation desired, for the air cleaner, under some defined operation parameters; and, (c) ease of construction. In general, the provision of a space corresponding to angle A, provides for less restriction, than in its absence. However, a variety of configurations are possible. - The presence or absence of a space corresponding to projection angle A,
FIG. 5 , and the size of the space in use, is a matter of design choice, depending upon the particular system involved in design parameters desired For any specific application, it can be selected, and indeed even be optimized, using such software tools as FLUENT. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , the rate of air flow in the direction of arrow 3 a increases, the amount of restriction posed by thevane assembly 51 potentially increases as well. Theparticular vane assembly 51 depicted, includes a vane configuration adjustment arrangement to allow for the adjustment in the angle across the air flow of one of moreair deflection vanes 43, as air flow is increased. - For convenience, in
FIG. 8 the downstream view ofvane assembly 51 is depicted. In the view point ofFIG. 8 , air would be exitingvane arrangement 51 in the general direction of arrow 91. Of course the air would be in a swirling pattern. - Still referring to
FIG. 10 , thepositions 110, 111 shown, are meant to exemplify principles of operation. The specific position taken byvane piece 108 will be a matter of design choice, based upon both efficiency of operation parameters and restriction parameters, desired for the two extreme positions. It is meant that it be understood thatmember 108 can flex as air flow increases, thus openingvane structure 30 to air flow there through, and offering lower restriction. Of course a price for this lower restriction, under high flow operating conditions, is less efficiency of operation for theprecleaner 1. - In general, a change in configuration of an
air deflection vane 43 to educe the extent to which it is directed across air flow in the direction of arrow 3 a,FIG. 7 , will result in: (a) reduction in efficiency of the precleaner; and, (b) reduction in restriction offered by thevane arrangement 30 to inlet air flow. It is a characteristic of preferred precleaners according to the present disclosure that a vane configuration adjustment arrangement is provided that allows for an automatic, designed, level of adjustment in the configuration of one or more selected vanes relative to inlet air flow, in response to anticipated air flow rate increase. This allows for design of a precleaner which is relatively efficient (as a separator) under lower (relative) air flow operating conditions and which offers less (relative to the absence of such an adjustment arrangement) increase in restriction to air flow, under relatively high air flow conditions. As an example, the particular vane angle adjustment arrangement depicted, was developed in response to a need for a precleaner efficiency of at least 50%, typically at least 60%, for example 65% at 350 cfm operation, with preferably no greater than 6″ water restriction increase (from the 350 cfm restriction) at 900 cfm operation, within a space of limited dimensions, in particular one in which the axial length of the precleaner blades or vanes would need to be less than the vane outer size of the vane construction. In this context, efficiency is meant to be precleaner dust efficiency when measured by SAE Standard J726C. Indeed, the arrangement can be configured for a total restriction of the precleaner of <1″ of water at 350 cfm and no more than 7″ of water, at 900 cfm, while still achieving at least 60% efficiency when measured by SAE Standard J726C. - It is noted that efficiency of operation varies, depending upon the material being separated. It has been noticed, for example, that arrangements according to the disclosure herein can be configured as relatively efficient water separators, on the order of about 50%, often 70%, or larger, when measured according to SAE Standard J2554.
- It is a characteristic of the preferred precleaner arrangement described herein, that the vane configuration adjustment arrangement is automatic. That is, it is designed for adjustment in vane configuration in direct response to selected air flow rate increases.
- As indicated above, one or more of the
air deflection vanes 43 can be constructed to be adjustable in configuration, according to the principles of the present disclosure. Whether one of thevanes 43 is constructed to offer this, more than one of the vanes, or all of the vanes, is a matter of choice. It is anticipated that in a typical application, all of thevanes 43 will be constructed to be adjustable in configuration, however there is no requirement of this in all practices of the principles disclosed herein. In general, any air deflection vane which is constructed to be adjustable in configuration, in response to air flow, can be termed herein to be an “adjustable air deflection vane” or by similar terminology. - Herein, the adjustable air deflection vanes are constructed, as indicated below, by providing at least a portion of the vane of a flexible, deflectable, material. Herein when it is said that the material is “deflectable” it is the method the material can distort or bend in configuration, in response to pressure there against. A preferred arrangement for accomplishing this, is indicated.
- Attention is now directed to a specific
air deflection vane 43 as an example of an adjustable air deflection vane, inparticular vane 105,FIG. 5 . The construction ofvane 105 is shown in cross-section, inFIG. 9 ;FIG. 9 being taken along the cross-sectional line 9-9,FIGS. 5 and 11 . - Referring to
FIG. 9 ,vane 105 comprises at least two components: (a) a rigidstructural piece 107; and, (b) aflexible member 108. - In
FIGS. 5 and 9 ,vane 105 is depicted as it would appear under conditions of no air flow and also under a relatively low, flow rate, for preferred efficiency precleaner operation. In some instances herein, the configuration ofvane 105,FIGS. 5 and 9 , will be characterized as a “first” orientation, position or configuration. When the term “first” orientation, position or configuration is used, reference is generally meant to the configuration which the corresponding vane, in thisinstance vane 105, takes when there is no air flow through theprecleaner 1. - Attention is now directed to
FIG. 10 . InFIG. 10 , at 110,flexible member 108 is also shown under a normal low flow rate or no flow rate position; in a first orientation or position. Position 111, shown in phantom, depicts a high flow rate position forflexible member 108. That is, the material of theflexible member 108 is selected such thatend 80 can bend (distort or deflect) in the direction of air flow, as air flow is increased. As an example, thevane 105 can be constructed such thatposition 110 generally indicates theflexible member 108 configuration under an air flow rate of 350 cfm, or less and, such that position 111 generally indicates the configuration taken byflexible member 108 under a flow rate of 900 cfm. - Of course positions between the extremes reflected at 110, 111,
FIG. 10 , would occur depending on the particular flow rate between the lowest and highest flow rates involved, for the example given. - In the terminology used herein, referring to
FIG. 10 ,configuration 110 would be a first orientation, position or configuration forvane 105, and, configuration 111 would be a second orientation, position or configuration, forvane 105. -
FIG. 9 depicts a particular convenient construction for thevane 105. For the example shown,rigid structure 107 is positioned adjacentupstream edge 79 of thevane 105. Thus,rigid structure 107 has an upstream edge 107 a and a downstream edge 107 b. At the downstream edge 107 b,rigid structure 107 includes a beveled edge 107 c, to advantage. The beveling is from tip 107 b toward upstream side 107 d ofstructure 107. - In the context of the present disclosure, the term “upstream” when used in connection with characterizations of the
vanes 43 or theirprecleaner assembly 1, is meant to refer to a portion of the referenced structure which is most toward theinlet end 40 of theprecleaner 1. Analogously, when the term “downstream” is used in reference to any portion ofvanes 43,vane structure 30 orprecleaner 1, reference is meant to the portion furthest fromupstream edge 40, or closest to downstream edge 38 b. - Attention is now directed to
FIG. 5 . For the particular embodiment shown, thevane structure 30 comprises seven adjustable air deflection vanes 43. For the preferred arrangement, preferably eachvane 43 has a two piece construction including a rigid structural piece analogous to rigidstructural piece 107 and a flexible, bendable, member or portion analogous toflexible member 108. The specific shape of each rigid structural piece and each flexible member may differ from the precise shape ofpiece 107 andmember 108, forvane 105. However the general structure, with a rigid structural section and a flexible member will be analogous. - Attention is now directed to
FIG. 8 .FIG. 8 is a view ofvane structure 30 toward a downstream side 115.Vane 105 is viewable, then, from the backside (or downstream side) relative to the view point ofFIG. 7 . Rigidstructural piece 107 andflexible member 108 are thus viewable. Indeed the rigidstructural pieces 116 for each of thevanes 43 can be viewed. - In addition, referring to
FIG. 8 , a portion of theflexible member 117 of eachvane 43 can be viewed. - Still referring to the
vane structure 30 depicted inFIG. 8 , in general theside wall 60, mountingflange 61,center piece 65 and rigidstructural pieces 116, can be molded integrally as a one piece construction from a plastic material such as polypropylene. - In each case, typically the
flexible members 117 will comprise pieces of thermoplastic elastomer, for example Santoprene. Typically they will be chosen from materials having a durometer of 45-85 Shore A, typically 50-6 Shore A, inclusive. - Although a variety of methods of construction can be used, the convenient one would be to use a two shot molding technique. According to such a technique, typically the polypropylene plastic resin would first be injected into the mold to eventually form all rigid structure, including
rigid portions 107. Then, a top portion of the mold could be switched to provide for a second shot molding by injecting the plastic elastomer into the mold, for theflexible vane portions 108. This would cause a binding of flexible portions to the rigid portions of the structure, without an extra step or use of adhesive. - Attention is now directed to
FIG. 11 , which is an enlarged plan view ofvane structure 30. It is important that a portion of eachflexible member 117 be left in a position such that it can bend, in general accord withFIG. 10 , under increased flow. Referring toFIG. 30 , and specifically tovane 105,point 120 shows the most downstream edge of the rigid structural member, behindflexible member 108. This downstream edge corresponds to edge 107 b,FIG. 9 . From this location, to point 121, a small gap 122 is provided betweenpiece 108 andside wall 60. A gap on the order of about 0.1-0.8 mm., will be sufficient, although larger ones could be used in some systems. This means thatportion 125 offlexible member 108 is a flexible, outside or perimeter, downstream ear that can bend away from the viewer inFIG. 11 , under increased air pressure against surface 126. - Preferably the flexible material used for the
flexible member 117 is chosen with a memory (or memory bias) such that, as air flow rate is reduced, or air flow rate is stopped, it will tend to return to its first orientation position or configuration. The preferred material characterized above, provides for this characteristic. - For the
vane structure 30 depicted inFIG. 11 , each vane has a similar construction. Thus, referring tovane 130, the corresponding rigid structural member (out of view) terminates at adownstream edge 131. The flexible member 132, is not secured torim 30 in extension betweenpoint 131 andedge 133. Thus, flexible member 132 can bend in region 134, away from the viewer (i.e., downstream) like an outside ear, at this location. For vane 140, point 141 indicates the downstream end of the corresponding rigid structural member. Theflexible member 142, then, can bend, away from the viewer, like an outside ear at a location between point 141 andpoint 143, i.e., inregion 144 since it is not secured torim 60 in this location. - Referring to vane 150, the downstream most location for the rigid structural member is indicated at 151, and thus flexible member 152 can bend like an ear in region 153 between point 151 and point 154, due to the presence of a gap between flexible member 152 and
rim 60, along this location. - For
vane 155 the downstream most point for the rigid structural member is located at 156, and thus the flexible member 157 can bend like an ear, inregion 158 away from the viewer, betweenpoint 156 andpoint 159. - For vane 160, the downstream most point of the rigid structural member is indicated at 161, and thus flexible member 162 can bend like an ear in
region 163, away from the viewer, between point 161 andpoint 164, since a gap is provided between the flexible member 162 and therim 60, along this location. Finally attention is directed to vane 166. The point at downstream position for the rigid structural member is indicated at 167. The flexible member 168 can flex or bend like an ear, in region 169, away from the viewer, betweenpoint 167 and point 170, since member 168 is not secured torim 60 along this extension. - Along the inside edges, 81, the flexible members are secured to the
hub 65. - From the above description, it will be understood that a precleaner that allows for adjustment in vane configuration, under increased air flow, has been provided. Before the air flow is initiated, the vanes adopt a first position, configuration or orientation. As air flow is passed through the vanes, as long as the flexible material chosen for the flexible portion of the vanes is sufficiently strong, to resist deformation under the flow pressure of the incoming air, the vanes will maintain their first orientation. The first orientation and stiffness of the flexible member will be chosen, to provide for a preferred level of precleaner efficiency at selected flow rates.
- The material from which the flexible portions of the vanes are made will also be chosen, such that the air flow increases beyond a selected point, the flexible portions will tend to bend downstream, opening the precleaner air flow for less increase in restriction but also with less efficiency of precleaner performance. When the air flow again reduces, the memory of the flexible material will return the flexible material toward the first orientation, thus increasing the efficiency of the precleaner.
- It has been found, with an example of a precleaner rated for a first efficiency at least 200 cfm, for example 350 cfm, and using a configuration analogous to that described, an increase in flow rate of at least 400 cfm (for example to a flow rate total of 900 cfm) resulted in only an increase in restriction (relative to flow at 350 cfm) offered by the precleaner, of no more than 6 inches of water, and indeed an example in which the increase was no more than 5 inches of water, was observed. With such a construction, a precleaner rated for an efficiency of at least 60% and indeed an efficiency of at least 65% was achievable, at 350 cfm; efficiency in this context being as measured according to SAE J726C.
- Efficiency for water separation was found to be at least 75% when measured according to SAE J2554.
- The vane angle adjustment arrangement discussed in Section IV above, can be applied in a variety of precleaners. Further, the precleaners can be used with a variety of air cleaners. In
FIGS. 3 and 4 , a particular air cleaner arrangement is depicted, as an example. Attention is directed toFIG. 4 , with respect to various air cleaner features. - As indicated above,
reference numeral 11 indicates the primary filter element which, periodically, is removed and refurbished or replaced, i.e., serviced. - The
particular filter element 11 depicted, utilizes z-filter media. Z-filter media is generally configured for straight through flow from a mostupstream face 195 to a most downstream 196. The media typically comprises an arrangement of corrugated media secured to flat media, and then stacked or coiled (sometimes with a center core, not shown) to form a plurality of flutes. One set of flutes (inlet flutes) is open at theupstream face 195 and closed at thedownstream face 196; and, a second set of flutes (outlet flutes) is closed at theupstream face 195 and open at thedownstream face 196. The air to be filtered can enter the inlet set of flutes, but in order to exit theelement 11 it must pass through the media and into the outlet flutes. Examples of such z-filter arrangements are described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,190,432; 6,350,291; 6,179,890; 6,235,195; 5,820,646; 5,772,883; and, 5,902,364; incorporated herein by reference. - A fragmentary schematic view of useable z-filter media is indicated at
FIG. 13 , at 300. Referring toFIG. 13 ,media 300 has anupstream edge 301 and adownstream edge 302, corresponding tofaces FIG. 4 . - The
media 300 comprises acorrugated piece 303 secured to a facingsheet 304, to defineflutes 305 therebetween. The media is coiled around itself, to create multiple layers. - As a result, the media is formed
inlet flutes 307 and exit flutes 308. The exit flutes 308 are sealed closed, at or adjacent theupstream edge 301. Analogously, the inlet flutes 307 would be sealed closed adjacentdownstream edge 302. General indication of air flow direction in use, is provided atarrow 310. - The flutes can be provided with a variety of individual shapes, and which a variety of types of closures at the opposite ends 301, 302. The
material 300 depicted inFIG. 3 , is meant to generally indicate a typical example of z-filter media. - Of course precleaners according to the present disclosure can be applied in constructions which utilize primary filter elements involving media other than z-filter media. However, the particular precleaner depicted is conveniently applied with a z-filter, because with a z-filter arrangement the air flow does not make a 90° turn in flow, while from the inlet flow direction to the outlet flow direction, for the element. In some instances, z-filter media is provided with, opposite, planar upstream or downstream faces, analogous to
faces - Z-filter media constructions can also be arranged in a variety of perimeter shapes. For example they can be coiled into shapes having a circular outer perimeter, or can be coiled into shapes having a race track perimeter comprising two curved sections separated by two straight sections. A circular shape construction is shown for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,291 at
FIG. 1 . A race track shape arrangement is shown for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,291 atFIG. 10 . Of course still other configurations are possible. - The preferred features of the
precleaner 1 characterized above, can be adapted for application with a variety of air cleaner housings having media constructions, z-filter or otherwise, shaped in a variety of perimeter shapes. - Filter constructions can be sealed to housings in a variety of manners. For z-filters, typically a gasket material is secured at some location to the z-filter construction, either directly or indirectly. By “directly” in this context, it is meant that the seal is secured directly to the media. By indirectly it is meant that the gasket material secured to some structure which is itself secured to the media.
- The particular arrangement depicted in
FIG. 4 , shows an example. In this instance, a seal at 198 is secured to aframework 199 which is itself secured to the media 200. - This type of seal arrangement, which uses an outwardly directed radial seal, is described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,291, incorporated herein by reference. Alternate seals can be used, if desired.
- The particular air
cleaner housing 4 depicted inFIG. 7 , is constructed for “side load” or “side service.” That is,element 11 is inserted (or dismounted) through a side ofhousing 5, by passage through an opening made available by removal ofaccess cover 6. Theelement 11 is provided with anend piece 205, atupstream end 195, which is positioned engage a cam or ramp structure, to drive the element in the direction of arrow 207, and thus into sealing engagement, when installed. Side mounting arrangements are described, for example, in PCT application number US03/14350, filed May 8, 2003 in which claimed priority to U.S.provisional application 60/379,824 which was filed on May 9, 2002 entitled “Filter Arrangements, Side-Entry Housings; and Methods,” is made. The referenced application is incorporated herein by reference. - At 214,
FIG. 4 , a connector is depicted attached to theprecleaner assembly 1. Theconnector 214 allows for attachment to various vehicle framework or similar structure. Referring toFIG. 11 ,vane 142 includes anotch 215 therein, to accommodate theconnector 214. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , theprecleaner 1 can be separately assembled from the remainder of the air cleaner housing, and can be secured to the air cleaner housing by mountingprojections 220. A friction fit or snap-fitted arrangement can be used. Alternatively, an adhesive or sonic weld can be used. If desired, a gasket or seal ring can be provided, between theprecleaner 1 and main aircleaner housing 4. However, it is not anticipated that, typically, a seal at this location will be required. - As should be apparent, the principles described herein can be applied in a wide variety of air cleaner arrangements. The particular air cleaner depicted, is configured for installation under the hood of a truck. For this system, the side load access from the top, provides for convenient servicing once the
assembly 3 is installed. The precleaner, of course is not normally serviced. - The dimensions depicted in the following section, then, are meant to indicate dimensions of some workable arrangements. A variety of alternate dimensions can be used.
- The axial length of the precleaner would be about 100 mm., for example 101.2 mm.; dimension X of the perimeter dimension of the
vanes 43, would be about 190 mm., for example 192.8 mm.; referring toFIG. 4 , the projected axial length of themain air cleaner 4 betweenpoints points - Referring to
FIG. 7 , the projected axial distance between points 405, 406 would be about 27 mm., for example 27.2 mm., with therim 61 being less than 2 mm., thick, for example about 1.8 mm. thick. - Referring to
FIG. 9 , the thickness ofregion 110, betweenpoints region 413, of the flexible material ofaxial vane piece 108, would be about 1 mm. -
Flexible member 108 includes two sections: (a) an upstream section 108 a which, in the example, extends to overlap with rigidstructural piece 107 on an upstream side; and, a downstream bendable section 108 b, which extends from beveled section tip 107 b ofrigid piece 107 todownstream edge 80, ofvane 105. Atend 80, the particular section 108 b depicted has a beveled end 108 c. For the example depicted, beveled section 108 c is beveled from the downstream tip 108 d towardupstream side 85 ofpiece 108. - It is noted that when the
flexible member 108 bends, it tends to bend over or around the downstream most edge 116 a of each rigidstructural piece 107,FIG. 8 . - In a typical application to a small truck (class 2A or 2B), the overall dimensions to the precleaner would be about 4 inches to 20 inches in an outside dimension, approximating diameter is not round; and about 2 inches to 10 inches in length; typically about 6 inches to 12 inches in approximate outside diameter by about 3 inches to 6 inches in length.
- Now that a specific example has been provided, general characteristics of preferred precleaner arrangements according to the present disclosure can be described. In general the precleaner arrangement can be constructed for separating a portion of entrained material, such as dust or moisture, from air entering an air stream of an air cleaner. The precleaner arrangement would include a vane structure arrangement having at least a first adjustable air deflection vane. The first adjustable air deflection vane would have a flexible portion deflectable from a first orientation or position toward, and in some instances to, a second orientation or position. The flexible portion would have a memory bias toward the first orientation. The flexible portion would be configured to deflect toward the second orientation or position, in response to sufficient air flow increase through the precleaner arrangement in use. In this context, the term “memory bias” is meant to refer to a characteristic of the flexible material which tends to cause it to return to its rest or first orientation.
- Of course in a typical arrangement, the vane structure would include a plurality of adjustable air deflection vanes positioned around a central hub. Preferably a single hub, with a set of vanes therearound, would be in the vane structure arrangement. Of course each adjustable air deflection vane would be analogous to the first adjustable air deflection vane, although variations and specific vane shape may be used to accommodate different shapes of vane structures. Vane structures having outer circular perimeters, or obround perimeters, or a variety of alternate shapes, are possible.
- Typically and preferably each adjustable air deflection vane includes a flexible member and a rigid structural member.
- Typically the vane structure arrangement includes at least three adjustable air deflection vanes, typically 5-15 such vanes.
- In certain typical preferred arrangements, the vane structure has a first axial vane length X and a first vane perimeter size Y, with a precleaner being configured such that X is less than Y. Typically and preferably the precleaner is configured such as X is less than 0.7 times Y. Indeed it can be configured such that X is less than 0.3 Y.
- Also typically the arrangement is constructed such that the perimeter length X is less than an axial length Z of the precleaner, typically less than 0.8 Z and preferably less than 0.6 Z.
- In typical arrangements, the vanes are configured to have an outer, downstream, flexible ear portion not supported by any rigid structure, which can bend downstream to open up the precleaner to air flow, under increased air flow rates.
- The precleaner arrangement can be adapted for incorporation in a variety of air cleaners, using a variety of types of elements. It is particularly well configured to be incorporated within an air cleaner that utilizes, as the primary air filter element, filter element having z-type media with an upstream face directed toward the vane arrangement of the precleaner.
Claims (15)
1. A precleaner arrangement for separating a portion of entrained material from air flow air entering an engine air cleaner; the precleaner arrangement comprising:
(a) a vane structure arrangement including at least a first, adjustable, air deflection vane;
(i) the first, adjustable, air deflection vane having a flexible portion deflectable between a first orientation and a second orientation;
(ii) the flexible portion having a memory bias toward the first orientation; and,
(iii) the flexible portion being configured to deflect toward the second orientation, in response to a sufficient air flow rate increase through the precleaner arrangement, in use.
2. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 1 wherein:
(a) the vane structure arrangement comprises a plurality of adjustable air deflection vanes positioned around a central hub;
(i) each adjustable air deflection vane having a flexible portion deflectable between a first orientation and a second orientation;
(ii) each flexible portion having a memory bias toward a first orientation; and,
(iii) each flexible portion being configured to deflect toward the second orientation in response to a sufficient air flow rate increase through the precleaner arrangement, in use.
3. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 2 wherein:
(a) each adjustable air deflection vane comprises:
(i) a flexible member; and,
(ii) a rigid structural member.
4. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 3 wherein:
(a) the vane structure arrangement includes at least three adjustable air deflection vanes.
5. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 4 wherein:
(a) the vane structure has a first axial total vane length X and a first vane perimeter size Y;
(b) the precleaner being configured such X<Y.
6. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 5 wherein:
X<0.7Y
7. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 6 wherein:
X<0.3Y
8. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 4 wherein:
(a) the vane structure includes a perimeter rim:
(i) each adjustable air deflection vane being secured in extension between the central hub and the perimeter rim; and
(ii) a perimeter edge portion of each flexible portion being spaced from the perimeter rim, to define a flexible, downstream, outer ear in the associated flexible portion.
9. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 8 wherein:
(a) each adjustable air deflection vane has: a lead, upstream, edge; and, a tail, downstream, edge; and
(b) the flexible member has a concave upstream surface in extension between the lead edge and the tail edge, when in the first orientation.
10. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 9 having:
(a) a projection angle A between the lead upstream edge of each adjustable air deflection vane and a tail edge of a next adjacent air deflection vane of at least 17°.
11. A precleaner arrangement according to claim 8 wherein:
(a) the vane structure arrangement is secured to a perimeter housing structure having a dust drop tube.
12. An air cleaner comprising:
(a) a precleaner arrangement comprising a vane structure arrangement including a plurality of adjustable, air deflection vanes;
(i) each adjustable air deflection vane having:
(A) a flexible member; and,
(b) a rigid structural member;
(ii) each flexible member being deflectable between a first orientation and a second orientation;
(iii) each flexible member having a memory bias toward the first orientation; and
(iv) the flexible member being configured to deflect toward the second orientation, in response to a sufficient air flow rate increase through the precleaner arrangement, in use; and
(b) a main air cleaner positioned to receive air from the precleaner arrangement;
(i) the main air cleaner having a serviceable air filter element therein.
13. An air cleaner arrangement according to claim 12 wherein:
(a) the serviceable air filter element comprises z-filter media.
14. A method of operating a precleaner to separate a portion of entrained material from air flow entering an engine air cleaner; the method including steps of:
(a) directing air through air deflection vanes of a vane structure of the precleaner at a first flow rate; and
(b) increasing air flow from the first flow rate to a second, higher, flow rate while adjusting configuration of selected vanes in the vane structure by deforming flexible portions of the vanes toward a downstream direction in response to the second, higher, flow rate.
15. A method of manufacturing a vane structure arrangement of a precleaner; the method including steps of:
(a) injecting a first material into a mold arrangement, to form a support structure; and,
(b) injecting a second moldable material, into contact with the first material, to form flexible vane portions configured to deflect toward a downstream direction in response to a sufficient air flow rate increase through the vane structure arrangement of the precleaner.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/569,235 US20070137152A1 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2004-09-23 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US51210903P | 2003-10-17 | 2003-10-17 | |
US10/569,235 US20070137152A1 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2004-09-23 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement |
PCT/US2004/031124 WO2005040593A1 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2004-09-23 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/US2004/031124 A-371-Of-International WO2005040593A1 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2004-09-23 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration, method of operation of precleaner and air cleaner comprising the precleaner arrangement |
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US11/796,792 Continuation US7364601B2 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2007-04-30 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration; method; and, air cleaner using same |
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US20070137152A1 true US20070137152A1 (en) | 2007-06-21 |
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US11/796,792 Active US7364601B2 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2007-04-30 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration; method; and, air cleaner using same |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/796,792 Active US7364601B2 (en) | 2003-10-17 | 2007-04-30 | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration; method; and, air cleaner using same |
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US5947081A (en) * | 1997-08-12 | 1999-09-07 | Kim; Sei Y. | Air flow system for internal combustion engine |
US5899196A (en) * | 1997-12-19 | 1999-05-04 | Jeffrey S. Melcher | Method and apparatus for supplying warm air to an air intake of an engine |
US6280493B1 (en) * | 1999-03-19 | 2001-08-28 | Dreison International, Inc. | Air pre-cleaner |
US6174339B1 (en) * | 1999-03-16 | 2001-01-16 | Uop Llc | Multiple separator arrangement for fluid-particle separation |
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US7267098B1 (en) * | 2006-08-19 | 2007-09-11 | Addy Tasanont | Vortex generating air intake device |
-
2004
- 2004-09-23 US US10/569,235 patent/US20070137152A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-09-23 WO PCT/US2004/031124 patent/WO2005040593A1/en active Application Filing
-
2007
- 2007-04-30 US US11/796,792 patent/US7364601B2/en active Active
Cited By (12)
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US20080196368A1 (en) * | 2005-07-02 | 2008-08-21 | Hans Waibel | Filter Element and Filter Housing Suitable for Accommodation the Same |
US7695539B2 (en) * | 2005-07-02 | 2010-04-13 | Mahle International Gmbh | Filter element and filter housing suitable for accommodation the same |
US20080086989A1 (en) * | 2006-10-16 | 2008-04-17 | Deere & Company | Air precleaner arrangement for an internal combustion engine comprising two cyclone filters |
US7682413B2 (en) * | 2006-10-16 | 2010-03-23 | Deere & Company | Air precleaner arrangement for an internal combustion engine comprising two cyclone filters |
WO2009051859A2 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-04-23 | Deere & Company | Controlled flow air precleaner |
WO2009051859A3 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-12-30 | Deere & Company | Controlled flow air precleaner |
US8683970B2 (en) | 2011-07-28 | 2014-04-01 | Cnh America Llc | Air intake system for off-road vehicles |
US20160146165A1 (en) * | 2013-06-28 | 2016-05-26 | Donaldson Company, Inc. | Air intake arrangement for engine and methods |
US11110382B2 (en) * | 2014-12-27 | 2021-09-07 | Donaldson Company, Inc. | Filter cartridges; air cleaner assemblies; housings; features; components; and, methods |
US20220047984A1 (en) * | 2014-12-27 | 2022-02-17 | Donaldson Company, Inc. | Filter cartridges; air cleaner assemblies; housings; features; components; and, methods |
US11260404B2 (en) * | 2015-10-12 | 2022-03-01 | Cummins Filtration Ip, Inc. | Tangential air cleaner with coiled filter cartridge |
US11478736B2 (en) * | 2018-05-18 | 2022-10-25 | Donaldson Company Inc. | Precleaner arrangement for use in air filtration and methods |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20070234903A1 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
US7364601B2 (en) | 2008-04-29 |
WO2005040593A1 (en) | 2005-05-06 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- INCOMPLETE APPLICATION (PRE-EXAMINATION) |