Method for making a bundle of helical tubes and apparatus for separating impurities from a polluted liquid
US5204048A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D21/2427
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Apparatus and method for removing particulate impurities from liquids wherein the liquid flows upward through a bundle of tubes having a helical shape to present an inclined path where settling of particulates back down the tube occurs. The bundle is preferably formed around a central standpipe. This modular helical tube bundle arrangement provides a compact and inexpensive structure and great convenience for maintenance. The preferred cross sectional shape of each tube is oval to increase settling rate. In order to form the tubes from rigid tubing, a concrete form is made in accordance with a procedure which includes forming a "tent" of strings, sculpting a plasticene negative form using the tent of strings as a guide, casting concrete against the form to produce a mold that resembles a sliding board with an outside drooping edge. In a preferred apparatus the tube bundle is foamed in place within a cylindrical tank and the bundle supports the standpipe, which in turn may carry a motor and propeller assembly for break-up of bubbles forming within the reaction zone portion of the settling tube.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.