WO2004101162A1 - Method and apparatus for disinfecting fluids using electromagnetic radiation while undergoing separation - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for disinfecting fluids using electromagnetic radiation while undergoing separation Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2004101162A1 WO2004101162A1 PCT/SG2004/000115 SG2004000115W WO2004101162A1 WO 2004101162 A1 WO2004101162 A1 WO 2004101162A1 SG 2004000115 W SG2004000115 W SG 2004000115W WO 2004101162 A1 WO2004101162 A1 WO 2004101162A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- liquid
- lamp
- hydrocyclone
- vortex
- turbid
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 18
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims description 70
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 title description 14
- 230000000249 desinfective effect Effects 0.000 title description 12
- 230000005670 electromagnetic radiation Effects 0.000 title description 4
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 83
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 38
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 230000001678 irradiating effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000010453 quartz Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N silicon dioxide Inorganic materials O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920002313 fluoropolymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 19
- 238000004659 sterilization and disinfection Methods 0.000 description 11
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 10
- 244000005700 microbiome Species 0.000 description 9
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000996 additive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000002203 pretreatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009281 ultraviolet germicidal irradiation Methods 0.000 description 3
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000001747 exhibiting effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000002779 inactivation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001590 oxidative effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000013535 sea water Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000195493 Cryptophyta Species 0.000 description 1
- PWHULOQIROXLJO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Manganese Chemical compound [Mn] PWHULOQIROXLJO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000700605 Viruses Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000000862 absorption spectrum Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003491 array Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000001413 cellular effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000415 inactivating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052748 manganese Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011572 manganese Substances 0.000 description 1
- QSHDDOUJBYECFT-UHFFFAOYSA-N mercury Chemical compound [Hg] QSHDDOUJBYECFT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000007523 nucleic acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 102000039446 nucleic acids Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 108020004707 nucleic acids Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007800 oxidant agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001223 reverse osmosis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012216 screening Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011343 solid material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001228 spectrum Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003643 water by type Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003245 working effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F1/30—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by irradiation
- C02F1/32—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by irradiation with ultraviolet light
- C02F1/325—Irradiation devices or lamp constructions
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
- A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
- A61L2/08—Radiation
- A61L2/10—Ultraviolet radiation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
- B04C—APPARATUS USING FREE VORTEX FLOW, e.g. CYCLONES
- B04C5/00—Apparatus in which the axial direction of the vortex is reversed
- B04C5/02—Construction of inlets by which the vortex flow is generated, e.g. tangential admission, the fluid flow being forced to follow a downward path by spirally wound bulkheads, or with slightly downwardly-directed tangential admission
- B04C5/04—Tangential inlets
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
- B04C—APPARATUS USING FREE VORTEX FLOW, e.g. CYCLONES
- B04C9/00—Combinations with other devices, e.g. fans, expansion chambers, diffusors, water locks
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F1/38—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by centrifugal separation
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
- C02F2201/32—Details relating to UV-irradiation devices
- C02F2201/324—Lamp cleaning installations, e.g. brushes
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
- C02F2301/02—Fluid flow conditions
- C02F2301/022—Laminar
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
- C02F2301/02—Fluid flow conditions
- C02F2301/026—Spiral, helicoidal, radial
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to the disinfection of turbid fluids.
- the invention relates to an apparatus and method for disinfection of turbid fluids by electromagnetic radiation particularly using ultra violet radiation while at the same time undergoing separation of particles from the fluid.
- UV radiation for disinfecting fluids such as water
- D ⁇ A cellular material
- D ⁇ A irreparable damage to cellular material
- the UV radiation exposed to the microorganism needs to be of sufficient intensity and for a sufficient duration. Disinfection can also be achieved using either high-intensity UV radiation for a short of duration of time or low-intensity UV radiation for a proportionally longer duration of time.
- UV radiation is most effective for inactivation of microorganisms in the far UV region of the electromagnetic spectrum, between 230 and 290 nm which generally corresponds to the absorbance spectrum of nucleic acids.
- Optimum UV radiation wavelengths for inactivation of microorganisms appear to be in the range of 255 to 265 nm.
- Common commercial sources of UV radiation are UV lamps such as mercury vapor lamps. These UV lamps are available in "low-pressure" and “medium pressure” configurations.
- the advantage of low-pressure lamps are in their near monochromatic output of UV radiation of wavelength 254nm, which is ideal for disinfection purposes.
- the output intensity of low pressure lamps are generally lower than that of medium pressure lamps.
- single unit of medium pressure lamp is used to treat 10 to 2000 gallon per minute of fluid, depending on the type of fluid and characteristics of the fluid.
- prior art treatment systems typically employ UV irradiation in conjunction with pre-treatment systems that employ solid-liquid separation processes such as screening, filtration or centrifugal separation. These solid-liquid separation processes remove particles which would otherwise interfere with the disinfection of water when using UV radiation.
- the solid-liquid separation processes usually precedes the UV irradiation.
- This inevitably increases the footprint of the whole treatment system.
- the footprint of a filtration based pre-treatment system can be much larger if the liquid flow rate is high. Treatment of high flow rate, highly turbid waters using UV systems therefore poses technical challenges when it comes to development of compact UV disinfection systems.
- Turbidity of water also affects the UV lamps directly by way of deposit formation on the UV lamps.
- the UV lamps used for disinfection of water are typically sheathed in quartz sleeves and placed directly in the water stream.
- the UV lamps may be configured in symmetrical arrays and in a variety of orientations to optimize exposure of UV radiation to the water.
- UV treatment systems typically incorporate automatic or continuous-operating cleaning devices as an integral part of the UV system to overcome this problem.
- Other UV treatment systems also employ UV radiation in combination with carbon filtration, reverse osmosis and other chemicals to reduce fouling of the quartz sleeves of the UV lamps.
- the present invention seeks to provide a system and method for disinfection of turbid fluids by electromagnetic radiation particularly using ultra violet radiation while at the same time undergoing separation of particles from the fluid
- the present invention provides, an apparatus for treating a turbid fluid, comprising: a hydrocyclone for separating the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; and a UV radiator for irradiating the turbid fluid with UV radiation; wherein the UV radiator irradiates the turbid fluid while the turbid fluid is being separated into the substantially liquid portion and the substantially solid portion.
- the present invention provides, an apparatus for treating a turbid fluid, comprising: a separator for separating the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; and a disinfecting radiator for providing a source of disinfecting radiation; wherein the disinfecting radiator irradiates the turbid fluid while the turbid fluid is being separated into the substantially liquid portion and the substantially solid portion
- the present invention provides, a method for treating a turbid fluid, comprising the steps: introducing the turbid fluid into a hydrocyclone forming a first liquid vortex; irradiating the first liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation while separating the first liquid vortex into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; discharging the substantially solid portion out of the hydrocyclone; forming a second liquid vortex from the substantially liquid portion; irradiating the second liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation; and discharging the second liquid vortex out of the hydrocyclone.
- FIG.l illustrates an apparatus in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG.2 illustrates a hydrocyclone in accordance with FIG.1 ;
- FIG.3 illustrates a flowchart of an aspect of the method in accordance with the present invention
- an apparatus 5 in accordance with the present invention comprising a hydrocyclone 10 and a disinfecting radiator which in the present embodiment is a helical ultra-violet lamp 22.
- the hydrocyclone 10 further comprises a main body 12, an inlet 14 for receiving a turbid fluid, an underflow outlet 16 for discharging a substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid, a vortex finder 18, and an overflow outlet 20 for discharging a substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid.
- the helical ultra-violet (UV) lamp 22 comprises a plurality of loops and is disposed inside the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10.
- Hydrocy clones 10 are suitable for separation of solids from liquids of turbid fluids in continuous systems.
- the concept behind the workings of the hydrocyclone 10 is the use of centrifugal force and specific gravity to separate any particles and solids from a turbid fluid.
- the inlet 14 introduces a turbid fluid into the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 causing the turbid fluid to flow in a swirling manner towards the outlet 16 of the hydrocyclone 12.
- This swirling flow of the turbid fluid within the main body 12 results in the forming of a first fluid vortex 26.
- Centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow of the first fluid vortex 26 causes the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid to separate from the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid.
- the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid comprises of any particles which move outwards from a central axis of the main body 12 and flow with the first fluid vortex 26 towards the outlet 16 of the hydrocyclone 10. As the particles move away from the central axis of the main body 12, the substantially liquid portion of the turbid liquid moves towards the central axis of the main body 12. The particles are discharged from the main body 12 through the underflow outlet 16 together with the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid.
- the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid is forced to reverse its direction of flow and instead of flowing towards the underflow outlet 16, now flows towards the vortex finder 18.
- This reversal of flow is caused by a combination of factors such as the blockage of the underflow outlet 16, the movement of the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid towards the central axis and the presence of the vortex finder 18.
- This reversal of flow further results in the forming of a second liquid vortex 28 from the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid.
- the second liquid vortex 28 flows within the first liquid vortex 26 towards the vortex finder 18 and is discharged through the overflow outlet 20.
- the present invention incorporates a disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22 into the hydrocyclone 12.
- a disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22 into the hydrocyclone 12.
- the helical UV lamp 22 is mounted within the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 and in the present embodiment is shaped like a spiral.
- the plurality of loops are decreasing in their respective diameters, such that a first loop of the helical UV lamp 22 is broader than a last loop of the helical UV lamp 22.
- the helical UV lamp 22 is mounted such that the first loop of the helical UV lamp is nearer the vortex finder 18 while the last loop of the helical UV lamp is nearer the underflow outlet 16.
- the shape of the helical UV lamp is designed and calculated so as to not interfere with the flow of the first liquid vortex within the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10.
- the addition of the helical UV lamp 22 in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 advantageously aids in the smooth formation of the first liquid vortex 26 by reducing the turbulence of the turbid fluid as it enters the main body 12.
- the shape of the helical UV lamp 22 is also designed and calculated so as not to interfere with the flow of the second liquid vortex 28.
- the addition of the helical UV lamp 22 in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 advantageously aids in the formation of the second liquid vortex 26 as the helical UV lamp 22 guides the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid into the vortex finder 18.
- the helical UV lamp 22 thus advantageously aids in the formation of the first liquid vortex 26 and the second liquid vortex 28 which ultimately enhances the separation performance of the hydrocyclone 10.
- the helical UV lamp 22 further irradiates the turbid liquid in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10.
- the method of the present invention advantageously comprises the steps of performing solid-liquid separation of the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion while at the same time disinfecting the substantially liquid portion by UV irradiation.
- an aspect of the method in accordance with the present invention starts with the step of: introducing 110 the turbid fluid into the hydrocyclone 10 forming the first liquid vortex 26.
- the first liquid vortex 26 is irradiated 115 with ultra violet radiation while undergoing solid-liquid separation resulting in the substantially solid portion and the substantially liquid portion of the turbid liquid.
- the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid is then discharged 120 from the hydrocyclone 12 via the underflow outlet 18.
- the second liquid vortex 28 is formed 125 from the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid.
- the second liquid vortex 28 is guided by the helical UV lamp 22 and the vortex finder 18 to be irradiated 130 by UV radiation from the helical UV lamp.
- the second liquid vortex 28 which is formed from the substantially liquid portion of the first liquid vortex 26 is then discharged 135 from the hydrocyclone via the overflow outlet 20.
- the second liquid vortex 28 comprises primarily of the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid and upon being discharged from the overflow outlet 20 can be considered to be treated liquid or disinfected liquid.
- the present invention advantageously reduces the overall size and footprint of a turbid fluid treatment apparatus by combining apparatuses for separation with that of disinfection. Further, there is an increase in exposure of the turbid fluid to the UV radiation as the turbid fluid is exposed to the UV radiation as the first liquid vortex 26 and then again as the second liquid vortex 28.
- the present invention also advantageously allows the helical UV lamp 22 to be self cleaning. Due to the continuous flow of the turbid fluid within the hydrocyclone 12, there is little opportunity for any particles to settle and deposit on to any surfaces of the helical UV lamp 22.
- the helical UV lamp 22 has a Teflon sleeve or a quartz sleeve coated with Teflon AF fluropolymer. The sleeve would be of substantially similar shape as the helical UV lamp 22 with similar plurality of loops. The advantages of using such sleeves is in the inherent characteristics of the Teflon material.
- Teflon possesses very high optical clarity and allows optimal UV transmission (about 95%), which would greatly enhance the efficiency of the helical UV lamp 22. Furthermore, Teflon has the lowest coefficient of friction of any solid material which results in a non-stick characteristic that advantageously allows the helical UV lamp 22 to be easily maintained and cleaned. Teflon is also resistant to chemical reactions and is thus advantageously compatible with aggressive oxidizing agents and additive chemicals used in the treatment and disinfection of fluids.
- such oxidizing and additive chemicals may be added into the turbid fluid prior to the turbid fluid being disinfected in the apparatus 5 of the present invention.
- This can increase the efficiency of the apparatus 5 of the present invention by reducing the number of organisms present in the turbid fluid when being irradiated by the disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22.
- Other oxidizing and additive chemicals may also be added to the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid after it is discharged from the apparatus 5. This can further disinfect the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid by inactivating and destroying any organisms not inactivated by exposure to UV radiation in the apparatus 5.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
- Toxicology (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Physical Water Treatments (AREA)
- Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)
Abstract
A method for treating a turbid liquid, comprising the steps of introducing the turbid liquid into a hydrocyclone to form a first liquid vortex, irradiating the first liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation while separating the first liquid vortex into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion, discharging the substantially solid portion from the hydrocyclone, forming a second liquid vortex from the substantially liquid portion of the first liquid vortex, irradiating the second liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation; and discharging the second liquid vortex out of the hydrocyclone.
Description
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISINFECTING FLUIDS USING ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION WHILE UNDERGOING
SEPARATION
Field of the Invention [001] The present invention generally relates to the disinfection of turbid fluids. In particular, the invention relates to an apparatus and method for disinfection of turbid fluids by electromagnetic radiation particularly using ultra violet radiation while at the same time undergoing separation of particles from the fluid.
Background of the Invention [002] Use of ultraviolet (UN) radiation for disinfecting fluids such as water is well known in the art. Exposure to UV radiation alters and causes irreparable damage to cellular material (DΝA) in most microorganisms and render them incapable of reproducing. As the microorganisms are not able to reproduce, they are considered inactivated and liquids containing such inactivated microorganisms may be considered disinfected. Water containing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and algae are commonly disinfected using UV radiation. To effectively disinfect water containing such microorganisms using UN radiation, the UV radiation exposed to the microorganism needs to be of sufficient intensity and for a sufficient duration. Disinfection can also be achieved using either high-intensity UV radiation for a short of duration of time or low-intensity UV radiation for a proportionally longer duration of time.
[003] UV radiation is most effective for inactivation of microorganisms in the far UV region of the electromagnetic spectrum, between 230 and 290 nm which
generally corresponds to the absorbance spectrum of nucleic acids. Optimum UV radiation wavelengths for inactivation of microorganisms appear to be in the range of 255 to 265 nm. Common commercial sources of UV radiation are UV lamps such as mercury vapor lamps. These UV lamps are available in "low-pressure" and "medium pressure" configurations. The advantage of low-pressure lamps are in their near monochromatic output of UV radiation of wavelength 254nm, which is ideal for disinfection purposes. However, the output intensity of low pressure lamps are generally lower than that of medium pressure lamps. Typically single unit of medium pressure lamp is used to treat 10 to 2000 gallon per minute of fluid, depending on the type of fluid and characteristics of the fluid.
[004] There are some concerns affecting the performance of existing UV treatment systems. One such concern is the penetration of the UV radiation in water. Any particles present in water tend to interfere with the transmission of UV radiation and effectively shield any microorganisms in the water from the UV radiation. This disadvantageously decreases the efficiency of existing UV treatment systems. This condition of having suspended particles in water is known as turbidity. In general, UV radiation is not wholly effective in disinfecting water exhibiting high turbidity even when intensity of UV radiation is increased.
[005] To overcome this concern with turbidity of water, prior art treatment systems typically employ UV irradiation in conjunction with pre-treatment systems that employ solid-liquid separation processes such as screening, filtration or centrifugal separation. These solid-liquid separation processes remove particles which would otherwise interfere with the disinfection of water when using UV radiation. The solid-liquid separation processes usually precedes the UV irradiation. However this inevitably increases the footprint of the whole treatment system. The footprint of a filtration based pre-treatment system can be much larger if the liquid flow rate is high. Treatment of high flow rate, highly turbid waters
using UV systems therefore poses technical challenges when it comes to development of compact UV disinfection systems.
[006] Turbidity of water also affects the UV lamps directly by way of deposit formation on the UV lamps. The UV lamps used for disinfection of water are typically sheathed in quartz sleeves and placed directly in the water stream. The UV lamps may be configured in symmetrical arrays and in a variety of orientations to optimize exposure of UV radiation to the water.
[007] Regular maintenance of the quartz sleeves of the UV lamps allow for consistent and efficient transmission of UV radiation to the water. This is important for water exhibiting high turbidity and high iron or manganese content. An example is highly turbid sea water. When treating highly turbid sea water, fouling of the quartz sleeves of the UV lamps occurs regularly from the formation of deposits on the quartz sleeves of the UV lamps. With time, the efficiency of the UV lamps can be severely affected when more deposits are formed on the quartz sleeves effectively shielding the water from the UV radiation, thus necessitating lamp cleaning. However, such maintenance often requires the shutting down of the entire system while the quartz sleeves are being cleaned. This is inefficient and adds to the total cost incurred from the shutdown.
[008] Existing UV treatment systems typically incorporate automatic or continuous-operating cleaning devices as an integral part of the UV system to overcome this problem. Other UV treatment systems also employ UV radiation in combination with carbon filtration, reverse osmosis and other chemicals to reduce fouling of the quartz sleeves of the UV lamps.
[009] It can thus be seen that the treatment of highly turbid water poses some serious concerns with existing water treatment systems utilizing UV radiation.
Thus, there remains a need for a UV treatment system having a compact footprint for treating highly turbid liquids having reduced pre-treatment processes, reduced maintenance time and cost,.
Summary of the Invention
[0010] The present invention seeks to provide a system and method for disinfection of turbid fluids by electromagnetic radiation particularly using ultra violet radiation while at the same time undergoing separation of particles from the fluid
[0011] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides, an apparatus for treating a turbid fluid, comprising: a hydrocyclone for separating the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; and a UV radiator for irradiating the turbid fluid with UV radiation; wherein the UV radiator irradiates the turbid fluid while the turbid fluid is being separated into the substantially liquid portion and the substantially solid portion.
[0012] In another aspect, the present invention provides, an apparatus for treating a turbid fluid, comprising: a separator for separating the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; and a disinfecting radiator for providing a source of disinfecting radiation; wherein the disinfecting radiator irradiates the turbid fluid while the turbid fluid is being separated into the substantially liquid portion and the substantially solid portion
[0013] In a further aspect, the present invention provides, a method for treating a turbid fluid, comprising the steps: introducing the turbid fluid into a hydrocyclone forming a first liquid vortex; irradiating the first liquid vortex with ultra-violet
radiation while separating the first liquid vortex into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; discharging the substantially solid portion out of the hydrocyclone; forming a second liquid vortex from the substantially liquid portion; irradiating the second liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation; and discharging the second liquid vortex out of the hydrocyclone.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0014] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be more fully described, with reference to the drawings of which:
[0015] FIG.l illustrates an apparatus in accordance with the present invention.
[0016] FIG.2 illustrates a hydrocyclone in accordance with FIG.1 ;
[0017] FIG.3 illustrates a flowchart of an aspect of the method in accordance with the present invention;
Detailed description of the Drawings
[0018] Referring to Fig. 1, an apparatus 5 in accordance with the present invention comprising a hydrocyclone 10 and a disinfecting radiator which in the present embodiment is a helical ultra-violet lamp 22. The hydrocyclone 10 further comprises a main body 12, an inlet 14 for receiving a turbid fluid, an underflow outlet 16 for discharging a substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid, a vortex finder 18, and an overflow outlet 20 for discharging a substantially liquid portion of
the turbid fluid. The helical ultra-violet (UV) lamp 22 comprises a plurality of loops and is disposed inside the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10.
[0019] Hydrocy clones 10 are suitable for separation of solids from liquids of turbid fluids in continuous systems. The concept behind the workings of the hydrocyclone 10 is the use of centrifugal force and specific gravity to separate any particles and solids from a turbid fluid. Referring to Fig.l and Fig.2, the inlet 14 introduces a turbid fluid into the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 causing the turbid fluid to flow in a swirling manner towards the outlet 16 of the hydrocyclone 12. This swirling flow of the turbid fluid within the main body 12 results in the forming of a first fluid vortex 26. Centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow of the first fluid vortex 26 causes the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid to separate from the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid.
[0020] The substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid comprises of any particles which move outwards from a central axis of the main body 12 and flow with the first fluid vortex 26 towards the outlet 16 of the hydrocyclone 10. As the particles move away from the central axis of the main body 12, the substantially liquid portion of the turbid liquid moves towards the central axis of the main body 12. The particles are discharged from the main body 12 through the underflow outlet 16 together with the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid.
[0021] The substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid is forced to reverse its direction of flow and instead of flowing towards the underflow outlet 16, now flows towards the vortex finder 18. This reversal of flow is caused by a combination of factors such as the blockage of the underflow outlet 16, the movement of the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid towards the central axis and the presence of the vortex finder 18. This reversal of flow further results in the forming of a second liquid vortex 28 from the substantially liquid portion of the
turbid fluid. The second liquid vortex 28 flows within the first liquid vortex 26 towards the vortex finder 18 and is discharged through the overflow outlet 20.
[0022] The present invention incorporates a disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22 into the hydrocyclone 12. Referring to Fig. 1, the helical UV lamp 22 is mounted within the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 and in the present embodiment is shaped like a spiral. The plurality of loops are decreasing in their respective diameters, such that a first loop of the helical UV lamp 22 is broader than a last loop of the helical UV lamp 22. The helical UV lamp 22 is mounted such that the first loop of the helical UV lamp is nearer the vortex finder 18 while the last loop of the helical UV lamp is nearer the underflow outlet 16. The shape of the helical UV lamp is designed and calculated so as to not interfere with the flow of the first liquid vortex within the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10. In fact, the addition of the helical UV lamp 22 in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 advantageously aids in the smooth formation of the first liquid vortex 26 by reducing the turbulence of the turbid fluid as it enters the main body 12. The shape of the helical UV lamp 22 is also designed and calculated so as not to interfere with the flow of the second liquid vortex 28. In fact, the addition of the helical UV lamp 22 in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10 advantageously aids in the formation of the second liquid vortex 26 as the helical UV lamp 22 guides the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid into the vortex finder 18. The helical UV lamp 22 thus advantageously aids in the formation of the first liquid vortex 26 and the second liquid vortex 28 which ultimately enhances the separation performance of the hydrocyclone 10.
[0023] In addition to providing better separation performance, the helical UV lamp 22 further irradiates the turbid liquid in the main body 12 of the hydrocyclone 10. The method of the present invention advantageously comprises the steps of performing solid-liquid separation of the turbid fluid into a substantially liquid
portion and a substantially solid portion while at the same time disinfecting the substantially liquid portion by UV irradiation.
[0024] Referring to Fig.3, an aspect of the method in accordance with the present invention starts with the step of: introducing 110 the turbid fluid into the hydrocyclone 10 forming the first liquid vortex 26. Next, the first liquid vortex 26 is irradiated 115 with ultra violet radiation while undergoing solid-liquid separation resulting in the substantially solid portion and the substantially liquid portion of the turbid liquid. The substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid is then discharged 120 from the hydrocyclone 12 via the underflow outlet 18. Next, the second liquid vortex 28 is formed 125 from the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid. The second liquid vortex 28 is guided by the helical UV lamp 22 and the vortex finder 18 to be irradiated 130 by UV radiation from the helical UV lamp. The second liquid vortex 28 which is formed from the substantially liquid portion of the first liquid vortex 26 is then discharged 135 from the hydrocyclone via the overflow outlet 20. The second liquid vortex 28 comprises primarily of the substantially liquid portion of the turbid fluid and upon being discharged from the overflow outlet 20 can be considered to be treated liquid or disinfected liquid.
[0025] The present invention advantageously reduces the overall size and footprint of a turbid fluid treatment apparatus by combining apparatuses for separation with that of disinfection. Further, there is an increase in exposure of the turbid fluid to the UV radiation as the turbid fluid is exposed to the UV radiation as the first liquid vortex 26 and then again as the second liquid vortex 28.
[0026] The present invention also advantageously allows the helical UV lamp 22 to be self cleaning. Due to the continuous flow of the turbid fluid within the hydrocyclone 12, there is little opportunity for any particles to settle and deposit on to any surfaces of the helical UV lamp 22.
[0027] To further aid in the efficiency of the helical UV lamp 22, the helical UV lamp 22 has a Teflon sleeve or a quartz sleeve coated with Teflon AF fluropolymer. The sleeve would be of substantially similar shape as the helical UV lamp 22 with similar plurality of loops. The advantages of using such sleeves is in the inherent characteristics of the Teflon material. Teflon possesses very high optical clarity and allows optimal UV transmission (about 95%), which would greatly enhance the efficiency of the helical UV lamp 22. Furthermore, Teflon has the lowest coefficient of friction of any solid material which results in a non-stick characteristic that advantageously allows the helical UV lamp 22 to be easily maintained and cleaned. Teflon is also resistant to chemical reactions and is thus advantageously compatible with aggressive oxidizing agents and additive chemicals used in the treatment and disinfection of fluids.
[0028] Particularly, such oxidizing and additive chemicals may be added into the turbid fluid prior to the turbid fluid being disinfected in the apparatus 5 of the present invention. This can increase the efficiency of the apparatus 5 of the present invention by reducing the number of organisms present in the turbid fluid when being irradiated by the disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22. Other oxidizing and additive chemicals may also be added to the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid after it is discharged from the apparatus 5. This can further disinfect the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid by inactivating and destroying any organisms not inactivated by exposure to UV radiation in the apparatus 5. This will advantageously aid in the re-use of the substantially solid portion of the turbid fluid, that can be mixed back with the substantially liquid portion of the fluid after disinfection. As the substantially solid portion of the fluid forms only a small fraction of the total fluid volume, the chemical usage to disinfect this portion will be substantially lower .
[0029] It will be appreciated that various modifications and improvements can be made by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. The description refers to a single hydrocyclone, however, it would also be entirely possible to arrange a plurality of hydrocyclones in an array where at least one or more or all of the hydrocyclones are equipped with a disinfecting radiator such as the helical UV lamp 22. Further, the description of the helical UV lamp 22 is that of a spiral shape. It would be entirely possible for the helical UV lamp to be cylindrically shaped and still not depart from the scope of the invention.
Claims
1. An apparatus for treating a turbid fluid, comprising: a hydrocyclone for separating said turbid fluid into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; and an UV radiator for irradiating said turbid fluid with UV radiation; wherein said UV radiator irradiates said turbid fluid while said turbid fluid is being separated into said substantially liquid portion and said substantially solid portion
2. The apparatus in accordance to claim 1, wherein said hydrocyclone further comprises: a main body; a tangential inlet at a first end of said main body, for introducing said turbid fluid into said main body to form a first liquid vortex; a vortex finder at said first end of said main body, for receiving a second liquid vortex; an overflow outlet, for discharging said second liquid vortex; and an underflow outlet at a second end of said main body, for discharging said substantially solid portion of said turbid fluid;
3. The apparatus in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said UV radiator is a UV lamp.
4. The apparatus in accordance with claim 3, wherein said UV lamp has a helical shape.
5. The apparatus in accordance with claim 4, wherein said UV lamp is positioned within the main body of hydrocyclone
6. The apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said UV lamp is disposed in a Teflon sleeve.
7. The apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said UV lamp is disposed in a quartz sleeve coated with Teflon AF fluropolymer.
8. A method for treating a turbid fluid, comprising the steps: i) introducing said turbid fluid into a hydrocyclone forming a first liquid vortex; ii) irradiating said first liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation while separating said first liquid vortex into a substantially liquid portion and a substantially solid portion; ϋi) forming a second liquid vortex from said substantially liquid portion; and iv) irradiating said second liquid vortex with ultra-violet radiation; and
9. The method in accordance with claim 8, wherein said method further comprises the step of discharging said substantially liquid portion out of said hydrocyclone after step ii).
10. The method in accordance with claim 8, wherein said method further comprises the step of discharging said second liquid vortex out of said hydrocyclone.
11. The method in accordance with claim 8, wherein said steps of irradiating is performed by a UV lamp.
12. The method in accordance with claim 11, wherein said UV lamp is positioned within the main body of hydrocyclone
13. The method in accordance with claim 11, wherein the UV lamp is of a helical shape.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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SG200303249 | 2003-05-19 | ||
SG200303249-7 | 2003-05-19 |
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WO2004101162A1 true WO2004101162A1 (en) | 2004-11-25 |
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PCT/SG2004/000115 WO2004101162A1 (en) | 2003-05-19 | 2004-04-30 | Method and apparatus for disinfecting fluids using electromagnetic radiation while undergoing separation |
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Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2007144386A (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-06-14 | Toshiba Corp | Ultraviolet irradiation water-treatment apparatus |
CN103539310A (en) * | 2013-10-10 | 2014-01-29 | 彭伟明 | Water activating method and device by combination of electromagnetic field/magnetic field and vortex |
US9857317B2 (en) | 2013-12-30 | 2018-01-02 | Nuctech Company Limited | X-ray fluoroscopic imaging system |
US20220273838A1 (en) * | 2021-03-01 | 2022-09-01 | Kevin Shackle | Ultraviolet radiation air sanitizing machine |
US11834353B2 (en) | 2019-07-31 | 2023-12-05 | Access Business Group International Llc | Water treatment system |
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WO1994002680A1 (en) * | 1992-07-24 | 1994-02-03 | Kamyr, Inc. | Hydrocyclone photo-reactor |
US20010047964A1 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2001-12-06 | Matherly Thomas G. | Method for treating liquid by creating a liquid cyclone photon interface |
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2004
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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WO1994002680A1 (en) * | 1992-07-24 | 1994-02-03 | Kamyr, Inc. | Hydrocyclone photo-reactor |
US20010047964A1 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2001-12-06 | Matherly Thomas G. | Method for treating liquid by creating a liquid cyclone photon interface |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2007144386A (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-06-14 | Toshiba Corp | Ultraviolet irradiation water-treatment apparatus |
CN103539310A (en) * | 2013-10-10 | 2014-01-29 | 彭伟明 | Water activating method and device by combination of electromagnetic field/magnetic field and vortex |
CN103539310B (en) * | 2013-10-10 | 2016-02-03 | 彭伟明 | A kind of activated water method that electromagnetic field and magnetic field are combined with vortex and device |
US9857317B2 (en) | 2013-12-30 | 2018-01-02 | Nuctech Company Limited | X-ray fluoroscopic imaging system |
US11834353B2 (en) | 2019-07-31 | 2023-12-05 | Access Business Group International Llc | Water treatment system |
US20220273838A1 (en) * | 2021-03-01 | 2022-09-01 | Kevin Shackle | Ultraviolet radiation air sanitizing machine |
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