Cylindrical Or Annular Patents (Class 204/671)
  • Patent number: 11857895
    Abstract: An electrostatic coalescer apparatus for separating water from a crude oil emulsion comprises a vessel housing having a cavity, an inlet for receiving a crude oil emulsion and outlets for water and purified crude oil. First and second pairs of electrodes are positioned in the vessel cavity. A first Scott-T transformer circuit is coupled to the first pair of electrodes and a second Scott-T transformer circuit is coupled to the second pair of electrodes. The first and second Scott-T transformer circuit receive as an input a 3-phase power supply and output a 2-phase high voltage signal pairs of electrodes. The 2-phase voltage generated between the first pair of electrodes is of the same amplitude and phase as the voltage generated between the second pair of electrodes via the respective Scott-T transformer circuits. A method comprises steps performed during operation of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Simone Mulas, Pier Domini
  • Patent number: 11607626
    Abstract: Electro-coalescer systems herein may include a vessel, a base plate separating a process chamber and an electric enclosure, rod-shaped ceramic insulated electrodes, and a sealing assembly. An end of the electrodes is located within the electric enclosure. The electrodes traverse respective through-holes of the base plate into or through the process chamber, where a second portion is supported by a spacer, configured to maintain a position of the electrodes while allowing fluid passage. The sealing assembly forms a seal between the through-holes and the rod-shaped insulated electrodes, preventing fluid traversing from the process chamber into the electric enclosure. The sealing assembly may include: a metal fitting disposed around the rod-shaped insulated electrode; metal o-rings; metal seats; and a closing nut. The metal fitting has a coefficient of thermal expansion similar to that of the ceramic insulator, thereby preventing breakage of the electrodes during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Arturo Ernesto Menchaca Lobato
  • Patent number: 11058972
    Abstract: Embodiments of this disclosure provide a liquid treatment apparatus. The liquid treatment apparatus comprises: a housing which is of a cylindrical shape and comprises an accommodating space; an inlet for a liquid to flow into the accommodating space; an outlet for the liquid to flow out of the accommodating space; a treatment medium used for treating the liquid contacting the treatment medium; and a spiral flow-guiding device making the liquid in the accommodating space flow in a spiral direction around an axis of the cylindrical shape at least before contacting the treatment medium or in contacting the treatment medium. An advantage of this disclosure exists in by making the liquid in the liquid treatment apparatus flow in a spiral direction before contacting the treatment medium, natural energy in the liquid is increased, thereby improving a capability of the treatment medium in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: Canpro Water Treatment Inc.
    Inventor: Yiu Chau Chau
  • Patent number: 10927308
    Abstract: A process train for a floating production storage and offloading installation includes a crude oil storage tank equipped with at least one set of electrostatic internals. The set of electrostatic internals are arranged to provide a treatment flow path within the crude oil storage tank oblique to a longitudinal centerline of the crude oil storage tank and through an electric field provided by the set of electrostatic internals. Employing these electrostatic internals within the tank permits an allowable inlet water content into the tank of up to 80%, significantly reducing the required topside processing equipment. The process and system also includes, upstream of the tank, two separator vessels arranged in parallel so each receives a portion of an incoming oil-and-water stream, a flash vessel arranged downstream of the two separator vessels, and a degasser vessel. Downstream of the crude oil storage tank is an electrostatic treater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: CAMERON SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Marcus D. Sprenkel, Gary W. Sams, S. Pavankumar B. Mandewalkar, Luis Eduardo Caires Fernandez
  • Patent number: 10890113
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention involve the application of a disk-in-tube type of “wet” or “dry” ESP (electrostatic precipitation) technology for the capture/removal of airborne particles entering a gas turbine compressor. This provides an effective method of particulate removal without the inefficiencies associated with conventional filtering techniques. Embodiments of the innovative approach also eliminate the inlet airstream blocking effect of a conventional filter, thus making its use and operation adaptable to different operating environments and processes that require clean input air streams (including industrial manufacturing processes, power generators, combined turbine and fluid recapture systems for use in heating and cooling, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: AIRTECH INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Steven A. Jaasund
  • Patent number: 10300408
    Abstract: A process train for a floating production storage and offloading installation includes a crude oil storage tank that is equipped with at least one electrostatic separator configured to subject the produced stream that enters the tank to an electric field. The electrostatic separator may include two inclined vessels containing electrostatic internals and in fluid communication with one another. Employing electrostatic separators within the tank can permit an allowable inlet water content into the tank of up to 80%, significantly reducing the required topside processing equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: CAMERON SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Marcus D. Sprenkel, Gary W. Sams, S. Pavankumar B. Mandewalkar, Luis Eduardo Caires Fernandez
  • Patent number: 10246352
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrostatic field water treatment apparatus comprising: a high voltage unit to which a high voltage is to be supplied, and an earth ground unit connected to an earth ground and used as a pipe through which water is to pass, wherein the high voltage unit is disposed at a central part of the earth ground unit and comprises a high voltage insulation cable to which a high voltage is to be supplied and an electrode case configured to cover the high voltage insulation cable and consisting of an insulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Inventor: Sang Uk Kim
  • Patent number: 9040144
    Abstract: A filtering film structure includes a film, a conductive layer and a dielectric layer. The film includes a plurality of holes. The conductive layer is disposed on the inner surface of the holes, and the dielectric layer is disposed on the conductive layer. When applying a voltage to the conductive layer, an electrical charge layer forms on the surface of the dielectric layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: NATIONAL TSING HUA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Fan-Gang Tseng, Yu-Lun Chueh, Chia-Jung Chang, Wen-Chih Chang, Yu-Sheng Huang
  • Patent number: 8758576
    Abstract: The device of the invention comprises a support having a surface comprising an attachment zone (Z) capable of being functionalized with a probe (A) capable of binding, according to the pH and reversibly, to a target (B) so as to attach it; a working electrode (WE) and a counterelectrode (CE) for this working electrode, arranged on the support in the vicinity of the attachment zone; and means for applying a given electric current or a given potential to said working electrode so as to cause, when said attachment zone and said electrodes are immersed in an aqueous solution, a local variation in pH in the region of said attachment zone. The method for attaching and/or detaching a target or an object according to the invention uses this device, the attachment and/or the detachment being electrochemically controlled with the working electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Celine Escoffier, Gilles Marchand, Frederic Revol-Cavalier, Francoise Vinet
  • Patent number: 8709250
    Abstract: Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for aggregating microorganism in an aqueous suspension. In particular, are systems, methods, and apparatuses that apply an electrical field and/or acoustic energy to an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms as the aqueous suspension follows a flow path to cause aggregation of the microorganisms. The electrical field may be continuous or pulsed. In some embodiments, the flow path for the aqueous suspension may vary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Heliae Development, LLC
    Inventors: Justin S. Kniep, Aniket Kale
  • Patent number: 8702952
    Abstract: An electrically energized compact coalescer (50) comprising an elongated, closed shell (53) having a fluid inlet (52) and a fluid outlet (59); at least one electrode (55) mounted in an internal chamber formed in the closed shell and forming at least one narrow gap (58) between the electrode means and a wall in the closed shell. An external power supply (64) is electrically connected to the electrode and the energized electrode (55) is fully encapsulated with insulation to enable an intense electrostatic field to be applied to an electrically conductive emulsion whereby the flow of emulsion through said at least one narrow gap (58) will be non-laminar. One or more helical vanes (57) are disposed in the narrow gap at an angle with respect to the electrode longitudinal axis and extending for at least a portion of the length (L) of the electrode, whereby the fluid flowing through said narrow gap will follow a spiraling pattern at least partially around the electrode (55).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Aker Process Systems AS
    Inventor: Morten Hana
  • Patent number: 8668827
    Abstract: Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for aggregating microorganism in an aqueous suspension. In particular, are systems, methods, and apparatuses that apply an electrical field and/or acoustic energy to an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms as the aqueous suspension follows a flow path to cause aggregation of the microorganisms. The electrical field may be continuous or pulsed. In some embodiments, the flow path for the aqueous suspension may vary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Heliae Development, LLC
    Inventors: Justin S. Kniep, Aniket Kale
  • Patent number: 8663471
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: AquaMost, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence P. Barry, Thomas P. Barry, Jake Myre, Anton Asmuth
  • Patent number: 8658035
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: AquaMost, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence P. Barry, Thomas P. Barry, Jake Myre, Anton Asmuth
  • Patent number: 8658046
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: AquaMost, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence P. Barry, Thomas P. Barry, Jake Myre, Anton Asmuth
  • Patent number: 8603321
    Abstract: A system for separating small particles from liquid media comprising: a reactor vessel(s), a hollow primary electrode(s) within the reactor vessel(s), a secondary electrode(s) within the primary electrode(s), an air delivery apparatus configured to deliver coarse air bubbles within the primary electrode(s), an electrical charge apparatus, a separation vessel fluidly coupled to the reactor vessel(s), tertiary electrodes within the separation vessel, and a skimming device configured to collect flocculated material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Energy Derived, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Collier
  • Publication number: 20130228464
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to an apparatus for harvesting algae using a two-stage approach. The two-stage approach includes a flocculation stage and a dewatering stage. The flocculation stage is implemented within a first-stage flocculation tank in which algae suspended within a growth medium is flocculated. The flocculated algae is then fed to a second-stage flotation tank in which electrodes are used to produce hydrogen and oxygen bubbles which attach to the flocculated algae causing the flocculated algae to float to the surface. The mat of floating algae can then be skimmed off the surface of the growth medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Nicholas Eckelberry, Jose Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20130220816
    Abstract: A vertical electrostatic coalescer comprises a first and second electrode surface and a horizontally disposed foraminous surface. The first electrode surface and horizontally disposed foraminous surface are at ground potential. The first and second electrode surfaces share the same planar orientation relative to the central longitudinal axis of the vessel. The unique arrangement of the vessel and opposing pairs of first and second electrode surfaces provides for a substantially uniform voltage field around a perimeter of the vessel and an effective voltage field for coalescence within a center of the vessel. A circular-shaped distributor pipe or a distributor housing serves to absorb momentum of the incoming emulsion stream and distribute the stream into an interior of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Cameron Solutions, Inc. (formerly National Tank Company)
    Inventor: Cameron Solutions, Inc. (formerly National Tank Company)
  • Publication number: 20130097990
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include an oil degradation byproducts removal system. The oil degradation byproducts removal system includes a plurality of electrostatically-charged drum assemblies configured to pass through an oil flow. The oil degradation byproducts removal system is configured to be disposed within an accessory module of a turbine engine system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Andrew Cournoyer, Huong Van Vu, Eric Milton Lafontaine, Bhalchandra Arun Desai, Avnit Singh, Michael Adelbert Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8414777
    Abstract: A coalescing apparatus including a casing having an inner chamber for accommodating insulating fluid. At least one tube of electrically insulating material extends through the casing and the chamber. Each tube forms a flow channel for emulsion to be treated. A set of electrodes is mounted in the chamber. The tube is allotted at least one pair of electrodes of the set. A voltage set is configured to apply mutually different electric potentials to the electrodes of each electrode pair so as to form an electric field between them and thereby an electric field inside the respective tube. A heater is configured to heat the insulating fluid so as to allow the insulating fluid to transfer heat to emulsion flowing through at least one tube and thereby raise the temperature of the emulsion. An emulsion treatment system includes a coalescing apparatus. A coalescing method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hamworthy PLC
    Inventors: Erik Bjørklund, Pål J Nilsen
  • Patent number: 8382992
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting a fluid has a fluid-containing structure; an inward-facing first electrically conductive cylindrical body contained within said fluid-containing structure; an outward-facing electrically conductive-second cylindrical body disposed within said first cylindrical body, in mutually facing parallel and coaxial relation thereto, and spaced apart therefrom to define a fluid-occupiable cavity; a power supply electrically coupled between said first cylindrical body and said second cylindrical body, said power supply producing therebetween an electric field, said field comprising a waveform approximating a series of alternating square wave pulses of opposite polarity, said pulses having a maximum absolute value of approximately 60 volts per centimeter, a complete cycle of said waveform, comprising a first pulse and a succeeding pulse of opposite polarity, recurring with a frequency of between about 2 kHz: and about 5 kHz and providing about 2 amps to about 4 amps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Bio Concept, LLC
    Inventor: Sven Mierswa
  • Publication number: 20120247959
    Abstract: The capacitive electrodes of the CDI cell are arranged to form a tube. Water to be treated flows through the tube-walls. The CDI electrodes are permeable, and form the tube-walls, whereby the flow passes through the thicknesses of the electrodes and of the spacers. The electrodes may be in the form of concentric tubes, or may be wrapped spirally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: ENPAR TECHNOLOGIES INC
    Inventors: Leonard Paul Seed, Iurie Pargaru, Gene Sidney Shelp
  • Patent number: 8221596
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for generating time variant and invariant electric fields (E-fields) for various applications. Generating the E-field utilizes high impedance dielectric materials having a collection of three imperative material properties: high permittivity (?), high volume resistivity (?) and high maximum allowable E-field stress (?) and physical geometries that take advantage of the manner in which E-fields are divided or distributed in series capacitance networks. The generated E-field can act upon a subject material, including a gas, liquid or solid, wherein the material is stationary or in motion. The method allows an E-field of given intensity to be set up in the subject material with a significantly lower applied voltage ?a, or conversely, a significantly higher E-field intensity with a given applied voltage ?a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: May-Ruben Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne A. May, Peter Ruben
  • Publication number: 20120085650
    Abstract: A system for treating wastewater using electrocoagulation in which fouling of the electrodes is greatly reduced or eliminated. The system comprises an anode comprising an anode surface, with an anode surface area, and a cathode comprising a cathode surface, with a cathode surface area greater than or equal to the anode surface area. A power supply is connected to the anode and the cathode and provides direct current at a current density of between 0.2 and 3.0 A/cm2 of the anode surface area. The wastewater provides electrical conductivity between the anode surface and the cathode surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Donald R. Hartle
  • Patent number: 7914662
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for treating polluted water by electrocoagulation. The apparatus comprising at least two electrodes (1,2). The apparatus also includes a housing (4), electrically isolated from the at least two electrodes (1,2), to which the at least two electrodes (1,2) are fixed spaced apart from one another. When the at least two second electrodes (1,2) are at least partly submerged in the polluted water and provided with an electrical potential, one of the at least two electrodes (2) is sacrificial so as to provide ions to the polluted water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Vivian Noel Edward Robinson
  • Publication number: 20110031124
    Abstract: An electrically energized compact coalescer (50) comprising an elongated, closed shell (53) having a fluid inlet (52) and a fluid outlet (59); at least one electrode (55) mounted in an internal chamber formed in the closed shell and forming at least one narrow gap (58) between the electrode means and a wall in the closed shell. An external power supply (64) is electrically connected to the electrode and the energized electrode (55) is fully encapsulated with insulation to enable an intense electrostatic field to be applied to an electrically conductive emulsion whereby the flow of emulsion through said at least one narrow gap (58) will be non-laminar. One or more helical vanes (57) are disposed in the narrow gap at an angle with respect to the electrode longitudinal axis and extending for at least a portion of the length (L) of the electrode, whereby the fluid flowing through said narrow gap will follow a spiraling pattern at least partially around the electrode (55).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: AKER PROCESS SYSTEMS AS
    Inventor: Morten Hana
  • Publication number: 20110025306
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing soluble and insoluble contaminants from highly purified and ultra-pure liquids having a bulk resistivity in excess of one megohm-centimeter by establishing laminar flow of the liquid in a cylindrical chamber through an electromagnetic field transverse to the direction of flow, to induce mobility of the constituents. The wall of the chamber forms a cathode and a central rod forms an anode in the chamber. The mobilized constituents are transported either to the anode or the cathode, where the material will adhere and agglomerate with other constituents. Systems are provided utilizing the method and apparatus for purifying and analytically evaluating highly purified and ultra-pure water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: MICROFIER, INC.
    Inventors: Arthur John Ackermann, Glen Walter Wildermuth, David Brian Blackford
  • Patent number: 7837849
    Abstract: A method of removing particulate solids from an oil based drilling or completion fluid is disclosed. The method involves exposing the fluid to an electric field to electrically migrate particulate solids suspended therein, and collecting the migrated particulate solids to remove them from the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventors: Michelle Bridget Carrier, Gerald Henry Meeten
  • Publication number: 20100193359
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting a fluid has a fluid-containing structure; an inward-facing first electrically conductive cylindrical body contained within said fluid-containing structure; an outward-facing electrically conductive-second cylindrical body disposed within said first cylindrical body, in mutually facing parallel and coaxial relation thereto, and spaced apart therefrom to define a fluid-occupiable cavity; a power supply electrically coupled between said first cylindrical body and said second cylindrical body, said power supply producing therebetween an electric field, said field comprising a waveform approximating a series of alternating square wave pulses of opposite polarity, said pulses having a maximum absolute value of approximately 60 volts per centimeter, a complete cycle of said waveform, comprising a first pulse and a succeeding pulse of opposite polarity, recurring with a frequency of between about 2 kHz: and about 5 kHz and providing about 2 amps to about 4 amps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: Bio Concept, LLC
    Inventor: Sven Mierswa
  • Patent number: 7749459
    Abstract: A device, located in a vessel having an inlet and at least one outlet, through which a mixture of fluids flows, for promoting electrostatic coalescence of a first conductive fluid emulsified in a second fluid. The device includes a number of tubular electrostatic coalescer elements extending in the flow direction which are arranged in a matrix arranged over the cross sectional area of the vessel, and an applicator operative to apply an electrical field to the fluids flowing through the coalescer elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Aibel AS
    Inventors: Pål Jahre Nilsen, Gorm Sande, Wojciech Piasecki
  • Patent number: 7744739
    Abstract: A cylindrical oil contamination collector for removal of ultra-fine particulate includes a rectangular and continuous length of single-sided, corrugated, phenolic coated paper overlaid with three rectangular electrodes affixed thereto in a spaced-apart, side-by-side arrangement. Two of the electrodes are electrode grounds and the other electrode is a high voltage electrode. The phenolic coated paper is spiral-wound into a continuous spiral with at least one of the three rectangular electrodes sandwiched between adjacent, overlapping turns of the spiral-wound phenolic coated paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: CLARCOR Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas B. Green
  • Publication number: 20100084272
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for treating polluted water by electrocoagulation. The apparatus comprising at least two electrodes (1,2). The apparatus also includes a housing (4), electrically isolated from the at least two electrodes (1,2), to which the at least two electrodes (1,2) are fixed spaced apart from one another. When the at least two second electrodes (1,2) are at least partly submerged in the polluted water and provided with an electrical potential, one of the at least two electrodes (2) is sacrificial so as to provide ions to the polluted water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Vivian Noel Edward Robinson
  • Patent number: 7662268
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for measuring the zeta potential at the cylinder's outer surface. In the measuring cell, the cylinder is held coaxially inside a reference tube and a given solution is forced to flow through the annular flow channel between the cylinder and the reference tube. The streaming potential induced by the flow forced with a hydraulic pressure drop is measured to determine the zeta potential, ?m, of the cylinder's outer surface by using the following Equation, E _ ? ? ? P == - D ? ? ? k ? ( ? m + ? ref 2 ) ? F where D is the permittivity, ?ref is the zeta potential of the reference tube, ? is the viscosity of the solution, k is the electric conductivity of the solution, and F is a correction factor for the electrokinetic model. Moreover, this invention also discloses a system for measuring the zeta potential of the cylinder's outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Chung Yuan Christian University
    Inventor: Ching-Jung Chuang
  • Patent number: 7520985
    Abstract: An electrically energized device for coalescing a first conductive fluid emulsified in a second fluid. A tube member has at least one fluid inlet and at least one fluid outlet. The tube member defines a flow channel for an emulsion of the first and second fluid from its inlet side to its outlet side and includes at least one electrically insulating wall portion. An interacting pair of a first and a second electrode is separated from the first and second fluid by at least one insulating wall portion of the tube member. The electrodes are supplied with a voltage for the purpose of subjecting the first and second fluid flowing through the flow channel to an electrostatic field. At least one passive center electrode is made of a conducting material and is arranged in the channel and electrically insulated from the first and second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Aibel AS
    Inventors: Pål Jahre Nilsen, Gorm Sande, Wojciech Piasecki
  • Patent number: 7476300
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for recovering metals from aqueous solutions by passing an aqueous solution, which contains dissolved metals, into a space between two elongated electrodes of a treatment chamber. A very high voltage electric field is created in the treatment chamber and is accompanied by a very small trickle current charge to enhance adsorption, polarization, ion exchange or to otherwise agglomerate the dissolved metal, which is then recovered by filtering, adsorbing, exchanging or otherwise separating the metal from the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Hydro-Met of Colorado, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward C. Weakly, Joseph N. Ignat, Henry L. DiCamillo
  • Patent number: 7169282
    Abstract: Devices for filtering fluids using dielectrophoresis are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Aura BioSystems Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Stuart Talary, Ronald Pethig, Richard Stanley Lee
  • Patent number: 7166218
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for separating an effluent comprising phases of different density and conductivity, the device comprising a pair of electrodes (12, 13), means (10) for introducing the effluent between said electrodes, means intended for separation (3) and discharge (4) of said separated phases. The separation means comprise at least one centrifugation element including a helical channel (19) in which the effluent is centrifuged after passing between the electrodes. An opening extends over the entire periphery of said centrifuged effluent so as to discharge part of the centrifuged effluent. The discharge means further comprise sealing means for limiting discharge of the less dense phase through said opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Jean Trapy, Christine Noïk
  • Patent number: 6956220
    Abstract: A radiation source module comprising a support member, a radiation source assembly connected to the support member, the radiation source assembly comprising at least one elongate radiation source having a source longitudinal axis and a module-to-surface seal disposed on a first elongate surface of the module, the first elongate surface comprising a first longitudinal axis transverse to the source longitudinal axis, the seal operable to provide a substantially fluid tight seal between the first surface and a second surface which is adjacent to the first surface. A fluid treatment system employ the radiation source module is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: George A. Traubenberg, Steven M. Bakker, Kuang-Ping Chiu
  • Patent number: 6949184
    Abstract: A device for generating metal ions in an electrolyte. The device comprises a bar of metal that is electrically charged as an anode, surrounded by a tube of stainless steel, which is electrically charged as a cathode. The tube is affixed to a plastic housing that is installed in a conduit carrying an electrolyte. The electrical requirements are supplied by converting AC current to DC current supplying the appropriate voltage and amperage to ionize the specific metal being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas E. Ashton
  • Patent number: 6702947
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for separating an effluent comprising phases of different density and conductivity, the device comprising a pair of electrodes (12, 13), means (10) for introducing the effluent between said electrodes, means intended for separation (3) and discharge (4) of said separated phases. According to the invention, the separation means comprise at least one centrifugal element including a helical channel (19) in which the effluent is centrifuged after passing between the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Christine Noïk, Jean Trapy
  • Patent number: 6673321
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for recovering metals from aqueous solutions by passing an aqueous solution, which contains dissolved metals, into a space between two elongated electrodes of a treatment chamber. A very high voltage electric field is created in the treatment chamber and is accompanied by a very small trickle current charge to enhance adsorption, polarization, ion exchange or to otherwise agglomerate the dissolved metal, which is then recovered by filtering, adsorbing, exchanging or otherwise separating the metal from the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hydro-Met of Colorado, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward C. Weakly, Joseph N. Ignat, Henry L. DiCamillo
  • Patent number: 6652715
    Abstract: The present invention is an electrode for electrostatic treatment of water in conduit. A polymer with relatively high dielectric properties covers the conductor of the electrode for operation of the system at above about 10,000 VDC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Paul McLaine
  • Patent number: 6524459
    Abstract: An electron-emitting device has a primary and a secondary coil wound on an I-core, an E-core combined with the I-core and a single output terminal extended from one end of the secondary coil. An electron-emitting electrode includes a stainless steel pipe, an insulator-coated conductor inserted in a pipe, and tourmaline powder filling the gap between the pipe and the conductor. The stainless steel pipe is enclosed in a polyethylene pipe, and the openings of the stainless steel pipe and polyethylene pipe are sealed by silicon resin. The electron-emitting electrode is connected to the output terminal of the electron-emitting device and is submerged in an object to be processed, which is in turn charged negatively and activated by high electrostatic potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Jem Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsuyuki Niidome
  • Patent number: 6417626
    Abstract: A plasma processing system having a plasma source that efficiently couple radiofrequency energy to a plasma within a vacuum processing space of a vacuum chamber. The plasma source comprises a dielectric trough, an inductive element, and a pair of slotted deposition shields. A chamber wall of the vacuum chamber includes an annular opening that receives the dielectric trough. The trough projects into the vacuum processing space to immerse the inductive element within the plasma. The spatial distribution of the RF energy inductively coupled from the inductive element to the plasma may be tailored by altering the slots in the slotted deposition shields, the configuration of the inductive element, and the thickness or geometry of the trough. The efficient inductive coupling of radiofrequency energy is particularly effective for creating a spatially-uniform large-area plasma for the processing of large-area substrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Jozef Brcka, John Drewery, Michael Grapperhaus, Gerrit Leusink, Glyn Reynolds, Mirko Vukovic, Tugrul Yasar
  • Patent number: 6342188
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for a radiation source assembly in a fluid treatment system is described. The cleaning system comprises: a cleaning sleeve comprising a cleaning ring for engagement with a portion of the exterior of the radiation source assembly; a slidable member magnetically coupled to the cleaning sleeve, the slidable member being disposed on and slidable with respect to a rodless cylinder; and motive means to translate the slidable member along the rodless cylinder whereby the cleaning sleeve is translated over the exterior of the radiation source assembly. A radiation source module comprising the cleaning apparatus is also disclosed. The radiation source module is particularly useful for ultraviolet radiation of wastewater while having the advantages of in situ cleaning of the radiation source as when it becomes fouled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Pearcey, Nicholas Helmut Hesse, Christopher Jeffery Sheculski
  • Patent number: 6332960
    Abstract: A device and method for the treatment of fluids using electrostatic fields generated by a high voltage electric current, which reduces or eliminates calcification, scaling and microbiological contamination. A high voltage DC current is applied to a core electrode, generating an electrostatic field which traverses a dielectric sleeve surrounding the core electrode and charges the exterior surface of the dielectric sleeve, charging inorganic particles and, in the case of a biological contaminant such as bacteria, killing the organism. Fluid flowing through the device is agitated by a combination of spiral vane sections surrounding the dielectric sleeve and helical baffle sections lining the housing wall. Charged inorganic particles coalesce into spherical aggregates which resist adhesion to pipes and vessels and can be filtered by techniques such as reverse osmosis without deteriorating the filter membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: Hydra-Static Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Monteith
  • Publication number: 20010050881
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus that employ electrohydrodynamic flows in miscible, partially miscible and immiscible multiphase systems to induce mixing for dissolution and/or reaction processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: DAVID W. DEPAOLI, CONSTANTINOS TSOURIS
  • Patent number: 6294137
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an insertion type electrode adapted to operate at modulated high voltages by use of a thin layer polyer as a dielectric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Paul McLaine
  • Patent number: 6214204
    Abstract: An electrode for deionization of water is made of a continuous activated carbon structure. The activated carbon is derived from a synthetic carbon precursor. The structure has openings, inlet and outlet ends such that water entering the inlet end passes through the openings and exits through the outlet end, a conductive coating on at least part of the outer surface of the structure, and a metal wire in contact with the structure. A deionization system is made up of the electrodes in series so that the outlet end of one electrode is next to the inlet end of the nearest downstream electrode. The metal wire of each electrode is connected to a power source to deliver the opposite charge as the charge delivered to its neighboring electrodes. Each of the electrodes is fixedly attached to and sealed within a housing with an air and moisture-tight seal. Openings in the housing between the electrodes, allow air to be removed before use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Kishor P. Gadkaree, Joseph F. Mach, John L. Stempin
  • Patent number: 6197177
    Abstract: One or more water treating devices each includes a housing for receiving a number of electric conductive particles and one or more electrodes for electrifying the particles. The waste water to be treated is introduced into the housing and flows through the particles when the particles are electrified for allowing the particles to treat the water. The particles, after use, may be discharged from the housing so as to be cleaned. The water treating devices may be arranged in series or in parallel or in both series and parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Silkroad Corp.
    Inventor: Fang Chung Lu