US3873434A

US3873434A - Corrosion control assembly

Info

Publication number: US3873434A
Application number: US267049A
Authority: US
Inventors: Arthur S King
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: KING ARTHUR S INDIVIDUAL; KING ARTHUR S TRUSTEE AS TRUSTEE UNDER A CERTAIN TRUST DATED JUNE 21 1985; LOESS Corp A CORP OF; LOESS Corp A MO CORP
Priority date: 1971-08-23
Filing date: 1972-06-28
Publication date: 1975-03-25
Anticipated expiration: 1992-03-25

Abstract

A self-energizing cell provides control of corrosion and hard scale in thermal and coolant water systems by altering the chemical and physical composition of electrolytic water subjected to the cell, and includes a rotatable arrangement to reduce the accumulation of substances which tend to impede the flow of electrons. The cell is immersed in water flowing through a metal tank and its support includes an upright shaft in the tank. The water is directed at a tangent to the periphery of one of the metallic members of the galvanic couple to rotate it constantly as the water flows through the tank.

Description

o .1 rte States atent 1 1 1 1 4 King 1 Mar. 25, 1975 [5 1 CORROSION CONTROL ASSEMBLY 3,108,055 10/1963 Grant 204/197 3,347,768 10/1967 [76] lnventor: Arthur S. Klng, 9013 W. 51st Ter., 3,377264 4/1968 P191119 Vfllage, K8115. 66203 3,392,102 7/1968 Koch 204/249 3,402,1 16 9/1968 Kaltenhauser et a1. 204/195 R [22} June 1972 3,560,366 2/1971 Fisher 204/212 [21] Appl. No.: 267,049 3,574,079 4/1971 Kalmanw. 204/195 R 3,619,391 11/1971 Eisner 204/149 Related Appllcatlon Data 3,715,299 2/1973 Anderson et a1. 204/212 [63] Continuation-impart of Ser. No. 173,874, Aug. 23,

1971, abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of primary C Edmund'son 876971 1969' abandoned Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Schmidt, Johnson, Hovey & 52 us. c1 204/212, 204/148, 204/150, wmdms 204/248, 204/249 1511 Int. c1. c231 13/00 1571 ABSTRACT [58] Field of Search 204/248, 249, 148, 150, A self-energizing cell provides control of corrosion 204/212, 195 R, 196, 197 and hard scale in thermal and coolant water systems by altering the chemical and physical composition of [56] References Cited electrolytic water subjected to the cell, and includes 61 UNITED STATES PATENTS rotatable arrangement to reduce the accumulation of 54] 335 6/1895 substances which tend to impede the flow of electrons. X H1895 The cell is immersed in water flowing through a metal 645,419 3/1900 tank and its support includes an upright shaft in the l,058,1 13 4/1913 tank. The water is directed at a tangent to the periph- 1.066,57O 7/1913 ery of one of the metallic members of the galvanic 2,449,706 9/1948 couple to rotate it constantly as the water flows 25871996 8/1954 through the tank. 3,043,764 7/1962 3,073,772 1/1963 17 Claims, 10 Drawing Figures um q 1; L 11 2 CORROSION CONTROL ASSEMBLY CROSS REFERENCES This is a continuation-in-part of my copending application Ser. No. l73,874,-filed Aug. 23, 1971, and entitled SELF-ENERGIZING ELECTROLYTIC LIQUID CORRECTION DEVICE, now abandoned which, in turn, is a continuation-impart of my earlier application Ser. No. 876,971, filed Nov. 14, 1969, and entitled MAGNESIUM CELL LIQUID TREATER, now abandoned.

Corrosion of metals in domestic and industrial water systems is a common occurrence and magnesium water treating devices for alleviating the problem have been known for some time. Rather complete explanations of the factors influencing corrosion reactions are available in many publications and need not be set forth herein for an understanding of the principles of my present invention. Moreover, it is to be recognized that the useful life of water pipes and other metal equipment in heating and cooling plants and other water related installations is governed largely by the character of the water supply in various locations and by its seasonal variations.

It is generally recognized also that the exact mechanisms which control corrosion in a given environment are not completely understood. Nonetheless, it is possi ble to minimize corrosion, and the magnesium cell has become a generally accepted, self-energizing electrolytic water correction device for such purpose.

Inasmuch as the magnesium cell operates on the principle that dissimilarity of chemical composition of metals in contact with each other in the conductive water induces electromotive force differences which lead to a flow of electrons from the more corrodable to the less corrodable metal, it is desirable that at least some intimatecontact be maintained in order to effect efficient operation.

Another problem which drastically limits the usefulness of cells using magnesium or the like in controlling corrosion is the relatively low voltage and weak electrical field that can be generated thereby. As a result, the desired action of the cell treats only those portions of the system closely adjacent the self-energizing device itself. The normal resistivity of water systems is sufficiently great to drastically attenuate the corrosion con trolling action at remote locations. It is believed that the only solution heretofore devised to permit corrosion controlling action through long distances has been the utilization of impressed voltage of relatively high magnitude rather than make advantageous use ofa selfenergizing cell.

However, it is difficult to entirely prevent corrosion through use of conventional correction devices of such nature because of the need to periodically clean the anodic and cathodic metals of the cell, particularly at the zones of contact when they are in interengagement over a substantial area.

It is, therefore, an important object of the present in vention to eliminate the need for periodic removal and cleaning of the contacting surfaces of the two metals of a magnesium cell type of self-energizing electrolytic water correction device.

Another important object of the present invention is to rotate the two metals relatively and thereby effect a substantial reduction in the accumulation of substances therebetween which would otherwise tend to impede the flow of electrons.

Still another important object of the present invention is to operably couple the cell in a water system in such manner as to take full advantage of the cathodic action throughout the system.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a self-energizing galvanic cell which is capable of establishing satisfactory electrical power fields at locations remote therefrom.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a cell that is capable of electrically treating electrolytic liquid in a remote system to prevent scale formation therein.

An important aim of the present invention is to provide a novel cell of the aforementioned character coupled with a water system in such manner as to cathodically treat the latter by utilizing an electrolytic liquid separate and remote from the water of the system.

Another important aim of the present invention is to provide in an assembly for controlling corrosion in a system using electrolytic liquid through the use of a self-energizing galvanic cell located remotely from the system, an arrangement for electrically connecting the cell in a closed circuit through the liquid in the system so as to create the desired action at the desired location within the system, together with means to prevent short-circuiting of the closed circuit by the electrolytic liquid even though the latter may form a portion of the closed circuit itself.

Still another important aim of the present invention is to provide a self-energizing corrosion control assembly capable of electrically treating electrolytic fluid by polarizing the fluid molecules so as to free impurity ions from the fluid through use of a relatively low electrical power galvanic cell adaptable for creation of the necessary electrical power field.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a self-energizing device made pursuant to one embodiment of my present invention, parts being broken away to reveal details of construction;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged, perspective, central, vertical, cross-sectional view taken on line 2 -2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view still further enlarged, taken on line 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a self-energizing device made pursuant to a second embodiment of my present invention showing the same as used, by way of example, in connection with a hot water boiler or the like for heating a radiator;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged, median, vertical cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a self-energizing device made pursuant to a third embodiment of my invention showing the same as used in connection with a system similar to that of FIG. 4, parts being broken away and in section for clearness;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of a portion of the piping of the system shown in FIG. 7 and illustrating an alternate electrode used in conjunction with the third embodiment of my invention, with portions broken away to reveal details of construction;

FIG. 9 illustrates a modified arrangement of the apparatus of FIG. 8; and

FIG. is a side elevational view of the same selfenergizing device as illustrated in FIG. 7, but as utilized to accomplish electrical treatment of an electrolytic liquid in another type of system which is not in liquid communication with the device.

While self-energizing device 10 shown in FIGS. 1-3 is designed to be interposed in any system where water correction is desired, it may, of course, be used in connection with any electrolytic liquid (such as water) capable of flowing to a metal container 12, such as steel, from an inlet 14 to an outlet 16. An upright metal shaft 18 is interposed between a top 20 and a bottom 22 of the container 12, the top 20 being releasably held in place by fasteners 24.

Steel tubes

26 and 28 on the top 20 and the bottom 22 contain

insulators

30 and 32, such as a ceramic, which receive the shaft 18, a metal cup 34 being interposed between the shaft 18 and the insulator 30.

Any number of pairs of discs may be threaded on the shaft 18 in vertically spaced relationship, one only being shown and consisting ofa lower disc 36 rotatably supporting an upper disc 38. The disc 36 is held against rotation, such as by a nut 40 secured to the disc 36 through rivets 42 and a locknut 44, both meshing with threads 46 on the shaft 18.

While unit 48, which includes the magnesium disc 38 and the brass disc 36, is herein referred to for convenience as a magnesium cell, it is to be understood that any suitable dissimilar materials may be employed which are sufficiently far apart in the electrochemical series to produce a flow of electrons therebetween. Thus, the anodic member 38 may be formed of any suitable electronegative metal which is relatively high in the electromotive force series of elements (above hydrogen) including also, for example, zinc and aluminum, and the cathodic member 36, which should be appreciably less corrodable than the member 38, may be formed of any suitable electropositive material which is relatively low in the electromotive force series of elements (below hydrogen) including also, for example, carbon.

Accordingly, the sacrificed less noble metal is used in the disc 38 and disposed for easy replacement simply by removal of the top 20 of the tank or container 12, it being understood that the cup 34 readily slips off shaft 18 during removal of the top 20.

The galvanic couple between the

members

36 and 38 of the cell unit 48, and the self-energizing electrolytic correction of the liquid provided thereby, requires intimate contact between their interengaging faces, and such is adversely affected to a substantial extent if substances are permitted to accumulate thereon of such nature as to impede the flow of electrons therebetween. Such substances may be contained in the liquid being treated, produced by the correction thereon, and/or emanate from the corrosive action of the

discs

36 and 38 themselves.

In any event, they must be removed; and in order to avoid need for periodic removal of the unit 48 for the purpose of removing the coatings, the disc 38 is caused to rotate by the revolving action of the liquid itself, entering the container by the inlet 14 and flowing therefrom by the outlet 16 at tangents as shown. Supplementary power means, if need be, takes the form of a branch line 50 from the inlet 14, which may have a smaller inside diameter than the inlet 14, and be provided with a nozzle 52 for directing a jet stream of liquid at a tangent to the annular periphery 54.0f the disc 38.

The swirling action of the liquid on the unit 48 and the tank 12 (as well as the shaft 18, the nuts 40 and 44,

and the bushing 34, all of which supporting structure should be of the same material as the disc 36) tends to keep such parts from coating of detrimental substances thereon, and particularly keeps the interengaging faces of

discs

36 and 38 smooth and clean because of their relative rotation.

Container 12 is provided with a pressure relief valve 56 in the top 20 thereof for escape of gases such as hydrogen and oxygen which may be released by virtue of the corrective action of the unit 48.

Means is provided for establishing an electric field across the container 12 and the unit 48 from time to time to remove the aforementioned substances which might accumulate within the container 12 and particularly on the

members

36 and 38 when the device 10 is coupled with a liquid flow system that has insufficient pressure and/or volume to maintain an adequate swirling action of the liquid in tank 12, and particularly on the disc 38. Such means consists in operatively charging the shaft 18 and the container 12, and includes the use of

conductors

58 and 60 coupled with the container 12 and the cup or bushing 34 respectively, and capable of connecting the container 12 and, therefore, the shaft 18 across a source of direct potential (not shown) to establish the electric field.

During such cleaning step, the liquid within the container 12 should not be flowing; therefore,

shutoff valves

62 and 64 are provided in the inlet 14 and the outlet 16 respectively.

After such cleaning operation, the substances cleaned from all of the component parts within the container 12 as well as the inner surfaces of the latter may be flushed into the sytem by reopening the

valves

62 and 64, thereby helping to prevent further corrosion of the equipment to which the liquid is directed from outlet 16, such as boilers, cooling coils, and other domestic and industrial equipment contacted by the treated liquid.

In the event the member 38 does not rotate fast enough or continuously as the liquid flows through the tank 12, one or more vanes 65 may be provided for the member 38. Such vanes 65 should extend outwardly beyond the periphery 54 of member 38 so that the liquid will impinge thereon, and be made from material, such as a plastic, which will not cause dissipation of the member 38 and, therefore, become loose. Vane 65 may be molded into or otherwise fastened to member 38 and I have shown a lug 66 at the inner end of vane 65 to hold it against displacement.

The self-energizing device of FIGS. 4-6 includes a cathodic member in the form of a container 112, which may be of much the same nature as container 12, and provided with an inlet 114 as well as an outlet 116.

An upright shaft 118, having domed ends. is interposed between top and bottom 122 of container 112, the top 120 being releasably held in place by fasteners 124.

Bearing tubes

126 and 128 on the top 120 and the bottom 122 receive the shaft 118 such that the rounded ends of the latter are rotatably supported by and in direct wiping engagement with the tubes I26 and 128.

Shaft 118 extends through the longitudinal axis of an elongated block 138 that is clamped against an outturned flange 140 rigid to shaft 118 by a nut 144 meshing with screw threads 146 on the shaft 118. Seals 168 clamped around the shaft 118 and against the upper and lower ends of the block member 138 preclude entrance of the liquid around the shaft 118 within the longitudinal bore of block 138 through which the shaft 118 extends to impede decomposition within such bore.

As shown in FIG. 6, the block 138 is square in transverse cross section although the periphery 154 of the block 138 may be made with any one of a number of other polygonal cross-sectional configurations, presenting a plurality of corners 165 functioning in much the same manner as the vane 65 of FIG. 2 to cause rotation of the block 138 by the action of the liquid entering the container 112 by way of the inlet 114 at a tangent to the container 112 and impinging upon the periphery 154 of the block 138. That length of the shaft 118 which is embedded within the block 138 is also transversely polygonal as shown in FIG. 6 such that the block 138 and the shaft 118 rotate together as a unit as illustrated by arrows in FIG. 6.

The material used in the production of the cathodic member or container 112, tubes l26 and 128, shaft 118, flange 140 and nut 144 should be appreciably less corrodable than the material used in the production of te block 138, to thereby present the galvanic couple between the cathodic member and block 138, precisely as above explained with respect to the device 10. Any suitable gasket material, including rubber and plastic, may be employed in the production of the seals 168.

Moreover, it is to be understood that the flow of electric current of the cell unit of device 110 from the metallic block 138 to the shaft 118, the

tubes

126 and 128 and the container 112, all ofwhich are likewise capable of conducting electric current, does not becomeinterrupted by virtue of corrosive action within the

tubes

126 and 128 or collection in such tubes of the products of decomposition emanating from the block 138 because of the wiping engagement of the shaft 118 with the tubes 126 anad 128. This self-cleaning feature of device 110 is comparable to that attained by the wiping action of the disc 38 against the disc 36 in FIGS. l-2 for maintaining the free flow of electric current between

discs

36 and 38.

By the same token, and again as in the case of the device of FIGS. 1-3, the constant rotation of the block 138 causes its products of decomposition to be projected therefrom by the action of centrifugal force. Therefore, during the rotation of the block 138, and because also of the swirling action of the liquid within the container 112 as shown by arrows in FIG. 5, the outer surface of the block 138 and the inner surfaces of the container 112 are kept clean such that there is no interference with electron flow necessary for proper action of the galvanic couple in the correction of the electrolytic water or other liquid flowing through the container 112 from inlet 114 to the outlet 116.

In FIG. 4 of the drawings, the device 110, which is insulated from ground, is shown operably associated with a grounded steel steam boiler 170 having an inlet 172 communicating with the outlet 116 through use of a metallic connector 174, inlet 172 being below the level 176 of water 178 in the boiler 170.

Steam outlet 180 of boiler 170, disposed above the water level 176, is connected, for example, with a radi ator 182, the condensate escaping from radiator 182 6 through line 184. The line 184 communicates with the inlet 114 by virtue of a standard dielectric coupling 186 between inlet 114 and line 184.

A check valve 188 is provided in line 184 between radiator 182 and coupling 186, and a pump 190 is interposed in line 184 between valve 188 and coupling 186.

Makeup water for the boiler 170 is directed into the line 184 between valve 188 and pump 190 by a supply line 200 provided with a valve 202. Therefore, the galvanic action extends from within the container 110 through the outlet 116 and to the boiler 170 and radiator 182 to the dielectric coupling 186 by virtue of the metallic nature and electric current carrying capability of the outlet 116, the coupling 174, the inlet 172, the

boiler 170, the outlet 180, the radiator 182 and the line 184.

As a consequence of such action, the products of decomposition emanating from the block 138 will plate the inner surfaces of the boiler 170, protecting it against corrosion and formation of lime deposits.

The liquid emanating from either of the

devices

10 or 110 may be introduced into a system such as shown in FIG. 4 or into other systems of entirely different arrangements without use of the above described coupling for continuing the galvanic or cathodic action into the system. Comparable results, including the aforementioned plating action, will be attained; however, when the

devices

10 or 110 are connected to a system in the manner shown in FIG. 4, the effectiveness of the devices is appreciably enhanced and the time for rendering the system non-corrosive will be substantially reduced.

It is now apparent that in both of the

devices

10 and 110, the two dissimilar metals are not held in stationary 'interengagement within the electrolytic liquid as in the case of all previous devices of this nature with which I

devices

10 and 110, on the other hand, the constant rotation of the

members

38 and 138 causes the decomposed products thereof to be deposited into the liquid by a scrubbing action on their outer surfaces, obviating the impediment to free flow of electrons.

When the device 10 or the device is coupled as in FIG. 4 into a system which makes use of the electrolytic liquid, the electron flow, through the

interconnected conductors

116 and 172 via the electrical connection 174, and through the electrolyte itself. results in an extension of the cathodic action beyond the devices themselves and into the water-using system itself. This not only helps produce the noncorrosive action in the system, which is the primary purpose of the

devices

10 and 110, but actually causes the system to become plated with the products of decomposition and thereby protected against corrosion and scale build-up therewithin.

It is to be appreciated also that use of the liquid itself, flowing in response to pump 190, or otherwise, as a power generator, presents a economical, convenient and adequate source of energy for rotating

members

38 and 138.

The cathodic protection approach to corrosion control contemplated by the two embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 is capable of reducing corrosion, pitting damage and the like on metal surfaces (such as in heat exchangers, boilers, immersion heaters and similar equipment) to almost zero throughout the time such surfaces are subjected to corrosive environments. Thus, with reference to arrangements such as illustrated in FIG. 4, the protection can be effectively used to prevent corrosion on all metal areas of the water system that are contacted by the electrolyte 178 and, therefore, reached by the products of decomposition of the sacrificial metals forming the anodes or

negative poles

38 and 138, especially in tank 170 below the waterline 176.

In this connection, while the cathode and the anode in galvanic cells for converting'chemical into electric energy are normally referred to as the positive and negative poles respectively, it is to be understood that, as used herein, the cathode is the electrode at which current enters from theelectrolyte and that the sacrificial anode (where chemical oxidation occurs) is the electrode at which current leaves to return to the electrolyte.

The self-energizing device 210 of FIG. 7 is somewhat similar to the device 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6, but effects continuation of the cathodic action through far greater distances into the water system. Device 210 includes a cathodic member in the form of a container 212, and an upright shaft 218 interposed between a bottom 222 and a top 220 the latter of which is releasably secured by fasteners 224.

Similar to the device of FIG. 2 but in contrast to the FIG. 5 construction, shaft 218 is supported bya pair of

insulators

230 and 232 that are respectively carried within top and

bottom tubes

226 and 228. Shaft 218 is thereby supported in insulated relationship to container212. A stationary metallic cup 234 is interposed between insulator 230 at the top of shaft 218 with shaft 218 in direct wiping engagement with the cup 234.

cross section presenting a plurality of corners 265 in a manner identical to the block 138 of FIGS. 4-6. Shaft 218 is secured to block 238 in a manner similar to FIG. 6, having a nut 244 threaded to shaft 218, a lower flange 240, and seals 268.

Device 210 includes an inlet 214 and an outlet 216 that are connected with a system utilizing electrolytic liquid. The system as illustrated in FIG. 7 is quite similar to that shown in FIG. 4 and includes a vessel such as a boiler 270 having an inlet 272 secured to container outlet 216 by an electrically conductive connector fitting 274 which establishes an electrical connection between the container 212 and the boiler 270. An outlet 280 for boiler 270 is coupled to a radiator 282. Return line 284 connects across a check valve 288 with supply pump 290 whose outlet flow is directed into container inlet 214. A dielectric coupling 286 connects the container inlet 214 with supply pump 290 in a manner insulating the electrically conductive inlet 214 from the electrically conductive piping and other components on the upstream side of coupling 286. A makeup water supply line 300 connects with the pump inlet across a control valve 302.

An electrode in the form of a probe 304 is mounted in insulated relationship to the boiler 270 by an insulator fitting 306. Probe 304 extends into electrical contact with the liquid 278 within the boiler 270. A conductor 260, insulated from container 212, electrically couples the external end of probe 304 with bearing cup 234.

Therefore, the shaft 218, cup 234, conductor 260, and probe 304 define conductor means presenting a relatively low resistance path 261 electrically interconnecting block 238 and the liquid 278 inside the boiler 270.

In operation, the electrolytic liquid delivered into inlet 214 causes spinning of block 238 and shaft 218 upon the insulative bearing means presented by

insulators

230 and 232 to create the same self-cleaning action upon the decomposing magnesium block 238 as discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1-6. Liquid within the container 212 passes through outlet 216 to the interior of boiler 270.

The liquid communication between container 212 and boiler 270 along with the conductivity of the outlet 216, coupling 274, inlet piping 272 and. boiler 270, de-. fine a second conductor means presenting another relatively low resistance path 263 electrically interconnecting container 212 and the liquid 278 inside boiler 270. The

low resistance paths

261 and 263 provide one electrical interconnection of container 212 and block 238 by way of the liquid 278 inside the boiler. Electrolytic liquid in container 212 provides another electrical interconnection between container 212 and block 238 to complete connection of these two members in a closed circuit,

As in the FIG. 5 embodiment, block 238 is made of material appreciably more corroda'ble than the material used in the production of the cathodic member (container) 212, boiler 270 and the piping and other appurtenances of the system which are to be protected cathodically. The galvanic action produced by the dissimilar materials making up container 212 and block 238 produces a direct current flow of electrons that pass along the above-described closed circuit and, therefore, through the liquid 278 in the boiler. Utilizing the positive current convention discussed above, the current flows from block 238 to the electrolytic liquid, and thence through path 261 by way of probe 304, conductor 260, cup 234 and shaft 218, back to block 238. However, the liquid in the container 212, the container 212 itself, the outlet 216, the coupling 274, the inlet 272, the boiler 270 and the liquid in the boiler 270 also provide a path of current flow from the block 238 to the probe 304. In this 'manner the galvanic action produces corrosion controlling cathodic action along the fluid path between the container 212 and the boiler 270 as well as in the boiler 270 itself. All portions of boiler 270 and the general area of the system connected with the boiler 270 and in contact with the electrolytic liquid are subjected to cathodic action to prevent corrosion.

The cathodic action created by the galvanic cell is effectively relocated" to emanate from probe 304. Probe 304 in effect becomes a primary point of concentration and emanation of the cathodic action. Accordingly, selective positioning of probe 304 may be imagined as placing the cathodic action at the location desired within the system.

The cathodic action can be induced in the system at points quite remote from the location of container2l2 as long as the closed circuit which passes through the liquid in the system is not short-circuited. In this connection, the

insulators

230 and 232 constitute means creating a relatively high electrical resistance between shaft 218 and container 212. The path of least electrical resistance for the current flow generated is, thus, along the aforementioned closed circuit.

The

insulators

230 and 232 thereby effectively prevent short-circuiting of the side of the closed circuit presented by

paths

261 and 263, and assure that the galvanic action creates the desired cathodic action in the remotely located boiler 270. As a result, the cathodic action continues through far greater distances into the system than can occur in the structure of FIGS. 4-6 wherein shaft 138 electrically connects directly with container 112.

FIG. 8 represents a modified electrode in the form of a section of piping 304a that may be used in place of the probe 304 in FIG. 7. Section 3040 may be interposed anywhere desired in the piping that is utilized in the system, and is coupled by dielectric fittings or couplings 308 to the

adjacent lengths

310 and 312 of the piping in the system. The interior surface 305 of section 304a is in intimate electrical contact with the liquid in the system flowing through the section 304a. Interior surface 305 of section 304a is electrically coupled with one end of conductor 260 in the same manner as cup 234 is connected with the opposite end of the connector 260.

Preferably, conductor 260 extends through a tightly fitting, electrical insulator plug 306a to connect with interior surface 305 so as to be in insulated relationship to the external surface of section 304a. Such arrangement greatly enhances the cathodic action upon the interior surfaces of the system, because it minimizes leakage of the electrical current along the external, possibly grounded surfaces of the piping and other fluidcarrying devices in the system. In this respect, the walls of the system act electrically as a capacitive element between its external surface that is grounded and its inside surface where cathodic action is desired. Accordingly, connecting of conductor 260 with the inside surface while insulating it from the outside surface of section 304a assures that the capacitance presented by the walls is not interposed in the closed circuit.

The operation is similar to that of FIG. 7 with the electron flow of the galvanic action and accordingly, the cathodic action, continuing from the container 212 through the remotely located system at least up to piping section 304a. piping section 304a is determinative of where the electrical current flow and cathodic action is placed" within the system.

In the form illustrated in FIG. 9, one dielectric fitting has been replaced by an electrically conductive coupling 314 so as to electrically connect section 304a with piping length 310, while the other coupling 308 electrically insulates section 304a from the other length 312. In this manner a certain amount of the electron flow of the galvanic action will be carried by the internal surface of piping length 310 up to section 304a. Even though piping length 310 may ultimately be electrically connected with container 212, no shortcircuiting of the closed circuit results, since the internal surface of piping length 310 becomes a part of path 263. When utilizing conductive coupling 314, however, care must be taken to assure that a path across the capacitive length 310 to its outside surface and ground does not present less electrical resistance than path 263. Such a ground path would open the closed circuit and interrupt the self-energizing feature of the cell. Preferably, therefore, section 304a is coupled by dielectric fittings to the remainder of the system as shown in FIG. 8. This assures that the liquid is forced to carry the direct current flow to the probe to minimize capacitive leakage through the walls of the system to ground. Furthermore, this results in a better charge distribution and cathodic action onto all surface of the system contacted by the electrolyte. Similar factors apply equally, of course, in considering how to mount the probe 304 of FIG. 7 in electically insulated relationship to boiler 270 to force the liquid to carry most of the electrical charge to probe 304.

The ability of the magnesium cell in container 212 to be located remotely from the position in the system where the cathodic action is concentrated, along with the differing forms of electrodes such as probe 304 or section 304a which may be utilized, permit the galvanic cell to be placed and connected with the system in convenient, accessible locations to greatly increase the versatility and uses of the cell. For instance, the FIG. 7-9 arrangements easily and efficiently treat cathodically the inside walls of complicated piping such as used in radiators, an effect which heretofore could be accomplished only by placing the sacrificial anode of a galvanic cell directly inside the radiator.

In FIGS. 7-9, the rotary action induced by the liquid flow within container 212 assures that the device 210 retains the advantageous self-cleaning features and wiping action against cup 234. Further, the arrangements shown in FIGS. 7-9 have the additional corrosion controlling action resulting from the decomposition of the magnesium block 238. The products of decomposition emanating from block 238 will tend to plate the inner surfaces of the system connected to device 210 and protect the system from corrosion.

It will be apparent that even greater concentration of the direct current and cathodic action into a specific area within the system can be achieved by utilizing a conductor wire as path 263. Such a conductor will extend from container 212 to a specified point on an interior surface of the system. The cathodic action will then be concentrated in the region between this specified point and the probe. In such arrangement, however, the cathodic action is not effectively directed to all parts of the system along path 263 as is accomplished in FIGS. 7-9.

FIG. 10 illustrates a device 210 identical to that illustrated in FIG. 7. However, instead of being electrically connected to produce cathodic action in a system utilizing the same electrolytic liquid as flows through device 210, the anode-cathode members of the magnesium cell of device 210 in FIG. 10 are so interconnected as to electrically treat an electrolytic fluid 424 (such as water) of a separate system 420.

System 420 includes schematically depicted mechanism 422 that receives electrolytic fluid 424 from a reservoir 412. A pump 426 draws fluid 424 from mechanism 422 and, through piping 428, delivers the electro lytic fluid 424 to the upper end of reservoir 412.

The steel shaft 218 of the device 210 is again connected by conductor 260 with an electrode 404 that is interposed in the system 420 utilizing the electrolytic fluid 424. Electrode 404 includes a flat plate section 406 and an upright, tubular section 408 through which fluid 424 is directed. Electrode 404 is mounted in electrically insulated relationship to reservoir 412 by insulator 410.

A second electrode 414 in the form of a flat plate is disposed in parallel, adjacent relationship to electrode plate 406 to define a region 416 between the

electrode plates

406 and 414 through which the fluid 424 entering from piping 428 and tubular section 408 must pass. Electrode plate 414 may be mounted by one or more insulator spacers 418 to plate 406. A second conductor 458 electrically couples the plate electrode 414 with the cathodic member of device 210, i.e., electrically conductive container 212. Nonconductive member 459 insulates conductor 458 from reservoir 412.

The inlet 214 and outlet 216 of container 212 are interconnected through piping across a pump 430 which acts as the generator creating a liquid swirling motion and consequent rotation and advantageous cleaning action upon the magnesium block 238 inside container 212, the liquid flowing in container 212 being separate from the liquid 424. As in the FIGS. and 7 embodiments, this power generator may be in other forms such as an electric motor connected to rotate the central shaft 118 or 218.

Conductor 458 defines a relatively low resistance path 463 that electrically connects the cathodic member (container 212) of the galvanic cell with electrode plate 414 and the fluid 424 flowing in region 416 of the system. Another relatively low resistance electrical path 461, which includes conductors 260, interconnects the anodic member (magnesium block 238 of device 210) with electrode 404 and the fluid 424 in region 416. This FIG. 10 arrangement, similar to FIGS. 7-9, presents a galvanic device 210 and a pair of conductor means 461, 463 connecting the two members of the galvanic cell with a location remote from device 210 to establish an electrical field at that location capable of performing useful work. The insulator bearings in device 210 for shaft 218 prevent short-circuiting of that electrical field.

Electrode plates

406 and 414 are bare in their areas which are exposed to the fluid 424 flowing through region 416 and are disposed above the level 432 of fluid 424 in reservoir 412. These

plates

406, 414 are spacedapart a distance in relation to the magnitude of the power of the electric field generated by the galvanic cell, and are relatively disposed so that the fluid 424 flowing through region 416 conducts the flow of electrons across region 416 to electrically interconnect

plates

406 and 414. Through the fluid in region 416 of the system, therefore, the galvanic cell is again interconnected in a self-energizing, closed circuit.

In one application of this invention it has been found that a spacing of about one-eighth inch between the

plates

406 and 414 maintains the desired conductivity across region 416 without inducing excessive restriction to the fluid flow therethrough. Such spacing may vary markedly, however, dependent upon various factors including the strength of the electric field generated by the cell, the velocity of the fluid flow in the system, and the size and configuration of.the electrodes.

The flow of electrons across region 416 acts to electrically treat the fluid 424 in a manner similar to that disclosed in my US. Pat. No. 3,585,122. As described in said patent, the flow of electrons through the fluid in region 416 patent, the flow fo electrons through the fluid inregion 416 produces a polarizing action within the fluid 424 to free impurity ions from water molecule clusters to permit formation of ionic crystals by nucleation of coagulation. The polarizing action causes alignment of the dipole water molecules and the ions of the dissolved impurities. The ions are thereby freed from the molecule clusters to permit oppositely charged ions to form ionic crystals that may subsequently be easily removed from the system. Similar fluid corrective action takes place when the fluid 424 being utilized in system 420 is other than water.

In contrast to the apparatus described in the aforementioned patent, the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10 is capable of effectively electrically treating the fluid without the use of a relatively high-power electric field. Instead, the weak electric field and electron flow generated by the galvanic cell is utilized to electrically treat the fluid 424.

The use of

conductors

260 and 458 for connecting

electrode plates

406 and 414 with the anodic and cathodic cell members permits reservoir 412 to be disposed at a location remote from container 212 with minimum attenuation of the electric field generated by the galvanic cell and applied across

electrode plates

406 and 414.

In the FIGS. 1, 5, 7 and 10 arrangements, at least part of the cathodic member of the galvanic cell is the

steel container

12, 112, 212. In the FIGS. 5, 7 and 10 arrangements, the

container

112, 212 may alternately be constructed of nonconductive material such as plastic, and another form of cathodic member can be utilized in conjunction with the nonconducting container. For example, the cathodic member may be a cylindrical liner insert removably carried inside the container. Further, in the FIGS. 5 and 7 arrangements, wherein the

container outlet

116, 216 couples with electrically conductive piping, said piping or at least a portion thereof nearest the container, may be considered the cathodic member when the container is of nonconductive material.

Regardless of which configurations of cathodic members are utilized, however, proper operations of the de vices 10,110, 210 require that the anodic and cathodic members be interconnected to produce the galvanic action and flow of electrons therebetween. In the embodiments illustrated, the electrolytic liquid within

containers

12, 112, 212 acts as this electrical interconnection, requiring that the cathodic member (such as the electrically-conductive-piping alternative discussed above) be in electrical contact with this electrolytic liquid. To induce the self-energizing feature, of course, it is necessary that another electrical connection be made between the anodic and cathodic members, this being the direct contact between

discs

36 and 38 in FIG. 1, and in FIG. 5 it is the wiping engagement between the domed ends of shaft 118 with

tubes

126, 128 and the container 112. In FIGS. 7-9 this second electrical connection is completed through the electrolytic liquid 278 of the remote system, while in FIG. 10, the electrolytic fluid in region 416 completes the closed circuit connection.

While the anodic members of the cells of the three embodiments have hereinabove been designated by the

numerals

38, 138 and 238 respectively, the cathodic members cannot be designated or delineated with the same degree of definiteness. The primary cathodic metal in FIG. 2 is in the disc 36, but the action is also effected by virtue of the presence of shaft-l8 and associated parts. Moreover, to a certain extend at least, there is a galvanic couple between the disc 38 and the container 12 through the liquid in the latter. The same is true in H6. 5, not only because of the engagement of shaft 118 with the container 112, but because of the liquid between the latter and the block 138. In FIGS. 7 and also, the container 212, in addition to the cathodic shaft 218, acts through the liquid as a cathodic member in conjunction with the anodic member 238.

Having thus described the invention, what is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letter Patent is:

1. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic liquid, a self-energizing corrosion control assembly comprising:

a container for electrolytic liquid remotely located from said system and including a first member disposed for electrical contact with said liquid when the latter is in the container;

a second member carried by the container and disposed for electrical contact with said liquid when the latter is in the container, whereby said liquid in the container electrically interconnects said members;

first conductor means including conduit means coupling the container with the system for transferring liquid between the container and the system and for defining a first relatively low electrial resistance path between said first member and the liquid in the system;

second conductor means coupling said system with said second member for defining a second relatively low electrial resistance path between said second member and the liquid in the system,

said first and second conductor means thereby cooperating to complete a closed circuit when liquid is present in the container'and the system,

said members being of dissimilar materials capable of acting as a galvanic couple to produce aflow of electrons therebetween along said closed circuit, whereby the galvanic action produces corrosion controlling cathodic action in said system; and

a relatively high electrical resistance interposed between said members preventing short-circuiting of said closed circuit.

2. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, wherein one of said materials is electronegative above hydrogen in the electromotive force series of elements and the other of said materials is electropositive below hydrogen in the electromotive force series of elements.

3. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, there being an electrically conductive shaft secured to said second member and mounting the latter in the container.

4. An assembly as set forth in claim 3, said shaft being rotatably supported by the container, there being a power generator for rotating said second member to reduce the accumulation of substances which tend to impede said flow of electrons.

5. An assembly as set forth in claim 4, wherein said generator comprises means for directing at least a portion of said liquid in the container against said second member to cause the latter to rotate.

6. An assembly as set forth in claim 4, said container being electrically conductive and being at least a part of said first member, said resistance including electrically insulative bearing means supporting said shaft in insulated relationship to the container.

7. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said second conductor means includes: a stationary, electrically conductive cup interposed between said bearing means and said shaft in direct wiping engagement with the latter, an electrode interposed in the system in electrical contact with said liquid in the system, and a conductor electrically coupling said cup with said electrode.

8. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said system includes a liquid-containing vessel having a conductive wall, said electrode comprising a probe mounted in insulated relationship to said wall of the vessel and extending through said wall into electrical contact with the liquid in the vessel.

9. An assembly as set forth in claim 6, wherein said system includes liquid conducting piping and said electrode comprises a section of said piping, there being fittings for coupling the opposite ends of said section to adjacent lengths of said piping on opposite sides of said section.

10. An assembly as set forth in claim 9, wherein both of said fittings are of material electrically insulating said section from both of said lengths.

11. An assembly as set forth in claim 9, wherein one of said fittings is of material electrically insulating said section from one of said lengths.

12. An assembly as set forth in claim 1, said conduit means having an internal surface in contact with said liquid communicating between the system and the container, said liquid-contacting internal surface defining a portion of said firt path.

13. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic fluid, a self-energizing corrosion control assembly for electrically treating said fluid with low power galvanic action, said assembly comprising:

first and second spaced electrodes defining a region therebetween;

electrically inteconnected first and second members of dissimilar materials in contact with a common electrolytic liquid and capable of acting as a galvanic couple to produce a flow of electrons therebetween;

first and second conductor means for coupling said first and second members with said first and second electrodes respectively without commingling the fluid of the system and the liquid associated with said members; and

apparatus defining a fluid path direction said fluid through said region between the electrodes,

said electrodes being bare in areas in contact with said fluid and being relatively disposed for conductance of said flow of electrons across said region by said fluid therein to complete a closed circuit between said members, whereby the galvanic action electrically treats the fluid as the latter flows through said region.

14. An assembly as set forth in claim 13, said first member including an electrically conductive container for the electrolytic liquid located remotely from said apparatus, said second member being rotatably 16. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, said first conductor means including 'a first conductor electrically coupling said container with said first electrode.

17. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, wherein said second conductor means includes a stationary, conductive cup in direct wiping engagement with said shaft, said second conductor means also including a second conductor electrically coupling said cup with said sec ond electrode.

Claims

1. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic liquid, a self-energizing corrosion control assembly comprising: a container for electrolytic liquid remotely located from said system and including a first member disposed for electrical contact with said liquid when the latter is in the container; a second member carried by the container and disposed for electrical contact with said liquid when the latter is in the container, whereby said liquid in the container electrically interconnects said members; first conductor means including conduit means coupling the container with the system for transferring liquid between the container and the system and for defining a first relatively low electrial resistance path between said first member and the liquid in the system; second conductor means coupling said system with said second member for defining a second relatively low electrial resistance path between said second member and the liquid in the system, said first and second conductor means thereby cooperating to complete a closed circuit when liquid is present in the container and the system, said members being of dissimilar materials capable of acting as a galvanic couple to produce a flow of electrons therebetween along said closed circuit, whereby the galvanic action produces corrosion controlling cathodic action in said system; and a relatively high electrical resistance interposed between said members preventing short-circuiting of said closed circuit.

13. In combination with a system utilizing electrolytic fluid, a self-energizing corrosion control assembly for electrically treating said fluid with low power galvanic action, said assembly comprising: first and second spaced electrodes defining a region therebetween; electrically inteconnected first and second members of dissimilar materials in contact with a common electrolytic liquid and capable of acting as a galvanic couple to produce a flow of electrons therebetween; first and second conductor means for coupling said first and second members with said first and second electrodes respectively without commingling the fluid of the system and the liquid associated with said members; and apparatus defining a fluid path direction said fluid through said region between the electrodes, said electrodes being bare in areas in contact with said fluid and being relatively disposed for conductance of said flow of electrons across said region by said fluid therein to complete a closed circuit between said members, whereby the galvanic action electrically treats the fluid as the latter flows through said region.

14. An assembly as set forth in claim 13, said first member including an electrically conductive container for the electrolytic liquid located remotely from said apparatus, said second member being rotatably mounted in the container in electrical contact with said liquid, said second conductor means including a shaft secured to said second member and rotatably supported by the container.

15. An assembly as set forth in claim 14, wherein is provided insulative bearing means supporting said shaft in insulated relationship to said container and defining a relatively high electrical resistance interposed between said members preventing short-circuiting of said closed circuit.

16. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, said first conductor means including a first conductor electrically coupling said container with said first electrode.

17. An assembly as set forth in claim 15, wherein said second conductor means includes a stationary, conductive cup in direct wiping engagement with said shaft, said second conductor means also including a second conductor electrically coupling said cup with said second electrode.