WO2013001428A1 - Rotary distribution apparatus - Google Patents

Rotary distribution apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2013001428A1
WO2013001428A1 PCT/IB2012/053167 IB2012053167W WO2013001428A1 WO 2013001428 A1 WO2013001428 A1 WO 2013001428A1 IB 2012053167 W IB2012053167 W IB 2012053167W WO 2013001428 A1 WO2013001428 A1 WO 2013001428A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
rotatable
stationary
indexing
indexing disc
rotary distribution
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2012/053167
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Craig Jensen
Leon Smith
Original Assignee
Tongaat Hulett Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to EP20120741090 priority Critical patent/EP2705285B1/en
Priority to JP2014518006A priority patent/JP5793619B2/en
Priority to CA 2837702 priority patent/CA2837702A1/en
Priority to US14/128,667 priority patent/US9279506B2/en
Priority to KR1020147002024A priority patent/KR101631578B1/en
Priority to AP2014007376A priority patent/AP2014007376A0/en
Application filed by Tongaat Hulett Limited filed Critical Tongaat Hulett Limited
Priority to BR112013032873A priority patent/BR112013032873A2/en
Priority to CN201280028468.0A priority patent/CN103620282B/en
Priority to AU2012277466A priority patent/AU2012277466B2/en
Priority to MX2013014656A priority patent/MX2013014656A/en
Publication of WO2013001428A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013001428A1/en
Priority to ZA2013/08936A priority patent/ZA201308936B/en

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K11/00—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves
    • F16K11/02—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit
    • F16K11/06—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements
    • F16K11/072—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements with pivoted closure members
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K11/00—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves
    • F16K11/02—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit
    • F16K11/06—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements
    • F16K11/072—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements with pivoted closure members
    • F16K11/074—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements with pivoted closure members with flat sealing faces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K11/00—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves
    • F16K11/02—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit
    • F16K11/06—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements
    • F16K11/072—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements with pivoted closure members
    • F16K11/076—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only sliding valves, i.e. sliding closure elements with pivoted closure members with sealing faces shaped as surfaces of solids of revolution
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
    • F16K37/0008—Mechanical means
    • F16K37/0016—Mechanical means having a graduated scale
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/86493—Multi-way valve unit
    • Y10T137/86863—Rotary valve unit

Definitions

  • THIS invention relates to a rotary distribution apparatus and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a rotary distribution apparatus suitable for use in a sugar refinement process.
  • FIG. 1 One embodiment of an existing rotary distribution apparatus, which has applications in continuous ion-exchange, adsorption and chromatographic separation processes, is shown in Figure 1.
  • the apparatus has a stationary, cylindrical central core 1 into which fixed feed and product pipes 2 extend.
  • a set of annular fluid distribution chambers 3 are defined between the core 1 and an outer barrel (or shell) 4 which rotates around the core with, in practice, one distribution chamber per feed or product stream.
  • Pipes 5 which rotate with the barrel 4 are connected between selected distribution chambers and selected ports in the indexing disc 6 which rotates with the barrel.
  • the indexing disc 6 rotates relative to a stationary disc 7 which is connected by stationary piping 8 to multiple process chambers 9.
  • the fluid streams return from the process chambers and follow a similar route in reverse and are eventually discharged from the apparatus through the fixed pipes 2.
  • Rotation of the indexing disc 6 results in the flow being directed to selected process chambers, which are in flow communication with the stationary disc.
  • a bearing and drive arrangement is required to maintain alignment and a sealing pressure between the indexing and stationary discs.
  • a slew ring 10 is bolted to the stationary disc and the indexing disc.
  • the slew ring has an. external gear 11 which is used to drive the unit.
  • the use of a slew ring has the advantage that the area at the centre of the discs is left clear for the feed and product pipes to enter the central core from either or both the top or the bottom.
  • the barrel is mounted on top of the discs.
  • a rotary distribution arrangement including:
  • a rotatable, cylindrical outer shell disposed about the inner core; the inner core and the outer shell defining a plurality, of annular fluid distribution chambers therebetween;
  • a rotatable indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with ports in the outer shell;
  • a stationary indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with suitable process vessels;
  • the flow passages in the rotatable indexing disc and the stationary indexing disc also having indexing ports, the configuration being such that the indexing ports in the rotatable indexing disc and the indexing ports in the stationary indexing disc are in use axially aligned, and wherein rotation of the rotatable indexing disc results in the indexing ports of the rotatable indexing disc being selectively in flow communication with selected indexing ports of the stationary indexing disc, so as to selectively alter the flow paths through the rotary distribution apparatus;
  • the rotary distribution apparatus includes a driving arrangement that comprises:
  • a stationary shaft to which the stationary core is secured; a rotatable sleeve rotatable about the stationary shaft, the rotatable sleeve driving the rotatable outer shell and the rotatable indexing disc; and the stationary shaft and the rotatable sleeve being located inside, and on a central axis of, the rotary distribution apparatus, in order for no part of the driving arrangement to be located radially outwardly of the indexing discs.
  • the rotatable sleeve to be driven by a driving means located axially outwardly of the stationary indexing disc.
  • the rotatable sleeve may be connected to a driving disc, which in turn drives the rotatable indexing disc and the rotatable outer shell.
  • the stationary shaft to extend through the driving means, and to be secured to a stationary structure.
  • the stationary structure may be a housing of a gearbox forming part of the driving means.
  • the stationary structure may be the stationary indexing disc.
  • a further feature of the invention provides for the connecting ports of the rotatable indexing disc and/or the stationary indexing disc to be located on circumferentially outer faces of the indexing discs.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective, partially cut-away view of one existing rotary distribution apparatus
  • Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a new rotary distribution apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 1 An existing rotary distribution apparatus, which has been described above, is shown in Figure 1.
  • the apparatus utilizes a slewing ring driving arrangement, a slewing ring of which is located adjacent the indexing discs, thus preventing the provision of connection ports on the outer peripheries of the indexing discs, and necessitating the use of vertically extending flow conduits into the indexing discs.
  • FIG. 2 a non-limiting example of a new rotary distribution apparatus, which includes an alternative drive arrangement, is generally indicated by reference numeral 20.
  • a driving means 21 in this embodiment in the form of a gearbox and bearing housing, is located operatively above the stationary indexing disc 22, and is supported by a suitable stationary structure (not shown).
  • the rotatable indexing disc 23 is positioned below the stationary indexing disc 22, and is connected to the output drive of the gearbox 21 via a drive sleeve or tube 24 which extends into the rotary distribution apparatus 20 through the annuli of the indexing discs (22 and 23).
  • the rotatable outer shell or barrel 25 is connected to the rotatable indexing disc 23 and rotates with the rotatable indexing disc 23. More particularly, the end of the drive sleeve 24 is connected to a driving disc 35, which is in turn connected to the rotatable indexing disc 23 and the rotatable outer sleeve 25.
  • the sealing force between the indexing discs (22 and 23) is achieved by exerting air pressure onto either the rotatable indexing disc 23 or the stationary indexing disc via a pressure ring 26.
  • the pressure ring 26 may be of many different configurations, and the invention is not limited to any particular design.
  • the stationary inner or central core 27 is secured to a stationary central shaft 28 that is located inside the drive tube 24 and which passes through the gearbox and is secured to the gearbox housing (or a similar stationary component).
  • the drive tube 24 is configured to rotate about the stationary central shaft 28.
  • the feed and product pipes 29 are connected to the central core 27 at the end opposite to the stationary central shaft 28.
  • the feed and product pipes 29 are in flow communication with annular fluid distribution chambers 32 formed by and located between the rotatable shell 25 and the stationary core 27.
  • the fluid distribution chambers are in turn in flow communication with the rotatable indexing disc 23 by way of pipes 30 that are stationary relative to the rotating shell 25 and the rotatable indexing disc 23, and which therefore rotate about the rotary distribution apparatus 20 when the indexing disc 23 and shell 25 are rotated.
  • Stationary pipes 31 extend from and into the stationary indexing disc 22, and provided flow communication between the rotary distribution apparatus 20 and any required process vessel (not shown).
  • the above configuration is advantageous in that the drive arrangement in the form of the rotatable sleeve 24) is housed inside the rotary distribution apparatus, with the driving means being located above or below the apparatus (depending on the orientation of the apparatus, it being noted that the apparatus can be inverted).
  • the driving arrangement will therefore not obstruct the area immediately adjacent the outer , periphery of the indexing discs, thus allowing side entry of conduits into the indexing discs.
  • a side-entry (i.e. horizontal) configuration will simplify the apparatus and render it more compact, whilst also reducing cost and complexity, especially insofar as small scale applications are concerned.
  • indexing discs outer shell and inner core
  • many different embodiments of these components can be utilized without departing from the novel and inventive aspect of this invention, being the internal drive arrangement as opposed to the external drive arrangement that has been used in the past.

Abstract

A rotary distribution apparatus includes a stationary, cylindrical inner core (27), and a rotatable, cylindrical outer shell (25) disposed about the inner core with the inner core (27) and the outer shell defining a plurality of annular fluid distribution chambers therebetween. The apparatus furthermore includes a rotatable indexing disc (23) having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with ports in the outer shell (25), and a stationary indexing disc (22) having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with suitable process vessels. The rotary distribution apparatus includes a driving arrangement that comprises a stationary shaft (28) to which the stationary core (27) is secured and a rotatable sleeve (24) rotatable about the stationary shaft (28), the rotatable sleeve (24) driving the rotatable outer shell (25) and the rotatable indexing disc (23).

Description

ROTARY DISTRIBUTION APPARATUS
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
THIS invention relates to a rotary distribution apparatus and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a rotary distribution apparatus suitable for use in a sugar refinement process.
In many processes it is necessary sequentially to connect different feed conduits and discharge conduits to process chambers of equipment. One typical approach is to use a plurality of conduits and valves to achieve the desired flow distribution between the various chambers. However, as the numbers of feed and discharge conduits and/or the number of process chambers are increased, the use of conventional piping and valves becomes cumbersome due to complexity, space and cost considerations. Although the number of valves may be reduced through the use of multi- port valves at each process chamber, the complexities of the piping arrangement remains. An alternative manner in which the above process requirements can be achieved is by utilizing a rotary distribution apparatus, as disclosed in the Applicant's prior patent, WO2004/029490 entitled "Rotary Distribution Apparatus", the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Further refinements and variations of such rotary distribution apparatus is also disclosed in the Applicant's patents WO2007/031857 entitled "Indexing Arrangement", and WO2009/127978 entitled "Rotary Distribution Apparatus Incorporating Interstage Pumps", the contents of which is also incorporated herein by reference.
One embodiment of an existing rotary distribution apparatus, which has applications in continuous ion-exchange, adsorption and chromatographic separation processes, is shown in Figure 1. The apparatus has a stationary, cylindrical central core 1 into which fixed feed and product pipes 2 extend. A set of annular fluid distribution chambers 3 are defined between the core 1 and an outer barrel (or shell) 4 which rotates around the core with, in practice, one distribution chamber per feed or product stream. Pipes 5 which rotate with the barrel 4 are connected between selected distribution chambers and selected ports in the indexing disc 6 which rotates with the barrel. The indexing disc 6 rotates relative to a stationary disc 7 which is connected by stationary piping 8 to multiple process chambers 9. Fluid streams enter the rotary distribution apparatus through pipes 2 within the central core 1 and are then supplied via the rotating piping 5 to the indexing disc 6, and then via the stationary disc 7 and the stationary piping 8 to the selected process chambers 9. The fluid streams return from the process chambers and follow a similar route in reverse and are eventually discharged from the apparatus through the fixed pipes 2. Rotation of the indexing disc 6 results in the flow being directed to selected process chambers, which are in flow communication with the stationary disc.
A bearing and drive arrangement is required to maintain alignment and a sealing pressure between the indexing and stationary discs. In the standard rotary distribution arrangement design a slew ring 10 is bolted to the stationary disc and the indexing disc. The slew ring has an. external gear 11 which is used to drive the unit. The use of a slew ring has the advantage that the area at the centre of the discs is left clear for the feed and product pipes to enter the central core from either or both the top or the bottom. In the standard design the barrel is mounted on top of the discs.
A consequence of this design (and the sealing system) is that pipes connecting the rotating and stationary discs have to be orientated in a vertical direction, as the slew ring prevents horizontal, side-entry of pipes into the indexing discs. In certain, typically small scale, applications it becomes advantageous to have horizontal connections into the indexing or stationary discs, due to cost, complexity and space considerations. However, the use of a slew ring bearing makes this impractical.
It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a new rotary distribution arrangement, and in particular a drive arrangement therefor, which that will, at least partially, alleviate the above disadvantages.
It is also an object of the invention to provide a new rotary distribution arrangement and in particular a drive arrangement therefor, which will be a useful alternative to existing rotary distributions arrangements and drive arrangements. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention there is provided a rotary distribution arrangement including:
a stationary, cylindrical inner core;
a rotatable, cylindrical outer shell disposed about the inner core; the inner core and the outer shell defining a plurality, of annular fluid distribution chambers therebetween;
a rotatable indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with ports in the outer shell;
a stationary indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with suitable process vessels;
the flow passages in the rotatable indexing disc and the stationary indexing disc also having indexing ports, the configuration being such that the indexing ports in the rotatable indexing disc and the indexing ports in the stationary indexing disc are in use axially aligned, and wherein rotation of the rotatable indexing disc results in the indexing ports of the rotatable indexing disc being selectively in flow communication with selected indexing ports of the stationary indexing disc, so as to selectively alter the flow paths through the rotary distribution apparatus; characterized in that the rotary distribution apparatus includes a driving arrangement that comprises:
a stationary shaft to which the stationary core is secured; a rotatable sleeve rotatable about the stationary shaft, the rotatable sleeve driving the rotatable outer shell and the rotatable indexing disc; and the stationary shaft and the rotatable sleeve being located inside, and on a central axis of, the rotary distribution apparatus, in order for no part of the driving arrangement to be located radially outwardly of the indexing discs.
There is provided for the rotatable sleeve to be driven by a driving means located axially outwardly of the stationary indexing disc.
The rotatable sleeve may be connected to a driving disc, which in turn drives the rotatable indexing disc and the rotatable outer shell.
There is also provided for the stationary shaft to extend through the driving means, and to be secured to a stationary structure.
In one embodiment the stationary structure may be a housing of a gearbox forming part of the driving means. In an alternative dmbodiment the stationary structure may be the stationary indexing disc.
A further feature of the invention provides for the connecting ports of the rotatable indexing disc and/or the stationary indexing disc to be located on circumferentially outer faces of the indexing discs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the invention is described by way of a non- limiting example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective, partially cut-away view of one existing rotary distribution apparatus; and
Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a new rotary distribution apparatus in accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
An existing rotary distribution apparatus, which has been described above, is shown in Figure 1. Notably, the apparatus utilizes a slewing ring driving arrangement, a slewing ring of which is located adjacent the indexing discs, thus preventing the provision of connection ports on the outer peripheries of the indexing discs, and necessitating the use of vertically extending flow conduits into the indexing discs.
Referring now to Figure 2, a non-limiting example of a new rotary distribution apparatus, which includes an alternative drive arrangement, is generally indicated by reference numeral 20.
In this new arrangement a driving means 21 , in this embodiment in the form of a gearbox and bearing housing, is located operatively above the stationary indexing disc 22, and is supported by a suitable stationary structure (not shown).
The rotatable indexing disc 23 is positioned below the stationary indexing disc 22, and is connected to the output drive of the gearbox 21 via a drive sleeve or tube 24 which extends into the rotary distribution apparatus 20 through the annuli of the indexing discs (22 and 23). The rotatable outer shell or barrel 25 is connected to the rotatable indexing disc 23 and rotates with the rotatable indexing disc 23. More particularly, the end of the drive sleeve 24 is connected to a driving disc 35, which is in turn connected to the rotatable indexing disc 23 and the rotatable outer sleeve 25.
The sealing force between the indexing discs (22 and 23) is achieved by exerting air pressure onto either the rotatable indexing disc 23 or the stationary indexing disc via a pressure ring 26. The pressure ring 26 may be of many different configurations, and the invention is not limited to any particular design.
The stationary inner or central core 27 is secured to a stationary central shaft 28 that is located inside the drive tube 24 and which passes through the gearbox and is secured to the gearbox housing (or a similar stationary component). The drive tube 24 is configured to rotate about the stationary central shaft 28.
The feed and product pipes 29 are connected to the central core 27 at the end opposite to the stationary central shaft 28. The feed and product pipes 29 are in flow communication with annular fluid distribution chambers 32 formed by and located between the rotatable shell 25 and the stationary core 27. The fluid distribution chambers are in turn in flow communication with the rotatable indexing disc 23 by way of pipes 30 that are stationary relative to the rotating shell 25 and the rotatable indexing disc 23, and which therefore rotate about the rotary distribution apparatus 20 when the indexing disc 23 and shell 25 are rotated. Stationary pipes 31 extend from and into the stationary indexing disc 22, and provided flow communication between the rotary distribution apparatus 20 and any required process vessel (not shown). The above configuration is advantageous in that the drive arrangement in the form of the rotatable sleeve 24) is housed inside the rotary distribution apparatus, with the driving means being located above or below the apparatus (depending on the orientation of the apparatus, it being noted that the apparatus can be inverted). The driving arrangement will therefore not obstruct the area immediately adjacent the outer , periphery of the indexing discs, thus allowing side entry of conduits into the indexing discs. A side-entry (i.e. horizontal) configuration will simplify the apparatus and render it more compact, whilst also reducing cost and complexity, especially insofar as small scale applications are concerned.
It should be noted that the exact configuration and design of the indexing discs, outer shell and inner core is not the subject matter of this particular invention, and that many different embodiments of these components can be utilized without departing from the novel and inventive aspect of this invention, being the internal drive arrangement as opposed to the external drive arrangement that has been used in the past.
It will be appreciated that the above is therefore only one embodiment of the invention and that there may be many variations without departing from the spirit and/or the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. A rotary distribution arrangement including:
a stationary, cylindrical inner core;
a rotatable, cylindrical outer shell disposed about the inner core; the inner core and the outer shell defining a plurality of annular fluid distribution chambers therebetween;
a rotatable indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with ports in the outer shell;
a stationary indexing disc having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with suitable process vessels;
the flow passages in the rotatable indexing disc and the stationary indexing disc also having indexing ports, the configuration being such that the indexing ports in the rotatable indexing disc and the indexing ports in the stationary indexing disc are in use axially aligned, and wherein rotation of the rotatable indexing disc results in the indexing ports of the rotatable indexing disc being selectively in flow communication with selected indexing ports of the stationary indexing disc, so as to selectively alter the flow paths through the rotary distribution apparatus; characterized in that the rotary distribution apparatus includes a driving arrangement that comprises:
a stationary shaft to which the stationary core is secured; a rotatable sleeve rotatable about the stationary shaft, the rotatable sleeve driving the rotatable outer shell and the rotatable indexing disc; and the stationary shaft and the rotatable sleeve being located inside, and on a central axis of, the rotary distribution apparatus, in order for no part of the driving arrangement to be located radially outwardly of the indexing discs.
2. The rotary distribution arrangement of claim 1 in which the rotatable sleeve is driven by a driving means located axially outwardly of the stationary indexing disc.
3. The rotary distribution arrangement of claim 1 or claim 2 in which the rotatable sleeve is connected to a driving disc, which in turn drives the rotatable indexing disc and the rotatable outer shell.
4. The rotary distribution arrangement of any one of the preceding claims in which the stationary shaft extends through the driving means, with an outer end thereof being secured to a stationary structure.
5. The rotary distribution arrangement of claim 4 in which the stationary structure is in the form of a housing of a gearbox forming part of the driving means.
6. The rotary distribution arrangement of claim 4 in which the stationary structure is the stationary indexing disc.
7. The rotary distribution arrangement of claim of any one of the preceding claims in which the connecting ports of the rotatable indexing disc and/or the stationary indexing disc are located on circumferentially outer faces of the indexing discs.
PCT/IB2012/053167 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus WO2013001428A1 (en)

Priority Applications (11)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2014518006A JP5793619B2 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotating distributor
CA 2837702 CA2837702A1 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
US14/128,667 US9279506B2 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
KR1020147002024A KR101631578B1 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
AP2014007376A AP2014007376A0 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
EP20120741090 EP2705285B1 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
BR112013032873A BR112013032873A2 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 rotary distribution arrangement
CN201280028468.0A CN103620282B (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
AU2012277466A AU2012277466B2 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus
MX2013014656A MX2013014656A (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus.
ZA2013/08936A ZA201308936B (en) 2011-06-27 2013-11-27 Rotary distribution apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ZA2011/04747 2011-06-27
ZA201104747 2011-06-27

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2013001428A1 true WO2013001428A1 (en) 2013-01-03

Family

ID=46598884

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2012/053167 WO2013001428A1 (en) 2011-06-27 2012-06-22 Rotary distribution apparatus

Country Status (12)

Country Link
US (1) US9279506B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2705285B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5793619B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101631578B1 (en)
CN (1) CN103620282B (en)
AP (1) AP2014007376A0 (en)
AU (1) AU2012277466B2 (en)
BR (1) BR112013032873A2 (en)
CA (1) CA2837702A1 (en)
MX (1) MX2013014656A (en)
WO (1) WO2013001428A1 (en)
ZA (1) ZA201308936B (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN105065711A (en) * 2015-09-08 2015-11-18 刘巨伯 Three-way water selection valve
US11035480B2 (en) 2016-02-24 2021-06-15 Leanna Levine and Aline, Inc. Mechanically driven sequencing manifold
EP3423908A4 (en) * 2016-02-24 2019-12-11 Leanna Levine Mechanically driven sequencing manifold
KR20220033184A (en) * 2020-09-09 2022-03-16 현대자동차주식회사 Multiway coolant valve
US11867356B2 (en) * 2020-12-10 2024-01-09 Patriot Research Center, LLC Rotary multi-port greasing valve

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5462085A (en) * 1993-01-25 1995-10-31 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Four-way change-over valve for air-conditioner and service valve therewith
WO2004029490A1 (en) 2002-09-27 2004-04-08 The Tongaat-Hulett Group Limited Rotary distribution apparatus
WO2007031857A1 (en) 2005-09-16 2007-03-22 Tongaat Hulett Limited Indexing arrangement
WO2009127978A1 (en) 2008-04-14 2009-10-22 Tongaat Hulett Limited Rotary distribution apparatus incorporating interstage pumps

Family Cites Families (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2600102A (en) * 1946-10-03 1952-06-10 Fawick Airflex Company Inc Rotatable slide valve assembly
US3246667A (en) * 1964-12-21 1966-04-19 J C Pemberton Pressure sampling valve
US3430879A (en) * 1967-03-06 1969-03-04 Leach Corp Apparatus for transporting elongated material
US3713538A (en) * 1970-11-30 1973-01-30 C Kass Cycle valve for filters
US4263937A (en) * 1978-04-21 1981-04-28 Rudenko Nikolai V Scanning valve
US4625763A (en) * 1985-07-10 1986-12-02 Uop Inc. Disc-axial multiport valve
JPH0611056A (en) * 1992-06-24 1994-01-21 Tsukishima Kikai Co Ltd Flow passage distribution device, pseudo-moving floor and continuous adsorption method
CN1090382A (en) * 1993-01-25 1994-08-03 太平洋精工株式会社 Air conditioner four-way change-over valve and service valve
JPH0979256A (en) * 1995-09-13 1997-03-25 Toshiba Corp Linear ball bearing
US5810049A (en) * 1995-11-15 1998-09-22 Raque Food Systems, Inc. Rotary coupling for an article handler
ID19678A (en) * 1996-09-27 1998-07-30 Boc Group Inc GAS SEPARATION PROCESS AND TOOLS
CN2338561Y (en) * 1998-07-13 1999-09-15 中国石化大庆石油化工总厂炼油厂 Rotary distributing valve for fluid materials
JP2000234906A (en) * 1999-02-15 2000-08-29 Koji Masutani Reflecting member moving apparatus and apparatus which periodically increases and decreases optical path length by using the same
EP1375475A1 (en) 2002-06-28 2004-01-02 Urea Casale S.A. Plant for urea production
DE10348078A1 (en) * 2003-10-13 2005-05-12 Suhling Technik Niederlassung Device for generating a composite linear and transverse movement
DE102005003983B4 (en) * 2005-01-28 2008-07-17 Lohmann & Stolterfoht Gmbh Planetary gear with means for the early detection of damage to one of the rolling bearings

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5462085A (en) * 1993-01-25 1995-10-31 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Four-way change-over valve for air-conditioner and service valve therewith
WO2004029490A1 (en) 2002-09-27 2004-04-08 The Tongaat-Hulett Group Limited Rotary distribution apparatus
WO2007031857A1 (en) 2005-09-16 2007-03-22 Tongaat Hulett Limited Indexing arrangement
WO2009127978A1 (en) 2008-04-14 2009-10-22 Tongaat Hulett Limited Rotary distribution apparatus incorporating interstage pumps

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2012277466A1 (en) 2013-12-19
AU2012277466B2 (en) 2017-01-19
ZA201308936B (en) 2015-02-25
BR112013032873A2 (en) 2017-01-24
KR101631578B1 (en) 2016-06-24
JP5793619B2 (en) 2015-10-14
MX2013014656A (en) 2014-03-27
US9279506B2 (en) 2016-03-08
US20140144532A1 (en) 2014-05-29
EP2705285B1 (en) 2014-08-27
KR20140047093A (en) 2014-04-21
AP2014007376A0 (en) 2014-01-31
CN103620282A (en) 2014-03-05
CA2837702A1 (en) 2013-01-03
EP2705285A1 (en) 2014-03-12
CN103620282B (en) 2015-03-11
JP2014525010A (en) 2014-09-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2705285B1 (en) Rotary distribution apparatus
US8459302B2 (en) Fluid-directing multiport rotary valve
CN101446361B (en) Rotary valve
EP2664801B1 (en) Pressure exchanger and performance adjustment method of pressure exchanger
ZA200503109B (en) Rotary distribution apparatus
CN103363155A (en) Compact electrically controlled four-way valve with port mixing
US20120111435A1 (en) Fluid-directing multiport rotary apparatus
US8241492B1 (en) Simulated moving bed chromatography device
CN102725538B (en) Pressure exchanger
EP0231568B1 (en) Multiport axial valve with balanced rotor
MX2010002630A (en) Rotary distribution apparatus incorporating interstage pumps.
US20150198156A1 (en) Control ring for a hydrostatical device
EP2383042B1 (en) Water passage for embedded rotary sprinkler
EP1924794B1 (en) Indexing arrangement
CN101173717B (en) Valve and method for using the same
CN117006270A (en) Fluid dispensing valve and fluid treatment device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 12741090

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2837702

Country of ref document: CA

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2012741090

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: MX/A/2013/014656

Country of ref document: MX

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2012277466

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20120622

Kind code of ref document: A

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 14128667

Country of ref document: US

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2014518006

Country of ref document: JP

Kind code of ref document: A

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 20147002024

Country of ref document: KR

Kind code of ref document: A

REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: BR

Ref legal event code: B01A

Ref document number: 112013032873

Country of ref document: BR

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 112013032873

Country of ref document: BR

Kind code of ref document: A2

Effective date: 20131219