WO2009018049A2 - Purification and separation system for fluid flow stream - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to the purification and separation of a fluid flow stream, and more particularly, to a separation system including a device for filtering the fluid flow stream and separating pollutants therefrom. The present invention also relates to a method of purifying and separating a fluid flow stream.

Description

PURIFICATION AND SEPARATION SYSTEM FOR FLUID FLOW STREAM

[0001] This patent application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. US 60/952,307, filed on July 27, 2007.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to purifying and separating a fluid flow stream, and more particularly, to a separation system including a device for filtering the fluid flow stream and separating pollutants therefrom. The present invention also relates to a method thereof.

2. Background Information

[0003] It is often desirable to purify and separate fluid flow streams for use in fluid transfer systems such as water drainage systems. The process of purification and separation includes removing pollutants, debris and various solid particulates from the fluid. For example, during rain storms, water that is not absorbed into the ground can come into contact with roadways, parking lots, landscaped areas and other surfaces. As the water flows across these surfaces, it can pick up pollutants such as debris and particulates, and carry them into a storm water runoff system. The water exiting the storm water runoff system can then be directed to natural water bodies. If a means for purifying and separating the storm water is not provided, the pollutants such as debris and particulates, contained therein can be carried to the natural water bodies causing them to be polluted or contaminated. [0004] In certain countries, states and cities or counties, there may be federal, state and local laws and rules requiring municipalities, businesses and private entities to establish a means of reducing to established acceptable levels, pollutants and contaminates in fluid streams that are transferred to natural bodies of water from property under their control. To maintain clean water systems, some cities and counties have regulations requiring that a specified amount or level of the pollutants be removed from the storm water before entering their storm sewer systems. In order to satisfy and comply with such regulations, facilities may install on-site pollution traps to filter the storm water prior to it being discharged to a storm sewer system. [0005] The removal of pollutants such as debris and particulates from the fluid flow stream typically can be accomplished by traps which attempt to separate particles from the fluid by the use of meshes, grates or the like. A disadvantage of these components is that they have a tendency to clog up thereby reducing their effectiveness. Further, separation systems known in the art may be expensive and difficult to maintain. Thus, it is desirable for separation systems to minimize clogging, improve effectiveness, allow easy access for maintenance and be affordable to purchase and maintain. Thus, there is room for improvement relative to conventional separation systems used in purifying and separating fluid flow streams.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] These needs and others are satisfied by the present invention which is directed to a system and method for purifying and separating a fluid. [0007] As one aspect of the invention a device is provided for separating pollutants from a fluid. The device includes a chamber having side walls, a bottom, an inlet for receiving fluid, and an outlet for discharging fluid. A trap is positioned within the chamber forward of the outlet and perpendicular to the fluid flowing from the inlet, and essentially overlays the outlet. Fluid flowing from the inlet at least partially passes through the trap prior to being discharged from the outlet. The trap includes a filter structured to reduce the flow of pollutants therethrough. [0008] As another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for purifying and separating a fluid from pollutants contained therein. The method includes directing a stream of fluid into a chamber through an inlet opening and providing a trap positioned within the chamber. The trap is positioned forward of an outlet opening which is provided in a wall of the chamber. The trap essentially overlaps the outlet opening. The trap includes a filter, the filter being positioned perpendicular to the stream of fluid through the inlet opening. The filter is contacted with the fluid and pollutants are separated from the fluid. The fluid is discharged from the chamber through the outlet, the discharged fluid containing less pollutants than the stream of fluid directed into the inlet opening. [0009] As another aspect of the invention, a device is provided for separating pollutants from a fluid. The device includes a trap adapted to be positioned within a chamber. The chamber has an inlet and an outlet. The trap is structured to essentially overlay the outlet and to be connected to at least one wall of the chamber. The trap is structured to include a base and a filter. The filter is structured to substantially reduce the flow of pollutants therethrough.

[0010] In other aspects of the invention, the trap is positioned within the chamber such that the fluid flowing into the chamber via the inlet has a residence time in the chamber that is sufficient to allow pollutants to settle out of the fluid at the water level in the chamber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A full understanding of the invention can be gained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0012] Figure IA shows a schematic of a chamber containing a separation device in accordance with the present invention wherein pollutants are separated from the fluid flow and collected in the sump of the chamber; [0013] Figure IB is a schematic showing details of the base and frontal face of the filter of the separation device shown in Figure IA;

[0014] Figure 1C is a schematic showing details of the separation device shown in Figure IA;

[0015] Figure 2 shows a schematic of a fluid flow pattern through a chamber continuous separation device in accordance with the present invention; and [0016] Figure 3 shows detailed view of the separation device in accordance with the present invention wherein a filter is insertable in a filter frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The present invention is related to an apparatus and method for separating pollutants such as debris (e.g., vegetative matter, plastic, and paper), particulate matter (e.g., sand, grit, and clay), and/or floating matter (e.g., motor oil, other hydrocarbons such as phosphorus, and detergents), from a fluid flow stream. Generally, the apparatus includes a chamber having an inlet for receiving a polluted fluid and an outlet for discharging the separated fluid, and a sump for collecting and storing sediment (e.g., debris, particulate and/or floating matter separated from the liquid). The inlet and outlet can be of various shapes and sizes. In an embodiment, circular inlet and/or outlet openings are provided. The design and structure of the chamber can vary widely and typically is representative of a catch basin or drainage structure. The size and shape of the chamber can vary. For example, the chamber can be square, rectangular, cylindrical or any other shape. The chamber can be made of concrete or can be alternatively fabricated in whole or in part of metal, plastic, fiberglass or other suitable materials. The chamber can include side walls and a bottom floor. In an embodiment, the chamber can simply include a hole or ditch produced in the earth's soil. Included in the interior of the chamber is a trap device. The trap is positioned forward of the outlet and is disposed across the outlet such that the trap essentially overlays or covers the outlet. Thus, the fluid flowing from the inlet and out of the chamber at least partially passes through the trap prior to being discharged through the outlet. The trap can include a base and a filter. The base can be connected to at least one interior wall of the chamber. The filter can form at least partially the frontal face of the trap. The filter can be insertable into and removable from the base. The base can be structured such that there is a gap or space provided between the filter or frontal face of the trap and the outlet or side wall of the chamber (containing the outlet therein). The distance between the filter and outlet can vary and depends on the dimension (e.g., depth) of the base. The base can be constructed of a wide variety of materials known in the art. The material can be at least substantially rigid. Further, the material can be such that it can be submerged in water for extended periods of time without substantially degrading, e.g., a non-corrosive or rust-resistant material. Suitable substantially rigid materials can include but are not limited to high density polyethylene (HDPE), aluminum, steel and mixtures thereof. In some applications, HDPE is preferred. [0018] The filter can be constructed of a wide variety of materials known to be absorbent and/or adsorbent. The material of the filter can be porous and in some instances, highly porous. In embodiments of the present invention, the filter can be a treatment media or coalescing media. The coalescing media can typically include any material known to have coagulation properties. The treatment media can include a chemically treated filter material. For example, the filter or filter material can be at least partially coated with a chemical composition that is reactive with the pollutants contained in a fluid stream such that when the fluid impinges the filter or passes through the filter, there is a reaction between the chemically-treated filter or filter material and the pollutants. Further, a chemical compound can be incorporated or included into the filter material itself. Suitable medias can include those that are known in the art and can be commercially obtained. In an embodiment, the filter can have a plurality of apertures formed therein. The apertures can vary in number and size. The apertures being sized such as to reduce or preclude the ability of pollutants in the fluid flow stream to pass through the filter. The filter may also be structured such that matter (e.g., pollutants) entrained in the fluid is captured within the filter material as the fluid impinges and passes through the filter.

[0019] The trap itself can vary in size and shape depending upon the size and shape of the outlet as well as the size and shape of the chamber. The presence of the trap can decrease the velocity of the fluid flow stream and increase the residence time of the fluid within the chamber and can encourage settling of particulate matter such as pollutants from the fluid. The trap can be retrofitted to existing chambers or can be included in new chamber projects and installations.

[0020] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example upper, lower, top, bottom, left, right, forward and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting upon the claims unless expressly recited therein.

[0021] As employed herein, the statement that two or more parts are "connected" together shall mean that the parts are joined together either directly or joined through one or more intermediate parts. [0022] As employed herein, the term "number" shall refer to one and more than one (i.e., a plurality).

[0023] As shown in Figure IA, in an embodiment of the present invention, a separation system 100 includes a chamber 1 having an inlet 25 to receive fluid flow into the chamber and an outlet 15 to discharge fluid out of the chamber 1. The inlet 25 can be a pipe used to connect the chamber 1 to an upstream fluid source (such as but not limited to process water or storm water) or transfer system. The outlet 15 can include an opening through a wall of the chamber. The outlet can also include a pipe fitted within the opening or, surrounding the opening on either or both sides of the chamber wall. The outlet pipe can be used to connect the chamber to a downstream fluid transfer system. For example, the upstream fluid transfer system may include a drainage or stormwater system from a roadway or the like. The downstream fluid transfer system can include a municipal water treatment plant or natural or artificial body of water. The fluid flow entering the chamber 1 through the inlet 25 may contain floating debris and oils 80. Within chamber 1 is a trap 40 positioned forward of the outlet 15. The trap 40 is positioned perpendicular to the fluid flow entering the chamber 1 through inlet 25. Further, the trap 40 is positioned such that it essentially overlays or covers the outlet 15. The trap 40 can extend vertically upward and downward, and horizontally leftward and rightward, from the outlet 15 and can extend by varying lengths and widths beyond the outlet 15 such that it overlaps the outlet 15. The size of trap 40 can vary. The dimensions (e.g., height and width) of the trap 40 are such that the size of the trap 40 is sufficient to cover the outlet 15. The trap 40 is connected to the wall on which the outlet 15 is disposed. The trap 40 can extend downward to near the bottom of chamber 1. The lower portion of the chamber 1, e.g., from the invert of the inlet 25 or the outlet 15 to the top surface of the floor, is referred to as sump 70. The sump 70 is provided to collect and store sediment, e.g., debris, particulate and/or floating matter that is separated from the fluid. The depth of the sump 70 may vary and can be sized in accordance with the amount of sediment to be collected and stored. In alternate embodiments, the sump 70 is sized such that it is a minimum of twelve (12) inches from the invert of the inlet 15, or the sump 70 is such that it is at least twenty-four (24) inches deep. As the flow impinges the trap 40, the floating debris and oil are at least partially separated from the liquid and collected in sump 70. The sump 70 can be cleaned and the sediment removed on a periodic basis. The frequency of cleaning and removal will be dependent on the amount of sediment deposited therein.

[0024] Figure IB shows in greater detail a front view of trap 40 (as shown in Figure IA). As shown in Figure IB, in an embodiment of the present invention, the trap 40 includes a base 10 and a filter 50. The base 10 includes a bottom plate 5. The bottom plate 5 can be a solid plate such that it masks off the bottom of the trap 40. In alternate embodiments, the bottom plate 5 can include at least one or more slits or openings (not shown), or can include a filter positioned therein, such that it is operable to regulate or control fluid flow through the trap 40. Base 10 can include two vertical side plates 7 and a substantially horizontal (e.g., slightly sloped or slanted) top plate 6 positioned therebetween. The width of the side plates 7, top plate 6 and bottom plate 5 provides for a space or gap between the front face of trap 40 and the outlet (e.g., when trap 40 is connected to the interior wall of the chamber wherein outlet 15 is disposed). Further, base 10 can include flat vertical edge pieces 9 connected to or extending a distance beyond the vertical plates 7 for connecting trap 40 to a chamber wall. Holes 30 can be disposed in the edge pieces for connecting the base 10 to an interior wall of chamber 1. The trap 40, as shown in Figure IB, has a substantially flat frontal face which is essentially rectangular in shape. However, it is to be understood that the shape of the trap 40 may vary widely. Any other shape can be used. The shape of trap 40 may depend on the shape of the outlet 15 and/or the shape of the chamber. Other suitable shapes can include but are not limited to circular, square, hemispherical, and the like.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1C, in an embodiment of the present invention, the trap 40 can be installed (e.g., connected to an interior wall of the chamber) such that it fully covers outlet 15. Bottom plate 5 is positioned at a lower elevation than the bottom (e.g., rim or lip) of the outlet. The liquid level (not shown) in the chamber is maintained at an elevation that is higher than the bottom plate 5. The bottom plate 5 of the trap 40 can be positioned such that it extends at least six (6) inches below the invert of the outlet 15. The trap 40 in this embodiment includes a filter frame 45 and a flow control plate 20. Filter frame 45 is structured to hold a filter 50 (not shown). Filter frame 45 is located on the frontal face of the trap 40 and is connected to and extending away from an outer surface of base 10. The filter frame 45 extends around the perimeter of the base 10 and is of a minimal width such that it does not substantially cover the filter insertable therein. The filter frame 45 is sized and shaped to overlap at the edge(s), such as at least two edges, of the filter. The flow control plate 20 can be positioned downstream of the filter and forward of the outlet 15. The flow control plate 20 is positioned perpendicular to the fluid flow stream entering the filter. The flow control plate 20 can include one or more apertures therein. The fluid impinging the flow control plate 20 can be controlled through the aperture(s) and into outlet 15. In an embodiment, flow control plate 20 contains an orifice (not shown). The orifice is sized to control the fluid flow passing from the inlet 25 to the outlet 15. The size of the orifice can depend on the velocity of the fluid flow. In an embodiment, the orifice can be sized to restrict in varying amounts the velocity of the fluid flow to the outlet 15. In an alternate embodiment, the orifice can be sized to restrict flow such that the residence time of the fluid is extended to allow for increased settling of pollutants from the fluid. [0026] Further, as shown in Figure 1C, the filter frame 45 and the flow control plate 20 can be connected to base 10 of trap 40. Any number and any type of conventional connector (e.g., fasteners) can be used. For example, holes can be pre-drilled into the flow control plate 20 and base 10. In an embodiment, four (4) holes are pre-drilled. The pre-drilled holes of the flow control plate 20 are substantially aligned with the pre-drilled holes of the base 10 and, fasteners such as bolts or screws are inserted therein. In an embodiment, stainless steel screws are used. In addition to bolts or screws, other means such as welding and adhesives can be used as fastener. In a manner similar to that described herein for the flow control plate 20 and base 10, the filter frame 45 also can be connected to base 10. Furthermore, bottom plate 5 also can be connected to base 10 in a similar manner.

[0027] Flow control plate 20, bottom plate 5 and filter frame 45 can be constructed of rigid material(s). Suitable materials can include those previously described herein for use in constructing the base 10 of trap 40. In an embodiment, the base 10, flow control plate 20, bottom plate 5 and filter frame 45 are constructed of the same rigid material; in other embodiments, at least one component may be constructed of a different rigid material. [0028] As shown in Figure 2, in an embodiment of the present invention, the filter frame 45 contains therein a filter 50. The filter 50 is structured and sized to fit within frame 45 such that frame 45 at least partially surrounds the outer edges of filter 50 and holds filter 50. The filter 50 can be slidably received in and removed from filter frame 45 to facilitate periodic cleaning or replacement of the filter 50. Filter 50 can be constructed of a porous material or other material as previously described herein. Filter 50 forms a front surface of the trap 40. The filter 50 is positioned perpendicular to the fluid flow stream entering the inlet of the chamber. At least a portion of a flow stream entering the chamber through inlet impinges the filter 50 and passes through filter 50. The filter 50 is operable to reduce or preclude the pollutants passing therethrough. Thus, the fluid that passes through the filter 50 and is discharged in the outlet 15, contains less pollutants than the fluid that enters the chamber through the inlet. The pollutants that cannot pass through the filter 50 due to their size exceeding the size of the openings in the filter 50, are separated from the fluid and settle to the sump (as shown in Figure IA). In another embodiment, the pollutants are absorbed or adsorbed by the material of filter 50 such that the filter material captures and retains the pollutants in the filter 50 such that the pollutants do not pass through the filter to the outlet 15. In still another embodiment, the pollutants can chemically react with the chemically -treated material of filter 50 as the fluid containing the pollutants impinges on and/or passes through the filter.

[0029] Further, as shown in Figure 2, the trap 40 can also include weir opening(s) 60. The weir opening(s) 60 can be located in the base 10 and typically in the sides 7 and/or top 6 of the base 10. The weir opening(s) can be used to as a flow bypass. In an embodiment, the weir opening(s) 60 can be operable to maintain or lower the level of fluid in the chamber 1 on an as-needed basis. For example, if the fluid in the chamber exceeds an acceptable level, the fluid can enter the weir opening(s) and be discharged from the chamber through outlet 15.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, in an embodiment of the present invention, the trap 40 can include an underflow baffle plate 55. The baffle plate 55 can be connected to the base 10 and can be positioned forward of the outlet 15, downstream of the filter 50 and perpendicular to the fluid flow entering the inlet of the chamber. In an embodiment, the baffle plate 55 can be structured such that it extends downward in the chamber below the bottom plate 5 of the trap 40 and, typically at least a short distance (e.g., a couple of inches or the like) above the bottom of the chamber. The baffle plate 55 can be used to control a flow stream such that effluents or pollutants from a fluid stream can flow under the baffle plate 55 and through a discharge. The baffle plate 55 can be constructed of any of the materials described herein previously for the base 10.

[0031] In Figure 3 is shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, an enhanced detail of the filter frame 45 and filter 50 of trap 40. The filter frame 45 is connected to base 10. The frame 45 can be positioned around the outer perimeter of an outer surface of base 10. The frame 45 has a horizontal slot or opening on an upper end for receiving filter 50 therethrough. The other end is closed, or at least partially closed, such that vertical movement of filter 50 therethrough is prevented. The dimensions of filter 50 are such that it is capable of fitting within the opening of frame 45. The thickness and/or width of frame 45 are/is such that frame 45 does not substantially cover filter 50. Moreover, as shown in Figure 3, a filtration support plate 80 can be included in the trap 40. The filtration support plate 80 is positioned behind filter 50 and can provide support and stability to maintain filter 50 in a position perpendicular to the flow stream therethrough. The design and structure of the filtration support plate 80 can vary widely. It can include an opening or a plurality of openings as shown in Figure 3. In alternate embodiments, the filtration support plate 80 can include perforations, meshes, or grates. The filtration support plate 80 can be constructed of a rigid material such as those previously described herein for base 10. [0032] Moreover, as shown in Figure 3, the trap 40 can include an inspection port 90. The design and structure of the inspection port 90 can vary widely and can include those known in the art. As shown in Figure 3, the inspection port 90 can include a hole or opening located in the top plate 6 of base 10. The inspection port 90 can also include a removable cover plate 95 horizontally positioned to cover the hole or opening. Thus, when visual inspection of the interior of the trap 40 is desired, the cover plate 95 can be removed and the contents of the trap 40 can be observed through the hole or opening.

[0033] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternatives to those details could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention which is to be given the full breadth of the claims appended and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A device for separating pollutants from a fluid, comprising: a chamber having side walls, a bottom, an inlet for receiving fluid, and an outlet for discharging fluid; a trap positioned within the chamber forward of the outlet and perpendicular to the fluid flowing from the inlet, the trap essentially overlaying the outlet; wherein fluid flowing from the inlet at least partially flows through the trap prior to being discharged from the outlet, the trap having a filter structured to reduce the flow of pollutants therethrough.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the trap is structured to comprise a base.

3. The device of claim 2 wherein the base comprises a substantially rigid material.

4. The device of claim 3 wherein the base comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of high density polyethylene, aluminum, steel and mixtures thereof.

5. The device of claim 1 wherein the filter comprises a porous material.

6. The device of claim 1 wherein the material is selected from the group consisting of a treatment media, a coalescing media or a combination thereof.

7. The device of claim 1 wherein the filter is removable.

8. The device of claim 2 wherein the filter is connected to the base.

9. The device of claim 8 further comprising a flow control plate positioned downstream of the filter and connected to the base, the flow control plate having at least one aperture therein.

10. The device of claim 8 further comprising a filtration support plate positioned behind the filter and connected to the base, the filtration support plate being structured to support the filter in a position perpendicular to the fluid flowing through the inlet.

11. The device of claim 8 further comprising an underflow baffle plate positioned behind the filter and connected to the base.

12. The device of claim 2 wherein the base comprises a bottom plate horizontally positioned on a lower end of the base.

13. The device of claim 12 wherein the bottom plate comprises a configuration selected from the group consisting of slits, apertures or a filter.

14. The device of claim 2 wherein the base comprises a frame connected thereto, the frame being structured to hold the filter, the filter being slidably insertable into the frame.

15. The device of claim 1 wherein the trap is connected to at least one wall in the interior of the chamber.

16. A method for purifying and separating a fluid from pollutants contained therein, the method comprising: directing a stream of fluid into a chamber through an inlet opening; providing a trap positioned within the chamber forward of an outlet opening provided in a wall of the chamber, the trap essentially overlapping the outlet opening, the trap comprising a filter, the filter being positioned perpendicular to the stream of fluid through the inlet opening; contacting the filter with the fluid and separating from the fluid pollutants therein; and discharging the fluid from the chamber through the outlet, the discharged fluid containing less pollutants than the stream of fluid directed into the inlet opening.

17. The method of claim 16 wherein the pollutants are captured within the filter.

18. The method of claim 16 wherein the pollutants undergo a chemical reaction as the fluid contacts the filter.

19. A device for separating pollutants from a fluid, comprising: a trap adapted to be positioned within a chamber having an inlet to receive fluid flow and an outlet to discharge fluid flow, the trap essentially covering the outlet and the trap at least partially connected to a wall of the chamber, the trap being structured to include a base and a filter, the filter being structured to substantially reduce the flow of pollutants therethrough.

20. The device of claim 19 wherein the base is structured to extend outwardly from the wall such that there is a space provided therein between the outlet and a surface of the filter.