US20230392872A1 - Liquid panel assembly - Google Patents
Liquid panel assembly Download PDFInfo
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- US20230392872A1 US20230392872A1 US18/217,348 US202318217348A US2023392872A1 US 20230392872 A1 US20230392872 A1 US 20230392872A1 US 202318217348 A US202318217348 A US 202318217348A US 2023392872 A1 US2023392872 A1 US 2023392872A1
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D15/00—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F12/00—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening
- F24F12/001—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening with heat-exchange between supplied and exhausted air
- F24F12/002—Use of energy recovery systems in air conditioning, ventilation or screening with heat-exchange between supplied and exhausted air using an intermediate heat-transfer fluid
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
- F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
- F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
- F24F3/1411—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by absorbing or adsorbing water, e.g. using an hygroscopic desiccant
- F24F3/1417—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by absorbing or adsorbing water, e.g. using an hygroscopic desiccant with liquid hygroscopic desiccants
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
- F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
- F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
- F24F3/147—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification with both heat and humidity transfer between supplied and exhausted air
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
- F28D21/0015—Heat and mass exchangers, e.g. with permeable walls
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D9/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
- F28D9/0031—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one heat-exchange medium being formed by paired plates touching each other
- F28D9/0043—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one heat-exchange medium being formed by paired plates touching each other the plates having openings therein for circulation of at least one heat-exchange medium from one conduit to another
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F27/00—Control arrangements or safety devices specially adapted for heat-exchange or heat-transfer apparatus
- F28F27/02—Control arrangements or safety devices specially adapted for heat-exchange or heat-transfer apparatus for controlling the distribution of heat-exchange media between different channels
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
- F28F3/08—Elements constructed for building-up into stacks, e.g. capable of being taken apart for cleaning
- F28F3/10—Arrangements for sealing the margins
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
- F28F9/026—Header boxes; End plates with static flow control means, e.g. with means for uniformly distributing heat exchange media into conduits
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/26—Arrangements for connecting different sections of heat-exchange elements, e.g. of radiators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
- F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
- F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
- F24F2003/1435—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification comprising semi-permeable membrane
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
- F28F3/08—Elements constructed for building-up into stacks, e.g. capable of being taken apart for cleaning
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
- Y02B30/56—Heat recovery units
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a liquid panel assembly, and more particularly, to a liquid panel assembly configured for use with an energy exchanger.
- Enclosed structures such as occupied buildings, factories and the like, generally include a heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system for conditioning outdoor ventilated and/or recirculated air.
- HVAC heating/ventilation/air conditioning
- the HVAC system includes a supply air flow path and an exhaust air flow path.
- the supply air flow path receives pre-conditioned air, for example outside air or outside air mixed with re-circulated air, and channels and distributes the pre-conditioned air into the enclosed structure.
- the pre-conditioned air is conditioned by the HVAC system to provide a desired temperature and humidity of supply air discharged into the enclosed structure.
- the exhaust air flow path discharges air back to the environment outside the structure.
- conditioning the supply air typically requires a significant amount of auxiliary energy, particularly in environments having extreme outside air conditions that are much different than the required supply air temperature and humidity. Accordingly, energy exchange or recovery systems are used to recover energy from the exhaust air flow path. Energy recovered from air in the exhaust flow path is utilized to reduce the energy required to condition the supply air.
- LAMEEs Liquid-to-air membrane energy exchangers
- a LAMEE transfers heat and moisture between a liquid. desiccant solution and air through a thin flexible membrane.
- a flat plate LAMEE includes a series of alternating liquid desiccant and air channels separated by the membrane.
- the pressure of the liquid within a liquid channel between membranes is higher than that of the air pressure outside of the membranes. As such, the flexible membranes tend to outwardly bow or bulge into the air channels)
- air channels of a LAMEE are relatively wide compared to the liquid channels.
- a support structure is generally provided between membranes to limit the amount of membrane bulge.
- the relatively wide air channels and support structures typically diminish the performance of the LAMEE.
- resistance to heat and moisture transfer in the air channel is relatively high due to the large air channel width, and the support structure may block a significant amount of membrane transfer area. Accordingly, a large amount of membrane area is needed to meet performance objectives, which adds costs and results in a. larger LAMEE.
- the support structure within an air channel may produce an excessive pressure drop, which also adversely affects operating performance and efficiency of the LAMEE.
- desiccant flows through a solution panel, which may include membranes that contain the desiccant between air channels.
- the solution panel is uniformly full of desiccant during operation.
- Known energy exchangers force flow of desiccant upwardly through the solution panel, against the force of gravity.
- the desiccant is typically pumped from the bottom of the solution panel to the top with enough pressure to overcome the relatively large amount of static head pressure, as well as the friction in the panel.
- the pumping pressure causes the membranes of the solution panel to outwardly bow or bulge.
- the pumping pressure is often great enough to cause leaks in the membranes.
- the pressure of the desiccant being pumped through the solution panel often causes membrane creep and degradation over time.
- a typical solution panel also includes a filler material, such as a wick or woven plastic screen, configured to ensure proper spacing between membrane surfaces within the solution panel.
- a filler material such as a wick or woven plastic screen
- the flow of the desiccant through the filler material is generally uncontrolled.
- the filler material is generally unable to direct the desiccant over a particular path.
- the flow of desiccant through the filler material follows the path of least resistance, which generally follows a Hele-Shaw pattern between closed-spaced plates.
- the flow pattern of the desiccant is sensitive to variations in the spacing within the solution panel caused by even small amounts of membrane bulge.
- fluid instabilities from concentration and temperature gradients may cause additional flow irregularities and mal-distributions.
- the winding flow pattern within a typical solution panel produces flow dead zones at or proximate corners of the solution panel.
- the liquid panel assembly may include a support frame having one or more fluid circuits and at least one membrane secured to the support frame.
- Each fluid circuit may include an inlet channel connected to an outlet channel through one or more flow passages, such as counterflow passages (in that liquid in the counterflow passages counterflows with respect to another fluid, such as air, outside of the at least one membrane).
- a liquid such as a desiccant, is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s) and contact interior surfaces of the membrane(s).
- the fluid circuit(s) is configured to offset hydrostatic pressure gain with friction pressure loss of the liquid that flows within the one or more fluid circuits to reduce pressure within the liquid panel assembly.
- the shape, porosity, and/or hydraulic diameter of one or both of the inlet and outlet channels may be determined by a weight, viscosity, and/or flow speed of the liquid that is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s). For example, if the liquid is heavy, the diameters of the channels may be reduced in order to promote faster liquid flow therethrough, which generates increased friction that offsets the liquid hydrostatic pressure.
- the flow passages may include a set of a plurality of flow passages connected to the inlet channel and the outlet channel.
- a number of flow passages within the set of a plurality of flow passages may he determined by a weight and/or viscosity of the liquid that is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s).
- the fluid circuit(s) may include a plurality of fluid circuits.
- the lengths of each of the fluid circuits may be equal.
- the plurality of fluid circuits may include a first set of a plurality of flow passages connected to a first inlet channel and a first outlet channel, and a second set of a plurality of flow passages connected to a second inlet channel and a second outlet channel.
- the first set of a plurality of flow passages may be staggered with respect to the second set of a plurality of flow passages.
- Each of the inlet and outlet channels may provide a flow alignment vane configured to direct the liquid to flow along a particular path.
- the inlet and outlet channels may be configured to provide support to the membrane(s).
- the inlet and outlet channels may be configured to provide a sealing surface for at least a portion of the membrane(s).
- the inlet and outlet channels may be configured to maximize a length of the flow passages.
- the membrane(s) may be continuously bonded around a perimeter of the support frame.
- the fluid circuits may be configured to provide uniform liquid flow distribution across and/or through the liquid panel assembly.
- the support frame and the membrane may be configured to be vertically oriented within an energy exchange cavity of an energy exchanger.
- the inlet channel may be disposed at an upper corner of the support frame.
- the outlet channel may be disposed at a lower corner of the support frame.
- the upper corner may be diagonally located from the lower corner.
- the inlet and, outlet channels may be vertical and the flow passages(s) may be horizontal.
- a horizontal length of the flow passage(s) may exceed half a total horizontal length of the support frame.
- the assembly may also include inlet and outlet members, such as headers, connected to the fluid circuit(s).
- the inlet and outlet members may include a liquid delivery channel and a liquid passage channel, respectively.
- the inlet member may be configured to modularly engage another inlet member, and the outlet member may be configured to modularly engage another outlet member. At least a portion of the membrane(s) may sealingly engage the inlet and outlet members.
- the support frame and the membrane may be configured to be horizontally oriented within an energy exchange cavity of an energy exchanger
- the inlet channel may be disposed at one corner of the support frame.
- the outlet channel may be disposed at another corner of the support frame.
- the first corner may be diagonally located from the second corner.
- the inlet and outlet channels may be vertical and the flow passages(s) may be horizontal. A horizontal length of the flow passage(s) may exceed half a total horizontal length of the support frame.
- the assembly may also include inlet and outlet members, such as headers, connected to the fluid circuit(s).
- the inlet member may fluidly engage all inlet channels and the outlet member may fluidly engage all outlet channels.
- the flow passages in one or more panels can be fluidly connected to members, such as headers.
- members such as headers.
- One or more of these members can be fluidly connected to flow channels.
- Inlet channels can be fluidly connected to inlet members which can, in turn, be connected to flow passages.
- the flow passages can be fluidly connected to outlet members, such as headers, which are, in turn, connected to outlet channels.
- Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an energy exchange system that may include a plurality of air channels configured to allow air to pass therethrough, and a plurality of liquid panel assemblies alternately spaced with the plurality of liquid panel assemblies.
- the system may also include a plurality of membrane support assemblies disposed within the plurality of air channels. Air within the air channels may be configured to counterflow with respect to the liquid within the one or more flow passages.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an energy exchange system., according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away front view of panels within an energy exchange cavity of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded isometric top view of an energy exchange cavity, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric top view of an inlet member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 7 illustrates an internal view of an inlet member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an area proximate an upper corner of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a chart of fluid pressure levels within a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid distribution Channels formed in a support frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid distribution channels formed in a support frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to combined inlet channels and combined outlet channels, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 17 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to individual inlet channels and individual outlet channels, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to inlet headers, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 19 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies with external pressure balancing, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- embodiments of the present disclosure provide liquid panel assemblies that are configured to balance internal liquid hydrostatic pressure and frictional forces. As such, the total pressure within the liquid panel assemblies may be reduced, negated or otherwise neutralized.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that may be configured, through selection of a number, orientation, shape, and/or the like of flow channels or passages, to ensure that pressure within the assembly is substantially reduced, negated, or otherwise neutralized. That is, the pressure may be reduced, negated, or otherwise neutralized to a greater extent than a negligible amount.
- membrane bulge is substantially reduced (that is, more than a negligible amount) or eliminated, which reduces the potential for leaks and membrane creep.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an energy exchange system 100 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- the system 100 is configured to partly or fully condition air supplied to a structure 101 .
- the system 100 may include an inlet 102 for a pre-conditioned air flow path 104 .
- the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 may include outside air, air from a building adjacent to the enclosed structure 101 , or air from a room within the enclosed structure 101 . Airflow in the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 may be moved through the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 by a fan 106 .
- the fan 106 directs the pre-conditioned air flow through path 104 to a supply air liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) 108 .
- LAMEE liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger
- the supply air LAMEE 108 conditions the pre-conditioned air flow in path 104 to generate a change in air temperature and humidity (i.e. to pre-conditioned the air partly or fully) toward that which is required for a supply air flow condition to be discharged into the enclosed space 101 .
- the supply air LAMEE 108 may condition the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 by adding heat and moisture to the pre-conditioned air in flow path 104 .
- the supply air LAMEE 108 may condition the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 by removing heat and moisture from the pre-conditioned air in flow path 104 .
- the pre-conditioned air 110 may be channeled to an HVAC system 112 of the enclosed structure 101 .
- the HVAC system 112 may further condition the pre-conditioned air 110 to generate the desired temperature and humidity for the supply air 114 that is supplied to the enclosed structure 101 .
- one fan 106 may be located upstream of the LAMEE 108 .
- the pre-conditioned air flow path 104 may be moved by a down-stream fan and/or by multiple fans or a fan array or before and after each LAMEE in the system.
- Return air 116 is channeled out of the enclosed structure 101 .
- a mass flow rate portion 118 of the return air 116 may be returned to the HVAC system 112 .
- Another mass flow rate portion 119 of the return air 116 may be channeled to a return air or regeneration LAMEE 120 .
- the portions 118 and 119 may be separated with a damper 121 or the like. For example, 80% of the return air 116 may be channeled to the HVAC system 112 and 20% of the return air 116 may be channeled to the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the return air LAMEE 120 exchanges energy between the portion 119 of the return air 116 and the preconditioned air 110 in the supply air LAMEE 108 .
- the return air LAMEE 120 collects heat and moisture from the portion 119 of the return air 116 .
- the return air LAMEE 120 discharges heat and moisture into the portion 119 of the return air 116 .
- the return air LAMEE 120 generates exhaust air 122 .
- the exhaust air 122 is discharged from the structure 101 through an outlet 124 .
- a fan 126 may be provided to move the exhaust air 122 from the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the system 100 may include multiple fans 126 or one or more fan arrays located either up-stream or down-stream (as in FIG. 1 ) of the return air LAMEE 120 .
- a liquid, such as a desiccant fluid 127 flows between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the desiccant fluid 127 transfers the heat and moisture between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the system 100 may include desiccant storage tanks 128 in fluid communication between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the storage tanks 128 store the desiccant fluid 127 as it is channeled between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the system 100 may not include both storage tanks 128 or may have more than two storage tanks.
- Pumps 130 are provided to move the desiccant fluid 127 from the storage tanks 128 to one of the supply air LAMEE 108 or the return air LAMEE 120 .
- the illustrated embodiment includes two pumps 130 .
- the system 100 may be configured with as few as one pump 130 or more than two pumps 130 .
- the desiccant fluid 127 flows between the supply air LAMEE 108 and the return air LAMEE 120 to transfer heat and moisture between the conditioned air 110 and the portion 118 of the return air 116 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a LAMEE 300 .
- the LAMEE 300 may be used as the supply air LAMEE 108 and/or the return or exhaust air LAMEE 120 (shown in FIG. 1 ).
- the LAMEE 300 includes a housing 302 having a body 304 .
- the body 304 includes an air inlet end 306 and an air outlet end 308 .
- a top 310 extends between the air inlet end 306 and the air outlet end 308 . While note shown, a stepped-down top may be positioned at the air inlet end 306 .
- the stepped-down top may be stepped a distance from the top 310 .
- a bottom 316 extends between the air inlet end 306 and the air outlet end 308 . While not shown, a stepped-up bottom may be positioned at the air outlet end 308 . The stepped-up bottom may be stepped a distance from the bottom 316 . In alternative designs the stepped-up bottom or stepped-down top sections may have different sizes of steps or no step at all
- An air inlet 322 is positioned at the air inlet end 306 .
- An air outlet 324 is positioned at the air outlet end 308 .
- Sides 326 extend between the air inlet 322 and the air outlet 324 .
- An energy exchange cavity 330 extends through the housing 302 of the LAMEE 300 .
- the energy exchange cavity 330 extends from the air inlet end 306 to the air outlet end 308 .
- An air stream 332 is received in the air inlet 322 . and flows through the energy exchange cavity 330 .
- the air stream 332 is discharged from the energy exchange cavity 330 at the air outlet 324 .
- the energy exchange cavity 330 may include a plurality of panels 334 . such as liquid panels configured to receive desiccant and direct the flow of the desiccant therethrough.
- a desiccant inlet reservoir 352 may be positioned on the top 310 .
- the desiccant inlet reservoir 352 may be configured to receive desiccant, which may be stored in a storage tank 128 (shown in FIG. 1 ).
- the desiccant inlet reservoir 352 may include an inlet in flow communication with the storage tank 128 .
- the desiccant is received through the inlet.
- the desiccant inlet reservoir 352 may also include an outlet that is in fluid communication with desiccant channels 376 of the panels 334 in the energy exchange cavity 330 .
- the liquid desiccant flows through the outlet into the desiccant channels 376 .
- the desiccant flows along the panels 334 through the desiccant channels 376 to a desiccant outlet reservoir 354 , which may be positioned at or proximate the bottom 316 . Accordingly, the desiccant may flow through the LAMEE 300 from top to bottom. For example, the desiccant may flow into the desiccant channels 376 proximate the desiccant inlet reservoir 352 , through the desiccant channels 376 , and out of the LAMEE 300 proximate to the desiccant outlet reservoir 354 . In an alternative embodiment, the desiccant may flow through the LAMEE 300 from bottom to top.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away front view of the panels 334 within the energy exchange cavity 330 of the LAMEE 300 , according to an embodiment.
- the panels 334 may be solution or liquid panels configured to direct the flow of liquid, such as desiccant, therethrough, as explained below.
- the panels 334 form a liquid desiccant flow path 376 that is confined by semi-permeable membranes 378 on either side and is configured to carry desiccant therethrough.
- the membranes 378 may or may not be porous or able to transfer mass.
- Each membrane 378 may be any flexible structure that may generally bulge under fluid pressure.
- the semi-permeable membranes 378 are arranged in parallel to form air channels 336 with an average flow channel width of 337 and liquid desiccant channels 376 with an average flow channel width of 377 .
- the semi-permeable membranes 378 are spaced to form uniform air channels 336 and liquid desiccant channels 376 .
- the air stream 332 (shown in FIG. 2 ) travels through the air channels 336 between the semi-permeable membranes 378 .
- the desiccant in each desiccant channel 376 exchanges heat and moisture with the air stream 332 in the air channels 336 through the semi-permeable membranes 378 .
- the air channels 336 alternate with the liquid desiccant channels 376 . Except for the two side panels of the energy exchange cavity, each air channel 336 may be positioned between adjacent liquid desiccant channels 376 .
- membrane support assemblies may be positioned within the air channels 336 .
- the membrane support assemblies are configured to support the membranes, and may promote turbulent air flow between the air channels 336 and the membranes 378 .
- the LAMEE 300 may be similar to a LAMEE as described in WO 2011/161547, entitled “Liquid-To-Air Membrane Energy Exchanger,” filed Jun. 22, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded isometric top view of an energy exchange cavity 400 , according to an embodiment.
- the energy exchange cavity 400 may include a plurality of liquid panel assemblies 402 spaced apart from one another by membrane support assemblies 404 , such as those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/797,062, entitled “Membrane Support Assembly for an Energy Exchanger,” filed Mar. 12, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/692,793, entitled “Membrane Support Assembly for an Energy Exchanger,” filed Aug. 24, 2012, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- the membrane support assemblies 404 may reside in air channels 406 .
- the membrane support assemblies 404 may prevent membranes 418 of the solution panel assemblies 402 from outwardly bulging or bowing into the air channels 406 .
- Airflow 408 is configured to pass through the air channels 406 between liquid panel assemblies 402 .
- the airflow 408 may generally be aligned with a horizontal axis 410 of the energy exchange cavity 400 .
- the airflow 408 may be horizontal with respect to the energy exchange cavity 400 .
- the membrane support assemblies 404 may include turbulence promoters configured to generate turbulence, eddies, and the like in the airflow 408 within the energy exchange cavity 400 .
- Each liquid panel assembly 402 may include a support frame 412 connected to an inlet member 414 at an upper corner 415 and an outlet member 416 at a lower corner 417 that may be diagonal to the upper corner 415 .
- membranes 418 are positioned on each side of the support frame 412 .
- the membranes 418 are formed of a liquid impermeable, but air permeable, material.
- the membranes 418 sealingly engage the support frame 412 along outer edges in order to contain liquid within the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- a single membrane may sealingly wrap around an entirety of the support frame 412 .
- Each inlet member 414 may include a liquid delivery opening 420
- each outlet member 416 may include a liquid passage opening 422 .
- the liquid delivery openings 420 may be connected together through conduits, pipes, or the like, while the liquid passage openings 422 may be connected together through conduits, pipes, or the like.
- the inlet members 414 and outlet members 416 may be sized and shaped to directly mate with one another so that a liquid-tight seal is formed therebetween. Accordingly, liquid, such as desiccant may flow through the liquid delivery openings 420 and the liquid passage openings 422 .
- the inlet members 414 and outlet members 416 may he modular components configured to selectively couple and decouple from other inlet members 414 and outlet members 416 , respectively.
- the inlet members 414 and outlet members 416 may be configured to securely mate with other inlet members 414 and outlet members 416 , respectively, through snap and/or latthing connections, or through fasteners and adhesives.
- liquid panel assemblies 402 , the membrane support assemblies 404 , and the air channels 406 may all be vertically oriented.
- the liquid panel assemblies 402 may be flat plate exchangers that are vertically-oriented with respect to a base that is supported by a floor, for example, of a structure.
- the liquid panel assemblies 402 , the membrane support assemblies 404 , and the air channels 406 may all be horizontally oriented.
- the liquid panel assemblies 402 may be flat plate exchangers that are horizontally-oriented with respect to a base that is supported by a floor, for example, of a structure.
- liquid such as desiccant
- the liquid flows into the liquid delivery openings 420 of the inlet members 414 .
- the liquid may be pumped into the liquid delivery openings 420 through a pump.
- the liquid then flows into the support frames 412 through a liquid path 424 toward the outlet members 416 .
- the liquid path 424 includes a vertical descent 426 that connects to a horizontal, flow portion, such as a flow portion 428 , which, in turn, connects to a vertical descent 430 that connects to the liquid passage opening 422 of the outlet member 416 .
- the vertical descents 426 and 430 may be perpendicular to the horizontal, flow portion 428 .
- the liquid flows through the solution panel assemblies 402 from the top corners 415 to the lower corners 417 .
- the length of the horizontal, flow portion 428 substantially exceeds half the length L of the liquid panel assemblies 402 .
- the horizontal, flow portion 428 provides liquid, such as desiccant, that may counterflow with respect to the airflow 408 .
- the flow portion may be a crossflow, parallel-aligned flow, or other such flow portion, for example.
- the airflow 408 that passes between the liquid panel assemblies 402 exchanges energy with the liquid flowing through the liquid panel assemblies 402 .
- the liquid may be a desiccant, refrigerant, or any other type of liquid that may be used to exchange energy with the airflow 408 .
- the energy exchange cavity 400 may include more or less liquid panel assemblies 402 , membrane support assemblies 404 , and air channels 406 than those shown in FIG. 4 .
- the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 may be modular panel headers that are configured to selectively attach and detach from neighboring inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 to provide a manifold for liquid to enter into and pass out of the liquid panel assemblies 402 .
- Sealing agents such as gaskets, silicone gel, or the like, may be disposed between neighboring inlet members 414 and neighboring outlet members 416 . At least a portion of the membrane sealingly engages the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 .
- the liquid panel assembly 402 formed in this manner provides a fully-sealed, stand-alone unit having openings at the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 , notably the openings 420 and 422 , respectively. Accordingly, the liquid panel assembly 402 may be pre-tested for leaks and membrane holes prior to being positioned within an energy exchange cavity, for example.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of the support frame 412 of the liquid panel assembly 400 , according to an embodiment.
- the membranes 418 secured to the liquid panel assembly 400 are not shown.
- at least one membrane 418 is bonded to the front and back surfaces of the support frame 412 .
- the membrane 418 may be continuously bonded around the perimeter of the support frame 412 , thereby creating a robust external seal.
- the support frame 412 includes a main body 438 having a lower edge 440 connected to an upper edge 442 through lateral edges 444 .
- the support frame 412 may be formed of various materials, such as injection molded plastic, metal, or a combination thereof.
- the support frame 412 may be integrally formed and manufactured as a single piece through a single molding process, for example.
- the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 respectively, may be integrally molded with the support frame 412 .
- the support frame 412 may be formed as separate and distinct pieces.
- the support frame 412 may be extruded and assembled from various parts.
- the inlet member 414 includes a base 446 that connects to a support inlet 448 proximate the upper corner 415 .
- the upper corner 415 may include a channel configured to receive and retain the base 446 .
- the base 446 may fit into the channel and be securely fastened therein, such as through fasteners, adhesives, or the like.
- the base 446 may simply be integrally formed and molded with the upper corner 415 .
- the base 446 supports and connects to an upper wall 449 through lateral walls 450 .
- the base 446 , the upper wall 449 , and the lateral walls 450 define the liquid-delivery opening 420 .
- Liquid passages (hidden from view in FIG. 5 ) are formed through the base 446 and connect the liquid-delivery opening 420 to a liquid-reception area 452 formed at the upper corner 415 of the support frame 412 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric top view of the inlet member 414 , according to an embodiment.
- a lower edge 460 of the base 446 may be tapered or beveled, which allows the base 446 to be easily mated into a reciprocal channel of the support inlet 448 (shown in FIG. 5 ).
- An opening 462 is formed at a terminal end of the beveled lower edge 460 .
- the opening 462 connects to liquid passages (hidden from view in FIG. 6 ) that connect to an opening (hidden from view in FIG. 6 ) that connects to the liquid delivery opening 420 . Accordingly, liquid may pass from the liquid delivery opening 420 , out through the opening 462 of the base 446 and into the support inlet 448 of the support frame 412 .
- FIG. 7 illustrates an internal view of the inlet member 414 , according to an embodiment.
- the opening 462 is in communication with a plurality of liquid passages 470 separated by guide ribs 472 .
- the liquid passages 470 are configured to align with liquid inlet channels of the support frame 412 . While eight liquid passages 470 are shown in FIG. 7 , more or less liquid passages 470 may be used, depending on the number of liquid inlet channels of the support, frame 412 .
- the outlet member 416 is similarly constructed to the inlet member 414 .
- the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 are both liquid connection members configured to deliver and/or pass liquid to and/or from the support, frame 412 .
- the outlet member 416 includes a base 446 that connects to a support outlet 480 of the support member 412 proximate the lower corner 417 .
- the lower corner 417 may include a channel configured to receive and retain the base 446 .
- the base 446 may fit into the channel and be securely fastened therein, such as through fasteners, adhesives, or the like.
- the base 446 may simply be integrally formed and molded with the lower corner 417 .
- the base 446 supports and connects to an upper wall 449 through lateral walls 450 .
- the base 446 , the upper wall 449 , and the lateral walls 450 define the liquid-delivery opening 422 .
- Liquid passages (hidden from view in FIG. 5 ) are formed through the base 446 and connect the liquid-delivery opening 422 to a liquid-passage area 482 formed at the lower corner 417 of the support frame 412 .
- the outlet member 416 may be constructed as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 provide panel headers that are configured to provide passageways for liquid, such as desiccant, to pass into and out of the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- the inlet and outlet members 414 and 416 may also provide mating surfaces to neighboring panels to create a manifold to distribute liquid to all solution panels within an energy exchanger.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an area proximate the upper corner 415 of the support frame 412 of the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- the support frame 412 includes vertical inlet channels 490 connected to vertical outlet channels 492 through horizontal flow passages 494 .
- the support frame 412 may include eight vertical inlet channels 490 and eight vertical outlet channels 492 .
- the support frame 112 may include more or less inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 than those shown.
- Each inlet channel 490 may connect to five horizontal flow passages 191 .
- the innermost inlet channel 490 a connects to the top five horizontal flow passages 494 a .
- the inlet channel 490 b connects to the five horizontal flow passages 494 below the top five horizontal flow passages 494 a .
- the top five flow passages 494 a connect to an outermost vertical outlet channel 492 a .
- the horizontal flow passages 494 may be staggered in sets of five with respect to the support frame 412 .
- inlet ends 498 of the horizontal flow passages 494 a are farther away from the lateral edge 444 a of the support frame 412 than the inlet ends 498 of the set of horizontal flow passages 494 immediately below the set of horizontal flow passages 494 a .
- outlet ends 500 of the horizontal flow passages 494 a are closer to the lateral edge 444 b of the support frame 412 than the outlet ends 500 of the set of horizontal flow passages 494 immediately below the set of horizontal flow passages 494 a.
- the length of the inlet channel 490 a is shorter than the length of the inlet channel 490 b adjacent the inlet channel 490 a.
- the length of the inlet channel 490 b is longer in order to connect to the set of five horizontal flow passages 494 underneath the set of five horizontal flow passages 494 a.
- the length of the vertical outlet channel 492 a is longer than the length of the vertical outlet channel 492 b immediately adjacent the vertical distribution channel 492 a.
- each channel 490 and 492 may be an isolated duct that allows the pressure of liquid in neighboring channels 490 and 492 to vary in order to evenly split the flow of liquid among the channels 490 and 492 .
- each vertical distribution and passage channel 490 and 492 may feed a single horizontal flow passage 494 , or a set or bank of horizontal flow passages 494 .
- the membrane 418 (shown in FIG. 4 ) may also be bonded to internal edge surfaces of the support frame 412 to separate each vertical channel 490 and 492 from one another, as well as to separate each horizontal flow passage 494 from one another. Therefore, each fluid circuit, which includes an inlet channel 490 , one or more flow passages 494 , and an outlet channel 492 , may be a separate, sealed duct.
- Each of the inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 may provide a flow alignment vane configured to direct liquid to flow along a particular path.
- the inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 may be configured to provide support to the membrane.
- the inlet and outlet channels may be configured to provide a sealing surface for at least a portion of the membrane.
- the horizontal flow passages 494 are grouped in sets of five, which are staggered with respect to one another.
- the sets of horizontal flow passages 494 are staggered so that the overall length of each horizontal flow passage 494 is the same. Indeed, the total length of each liquid circuit, which includes a vertical inlet channel 490 that connects to a horizontal flow passage 494 , which in turn connects to a vertical outlet channel 492 , is the same due to the staggered nature of the sets of horizontal flow passages 494 and the different lengths of each of the vertical inlet channels 490 and the vertical outlet channels 492 .
- the total vertical height H of a liquid circuit is the length of a vertical inlet channel 490 plus the length of a vertical outlet channel 492 that connects to the vertical inlet channel 490 through a horizontal flow passage 494 .
- the vertical inlet channel 490 a is the shortest, while the vertical outlet channel 492 a (which connects to the inlet channel 490 a through the fluid passages 494 a ) is the longest.
- the vertical inlet channel 490 n is the longest, while the vertical outlet channel 492 n (which connects to the inlet channel 490 n through the fluid passages 494 n ) is the shortest.
- the length of the vertical inlet channel 490 a may equal the length of the vertical outlet channel 492 n, while the length of the vertical inlet channel 490 n may equal the length of the vertical outlet channel 492 a.
- the total vertical lengths for each liquid circuit may sum to H.
- the total length of each liquid circuit which includes a vertical inlet channel 490 that connects to a vertical outlet channel 492 through a horizontal fluid passage 494 , may be equal,
- inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 are each shown connecting to a set of five horizontal fluid passages 494
- the inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 may connect to more or less than five horizontal fluid passages 494
- the sets of horizontal fluid passages 491 may be two, three, six, seven, and the like.
- each distribution and passage channel 490 and 492 may alternatively connect to only one horizontal fluid passage 494 .
- the liquid circuits are of equal length in order to provide for even distribution of liquid flow through the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- the liquid panel assembly 402 is configured to operate at low pressure. That is, the liquid panel assembly 402 provides a low pressure assembly.
- the liquid that flows through the liquid panel assembly 402 has a particular weight and viscosity.
- a desiccant is a dense fluid.
- the weight of the liquid creates fluid pressure.
- the pressure is reduced through friction, for example.
- the faster the speed of the liquid within a liquid circuit the greater the friction between the liquid and walls of channels and passages that define the liquid circuit. Therefore, increasing the speed of the liquid, such as through pumping, increases the frictional force.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that balances the loss of pressure from friction with the pressure of the weight of the liquid.
- the friction head loss, h f of a fluid flowing in a channel of length L is given by the following:
- h f L C ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ V 2 ⁇ g ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ D h 2
- C is a coefficient that depends on the duct geometry (and may also be used to represent the friction of porous material in the duct)
- ⁇ is the molecular viscosity of the fluid
- V is the bulk speed of the fluid in the duct
- g is the acceleration due to gravity
- p is the density of the fluid
- D h is the hydraulic diameter of the duct.
- h f L C ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ V 2 ⁇ g ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ D h 2 ⁇ 1
- gauge pressure may be kept low enough to meet structural limitations of the membrane and support design (keeping membrane strain and stress within acceptable limits).
- the weight of the liquid produces pressure in the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively.
- increasing the number of horizontal fluid passages 494 connecting to particular inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 increases the rate of fluid flow within the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively.
- Fluid velocity is directly proportional to friction.
- friction increases.
- the friction diminishes the overall pressure of the liquid within the liquid panel assembly 402 . Therefore, by increasing the friction of the fluid with the walls of the channels and passages of the liquid panel assembly 402 , the pressure is reduced.
- connecting single vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively, to sets of four or five horizontal fluid passages 494 may substantially or completely offset the pressure caused by the weight of a desiccant.
- the liquid panel assembly 402 may be configured to account for the differences in densities and weights.
- the sets of horizontal flow passages 494 may he smaller, such as set of 2 or 3, for lighter liquids, than for heavier liquids.
- a number of flow passages 494 within a set of multiple flow passages 491 connected to individual channels 490 and 492 may be based on and/or determined by a weight of the liquid that is configured to flow through fluid circuits that include the sets of liquid passages and channels 490 and 492 .
- embodiments of the present disclosure are configured to offset hydrostatic pressure gain of the liquid with friction pressure loss of the flowing liquid within one or more fluid circuits to minimize or eliminate pressure within a liquid panel assembly.
- the hydraulic diameters of the inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 may be adjusted to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure with friction.
- the hydraulic diameter of each channel or passage may be directly proportional to the velocity of liquid flowing therethrough.
- decreasing the hydraulic diameter of the channel or passage leads to an increased velocity of pumped liquid therethrough.
- increasing liquid velocity increases friction, which reduces the net pressure. Therefore, the hydraulic diameter of the channels 490 and 492 may be based on and/or determined, in part, by a weight of the liquid that is configured to flow through fluid circuits that include the channels 490 and 492 .
- the hydraulic diameter of the channels 490 and 492 , as well as the flow passages 494 may be sized and shaped to generate a desired friction with respect to a particular liquid.
- the liquid panel assembly 402 includes liquid circuits that are configured to balance the force of liquid hydrostatic pressure and friction by adjusting the number of horizontal flow passages 494 that connect to the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively, and/or the hydraulic diameter of the channels and/or passages, in order to reduce the net pressure within the liquid. panel assembly 402 .
- the hydraulic diameters of the horizontal fluid passages 494 may be relatively wide compared to the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively. As such, the friction in relation to the liquid in the horizontal fluid passages 494 may be relatively small compared to the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively. The pressure drop in the horizontal fluid passages 494 may be relatively small. Because less friction in the horizontal flow passages 494 may be desired, the hydraulic diameters of the flow passages 494 may be wider than the hydraulic diameters of the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively.
- the balancing of liquid hydrostatic pressure and friction may be achieved through the velocity of liquid through the vertical inlet and/or outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively, which may be controlled through the number of horizontal flow passages 494 connecting to each channel 490 and 492 , and/or the hydraulic diameters of the channels 490 and 492 .
- the lengths of the horizontal flow passages 494 may be substantially longer than half the length L of the support frame 412 . Indeed, the lengths of the horizontal flow passages may be almost as long as the length L of the support frame 412 .
- the horizontal flow passages 494 may be the length of the support frame 412 minus the horizontal area occupied by the inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 , respectively. Accordingly, each fluid circuit may have a substantial length along a horizontal orientation.
- the linear, horizontal distances of the horizontal flow passages 494 increase the efficiency of energy exchange between the liquid flowing therethrough, and the airflow on either side of the membranes of the solution panel assemblies 402 . As shown in FIG.
- the horizontal flow passages 494 increase the flow of liquid in the horizontal direction so that the direction of liquid flow D L is counter to the direction of airflow D A . It has been found that increasing the distance of counterflow between the liquid in the fluid circuits and the airflow increases the efficiency of energy exchange therebetween. A counterflow arrangement of the air and liquid streams provides an efficient and highly effective energy exchanger.
- the horizontal flow passages 494 maximize the counterflow area, and allow the liquid to distribute evenly.
- the flow passages 494 may be alternatively be configured to provide crossflow, parallel-aligned flow, or other such flow.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a chart of fluid pressure levels within a liquid panel assembly 402 , according to an embodiment.
- the pressure level of liquid through an inlet length L i increases until the liquid passes into the horizontal flow passage 494 , through which the pressure level L C remains constant.
- the pressure of the liquid in the vertical outlet channel 492 increases.
- the friction of the liquid with respect to the liquid panel assembly 402 offsets the pressure levels of the liquid.
- the pressure force 902 of the liquid is offset by the frictional force 904 , thereby yielding a neutral pressure 906 within the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- the vertical inlet and outlet channels 490 and 492 may be considered friction control members that are used to balance the pressure within the liquid panel assembly 402 .
- FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a support frame 1000 of a liquid panel assembly 1002 , according to an embodiment.
- the support frame 1000 may include end sections 1004 and 1006 and an intermediate body 1008 .
- the end section 1004 may provide vertical inlet channels 1010
- the end section 1006 may provide vertical outlet channels 1012 , or vice versa.
- the intermediate body 1008 may provide horizontal flow passages 1014 .
- the intermediate body 1008 includes flow passage sets 1016 - 1030 that are staggered and/or offset with one another with respect to a vertical axis 1040 of the intermediate body 1008 .
- Each of the end sections 1004 and 1006 , as well as the intermediate body 1008 may be formed from extruded parts and assembled together, such as through fasteners, bonding, and the like.
- the end sections 1004 , 1006 , and the intermediate body 1008 may be formed by extruding a flat sheet of plastic or metal, and then embossing the channel shapes using grooved rollers, for example.
- any of the liquid panel assemblies described above may be formed through injection molding either as separate sub-parts that are later bonded together, or as a single, unitary piece. Injection molding the liquid panel assembly as a single piece, for example, eliminates the potential for joint failure or leakage at bonded seams.
- FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid inlet channels 1100 formed in a support frame 1102 , according to an embodiment.
- the inlet channels 1100 may be grooves formed between ridges 1104 in the support frame 1102 .
- the liquid outlet channels may be formed in a similar manner.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid inlet channels 1200 formed in a support frame 1202 , according to an embodiment.
- the inlet channels 1200 may be cut completely through the support frame 1202 , thereby forming a planar channel through the support frame 1202 .
- the liquid outlet channels may be formed in a similar manner.
- the inlet channels and the outlet channels of the support frame may be vertical and linear, while the flow passages may be horizontal and linear. It has been found that the linear vertical and horizontal configuration of each liquid circuit provides for efficient pressure balancing within the solution panel assemblies.
- the liquid circuits may be various other shapes and sizes.
- a liquid circuit may include a vertical inlet channel, one or a set of horizontal flow passages, and a vertical outlet channel.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit 1300 , according to an embodiment.
- the liquid circuit 1300 includes a vertical inlet channel 1302 connected to a vertical outlet channel 1306 through a flow passage 1304 .
- the flow passage 1304 may include a first horizontal portion 1308 connected to a second horizontal portion 1310 through a vertical drop 1312 .
- the vertical drop 1312 may be configured to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure, similar to the vertical inlet and outlet channels, as explained above.
- FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit 1400 , according to an embodiment.
- the liquid circuit 1400 includes a vertical inlet channel 1402 connected to a vertical outlet channel 1404 through a flow passage 1406 .
- the flow passage 1406 may include a first horizontal portion 1408 connected to a second horizontal portion 1410 through a vertical drop 1411 .
- the liquid flow passage 1406 may also include a third horizontal portion 1412 connected to the second horizontal portion 1410 through a vertical drop 1413 .
- the vertical drops 1411 and 1413 may be configured to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure, similar to the vertical inlet and outlet channels, as explained above.
- the flow passage 1406 may include more vertical drops than those shown.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit 1500 .
- a vertical inlet channel 1502 is connected to a vertical outlet channel 1504 through a flow passage 1506 , which may be non-linear.
- the flow passage 1506 may include offsetting portions such that a trough 1508 is offset by a peak 1510 . That is, the depth of the trough 1508 may be the same absolute distance as the height of the peak 1510 .
- the liquid circuits may or may not include horizontal passages.
- the liquid circuits may include vertical flow channels connected to one another through various passages. Pressure balancing may occur directly in the vertical flow channels. Additionally, the liquid circuits may be angled with respect to horizontal and vertical orientations.
- FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to combined inlet channels and combined outlet channels 1600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- One or more panel assemblies 1602 may be stacked horizontally to form a panel stack 1640 .
- the panel assemblies 1602 may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the panel assemblies 1602 may be fluidly connected proximate the left corner 1606 to an inlet channel 1608 .
- the inlet channel 1608 may be fluidly connected to an inlet header 1610 .
- the panel assemblies are fluidly connected proximate the right corner 1616 to an outlet channel 1618 .
- the outlet channel 1618 is fluidly connected to an outlet header 1620 .
- Liquid flows from the inlet header 1610 into the inlet channel 1608 and into the panel assembly 1602 at the corner 1606 .
- the liquid passes through the panel assembly 1602 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the liquid exits the panel assembly 1602 at the corner 1616 and flows into the outlet channel 1618 and into the outlet header 1620 .
- the inlet channel 1608 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to every panel assembly 1602 in the panel stack 1640 .
- the outlet channel 1618 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to every panel assembly 1602 in the panel stack 1640 .
- FIG. 17 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to individual inlet channels and individual outlet channels 1700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- One or more panel assemblies 1702 may be stacked horizontally to form a panel stack 1740 .
- the panel assemblies 1702 may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the panel assemblies 1702 may be fluidly connected proximate the right corner 1706 to an inlet channel 1708 .
- the inlet channel 1708 may be fluidly connected to an inlet header 1710 .
- the panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate the left corner 1716 to an outlet channel 1718 .
- the outlet channel 1718 may be fluidly connected to an outlet header 1720 .
- Liquid such as a.
- desiccant flows flow from the inlet header 1710 into the inlet channel 1708 and into the panel assembly 1702 at the corner 1706 .
- the liquid passes through the panel assembly 1702 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the liquid exits the panel assembly 1702 at the corner 1716 and flows into the outlet channel 1718 and into the outlet header 1720 .
- the inlet channel 1708 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to every panel assembly 1702 in the panel stack 1740 .
- the outlet channel 1718 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to every panel assembly 1702 in the panel stack 1740 .
- FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to inlet headers 1800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- One or more panel assemblies 1802 may be stacked horizontally to form a panel stack 1850 .
- One or more panel stacks 1850 may be stacked to form a stack of panel stacks 1840 .
- the panel assemblies 1802 . may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 . All panel assemblies 1802 in one panel stack 1850 may be fluidly connected proximate the right corner 1806 to one inlet header 1808 .
- the inlet header 1808 may be fluidly connected to an inlet channel 1810 .
- the panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate the left corner 1816 to an outlet header 1818 .
- the outlet header 1818 may be fluidly connected to an outlet channel 1820 .
- Liquid such as a desiccant, flows to flow along a fluid path 1860 from the inlet channel 1810 into the inlet header 1808 and into each panel assembly 1802 in the panel stack 1850 at the corner 1806 .
- the liquid passes through the panel assemblies 1802 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the liquid exits the panel assemblies 1802 at the corner 1816 and flows into the outlet header 1818 and into the outlet channel 1820 .
- the inlet channel 1810 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to every panel stack 1850 in the stack of panel stacks 1840 .
- the outlet channel 1820 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to every panel stack 1850 in the stack of panel stacks 1840 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies with external pressure balancing 1900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- One or more panel assemblies 1902 may be stacked horizontally to form a panel stack 1950 .
- One or more panel stacks 1950 may be stacked to form a stack of panel stacks 1940 .
- the panel assemblies 1902 may be separated by membrane support assemblies such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- All panel assemblies 1902 in one panel stack 1950 may be fluidly connected proximate the right corner 1906 to one inlet header 1908 .
- the inlet header 1908 may be fluidly connected to a pressure control device such as an inline regulating valve, a pressure regulating pump or other such device capable of supplying fluid to all inlet headers at the same pressure.
- the panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate the left corner 1916 to an outlet header 1918 .
- the outlet header 1918 may be fluidly connected to a pressure control device such as an inline regulating valve, a pressure regulating pump or other such device capable of retrieving fluid from all outlet headers at the same pressure.
- Fluid such as a desiccant, flows along a fluid path 1960 from the pressure control device into the inlet header 1908 and into each panel assembly 1902 in the panel stack 1950 at the corner 1906 .
- the liquid passes through the panel assemblies 1902 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect to FIG. 4 .
- the liquid exits the panel assemblies 1902 at the corner 1916 and flows into the outlet header 1918 and into the pressure control device.
- the inlet pressure control device may provide low pressure supply to every panel stack 1950 in the stack of panel stacks 1940 .
- the outlet pressure control device may provide low back pressure to every panel stack 1950 in the stack of panel stacks 1940 .
- Embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with various types of energy exchangers, such as liquid-to-air or liquid-to-liquid membrane energy exchangers.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide liquid panel assemblies that are configured to balance internal liquid hydrostatic pressure and frictional forces. As such, the total pressure within the liquid panel assemblies may be reduced, negated or otherwise neutralized. Thus, membrane bulge is substantially reduced or eliminated, which reduces the potential for leaks and membrane creep.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly divided into a plurality of separate liquid circuits, each of equal length and friction, so that liquid divides itself evenly among the liquid circuits and the flow through the liquid circuits is uniform.
- the fluid circuits promote uniform flow distribution across the liquid panel assembly, thereby providing efficient operation and performance.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that creates pathways for controlled, uniform, flow distribution (such as counterflow distribution) of liquid, such as desiccant, over an internal membrane area. Further, the liquid panel assembly provides low operating pressure by offsetting the static pressure gain and friction pressure loss as the liquid moves through the liquid circuits.
- the vertical flow of liquid may be confined to small high speed channels, thereby reducing or eliminating the potential for buoyancy-driven mal-distribution of liquid.
- the flow passages may be open (no filler wick or mesh), thereby allowing for good contact of the liquid and membrane, and low friction loss.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure are not restricted to energy exchangers. Instead, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to any liquid panel frame that exchanges heat and/or mass through a membrane, and where liquid pressure and flow distribution are controlled.
- the liquid panel assemblies described above may be used with desalination systems, water purification systems, evaporative cooling systems, systems configured to transfer heat/mass between a liquid and a gas through a membrane, systems configured to transfer heat/mass between two liquid streams through a membrane, and the like.
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Abstract
Description
- The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/231,634, filed Apr. 15, 2021, entitled “Liquid Panel Assembly,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/590,685, filed May 9, 2017, entitled “Liquid Panel Assembly,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/797,152, filed Mar. 12, 2013, entitled “Liquid Panel Assembly,” which is a Non-Provisional and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/774,192 filed Mar. 7, 2013, entitled “Liquid Panel Assembly”, which related and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/692,798 filed Aug. 24, 2012, entitled “Liquid Panel Assembly,” which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a liquid panel assembly, and more particularly, to a liquid panel assembly configured for use with an energy exchanger.
- Enclosed structures, such as occupied buildings, factories and the like, generally include a heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system for conditioning outdoor ventilated and/or recirculated air. The HVAC system includes a supply air flow path and an exhaust air flow path. The supply air flow path receives pre-conditioned air, for example outside air or outside air mixed with re-circulated air, and channels and distributes the pre-conditioned air into the enclosed structure. The pre-conditioned air is conditioned by the HVAC system to provide a desired temperature and humidity of supply air discharged into the enclosed structure. The exhaust air flow path discharges air back to the environment outside the structure. Without energy recovery, conditioning the supply air typically requires a significant amount of auxiliary energy, particularly in environments having extreme outside air conditions that are much different than the required supply air temperature and humidity. Accordingly, energy exchange or recovery systems are used to recover energy from the exhaust air flow path. Energy recovered from air in the exhaust flow path is utilized to reduce the energy required to condition the supply air.
- Conventional energy exchange systems may utilize energy recovery devices (for example, energy wheels and permeable plate exchangers) or heat exchange devices (for example, heat wheels, plate exchangers, heat-pipe exchangers and run-around heat exchangers) positioned in both the supply air flow path and the return air flow path. Liquid-to-air membrane energy exchangers (LAMEEs) may be fluidly coupled so that a desiccant liquid flows between the LAMEEs in a run-around loop, similar to run-around heat exchangers that typically use aqueous glycol as a coupling fluid.
- In general, a LAMEE transfers heat and moisture between a liquid. desiccant solution and air through a thin flexible membrane. A flat plate LAMEE includes a series of alternating liquid desiccant and air channels separated by the membrane. Typically, the pressure of the liquid within a liquid channel between membranes is higher than that of the air pressure outside of the membranes. As such, the flexible membranes tend to outwardly bow or bulge into the air channels)
- In order to avoid excessive restriction of the air flow due to membrane bulge, air channels of a LAMEE are relatively wide compared to the liquid channels. Moreover, a support structure is generally provided between membranes to limit the amount of membrane bulge. However, the relatively wide air channels and support structures typically diminish the performance of the LAMEE. In short, resistance to heat and moisture transfer in the air channel is relatively high due to the large air channel width, and the support structure may block a significant amount of membrane transfer area. Accordingly, a large amount of membrane area is needed to meet performance objectives, which adds costs and results in a. larger LAMEE. Moreover, the support structure within an air channel may produce an excessive pressure drop, which also adversely affects operating performance and efficiency of the LAMEE.
- Typically, desiccant flows through a solution panel, which may include membranes that contain the desiccant between air channels. In general, the solution panel is uniformly full of desiccant during operation. Known energy exchangers force flow of desiccant upwardly through the solution panel, against the force of gravity. As such, the desiccant is typically pumped from the bottom of the solution panel to the top with enough pressure to overcome the relatively large amount of static head pressure, as well as the friction in the panel. However, the pumping pressure causes the membranes of the solution panel to outwardly bow or bulge. Moreover, the pumping pressure is often great enough to cause leaks in the membranes. Further, the pressure of the desiccant being pumped through the solution panel often causes membrane creep and degradation over time.
- A typical solution panel also includes a filler material, such as a wick or woven plastic screen, configured to ensure proper spacing between membrane surfaces within the solution panel. The flow of the desiccant through the filler material is generally uncontrolled. For example, the filler material is generally unable to direct the desiccant over a particular path. Instead, the flow of desiccant through the filler material follows the path of least resistance, which generally follows a Hele-Shaw pattern between closed-spaced plates. Further, the flow pattern of the desiccant is sensitive to variations in the spacing within the solution panel caused by even small amounts of membrane bulge. Also, fluid instabilities from concentration and temperature gradients may cause additional flow irregularities and mal-distributions. The winding flow pattern within a typical solution panel produces flow dead zones at or proximate corners of the solution panel.
- As noted, in order to ensure that desiccant completely fills the solution panel from bottom to top, a relatively high pumping pressure is used. However, the pumping pressure may often generate membrane bulge and bowing, which may adversely affect the energy exchanger.
- Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly, which may be configured to be used with an energy exchanger, for example. The liquid panel assembly may include a support frame having one or more fluid circuits and at least one membrane secured to the support frame. Each fluid circuit may include an inlet channel connected to an outlet channel through one or more flow passages, such as counterflow passages (in that liquid in the counterflow passages counterflows with respect to another fluid, such as air, outside of the at least one membrane). A liquid, such as a desiccant, is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s) and contact interior surfaces of the membrane(s). The fluid circuit(s) is configured to offset hydrostatic pressure gain with friction pressure loss of the liquid that flows within the one or more fluid circuits to reduce pressure within the liquid panel assembly.
- The shape, porosity, and/or hydraulic diameter of one or both of the inlet and outlet channels may be determined by a weight, viscosity, and/or flow speed of the liquid that is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s). For example, if the liquid is heavy, the diameters of the channels may be reduced in order to promote faster liquid flow therethrough, which generates increased friction that offsets the liquid hydrostatic pressure.
- The flow passages may include a set of a plurality of flow passages connected to the inlet channel and the outlet channel. A number of flow passages within the set of a plurality of flow passages may he determined by a weight and/or viscosity of the liquid that is configured to flow through the fluid circuit(s).
- The fluid circuit(s) may include a plurality of fluid circuits. The lengths of each of the fluid circuits may be equal. The plurality of fluid circuits may include a first set of a plurality of flow passages connected to a first inlet channel and a first outlet channel, and a second set of a plurality of flow passages connected to a second inlet channel and a second outlet channel. The first set of a plurality of flow passages may be staggered with respect to the second set of a plurality of flow passages.
- Each of the inlet and outlet channels may provide a flow alignment vane configured to direct the liquid to flow along a particular path. The inlet and outlet channels may be configured to provide support to the membrane(s). The inlet and outlet channels may be configured to provide a sealing surface for at least a portion of the membrane(s). The inlet and outlet channels may be configured to maximize a length of the flow passages.
- The membrane(s) may be continuously bonded around a perimeter of the support frame. The fluid circuits may be configured to provide uniform liquid flow distribution across and/or through the liquid panel assembly. The support frame and the membrane may be configured to be vertically oriented within an energy exchange cavity of an energy exchanger.
- The inlet channel may be disposed at an upper corner of the support frame. The outlet channel may be disposed at a lower corner of the support frame. The upper corner may be diagonally located from the lower corner. The inlet and, outlet channels may be vertical and the flow passages(s) may be horizontal. A horizontal length of the flow passage(s) may exceed half a total horizontal length of the support frame. The assembly may also include inlet and outlet members, such as headers, connected to the fluid circuit(s). The inlet and outlet members may include a liquid delivery channel and a liquid passage channel, respectively. The inlet member may be configured to modularly engage another inlet member, and the outlet member may be configured to modularly engage another outlet member. At least a portion of the membrane(s) may sealingly engage the inlet and outlet members.
- Alternatively, the support frame and the membrane may be configured to be horizontally oriented within an energy exchange cavity of an energy exchanger,
- The inlet channel may be disposed at one corner of the support frame. The outlet channel may be disposed at another corner of the support frame. The first corner may be diagonally located from the second corner. The inlet and outlet channels may be vertical and the flow passages(s) may be horizontal. A horizontal length of the flow passage(s) may exceed half a total horizontal length of the support frame.
- The assembly may also include inlet and outlet members, such as headers, connected to the fluid circuit(s). The inlet member may fluidly engage all inlet channels and the outlet member may fluidly engage all outlet channels.
- Alternatively, the flow passages in one or more panels can be fluidly connected to members, such as headers. One or more of these members can be fluidly connected to flow channels. Inlet channels can be fluidly connected to inlet members which can, in turn, be connected to flow passages. The flow passages can be fluidly connected to outlet members, such as headers, which are, in turn, connected to outlet channels.
- Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an energy exchange system that may include a plurality of air channels configured to allow air to pass therethrough, and a plurality of liquid panel assemblies alternately spaced with the plurality of liquid panel assemblies. The system may also include a plurality of membrane support assemblies disposed within the plurality of air channels. Air within the air channels may be configured to counterflow with respect to the liquid within the one or more flow passages.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an energy exchange system., according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away front view of panels within an energy exchange cavity of a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded isometric top view of an energy exchange cavity, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric top view of an inlet member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, -
FIG. 7 illustrates an internal view of an inlet member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an area proximate an upper corner of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a chart of fluid pressure levels within a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a support frame of a liquid panel assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid distribution Channels formed in a support frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric top view of liquid distribution channels formed in a support frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified view of a liquid circuit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to combined inlet channels and combined outlet channels, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 17 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to individual inlet channels and individual outlet channels, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to inlet headers, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 19 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies with external pressure balancing, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. - The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.
- As explained in detail below, embodiments of the present disclosure provide liquid panel assemblies that are configured to balance internal liquid hydrostatic pressure and frictional forces. As such, the total pressure within the liquid panel assemblies may be reduced, negated or otherwise neutralized. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that may be configured, through selection of a number, orientation, shape, and/or the like of flow channels or passages, to ensure that pressure within the assembly is substantially reduced, negated, or otherwise neutralized. That is, the pressure may be reduced, negated, or otherwise neutralized to a greater extent than a negligible amount. Thus, membrane bulge is substantially reduced (that is, more than a negligible amount) or eliminated, which reduces the potential for leaks and membrane creep.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of anenergy exchange system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thesystem 100 is configured to partly or fully condition air supplied to astructure 101. Thesystem 100 may include aninlet 102 for a pre-conditionedair flow path 104. The pre-conditionedair flow path 104 may include outside air, air from a building adjacent to theenclosed structure 101, or air from a room within theenclosed structure 101. Airflow in the pre-conditionedair flow path 104 may be moved through the pre-conditionedair flow path 104 by afan 106. Thefan 106 directs the pre-conditioned air flow throughpath 104 to a supply air liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) 108. Thesupply air LAMEE 108 conditions the pre-conditioned air flow inpath 104 to generate a change in air temperature and humidity (i.e. to pre-conditioned the air partly or fully) toward that which is required for a supply air flow condition to be discharged into theenclosed space 101. During a winter mode operation, thesupply air LAMEE 108 may condition the pre-conditionedair flow path 104 by adding heat and moisture to the pre-conditioned air inflow path 104. In a summer mode operation, thesupply air LAMEE 108 may condition the pre-conditionedair flow path 104 by removing heat and moisture from the pre-conditioned air inflow path 104. Thepre-conditioned air 110 may be channeled to anHVAC system 112 of theenclosed structure 101. TheHVAC system 112 may further condition thepre-conditioned air 110 to generate the desired temperature and humidity for thesupply air 114 that is supplied to theenclosed structure 101. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , onefan 106 may be located upstream of theLAMEE 108. Optionally, the pre-conditionedair flow path 104 may be moved by a down-stream fan and/or by multiple fans or a fan array or before and after each LAMEE in the system. -
Return air 116 is channeled out of theenclosed structure 101. A massflow rate portion 118 of thereturn air 116 may be returned to theHVAC system 112. Another massflow rate portion 119 of thereturn air 116 may be channeled to a return air orregeneration LAMEE 120. Theportions damper 121 or the like. For example, 80% of thereturn air 116 may be channeled to theHVAC system 112 and 20% of thereturn air 116 may be channeled to thereturn air LAMEE 120. Thereturn air LAMEE 120 exchanges energy between theportion 119 of thereturn air 116 and the preconditionedair 110 in thesupply air LAMEE 108. During a winter mode, thereturn air LAMEE 120 collects heat and moisture from theportion 119 of thereturn air 116. During a summer mode, thereturn air LAMEE 120 discharges heat and moisture into theportion 119 of thereturn air 116. Thereturn air LAMEE 120 generatesexhaust air 122. Theexhaust air 122 is discharged from thestructure 101 through anoutlet 124. Afan 126 may be provided to move theexhaust air 122 from thereturn air LAMEE 120. Thesystem 100 may includemultiple fans 126 or one or more fan arrays located either up-stream or down-stream (as inFIG. 1 ) of thereturn air LAMEE 120. - A liquid, such as a
desiccant fluid 127, flows between thesupply air LAMEE 108 and thereturn air LAMEE 120. Thedesiccant fluid 127 transfers the heat and moisture between thesupply air LAMEE 108 and thereturn air LAMEE 120. Thesystem 100 may includedesiccant storage tanks 128 in fluid communication between thesupply air LAMEE 108 and thereturn air LAMEE 120. Thestorage tanks 128 store thedesiccant fluid 127 as it is channeled between thesupply air LAMEE 108 and thereturn air LAMEE 120. Optionally, thesystem 100 may not include bothstorage tanks 128 or may have more than two storage tanks.Pumps 130 are provided to move thedesiccant fluid 127 from thestorage tanks 128 to one of thesupply air LAMEE 108 or thereturn air LAMEE 120. The illustrated embodiment includes twopumps 130. Optionally, thesystem 100 may be configured with as few as onepump 130 or more than twopumps 130. Thedesiccant fluid 127 flows between thesupply air LAMEE 108 and thereturn air LAMEE 120 to transfer heat and moisture between theconditioned air 110 and theportion 118 of thereturn air 116. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of aLAMEE 300. according to an embodiment. TheLAMEE 300 may be used as thesupply air LAMEE 108 and/or the return or exhaust air LAMEE 120 (shown inFIG. 1 ). TheLAMEE 300 includes ahousing 302 having abody 304. Thebody 304 includes anair inlet end 306 and anair outlet end 308. A top 310 extends between theair inlet end 306 and theair outlet end 308. While note shown, a stepped-down top may be positioned at theair inlet end 306. The stepped-down top may be stepped a distance from the top 310. A bottom 316 extends between theair inlet end 306 and theair outlet end 308. While not shown, a stepped-up bottom may be positioned at theair outlet end 308. The stepped-up bottom may be stepped a distance from the bottom 316. In alternative designs the stepped-up bottom or stepped-down top sections may have different sizes of steps or no step at all - An
air inlet 322 is positioned at theair inlet end 306. Anair outlet 324 is positioned at theair outlet end 308.Sides 326 extend between theair inlet 322 and theair outlet 324. - An
energy exchange cavity 330 extends through thehousing 302 of theLAMEE 300. Theenergy exchange cavity 330 extends from theair inlet end 306 to theair outlet end 308. Anair stream 332 is received in theair inlet 322. and flows through theenergy exchange cavity 330. Theair stream 332 is discharged from theenergy exchange cavity 330 at theair outlet 324. Theenergy exchange cavity 330 may include a plurality ofpanels 334. such as liquid panels configured to receive desiccant and direct the flow of the desiccant therethrough. - A
desiccant inlet reservoir 352 may be positioned on the top 310. Thedesiccant inlet reservoir 352 may be configured to receive desiccant, which may be stored in a storage tank 128 (shown inFIG. 1 ). Thedesiccant inlet reservoir 352 may include an inlet in flow communication with thestorage tank 128. The desiccant is received through the inlet. Thedesiccant inlet reservoir 352 may also include an outlet that is in fluid communication withdesiccant channels 376 of thepanels 334 in theenergy exchange cavity 330. The liquid desiccant flows through the outlet into thedesiccant channels 376. The desiccant flows along thepanels 334 through thedesiccant channels 376 to adesiccant outlet reservoir 354, which may be positioned at or proximate the bottom 316. Accordingly, the desiccant may flow through theLAMEE 300 from top to bottom. For example, the desiccant may flow into thedesiccant channels 376 proximate thedesiccant inlet reservoir 352, through thedesiccant channels 376, and out of theLAMEE 300 proximate to thedesiccant outlet reservoir 354. In an alternative embodiment, the desiccant may flow through theLAMEE 300 from bottom to top. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a cut-away front view of thepanels 334 within theenergy exchange cavity 330 of theLAMEE 300, according to an embodiment. Thepanels 334 may be solution or liquid panels configured to direct the flow of liquid, such as desiccant, therethrough, as explained below. Thepanels 334 form a liquiddesiccant flow path 376 that is confined bysemi-permeable membranes 378 on either side and is configured to carry desiccant therethrough. Themembranes 378 may or may not be porous or able to transfer mass. Eachmembrane 378 may be any flexible structure that may generally bulge under fluid pressure. Thesemi-permeable membranes 378 are arranged in parallel to formair channels 336 with an average flow channel width of 337 andliquid desiccant channels 376 with an average flow channel width of 377. In one embodiment, thesemi-permeable membranes 378 are spaced to formuniform air channels 336 andliquid desiccant channels 376. The air stream 332 (shown inFIG. 2 ) travels through theair channels 336 between thesemi-permeable membranes 378. The desiccant in eachdesiccant channel 376 exchanges heat and moisture with theair stream 332 in theair channels 336 through thesemi-permeable membranes 378. Theair channels 336 alternate with theliquid desiccant channels 376. Except for the two side panels of the energy exchange cavity, eachair channel 336 may be positioned between adjacentliquid desiccant channels 376. - In order to minimize or otherwise eliminate the
liquid desiccant channels 376 from outwardly bulging or bowing, membrane support assemblies may be positioned within theair channels 336. The membrane support assemblies are configured to support the membranes, and may promote turbulent air flow between theair channels 336 and themembranes 378. - As an example, the
LAMEE 300 may be similar to a LAMEE as described in WO 2011/161547, entitled “Liquid-To-Air Membrane Energy Exchanger,” filed Jun. 22, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. -
FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded isometric top view of anenergy exchange cavity 400, according to an embodiment. Theenergy exchange cavity 400 may include a plurality ofliquid panel assemblies 402 spaced apart from one another bymembrane support assemblies 404, such as those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/797,062, entitled “Membrane Support Assembly for an Energy Exchanger,” filed Mar. 12, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/692,793, entitled “Membrane Support Assembly for an Energy Exchanger,” filed Aug. 24, 2012, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Themembrane support assemblies 404 may reside inair channels 406. For example, themembrane support assemblies 404 may preventmembranes 418 of thesolution panel assemblies 402 from outwardly bulging or bowing into theair channels 406.Airflow 408 is configured to pass through theair channels 406 betweenliquid panel assemblies 402. As shown, theairflow 408 may generally be aligned with ahorizontal axis 410 of theenergy exchange cavity 400. Thus, theairflow 408 may be horizontal with respect to theenergy exchange cavity 400. Notably, however, themembrane support assemblies 404 may include turbulence promoters configured to generate turbulence, eddies, and the like in theairflow 408 within theenergy exchange cavity 400. - Each
liquid panel assembly 402 may include asupport frame 412 connected to aninlet member 414 at anupper corner 415 and anoutlet member 416 at alower corner 417 that may be diagonal to theupper corner 415. Further,membranes 418 are positioned on each side of thesupport frame 412. Themembranes 418 are formed of a liquid impermeable, but air permeable, material. Themembranes 418 sealingly engage thesupport frame 412 along outer edges in order to contain liquid within theliquid panel assembly 402. Alternatively, a single membrane may sealingly wrap around an entirety of thesupport frame 412. - Each
inlet member 414 may include aliquid delivery opening 420, while eachoutlet member 416 may include aliquid passage opening 422. Theliquid delivery openings 420 may be connected together through conduits, pipes, or the like, while theliquid passage openings 422 may be connected together through conduits, pipes, or the like. Optionally, theinlet members 414 andoutlet members 416 may be sized and shaped to directly mate with one another so that a liquid-tight seal is formed therebetween. Accordingly, liquid, such as desiccant may flow through theliquid delivery openings 420 and theliquid passage openings 422. Theinlet members 414 andoutlet members 416 may he modular components configured to selectively couple and decouple fromother inlet members 414 andoutlet members 416, respectively. For example, theinlet members 414 andoutlet members 416 may be configured to securely mate withother inlet members 414 andoutlet members 416, respectively, through snap and/or latthing connections, or through fasteners and adhesives. - As shown, the
liquid panel assemblies 402, themembrane support assemblies 404, and theair channels 406 may all be vertically oriented. Theliquid panel assemblies 402 may be flat plate exchangers that are vertically-oriented with respect to a base that is supported by a floor, for example, of a structure. - Alternatively, the
liquid panel assemblies 402, themembrane support assemblies 404, and theair channels 406 may all be horizontally oriented. For example, theliquid panel assemblies 402 may be flat plate exchangers that are horizontally-oriented with respect to a base that is supported by a floor, for example, of a structure. - In operation, liquid, such as desiccant, flows into the
liquid delivery openings 420 of theinlet members 414. For example, the liquid may be pumped into theliquid delivery openings 420 through a pump. The liquid then flows into the support frames 412 through aliquid path 424 toward theoutlet members 416. As shown, theliquid path 424 includes avertical descent 426 that connects to a horizontal, flow portion, such as aflow portion 428, which, in turn, connects to avertical descent 430 that connects to the liquid passage opening 422 of theoutlet member 416. Thevertical descents flow portion 428. As such, the liquid flows through thesolution panel assemblies 402 from thetop corners 415 to thelower corners 417. As shown, the length of the horizontal,flow portion 428 substantially exceeds half the length L of theliquid panel assemblies 402. The horizontal,flow portion 428 provides liquid, such as desiccant, that may counterflow with respect to theairflow 408. Alternatively, the flow portion may be a crossflow, parallel-aligned flow, or other such flow portion, for example. - The
airflow 408 that passes between theliquid panel assemblies 402 exchanges energy with the liquid flowing through theliquid panel assemblies 402. The liquid may be a desiccant, refrigerant, or any other type of liquid that may be used to exchange energy with theairflow 408. - The
energy exchange cavity 400 may include more or lessliquid panel assemblies 402,membrane support assemblies 404, andair channels 406 than those shown inFIG. 4 . The inlet andoutlet members outlet members liquid panel assemblies 402. Sealing agents, such as gaskets, silicone gel, or the like, may be disposed between neighboringinlet members 414 and neighboringoutlet members 416. At least a portion of the membrane sealingly engages the inlet andoutlet members liquid panel assembly 402 formed in this manner provides a fully-sealed, stand-alone unit having openings at the inlet andoutlet members openings liquid panel assembly 402 may be pre-tested for leaks and membrane holes prior to being positioned within an energy exchange cavity, for example. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of thesupport frame 412 of theliquid panel assembly 400, according to an embodiment. For the sake of clarity, themembranes 418 secured to theliquid panel assembly 400 are not shown. However, it is to be understood that at least onemembrane 418 is bonded to the front and back surfaces of thesupport frame 412. For example, themembrane 418 may be continuously bonded around the perimeter of thesupport frame 412, thereby creating a robust external seal. - The
support frame 412 includes amain body 438 having alower edge 440 connected to an upper edge 442 throughlateral edges 444. Thesupport frame 412 may be formed of various materials, such as injection molded plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. Thesupport frame 412 may be integrally formed and manufactured as a single piece through a single molding process, for example. For example, the inlet andoutlet members support frame 412. Optionally, thesupport frame 412 may be formed as separate and distinct pieces. For example, thesupport frame 412. may be extruded and assembled from various parts. - The
inlet member 414 includes a base 446 that connects to asupport inlet 448 proximate theupper corner 415. Theupper corner 415 may include a channel configured to receive and retain thebase 446. For example, thebase 446 may fit into the channel and be securely fastened therein, such as through fasteners, adhesives, or the like. Optionally, as noted above, thebase 446 may simply be integrally formed and molded with theupper corner 415. Thebase 446 supports and connects to anupper wall 449 throughlateral walls 450. Thebase 446, theupper wall 449, and thelateral walls 450 define the liquid-delivery opening 420. Liquid passages (hidden from view inFIG. 5 ) are formed through thebase 446 and connect the liquid-delivery opening 420 to a liquid-reception area 452 formed at theupper corner 415 of thesupport frame 412. -
FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric top view of theinlet member 414, according to an embodiment. As shown, alower edge 460 of the base 446 may be tapered or beveled, which allows the base 446 to be easily mated into a reciprocal channel of the support inlet 448 (shown inFIG. 5 ). Anopening 462 is formed at a terminal end of the beveledlower edge 460. Theopening 462 connects to liquid passages (hidden from view inFIG. 6 ) that connect to an opening (hidden from view inFIG. 6 ) that connects to theliquid delivery opening 420. Accordingly, liquid may pass from theliquid delivery opening 420, out through theopening 462 of thebase 446 and into thesupport inlet 448 of thesupport frame 412. -
FIG. 7 illustrates an internal view of theinlet member 414, according to an embodiment. As shown inFIG. 7 , theopening 462 is in communication with a plurality ofliquid passages 470 separated byguide ribs 472. Theliquid passages 470 are configured to align with liquid inlet channels of thesupport frame 412. While eightliquid passages 470 are shown inFIG. 7 , more or lessliquid passages 470 may be used, depending on the number of liquid inlet channels of the support,frame 412. - Referring again to
FIG. 5 , theoutlet member 416 is similarly constructed to theinlet member 414. The inlet andoutlet members frame 412. Accordingly, similar to theinlet member 414, theoutlet member 416 includes a base 446 that connects to asupport outlet 480 of thesupport member 412 proximate thelower corner 417. Thelower corner 417 may include a channel configured to receive and retain thebase 446. For example, thebase 446 may fit into the channel and be securely fastened therein, such as through fasteners, adhesives, or the like. Optionally, as noted above, thebase 446 may simply be integrally formed and molded with thelower corner 417. Thebase 446 supports and connects to anupper wall 449 throughlateral walls 450. Thebase 446, theupper wall 449, and thelateral walls 450 define the liquid-delivery opening 422. Liquid passages (hidden from view inFIG. 5 ) are formed through thebase 446 and connect the liquid-delivery opening 422 to a liquid-passage area 482 formed at thelower corner 417 of thesupport frame 412. Theoutlet member 416 may be constructed as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 . - The inlet and
outlet members liquid panel assembly 402. The inlet andoutlet members -
FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an area proximate theupper corner 415 of thesupport frame 412 of theliquid panel assembly 402. Referring toFIGS. 5 and 8 , thesupport frame 412 includesvertical inlet channels 490 connected tovertical outlet channels 492 throughhorizontal flow passages 494. As shown, thesupport frame 412 may include eightvertical inlet channels 490 and eightvertical outlet channels 492. However, thesupport frame 112 may include more or less inlet andoutlet channels inlet channel 490 may connect to five horizontal flow passages 191. For example, theinnermost inlet channel 490 a connects to the top fivehorizontal flow passages 494 a. Similarly, theinlet channel 490 b connects to the fivehorizontal flow passages 494 below the top fivehorizontal flow passages 494 a. Similarly, the top fiveflow passages 494 a connect to an outermostvertical outlet channel 492 a. Accordingly, thehorizontal flow passages 494 may be staggered in sets of five with respect to thesupport frame 412. For example, inlet ends 498 of thehorizontal flow passages 494 a are farther away from the lateral edge 444 a of thesupport frame 412 than the inlet ends 498 of the set ofhorizontal flow passages 494 immediately below the set ofhorizontal flow passages 494 a. However, outlet ends 500 of thehorizontal flow passages 494 a are closer to thelateral edge 444 b of thesupport frame 412 than the outlet ends 500 of the set ofhorizontal flow passages 494 immediately below the set ofhorizontal flow passages 494 a. Further, the length of theinlet channel 490 a is shorter than the length of theinlet channel 490 b adjacent theinlet channel 490 a. The length of theinlet channel 490 b is longer in order to connect to the set of fivehorizontal flow passages 494 underneath the set of fivehorizontal flow passages 494 a. Conversely, the length of thevertical outlet channel 492 a is longer than the length of thevertical outlet channel 492 b immediately adjacent thevertical distribution channel 492 a. - The vertical inlet and
outlet channels channel channels channels passage channel horizontal flow passage 494, or a set or bank ofhorizontal flow passages 494. The membrane 418 (shown inFIG. 4 ) may also be bonded to internal edge surfaces of thesupport frame 412 to separate eachvertical channel horizontal flow passage 494 from one another. Therefore, each fluid circuit, which includes aninlet channel 490, one ormore flow passages 494, and anoutlet channel 492, may be a separate, sealed duct. - Each of the inlet and
outlet channels outlet channels - As shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6 , thehorizontal flow passages 494 are grouped in sets of five, which are staggered with respect to one another. The sets ofhorizontal flow passages 494 are staggered so that the overall length of eachhorizontal flow passage 494 is the same. Indeed, the total length of each liquid circuit, which includes avertical inlet channel 490 that connects to ahorizontal flow passage 494, which in turn connects to avertical outlet channel 492, is the same due to the staggered nature of the sets ofhorizontal flow passages 494 and the different lengths of each of thevertical inlet channels 490 and thevertical outlet channels 492. The total vertical height H of a liquid circuit is the length of avertical inlet channel 490 plus the length of avertical outlet channel 492 that connects to thevertical inlet channel 490 through ahorizontal flow passage 494. Thevertical inlet channel 490 a is the shortest, while thevertical outlet channel 492 a (which connects to theinlet channel 490 a through thefluid passages 494 a) is the longest. Conversely, thevertical inlet channel 490 n is the longest, while thevertical outlet channel 492 n (which connects to theinlet channel 490 n through thefluid passages 494 n) is the shortest. Further, the length of thevertical inlet channel 490 a may equal the length of thevertical outlet channel 492 n, while the length of thevertical inlet channel 490 n may equal the length of thevertical outlet channel 492 a. In short, the total vertical lengths for each liquid circuit may sum to H. Moreover, the total length of each liquid circuit, which includes avertical inlet channel 490 that connects to avertical outlet channel 492 through ahorizontal fluid passage 494, may be equal, - While particular inlet and
outlet channels fluid passages 494, the inlet andoutlet channels fluid passages 494. For example, the sets of horizontal fluid passages 491 may be two, three, six, seven, and the like. Further, each distribution andpassage channel horizontal fluid passage 494. - The liquid circuits are of equal length in order to provide for even distribution of liquid flow through the
liquid panel assembly 402. Theliquid panel assembly 402 is configured to operate at low pressure. That is, theliquid panel assembly 402 provides a low pressure assembly. The liquid that flows through theliquid panel assembly 402 has a particular weight and viscosity. For example, a desiccant is a dense fluid. The weight of the liquid creates fluid pressure. As the liquid flows from the top of theliquid panel assembly 402 to the bottom, the pressure from the weight of the liquid builds. As the liquid moves through theliquid panel assembly 402, the pressure is reduced through friction, for example. For example, the faster the speed of the liquid within a liquid circuit, the greater the friction between the liquid and walls of channels and passages that define the liquid circuit. Therefore, increasing the speed of the liquid, such as through pumping, increases the frictional force. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that balances the loss of pressure from friction with the pressure of the weight of the liquid. - The friction head loss, hf, of a fluid flowing in a channel of length L is given by the following:
-
- where C is a coefficient that depends on the duct geometry (and may also be used to represent the friction of porous material in the duct), μ is the molecular viscosity of the fluid, V is the bulk speed of the fluid in the duct, g is the acceleration due to gravity, p is the density of the fluid, and Dh is the hydraulic diameter of the duct. The friction head loss may be synonymous with pressure drop (“head” refers to the height of a column of fluid that would produce the pressure), that is, ΔP=pghf.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly in which friction head loss may be the same or approximately the same as a drop in vertical elevation of the fluid as it flows downward in the channels, due to the gain in static pressure, which is given by ΔP=pgΔz, where Δz is the drop in vertical elevation (in the direction of gravity). Therefore, adding the two pressure changes together gives ΔPnet=pg(Δz-hf). A closely balanced flow with low pressure would have Δz≈hf. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide pressure balancing channels at the ends of the panel that are oriented vertically, therefore, Δz=L. As such, the following may he consulted when selecting the size, shape, orientation, and the like of the fluid circuits:
-
- However, complete balance as shown in the above equation is not necessarily required. Instead, the gauge pressure may be kept low enough to meet structural limitations of the membrane and support design (keeping membrane strain and stress within acceptable limits).
- In an example, the weight of the liquid produces pressure in the vertical inlet and
outlet channels fluid passages 494 connecting to particular inlet andoutlet channels outlet channels liquid panel assembly 402. Therefore, by increasing the friction of the fluid with the walls of the channels and passages of theliquid panel assembly 402, the pressure is reduced. As an example, it has been found that connecting single vertical inlet andoutlet channels fluid passages 494 may substantially or completely offset the pressure caused by the weight of a desiccant. Because different liquids have different densities and weights, theliquid panel assembly 402 may be configured to account for the differences in densities and weights. For example, the sets ofhorizontal flow passages 494 may he smaller, such as set of 2 or 3, for lighter liquids, than for heavier liquids. Therefore, a number offlow passages 494 within a set of multiple flow passages 491 connected toindividual channels channels - Additionally, the hydraulic diameters of the inlet and
outlet channels fluid passages 494, may be adjusted to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure with friction. For example, the hydraulic diameter of each channel or passage may be directly proportional to the velocity of liquid flowing therethrough. Thus, decreasing the hydraulic diameter of the channel or passage leads to an increased velocity of pumped liquid therethrough. As noted, increasing liquid velocity increases friction, which reduces the net pressure. Therefore, the hydraulic diameter of thechannels channels horizontal flow passages 494 in a set that connect to individual vertical inlet andoutlet channels channels flow passages 494 may be sized and shaped to generate a desired friction with respect to a particular liquid. - Thus, the
liquid panel assembly 402 includes liquid circuits that are configured to balance the force of liquid hydrostatic pressure and friction by adjusting the number ofhorizontal flow passages 494 that connect to the vertical inlet andoutlet channels panel assembly 402. - The hydraulic diameters of the horizontal
fluid passages 494 may be relatively wide compared to the vertical inlet andoutlet channels fluid passages 494 may be relatively small compared to the vertical inlet andoutlet channels fluid passages 494 may be relatively small. Because less friction in thehorizontal flow passages 494 may be desired, the hydraulic diameters of theflow passages 494 may be wider than the hydraulic diameters of the vertical inlet andoutlet channels outlet channels horizontal flow passages 494 connecting to eachchannel channels - Referring to
FIGS. 4, 5, and 8 , the lengths of thehorizontal flow passages 494 may be substantially longer than half the length L of thesupport frame 412. Indeed, the lengths of the horizontal flow passages may be almost as long as the length L of thesupport frame 412. For example, thehorizontal flow passages 494 may be the length of thesupport frame 412 minus the horizontal area occupied by the inlet andoutlet channels horizontal flow passages 494 increase the efficiency of energy exchange between the liquid flowing therethrough, and the airflow on either side of the membranes of thesolution panel assemblies 402. As shown inFIG. 5 , thehorizontal flow passages 494 increase the flow of liquid in the horizontal direction so that the direction of liquid flow DL is counter to the direction of airflow DA. It has been found that increasing the distance of counterflow between the liquid in the fluid circuits and the airflow increases the efficiency of energy exchange therebetween. A counterflow arrangement of the air and liquid streams provides an efficient and highly effective energy exchanger. Thehorizontal flow passages 494 maximize the counterflow area, and allow the liquid to distribute evenly. As noted above, however, theflow passages 494 may be alternatively be configured to provide crossflow, parallel-aligned flow, or other such flow. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a chart of fluid pressure levels within aliquid panel assembly 402, according to an embodiment. As shown inFIG. 9 , the pressure level of liquid through an inlet length Li (over the length of the vertical inlet channel 490) increases until the liquid passes into thehorizontal flow passage 494, through which the pressure level LC remains constant. The pressure of the liquid in thevertical outlet channel 492 increases. However, as shown inFIG. 9 , the friction of the liquid with respect to theliquid panel assembly 402 offsets the pressure levels of the liquid. As such, thepressure force 902 of the liquid is offset by thefrictional force 904, thereby yielding aneutral pressure 906 within theliquid panel assembly 402. The vertical inlet andoutlet channels liquid panel assembly 402. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of asupport frame 1000 of aliquid panel assembly 1002, according to an embodiment. Thesupport frame 1000 may includeend sections intermediate body 1008. Theend section 1004 may providevertical inlet channels 1010, while theend section 1006 may providevertical outlet channels 1012, or vice versa. Theintermediate body 1008 may providehorizontal flow passages 1014. Theintermediate body 1008 includes flow passage sets 1016-1030 that are staggered and/or offset with one another with respect to avertical axis 1040 of theintermediate body 1008. Each of theend sections intermediate body 1008 may be formed from extruded parts and assembled together, such as through fasteners, bonding, and the like. Theend sections intermediate body 1008 may be formed by extruding a flat sheet of plastic or metal, and then embossing the channel shapes using grooved rollers, for example. - Alternatively, any of the liquid panel assemblies described above may be formed through injection molding either as separate sub-parts that are later bonded together, or as a single, unitary piece. Injection molding the liquid panel assembly as a single piece, for example, eliminates the potential for joint failure or leakage at bonded seams.
-
FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric top view ofliquid inlet channels 1100 formed in asupport frame 1102, according to an embodiment. As shown, theinlet channels 1100 may be grooves formed betweenridges 1104 in thesupport frame 1102. The liquid outlet channels may be formed in a similar manner. -
FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric top view ofliquid inlet channels 1200 formed in asupport frame 1202, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, theinlet channels 1200 may be cut completely through thesupport frame 1202, thereby forming a planar channel through thesupport frame 1202. The liquid outlet channels may be formed in a similar manner. - Referring to
FIGS. 4-12 , as explained above, the inlet channels and the outlet channels of the support frame may be vertical and linear, while the flow passages may be horizontal and linear. It has been found that the linear vertical and horizontal configuration of each liquid circuit provides for efficient pressure balancing within the solution panel assemblies. However, the liquid circuits may be various other shapes and sizes. As discussed above, a liquid circuit may include a vertical inlet channel, one or a set of horizontal flow passages, and a vertical outlet channel. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a simplified view of aliquid circuit 1300, according to an embodiment. Theliquid circuit 1300 includes avertical inlet channel 1302 connected to avertical outlet channel 1306 through aflow passage 1304. Theflow passage 1304 may include a firsthorizontal portion 1308 connected to a secondhorizontal portion 1310 through avertical drop 1312. Thevertical drop 1312 may be configured to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure, similar to the vertical inlet and outlet channels, as explained above. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified view of aliquid circuit 1400, according to an embodiment. Theliquid circuit 1400 includes avertical inlet channel 1402 connected to avertical outlet channel 1404 through aflow passage 1406. Theflow passage 1406 may include a firsthorizontal portion 1408 connected to a secondhorizontal portion 1410 through avertical drop 1411. Theliquid flow passage 1406 may also include a thirdhorizontal portion 1412 connected to the secondhorizontal portion 1410 through avertical drop 1413. The vertical drops 1411 and 1413 may be configured to balance liquid hydrostatic pressure, similar to the vertical inlet and outlet channels, as explained above. Theflow passage 1406 may include more vertical drops than those shown. -
FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified view of aliquid circuit 1500. according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, avertical inlet channel 1502 is connected to avertical outlet channel 1504 through aflow passage 1506, which may be non-linear. When non-linear, theflow passage 1506 may include offsetting portions such that atrough 1508 is offset by apeak 1510. That is, the depth of thetrough 1508 may be the same absolute distance as the height of thepeak 1510. - Referring to
FIGS. 13-15 , for example, the liquid circuits may or may not include horizontal passages. For example, the liquid circuits may include vertical flow channels connected to one another through various passages. Pressure balancing may occur directly in the vertical flow channels. Additionally, the liquid circuits may be angled with respect to horizontal and vertical orientations. -
FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to combined inlet channels and combinedoutlet channels 1600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One ormore panel assemblies 1602 may be stacked horizontally to form apanel stack 1640. Thepanel assemblies 1602 may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . Thepanel assemblies 1602 may be fluidly connected proximate theleft corner 1606 to aninlet channel 1608. Theinlet channel 1608 may be fluidly connected to aninlet header 1610. The panel assemblies are fluidly connected proximate theright corner 1616 to an outlet channel 1618. The outlet channel 1618 is fluidly connected to anoutlet header 1620. Liquid, such as a desiccant, flows from theinlet header 1610 into theinlet channel 1608 and into thepanel assembly 1602 at thecorner 1606. The liquid passes through thepanel assembly 1602 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . The liquid exits thepanel assembly 1602 at thecorner 1616 and flows into the outlet channel 1618 and into theoutlet header 1620. Theinlet channel 1608 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to everypanel assembly 1602 in thepanel stack 1640. The outlet channel 1618 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to everypanel assembly 1602 in thepanel stack 1640. -
FIG. 17 illustrates an isometric view of horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected to individual inlet channels and individual outlet channels 1700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One ormore panel assemblies 1702 may be stacked horizontally to form apanel stack 1740. Thepanel assemblies 1702 may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . Thepanel assemblies 1702 may be fluidly connected proximate theright corner 1706 to aninlet channel 1708. Theinlet channel 1708 may be fluidly connected to aninlet header 1710. The panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate theleft corner 1716 to anoutlet channel 1718. Theoutlet channel 1718 may be fluidly connected to anoutlet header 1720. Liquid, such as a. desiccant, flows flow from theinlet header 1710 into theinlet channel 1708 and into thepanel assembly 1702 at thecorner 1706. The liquid passes through thepanel assembly 1702 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . The liquid exits thepanel assembly 1702 at thecorner 1716 and flows into theoutlet channel 1718 and into theoutlet header 1720. Theinlet channel 1708 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to everypanel assembly 1702 in thepanel stack 1740. Theoutlet channel 1718 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to everypanel assembly 1702 in thepanel stack 1740. -
FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies connected toinlet headers 1800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One ormore panel assemblies 1802 may be stacked horizontally to form apanel stack 1850. One ormore panel stacks 1850 may be stacked to form a stack of panel stacks 1840. Thepanel assemblies 1802. may be separated by membrane support assemblies, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . Allpanel assemblies 1802 in onepanel stack 1850 may be fluidly connected proximate theright corner 1806 to oneinlet header 1808. Theinlet header 1808 may be fluidly connected to aninlet channel 1810. The panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate theleft corner 1816 to anoutlet header 1818. Theoutlet header 1818 may be fluidly connected to an outlet channel 1820. Liquid, such as a desiccant, flows to flow along afluid path 1860 from theinlet channel 1810 into theinlet header 1808 and into eachpanel assembly 1802 in thepanel stack 1850 at thecorner 1806. The liquid passes through thepanel assemblies 1802 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . The liquid exits thepanel assemblies 1802 at thecorner 1816 and flows into theoutlet header 1818 and into the outlet channel 1820. Theinlet channel 1810 may provide a pressure balancing function for low pressure supply to everypanel stack 1850 in the stack of panel stacks 1840. The outlet channel 1820 may provide a pressure balancing effect for low back pressure to everypanel stack 1850 in the stack of panel stacks 1840. -
FIG. 19 illustrates an isometric view of stacked horizontal liquid panel assemblies with external pressure balancing 1900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One ormore panel assemblies 1902 may be stacked horizontally to form apanel stack 1950. One ormore panel stacks 1950 may be stacked to form a stack of panel stacks 1940. Thepanel assemblies 1902 may be separated by membrane support assemblies such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . Allpanel assemblies 1902 in onepanel stack 1950 may be fluidly connected proximate theright corner 1906 to oneinlet header 1908. Theinlet header 1908 may be fluidly connected to a pressure control device such as an inline regulating valve, a pressure regulating pump or other such device capable of supplying fluid to all inlet headers at the same pressure. The panel assemblies may be fluidly connected proximate theleft corner 1916 to anoutlet header 1918. Theoutlet header 1918 may be fluidly connected to a pressure control device such as an inline regulating valve, a pressure regulating pump or other such device capable of retrieving fluid from all outlet headers at the same pressure. Fluid, such as a desiccant, flows along a fluid path 1960 from the pressure control device into theinlet header 1908 and into eachpanel assembly 1902 in thepanel stack 1950 at thecorner 1906. The liquid passes through thepanel assemblies 1902 by traveling along a liquid path, such as described with respect toFIG. 4 . The liquid exits thepanel assemblies 1902 at thecorner 1916 and flows into theoutlet header 1918 and into the pressure control device. The inlet pressure control device may provide low pressure supply to everypanel stack 1950 in the stack of panel stacks 1940. The outlet pressure control device may provide low back pressure to everypanel stack 1950 in the stack of panel stacks 1940. - Embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with various types of energy exchangers, such as liquid-to-air or liquid-to-liquid membrane energy exchangers.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide liquid panel assemblies that are configured to balance internal liquid hydrostatic pressure and frictional forces. As such, the total pressure within the liquid panel assemblies may be reduced, negated or otherwise neutralized. Thus, membrane bulge is substantially reduced or eliminated, which reduces the potential for leaks and membrane creep.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly divided into a plurality of separate liquid circuits, each of equal length and friction, so that liquid divides itself evenly among the liquid circuits and the flow through the liquid circuits is uniform. The fluid circuits promote uniform flow distribution across the liquid panel assembly, thereby providing efficient operation and performance.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a liquid panel assembly that creates pathways for controlled, uniform, flow distribution (such as counterflow distribution) of liquid, such as desiccant, over an internal membrane area. Further, the liquid panel assembly provides low operating pressure by offsetting the static pressure gain and friction pressure loss as the liquid moves through the liquid circuits. The vertical flow of liquid may be confined to small high speed channels, thereby reducing or eliminating the potential for buoyancy-driven mal-distribution of liquid. The flow passages may be open (no filler wick or mesh), thereby allowing for good contact of the liquid and membrane, and low friction loss.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure are not restricted to energy exchangers. Instead, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to any liquid panel frame that exchanges heat and/or mass through a membrane, and where liquid pressure and flow distribution are controlled. For example, the liquid panel assemblies described above may be used with desalination systems, water purification systems, evaporative cooling systems, systems configured to transfer heat/mass between a liquid and a gas through a membrane, systems configured to transfer heat/mass between two liquid streams through a membrane, and the like.
- While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood that such terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.
- It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.
- This written description uses examples to disclose the various embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if the examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
Claims (15)
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2013
- 2013-03-12 US US13/797,152 patent/US9816760B2/en active Active
- 2013-06-26 EP EP18211142.7A patent/EP3499168B1/en active Active
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- 2017-05-09 US US15/590,685 patent/US11035618B2/en active Active
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CA3199663A1 (en) | 2014-02-27 |
CN104583706A (en) | 2015-04-29 |
EP3832246A1 (en) | 2021-06-09 |
DK3499168T3 (en) | 2021-03-15 |
AU2013305427A1 (en) | 2015-02-19 |
AU2020204031A1 (en) | 2020-07-09 |
EP2893283A4 (en) | 2016-07-06 |
DK2893283T3 (en) | 2019-04-01 |
AU2018202342A1 (en) | 2018-04-26 |
EP3499168B1 (en) | 2021-02-17 |
IN2015DN00891A (en) | 2015-06-12 |
US20210231384A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 |
CA2880350A1 (en) | 2014-02-27 |
US20170241655A1 (en) | 2017-08-24 |
CN104583706B (en) | 2018-05-15 |
US20140054013A1 (en) | 2014-02-27 |
EP3499168A1 (en) | 2019-06-19 |
EP2893283A1 (en) | 2015-07-15 |
US11732972B2 (en) | 2023-08-22 |
US11035618B2 (en) | 2021-06-15 |
US9816760B2 (en) | 2017-11-14 |
EP2893283B1 (en) | 2018-12-12 |
CA2880350C (en) | 2023-07-25 |
WO2014029003A1 (en) | 2014-02-27 |
AU2013305427B2 (en) | 2018-01-04 |
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