HK1184099B - System, method and apparatus for treating liquids with wave energy from an electrical arc - Google Patents

Description

System, method and apparatus for treating liquids with wave energy from an electric arc

A divisional application of an invention patent application entitled "system, method and apparatus for treating liquids with wave energy from an electric arc", filed on 5.4.2007, application No. 200780020853. X.

Field of the invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of liquid treatment, and more particularly to methods, systems and apparatus for treating liquids with wave energy generated by an electric arc.

Background

The background of the invention is not limiting the scope of the invention, the background being described in connection with liquid treatment, such as drinking water, waste water, beverages, juices, milk, emulsions, ballast water, bilge water, cooling tower water, process water, mill water, untreated sewage, crude oil, hydrocarbon streams (hydro carbonaceous streams), black liquor and any pumpable liquid, among others. Over the past decade, the need for alternative drinking water chlorination and wastewater discharge has become more stringent. This is mainly due to emerging pathogenic microorganisms that are resistant to many oxidants, such as chlorine, and problems associated with the by-products formed by the reaction of organic matter present in drinking water sources with chlorine.

For example, many drinking water sources contain organic matter, and when chlorinated, the by-products are a class of compounds known as Trihalomethanes (THMs), some of which are carcinogenic. Thus, the USEPA is motivated to publish new disinfection codes regarding the development of pathogenic microorganisms and THMs. There is an unmet need for a simple, cost-effective alternative to chlorinated additives that can also be used to treat other water streams. For example, one such alternative disinfection system is the use of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation to enhance chlorination. Likewise, UV radiation can replace chlorination chambers in sewage treatment plants, since the effluent must be dechlorinated, requiring additional chemicals, such as sulfur dioxide. Two other large volumes of fluid that can be treated with UV radiation are ballast water from ships and Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO).

Heretofore, water treatment systems including UV radiation have been constructed to enclose the lamps within quartz sleeves. Examples of previous UV radiation systems include low or medium pressure mercury arc lamps. One of the major problems with existing UV radiation systems including mercury arc lamps is that they do not maximize the use of electricity. More particularly, the lamp is inefficient using only energy in the form of UV radiation converted from the electrical power used in the entire circuit, and requires a higher dose of UV radiation than would be necessary if more electrical energy in the circuit could be used to inactivate pathogens or treat pollutants. For example, a typical ultraviolet lamp can convert only 30% to 40% of the power used in the lamp to UV radiation. In addition, these lamps contain mercury, a contaminant that can be transported through the food chain.

In addition, any ultraviolet radiation system that includes a "bulb" is prone to burn off. Moreover, glass or quartz covers and bulbs are over-radiated (solarized) over time due to ultraviolet light. Furthermore, the quartz envelope enclosing the lamp becomes dirty over time. If it does not include a wiping system for cleaning the tube in place, the quartz tube must be removed and manually cleaned. As a result, the effectiveness of the ultraviolet radiation system in deactivating cryptosporidium may decrease over time as the lamp ages and the quartz sleeve housing becomes dirty.

In addition, there is a new emerging pathogen of interest, mycobacteria, which is resistant to chlorine and many biocides. Similarly, the inactivation of mycobacteria requires higher doses of uv light than cryptosporidium and Giardi. Furthermore, the use of low doses of uv light does not comply with the guidelines for sterilization or pasteurization as set forth by the USFDA, USDA, UPH. The terms disinfection and sterilization are well defined and differentiated by several regulatory agencies.

Therefore, there is a need for a compact, portable wave energy water treatment system that does not yet use mercury. Furthermore, there is a need for a wave energy water treatment system that is energy efficient, rugged, low maintenance and compact. Likewise, there is a need for a wave energy system that can also remove fine deposits, or reduce the turbidity of water. Furthermore, there is a need for a disinfection system that can also separate substances of different densities from water, such as oil and grease, wood, leaves and plastic bottles from water. Furthermore, there is a need to reduce organic matter in water.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for treating liquids using wave energy from an electric arc that is (1) compact, portable, yet does not use mercury; (2) energy efficient, rugged, low maintenance, and compact; (3) also can remove fine deposits or reduce the turbidity of water; (4) substances with different densities can be separated from the water phase, such as oil, grease, wood, leaves and plastic bottles; and/or (5) capable of reducing organic matter in the water. The liquid may be drinking water, waste water, beverages, juices, milk, emulsions, ballast water, bilge water, cooling tower water, process water, mill water, untreated sewage, crude oil, hydrocarbon streams, black liquor, and any pumpable liquid. The present invention can operate in remote areas of the world, can transfer various forms of wave energy to water and contaminants, not just ultraviolet radiation, will help break down organics to form a potable water source, and it needs to be rapidly spread around the world. In addition, the present invention can be operated without power lines by using wind generators or photovoltaic cells, and can treat water and wastewater in remote areas without power generators or power lines.

The invention generates a vortex or a cyclonic flow and one or more wave energies in the "eye", "plasma core" or "hollow air core" of the vortex. The present invention treats a liquid or fluid by first irradiating the fluid with a plasma arc centered in a gas core of a whirling liquid, then forming a thin film with the fluid and irradiating the thin film fluid, and third reflecting the wave energy to increase the dose of wave energy absorbed by the fluid or matter within the fluid. The present invention also provides an advanced oxidation/reduction process (AORP) for treating fluids using semiconductor catalysts. Likewise, the present invention includes a method of treating water incorporating charged nanometals and minerals and carbon. In addition, the present invention includes a phase separation mechanism.

The present invention will be described in detail below. The present invention provides an excellent method of delivering wave energy to a fluid to be treated, an excellent method for in situ removal and destruction of volatiles, and a method of subjecting a fluid, contaminants, pathogens to several forms of wave energy simultaneously. In addition, the present invention provides a mechanism for treating matter with several forms of wave energy, such as ultraviolet radiation, vacuum ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, visible light irradiation, acoustic energy, ultrasonic energy, electrolysis, or combinations thereof. In addition, the present invention provides a mechanism for forming oxidizing agents or free radicals in situ. Moreover, the present invention utilizes a unique method of disinfecting and filtering water within the same system. Thus, with the novel wave energy treatment of fluids of the present invention, not using lamps, but using carbon arcs in combination with whirling fluids, it is possible to design systems that use wind generators or photovoltaic cells to recharge dc batteries to handle very low flow rates, and at present it has not been heard to scale up the water treatment volume by using very large dc power supplies and graphite rods common in the carbon arc furnaces of the foundry industry.

Thus, the present invention treats liquids or fluids with several forms of wave energy having wavelengths, focal points, intensities, dwell times that are superior to existing methods. The present invention utilizes conservation of angular momentum to first form a swirling fluid of increased velocity and then expand outward to form an inverted thin film vortex or funnel, typically in the form of an umbrella or parabolic reflector. The present invention also overcomes the residence time and absorption phenomena associated with photochemical reactions.

More particularly, the present invention provides a method of treating a liquid by providing a wave energy source and forming a thin film of whirling liquid around the wave energy source such that one or more wave energies irradiate the liquid. Likewise, the present invention provides a method of treating a liquid by providing three zones of wave energy and passing the liquid through the three zones of wave energy.

Further, the present invention provides an apparatus for treating a liquid using a pump volute or hydrocyclone head, a throat connected to the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, a parabolic reflector connected to the throat, and a wave energy source for irradiating the liquid. The wave energy source includes a first electrode extending from the pump volute or hydrocyclone head to the throat along a central axis of the throat, and a second electrode extending into the parabolic reflector, the second electrode being spaced apart and axially aligned with the first electrode. The device can be used as a retrofit tool for existing systems.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a system for treating a liquid, the system comprising a storage tank, and two or more arc whirl devices disposed at a top of the storage tank. Each arc whirl device includes a pump volute or hydrocyclone head, a throat connected to the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, a parabolic reflector connected to the throat, and a wave energy source for irradiating the liquid. Each wave energy device includes a first electrode extending from the pump volute or hydrocyclone head along a central axis of the throat to the throat, and a second electrode extending into the parabolic reflector, the second electrode being spaced apart and axially aligned with the first electrode.

The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The above and further advantages of the invention may be better understood by referring to the following description and accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 illustrates an arc whirl device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates an arc whirl cyclone separator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 illustrates an arc whirl gas injection hydrocyclone in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates an arc whirl gas lance with tangential flow in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates an arc whirl volute in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 illustrates an arc whirl hydrocyclone reflector in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 illustrates an arc whirl hydrocyclone reflector conduit in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plurality of arc whirl in a storage tank in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 illustrates an arc whirl with a sand filter in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates a flow chart of a method of treating a liquid in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 11 illustrates a flow diagram of another method of treating a liquid in accordance with the present invention.

Description of the invention

While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts which can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention, and do not delimit the scope of the invention. The discussion herein is primarily related to water treatment, but it should be understood that the concepts of the present invention are applicable to treating any liquid.

The term "wave energy" as used herein includes radiation as well as wave energy conducted through various media, and includes electromagnetic waves or radiation; sonic, ultrasonic, and ultrasonic waves; as well as neutron, proton, deuteron, and other particle radiation. The term "electromagnetic waves" includes, for example, X-rays, gamma rays, ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, visible rays, microwaves, short waves, and radio waves.

The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for treating liquids using wave energy from an electric arc that is (1) compact, portable, yet does not use mercury; (2) energy efficient, rugged, low maintenance, and compact; (3) also can remove fine deposits or reduce the turbidity of water; (4) substances with different densities can be separated from the water phase, such as oil, grease, wood, leaves and plastic bottles; and/or (5) capable of reducing organic matter in the water. The liquid may be drinking water, waste water, beverages, juices, milk, emulsions, ballast water, bilge water, cooling tower water, process water, mill water, untreated sewage, crude oil, hydrocarbon streams, black liquor, and any pumpable liquid. The present invention is capable of operating in remote areas of the world, is capable of transferring various forms of wave energy to water and contaminants, not just ultraviolet radiation, and will help break down organics to form a potable water source, which is rapidly becoming widespread around the world. In addition, the present invention can be operated without power lines and generators by using wind generators or photovoltaic cells, enabling the treatment of water and wastewater in remote areas.

The present invention generates a vortex or cyclonic flow and one or more wave energies in the "eye" or "core of air" of the vortex. The present invention treats a liquid or fluid by first irradiating the fluid with a plasma arc centered in a gas core of a swirling fluid, then forming a thin film with the fluid and irradiating the thin film fluid, and third reflecting the wave energy to increase the dose of wave energy absorbed by the fluid or matter within the fluid. The present invention also provides an advanced oxidation/reduction process (AORP) for treating fluids using semiconductor catalysts. Likewise, the present invention includes a method of treating water incorporating charged nanometals and minerals and carbon. In addition, the present invention includes a phase separation method.

The present invention will be described in detail below. The present invention provides an excellent method of delivering wave energy to a fluid to be treated, an excellent method for in situ removal and destruction of volatiles, and a method of subjecting fluids, contaminants and pathogens to several forms of wave energy simultaneously. In addition, the present invention provides a mechanism for treating matter with several forms of wave energy, such as ultraviolet radiation, vacuum ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, visible light irradiation, acoustic energy, ultrasonic energy, electrolysis, or combinations thereof. In addition, the present invention provides a mechanism for forming oxidizing agents or free radicals in situ. Moreover, the present invention utilizes a unique method of disinfecting and filtering water within the same system. Thus, with the novel wave energy fluid treatment method of the present invention, which does not employ lamps but rather carbon arcs in combination with whirling fluid, a system can be designed to handle very low flow rates by recharging dc batteries with wind generators or photovoltaic cells, while scaling up the water treatment volume by using very large dc power supplies and graphite rods common in carbon arc furnaces of the foundry industry has not been heard.

Thus, the present invention treats liquids or fluids with several forms of wave energy having wavelengths, focal points, intensities, dwell times that are superior to existing methods. The present invention utilizes conservation of angular momentum to first form a swirling fluid of increased velocity and then expand outward to form an inverted thin film vortex or funnel, typically in the form of an umbrella or parabolic reflector. The present invention also overcomes the residence time and absorption phenomena associated with photochemical reactions.

Wave energy, and in particular EMR devices and methods, of the prior art are designed for a given range of flow rates. Briefly, a photochemical reactor has a known volume, and based on the volume of the reactor, the number of EMR sources required to initiate the reaction within a particular time period, commonly referred to as Residence Time (RT), is calculated. Typically, the EMR source is a continuous wave source, such as a long linear low pressure mercury arc lamp, a medium pressure mercury lamp, a short arc mercury/xenon lamp. However, high intensity flash lamps are used to treat less transparent liquids, such as juices. Since the lamps are divided in watts, the joules/second emitted by the lamps multiplied by RT may represent the effective dose (watts/second/area) applied to the area of liquid being treated.

For example, the radiation dose necessary to inactivate bacteria is known. Thus, by simply extrapolating back from this known value in conjunction with the average population density of the bacteria, the variable or number of EMR sources and the size of the reactor can be readily calculated. However, problems arise when the number of bacteria increases from the assumed average value. Either a second reactor must be installed or more light sources must be added to the existing reactor.

The Beer-Lambert law can be applied to clearly show that a long linear lamp placed in a pipe is an ineffective photochemical reactor. The Beer-Lambert law and related equations are important for the design of photochemical or wave energy reactors. While the following equations are straightforward, they are often misinterpreted and incorrectly used.

A=bc

Wherein a is absorbance (without units);

molar absorptivity, in L/mole/cm;

b is the path length of the sample (or the length of the photochemical reactor); and

c is the concentration of the compound in the solution in moles/liter.

In this law, absorbance is proportional to other parameters. This law shows that the proportion of radiation absorbed by each layer of fluid is the same. The formula "a =, bc" tells the designer of the photochemical reactor that the absorbance depends on the total amount of absorbing compound in the radiation path through the photochemical reactor. Thus, if the designer relates to percent transmittance (% T), an exponential curve is generated in% T versus path length. However, if the absorbance is plotted against the concentration, a straight line is generated. Thus, the linear relationship between concentration and absorbance is simple and direct.

However, since the omnidirectional wave energy is propagated away from its source in a particular vessel, according to "a =, bc", the number of photons near the vessel wall is reduced, but the contaminant concentration inside the fluid is equal at any distance from the omnidirectional lamp. Thus, if the reactor is designed for sterilization, bacteria near the wave energy source receive a greater amount of energy than bacteria surrounding the vessel wall. As a result, more bacteria are killed around the wave energy source, the killed bacteria decreasing with the square of the distance from the lamp.

Since this is an omnidirectional lamp, it follows the inverse square law which states that the light intensity observed from a light source with constant intrinsic luminosity decreases proportionally with the square of the distance from the target. As an example, if the light intensity measured at 1m from the light source is 16W/cm²Then the light intensity measured at a distance of 2m from the light source is 4W/cm². Similarly, the light intensity for any other distance may be calculated. The inverse square law can be applied to the variation of light intensity regardless of the direction of the light source as long as the light source is close to a point light source. However, the same rule can be used to understand that the intensity emitted from a linear light source, such as a long bulb, decreases in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the long light source.

Another important factor that has a significant impact on the effectiveness of treatment with wave energy in treating fluids is the distance traversed by a particular wave energy particle, such as an ultraviolet photon, in a material. For example, ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 253.7nm can penetrate water to a depth of over 24 inches, but very thin aluminum foil sheets will completely block ultraviolet light. Likewise, the turbidity of water will partially block ultraviolet light. On the other hand, strengthened aluminum is capable of reflecting more than 80% of the ultraviolet light. Thus, all ultraviolet light treatment systems present drawbacks and obstacles related to absorbance or penetration distance through the treated liquid. The penetration distance is also referred to as the path length. Due to these factors, it is understood that increasing the volume of the reactor to extend the fluid residence time does not affect or change the path length and does not necessarily improve the efficiency of the process.

In view of these factors, the present invention is more readily understood, and its novelty and importance are more readily appreciated. The present invention solves the problems of reduced intensity and path length by exposing a thin layer of fluid to wave energy in close proximity to an energy source.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an arc whirl device 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The vessel 102 is capable of generating a vortex, such as a funnel or cyclone, as indicated by arrows 104, for forming a thin film of flowing liquid on the vessel wall around the gas core or plasma core. The shape of the vessel 102 and the location and/or type of the inlet 106 are not limited to those shown in fig. 1. Any combination of shapes and orientations of the alternatives may be used as long as the vortex 104 is generated. When a liquid, such as water, is introduced into the vessel 102 through the inlet 106 to create the vortex 104, a liquid-free core is formed. Carbon arc rods 108 and 110 are disposed within the central core. When the electrodes 108 and 110 are connected to a power supply, a dead short is formed by extending the filament between the carbon arc rods 108 and 110, thereby forming a carbon arc 112. Alternatively, the carbon arc 112 may be formed by moving the carbon arc rods 108 and 110 together to form a dead short circuit and then separating them to "attract" the carbon arc 112 when the electrodes 108 and 110 are connected to a power source. A carbon arc 112 extending between the proximal ends of the carbon arc rods 108 and 110 generates one or more wave energies 114, such as extreme ultraviolet light, to treat the liquid. Liquid is released from the container 102 via an outlet (exit) or outlet (outlet) 116.

Graphite rods are produced in sizes ranging from 0.125 inch diameter welding rods to 6 foot diameter carbon rods commonly used in electric arc furnaces. Since the world war ii, the ancient carbon arc searchlight was widely used, the present invention can be easily implemented with the remaining searchlight products. Any dc power source may be used to form the carbon arc from the graphite rod. Simple solar cells can be used as a direct current power source for the formation of a carbon arc, which makes it possible to treat drinking water in, for example, remote areas and third world countries with an inexpensive disinfection system. The present invention also provides a mechanism for a compact but very efficient wave energy system for disinfecting high flow rate fluids such as ship ballast water and large amounts of municipal drinking water and plant effluent wastewater. In contrast to typical ultraviolet light systems, the present invention is not limited by the size due to the lamp construction, nor by the performance due to over-irradiation (solarization) of the quartz lamp envelope. Furthermore, in the present invention the greatest transfer of wave energy occurs because the invention employs open arcs. Furthermore, the present invention utilizes all forms of wave energy generated by the carbon arc, not just ultraviolet light radiated by the plasma or the end of a hot carbon rod.

The container 102 is well suited for forming a vortex for sterilization and disinfection as used in the present invention, which utilizes induced cavitation (indeccavitations), which is disclosed in U.S. patent No.6,019,947 issued to Kucherov at 2.1.2000 entitled "method and apparatus for continuous liquid stream sterilization," which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety. Improvements of the present invention over the teachings of the Kucherov' 947 patent include, but are not limited to, the factor that the carbon arc of the present invention adds at least two other forms of wave energy for sterilization-uv light and free radicals or electrons.

Referring now to fig. 2, an arc whirl cyclone separator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The cyclonic separator 200 can be readily modified for use in the present invention. The carbon rods 108 and 110 are inserted into the underflow 204 and overflow 206 streams of the cyclonic fluid separator 200. Liquid is introduced into the cyclonic fluid separator 202 via inlet 208. A carbon arc is formed between the rods 108 and 110 within the core of the cyclonic fluid separator 202.

Referring now to fig. 3, an arc whirl gas injection hydrocyclone 300 in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Hydrocyclones with porous walls 304, known as gas-sparged hydrocyclones, can be used as the vessel 302 of the present invention. The carbon rods 108 and 110 are inserted into the underflow 204 and overflow 206 streams of the gas-sparged hydrocyclone 300. Liquid is introduced into the vessel 302 via the inlet 208. A carbon arc is formed between rods 108 and 110 within the core of vessel 302. Air or gas 306 is introduced into the vessel 302 through a gas inlet 308, the gas inlet 308 being connected to the porous wall 304. In addition to forming a thin fluid film, air or gas sparged hydrocyclones help remove volatiles from the fluid and induce cavitation. The air-sparged hydrocyclone removes water-absorbing molecules, such as ethanol, from the water. Furthermore, the boundary layer of air between the ejection surface and the fluid reduces friction, which allows the fluid to achieve and maintain higher velocities at lower pump pressures. This has a very desirable effect if the fluid attains a velocity sufficient for cavitation. Cavitation refers to the formation of bubbles in a liquid, followed by bubble collapse (collapse). Cavitation can be considered a form of wave energy because cavitation forms sound waves, while acoustic energy is a form of wave energy.

In addition, cavitation can "kill" pathogens, initiate chemical reactions, and thoroughly mix the fluid. In addition, the well-mixed fluid passes through the jet hydrocyclone in a spiral or vortex-like path, but as a very thin layer. The thin layer achieves a very short distance through the entire liquid thickness, which must be achieved by wave energy that achieves efficient treatment. Thus, the wave energy path length available in the treated fluid does not limit the treatment effect and maximum absorption of wave energy will be obtained. It should be understood that the path length and penetration distance of the wave energy is independent of or not necessarily affected by the length of the vessel.

The high level of wave energy from cavitation in combination with the wave energy generated by the unrestricted carbon arc according to the present invention can significantly enhance the effectiveness of wave energy based liquid treatment when the liquid velocity in the thin film gas-sparged hydrocyclone is sufficient to create cavitation in the liquid. The addition of the carbon arc system described above to any gas injection system also significantly improves the treatment results due to the extended range of wave energy generated by the unrestricted carbon arc.

It is noted that the use of a gas-sparged hydrocyclone as the vessel of the present invention is not simply for cavitation and removal effects. For example, REVEX^TMThe MTU forms a very thin fluid film. In combination with this thin fluid layer, the fluid flows in a helical path around or along the longitudinal axis of the porous tube member of the device. This significantly increases the residence time of the liquid in the reactor compared to a straight flow through a reactor of the same length, and allows the use of a compact reactor with a more efficient processing capacity than can be achieved using prior art reactors.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an arc whirl gas nozzle having a tangential flow 400 in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. A tube 402 with a porous wall 404 may also be used with the present invention. Carbon rods 108 and 110 are inserted at each end of the tube 402. Liquid is introduced into the tube 402 through an inlet 406 and can flow out through an outlet 408. Within the core of vessel 402, a carbon arc is formed between rods 108 and 110. Air or gas 306 is introduced into the vessel 402 through a gas inlet 410.

Referring now to fig. 5, an arc whirl volute 500 in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. A pump volute or hydrocyclone head 502 is used to generate angular momentum. When liquid, such as water, is introduced into the hydrocyclone as indicated by arrow 504, the liquid flows in a loop about the central axis of the vortex or vortex, creating angular momentum. Thus, the term "swirl" herein refers to or approximates a vortex, a rotational flow, a cyclone, a tornado, a hurricane, a typhoon or generally any flow having angular momentum. In applying the method of the present invention, very simple electrodes, such as carbon or graphite rods 108 and 110, are positioned along the central core or axis of the angular momentum generator-volute 502. One electrode 108 is disposed within the volute 502 and the other 110 is disposed outside the throat 506. When referring to a pump, the throat 506 is actually the suction inlet of the pump. In operation, water flows into the volute 502 as indicated by arrow 504, creating a vortex with an air core if open to the atmosphere. The vortex enters the throat 506 and the velocity of the water must increase due to conservation of angular momentum. As long as the vortex exits the throat 506, at the exit point 508, the water will continue to swirl as indicated by arrow 510, but will immediately expand outward as indicated by arrow 512. The whirling water appears as a thin film umbrella or inverted funnel with a very large air core. The unique shape or profile of the swirling process of the present invention creates a completely new method of treating liquids. Because the low pressure gas core is formed along the central axis, the arc is struck or maintained within the central gas core and within the umbrella or inverted funnel. To strike the arc and convert the gas core into an arc plasma core, one electrode 108 may be connected to a pushrod 514, the pushrod 514 connected to a driver 516. The driver 516 moves the electrode 108 until it contacts the electrode 110. When electrodes 108 and 110 are in contact, a dead short is formed when the electrodes are connected to a power supply. The electrode 108 is then retracted, which forces electrons to flow through the gas core, converting the gas core into an ionized gas, commonly referred to as a plasma. Instead of moving electrode 108, pushrod 514 may move and contact electrode 110. The pushrod 514 acts as a feeler (stinger) to pull the arc from one electrode 110 to the other electrode 108.

To reduce oxidation of the electrodes and to modify the EMR spectrum of the plasma, an inert gas such as argon, helium, nitrogen, xenon or neon may be used. Oxygen may be added to generate ozone and atomic oxygen. Of course, any gas may be added and ionized, including steam and hydrogen. Furthermore, the electrodes can be made of any conductive material, not just carbon.

Referring now to fig. 6, an arc whirl hydrocyclone reflector 600 in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The novelty of the present invention is that the energy or wave energy generated by the carbon arc and plasma 612 is combined with the unique shape of the whirling liquid. The throat 602 may be straight as shown in fig. 5 or tapered, as shown in fig. 6 for a concentric reducer. As previously described, as the water expands 512 outwardly at the exit point 604, the water assumes a parabolic inverted funnel shape. This shape is almost identical to many common reflectors commonly used in the lighting and optics industries.

Now, as the water pressure and flow rate increase before entering the arc whirl, the umbrella shape will transition to a more cone-like shape than an umbrella or parabolic shape. This of course does not affect the invention. A reflector 606 is added at the exit 604 and the electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emitted by the white hot carbon electrode 110 can be reflected to form a parallel beam as indicated by the EMR arrows. The reflector 606 may have a coating 608 to enhance reflectivity or to allow a desired chemical reaction to occur. Also, gas 614 may be introduced to effect a desired chemical reaction, or to reduce or eliminate consumption or oxidation of the electrodes. Electrode 108 or electrode 110 may be an anode. Generally, the anode produces more EMR than the cathode. Thus, to take full advantage of and maximize the use of wave energy, both electrodes may be moved in the direction indicated by arrow 610 so that the electrodes are located in the most effective treatment area for treating a particular liquid, microorganism or contaminant.

Referring now to fig. 7, an arc whirl hydrocyclone reflector conduit 700 in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The hydrocyclone 502 and reflector 606 are mounted on top of the tank 702. A parabolic or elliptical reflector 606 may be used to illuminate the water in the tank 702 and increase the residence time or dose. The reflector 606 may be coated with an ultraviolet enhancing material or may be coated with a semiconductor catalyst, such as TiO 2. This embodiment 700 of the present invention creates several wave energy zones. Wave energy zone 1 is formed by plasma 612. The plasma emits EMR and acoustic energy. The EMR emitted by the plasma 612 is based on the gas and any liquid or solid that can become trapped and ionized by the plasma. Likewise, the plasma contains an ionized gas. Ionized gas, consisting of electrons and cations, can enter the water and help treat the water. Thus, since the water is in close proximity to the plasma 612, the water can be treated by several forms of wave energy. In addition, if oxygen is present, atomic oxygen and ozone may be formed. Both are highly reactive oxidants that can be used in water treatment to disinfect and oxidize organics, metals, and minerals.

The carbon arc generates vacuum uv (vuv). Thus, the VUV photons, as previously described, have sufficient energy to cleave water molecules and form highly reactive radicals, such as hydroxyl radicals. In addition, VUV photons have sufficient energy to cleave carbon-carbon bonds in hydrocarbons. Carbon arcs also produce a large amount of near infrared and far Infrared (IR) radiation. This will further enhance the disinfection effect and help in handling organic compounds as the organic matter absorbs IR and vibrates electrons. Without being limited by theory, in addition to ultraviolet light and sonic energy, IR can catalyze the destruction of organisms and pathogens in water.

The water then enters the second wave energy zone 2. The water or liquid is again treated with several forms of wave energy. First, the thin film umbrella or cone shaped water funnel must pass through the EMR before passing through the reflected EMR. Now, it is really unique and unobvious whether the location of the electrodes 110 is in the water, and the water is electrically conductive, then the water will be treated by another form of wave energy-electrolysis. This provides a method of treating heavy metals such as selenium present in wastewater effluent from uranium processing plants. If the electrode 110 is used as a cathode, metal may be plated onto the electrode 110.

The tank 702 may consist of only a very long tube. The advantages of irradiation along the longitudinal axis of the tube are discussed in U.S. patent 5,832,361, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Likewise, the tank or tube 702 forms a wave energy zone 3. It is in this zone that the residence time can be increased significantly by simply increasing the diameter of the tank 702 with a suitable reflector, or increasing the length or depth of the conduit 702.

Additionally, the canister 702 may incorporate a filter media 704. This results in a self-contained water treatment system that can be used in remote areas of the world to disinfect and remove turbidity. A prototype similar to fig. 7 was constructed using 5 twelve volt dc cells operating in series. An one inch arc maintained with 60 volts and 20 amps forms an ultraviolet radiation system of about 1kW that sufficiently irradiates the plastic tank 702. The batteries are recharged with a multi-charger (multi-charger) designed to charge the batteries in series. Of course, it should be understood that the batteries may be recharged by a green energy source, such as a wind generator, photovoltaic cell, or water turbine. Furthermore, the present invention provides a highly mobile and portable emergency response water treatment system for military, municipal and emergency response. The arc whirl can be connected to the battery cells of any new hybrid vehicle.

As illustrated in fig. 5, 6, any hydrocyclone 502 can be readily modified in accordance with the present invention by the following method. By connecting the reflector 606 to the underflow of the hydrocyclone 502, a new method of treating water with wave energy is provided. As explained previously, EMR can be reflected using various methods known in the art. However, the top valve of the hydrocyclone must be removed in order to form the umbrella shape. In addition, the insertion of the carbon rod 108 may substantially block the overflow. The reason for removing the top valve is part of a new method of forming an umbrella-shaped inverted water funnel.

When the tank is testing the hydrocyclone, the overhead valve is removed from the underflow of a standard hydrocyclone. For testing, the overflow valve of the hydrocyclone was closed. As the water flows through the hydrocyclone, once it exits through the bottom or underflow of the hydrocyclone, the water spreads out to form a very thin umbrella shape and maintains the air core formed along the entire central axis of the hydrocyclone. This was completely unexpected because prior to this test, a section of straight pipe with the same cone base diameter was tested and the result was a curved rope discharge.

It is not obvious and totally unexpected to be a unique method and apparatus for handling small volumes as well as very large volumes of liquid. By introducing an inert gas, such as argon, into the system, bubble nuclei are formed and maintained in the hydrocyclone and reflector. Because argon is less dense than water, it will remain in the upper portion of the system even when the system is not operating. When operating, argon will seek the center and form a gas core. When an arc is struck between the electrodes 108 and 110, the argon will ionize and form a whirling plasma 612 kernel. There are several main reasons for using argon. First, argon is inert and does not affect or react with water. Second, the argon shields the carbon electrode, thereby extending the expected life of the electrode. Further, argon is easily ionized and is an ideal plasma gas.

Referring now to fig. 8, a plurality of arc whirl in a storage tank 800 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In fact, there is no limit to the size of the canister 802 to which arc whirl can be applied, other than flow rate. For example, a 5 megawatt dc power supply is available from HDRAmetek. Likewise, graphite electrodes up to 6 feet in diameter may be used. Thus, as shown in FIG. 8, a very large can may be treated with multiple arc whirls 804.

Referring now to fig. 9, an arc whirl with sand filter 900 in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. This embodiment may be a retrofit of an existing sand filter to again form a stand alone liquid treatment system. Therefore, this rapid modification does not require any modification of the tank. Furthermore, the modified version of the arc whirl sand filter is inexpensive compared to conventional ultraviolet radiation systems.

For example, the total cost of building an arc whirl of one kilowatt is about $ 3000. The cheapest one-kilowatt uv radiation system on the market today has a retail price of $ 26000. It consists of 26 lamps in a vessel. Thus, the arc whirl of the present invention is superior in both capital cost and operating cost. In short, in remote areas of the world where sunlight or wind is available, the cost of operating electricity can be reduced to zero. Likewise, the size and weight of a one-kilowatt system, as well as the current 100KW model, can be matched to the car cabin.

A 4 inch 100kW arc whirl was constructed and tested using paint booth water (paintbooth water) from an automobile factory. The spray booth water was black, opaque, had a very unpleasant odor, and contained a significant amount of bacteria. The spray booth water was treated with a first and second arc whirl. The color of the spray booth water turned to a clear yellow color and the water was odorless. Laboratory tests showed that 99.99% of the bacteria were killed.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a flow chart of a method 1000 of treating a liquid in accordance with the present invention is shown. A wave energy source is provided in block 1002 and a liquid whirling film is formed around the wave energy source such that one or more wave energies irradiate the liquid in block 1004. The one or more wave energies may include ultraviolet radiation, vacuum ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, visible light irradiation, acoustic energy, ultrasonic energy, electrolysis, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a flow chart of another method 1100 of treating a liquid in accordance with the present invention is shown. A first electrode and a second electrode are provided axially aligned with each other and connected to a power supply in block 1102. An arc between the first electrode and the second electrode is triggered in block 1104. A plasma core is formed between the first electrode and the second electrode, generating one or more wave energies in block 1106, and forming a liquid whirling film around the wave energy source, such that the one or more wave energies irradiate the liquid in block 1108.

The following non-limiting processing application examples are provided to demonstrate the scope of application of the present invention and the novelty of the inventive concept, in which the present invention can be applied. These examples also illustrate that such an invention is highly desirable for health and environmental safety issues.

Mycobacteria in metalworking fluids

Opportunistic (opportunistic) mycobacteria in the environment are associated with outbreaks of a variety of respiratory problems in a wide variety of settings. A common feature of the bursts is exposure to aerosols. Aerosols are generated from metalworking fluids during machining and grinding operations, as well as from other sources, such as indoor swimming pools, hot tubs, water-damaged buildings. In an industrial setting, it is estimated that 120 million us workers are exposed to aerosols generated by metal milling, and the economic and social impact of the respiratory problems experienced by these workers is substantial. Mycobacteria are easily aerosolized and resistant to disinfection. In most outbreaks of respiratory problems due to aerosolized mycobacteria, the water source containing the aerosol has been disinfected. It is in fact believed that traditional disinfection allows the selection of mycobacterial distribution (predominance) and growth.

The present invention enables fluids, such as metalworking fluids, to be exposed to multiple wave energy sources, thereby showing great promise for effective removal or control of mycobacteria and other biological contaminants in these fluids. While mycobacteria are able to withstand chemical sterilization, it is believed that the bacteria will not survive exposure to ultraviolet radiation and free electrons from the carbon arc of the present invention, particularly further combining sonic energy from cavitation effects. Eliminating or reducing breathing problems in the workplace associated with metalworking fluids would have significant economic benefits to the affected industries, as well as significant social benefits resulting from the reduction of such health problems.

Water for poultry carcass cooler (poultrychlerwater)

Statistically, 44Kg (96 lb) of poultry meat is consumed per person per year in the United states. Poultry accounts for 36% of meat consumption, second only to beef in the american diet. The hygienic safety of poultry products has a significant impact on public safety and health. The poultry industry in the united states produces 200 million pounds of chicken and 60 million pounds of turkeys per year. Almost all poultry products are produced in the form of "ready-to-cook" by automated factories having millions of poultry capacities. In these plants, the birds are slaughtered, defeathered, eviscerated, washed, cooled and packaged. Rapidly cooling the carcass to below 40F is critical to reducing bacterial growth and maintaining carcass quality. This is accomplished by immersing the washed carcass in ice water in one, two or three long tank-chillers. Many processors use chlorine to control microorganisms in poultry ketone body cooler water (PCW). Currently, chlorine and its hydration products, hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite, are the only disinfectants permitted by regulatory agencies for use in PCW (U.S. department of agriculture, 1993).

Poultry carcass coolers are known to contain large amounts of organic matter in the water. Chlorination of PCW results in the formation of trihalomethanes, primarily trichloromethane, and other mutagenic compounds that must also be identified. While the health impact of these potentially harmful compounds has not been established, it is highly desirable to provide alternative methods of disinfecting PCW. Furthermore, the recirculation of chiller water can provide a means to prevent environmental pollution while helping to conserve valuable water resources.

It is believed to utilize the present inventionThe high intensity ultraviolet radiation and free electrons generated by the bright carbon arc to treat the PCW, particularly when controlling the exposure of the PCW to wave energy within the film in close proximity to the energy source, will overcome the intensity and path length deficiencies of the prior art and permit safe and effective sterilization of the PCW. Within the scope of the invention by use of a catalyst in, for example, REVEX^TMThe MTU device processes and further combines acoustic wave energy associated with cavitation with carbon arc wave energy to enhance the processing.

Ballast water for sea transport

Invasive aquatic species are one of four major threats to the world's oceans, which can lead to very serious environmental, economic, and public health impacts. The introduction of invasive marine species into new environments via ship ballast water has been identified as one of four major threats to the world's oceans. Shipping transports over 80% of the goods worldwide each year, and about 30 to 50 million tons of ballast water are transferred internationally. Similar volumes of ballast water are also transferred within countries and regions each year. Ballast water is absolutely important for safe and efficient operation of modern shipping, which provides balance and stability to the vessel when it is not full. However, it may also pose serious ecological, economic and health threats.

The offshore re-ballasting recommended by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) currently provides the most effective means to reduce the risk of harmful aquatic organism transfer, but is subject to important ship safety restrictions. Even when it can be fully performed, this technique is not 100% effective for removing organisms from ballast water. Some aspects even suggest that offshore re-ballast itself may contribute to a greater spread of harmful species, and that island countries downstream of the re-ballast region in the middle of the ocean may face particular risks from this operation. It is therefore important to develop alternative, efficient ballast water management and/or treatment methods as far as possible to replace offshore re-ballast.

MTBE in drinking water

MTBE, a gasoline additive, has contaminated many aquifers. Due to its dissolutionThe degree is high and difficult to remove from the water. However, when a carbon arc is introduced to the preferred REVEX^TMWhile in the central core of the MTU, it is believed that the combination of cavitation energy with the ultraviolet light energy and free electrons from the carbon arc will have a synergistic effect on the removal and/or decomposition of MTBE without the need to remove it from the water. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that oxidants, such as radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and ozone, are formed by cavitation and contact of the air with the carbon arc plasma. As a result, MTBE will be oxidized to carbon dioxide and water.

Pathogens in drinking water and/or air, such as anthrax and legionella

The synergistic effect of cavitation, ultraviolet light and the oxidizing agent generated in situ by the device of the present invention will have a killing effect on pathogens such as anthrax and legionella. The invention can be used in a dual process where pathogens are removed by purifying the air and then the liquid is recirculated to kill the pathogens.

VOCs of spray booth

Typically, a downdraft waterfall scrubber is used to purify VOCs from air emanating from a paint point (paint). As a result, the water is contaminated with VOCs. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the preferred REVEX for use with the present invention^TMThe MTU will effect the transfer of VOCs from water to the carbon arc core. The VOCs within the core will be oxidized by heating. This demonstrates that the present invention can be used as a thermal oxidizer.

Spent caustic

Spent caustic solutions produced by refineries and petrochemical plants are generally considered hazardous waste products due to the presence of benzene. The present invention is believed to be able to purify spent caustic using the preferred revex. tm. mtu apparatus by extracting benzene from the caustic solution and then decomposing the benzene in the apparatus with a carbon arc plasma.

COD-chemical oxygen demand

Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the carbon arc/jet hydrocyclone system is capable of reducing COD in industrial wastewater. To the extent that the COD is not fully oxidized to carbon dioxide and water, it is believed that the present invention will convert the COD to organic matter that can be decomposed in a biological wastewater treatment facility.

The foregoing description of the preferred and alternative embodiments and variations of the apparatus and method of the present invention, and the foregoing examples of processes in which the invention may be usefully employed, are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting. The invention is also susceptible of further modifications and alternative embodiments within the scope of the invention, as described in the following claims.

Claims (40)

1. A method of treating a liquid comprising the steps of:

providing a wave energy source comprising a first electrode extending along a central axis of the throat from the pump volute or hydrocyclone head to the throat, and a second electrode spaced apart and axially aligned with the first electrode, wherein the throat is part of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head; and

passing a liquid through the pump volute or hydrocyclone head and throat and forming a swirling liquid film around the wave energy source such that one or more wave energies irradiate the liquid.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of exposing the liquid to a catalyst.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of filtering the irradiated liquid.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the wave energy source produces ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, visible light irradiation, acoustic energy, electrolysis, or combinations thereof.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the ultraviolet radiation is vacuum ultraviolet radiation and the acoustic energy is ultrasonic energy.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the throat is straight or tapered.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the throat is connected to the pump volute or hydrocyclone head.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes comprise a conductive material.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the conductive material comprises carbon.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid is irradiated by plasma nuclei generated by an arc between the first electrode and the second electrode.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein said plasma kernel provides at least two wave energy zones.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid spreads out in a parabolic or conical shape as it exits the throat.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising a power source connected to the first electrode and the second electrode.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the one or more batteries are rechargeable by a wind generator, a photovoltaic cell, or a water turbine.

16. The method of claim 1, further comprising a mechanism for triggering an arc between the first electrode and the second electrode.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the mechanism comprises a driver to move the first electrode into contact with the second electrode or a push rod to contact the second electrode.

18. The method of claim 1, further comprising a source of gas that forms a central core of gas around the wave energy source.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the gas comprises oxygen, hydrogen, an inert gas, or a combination thereof.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the gas reduces oxidation of the wave energy source, alters the energy spectrum of one or more wave energies, or a combination thereof.

21. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid comprises water, drinking water, wastewater, beverages, juices, milk, emulsions, ballast water, bilge water, cooling tower water, poultry carcass cooler water, mill run water, paint booth water, metalworking fluids, untreated sewage, crude oil, hydrocarbon streams, black liquor, or spent caustic solution.

22. An apparatus for treating a liquid, comprising:

a pump volute or hydrocyclone head having a throat; and

a wave energy source for irradiating a liquid includes a first electrode extending from a pump volute or hydrocyclone head along a central axis of the throat to the throat, and a second electrode spaced apart and axially aligned with the first electrode.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the wave energy source generates ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, visible light illumination, acoustic energy, electrolysis, or combinations thereof.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the ultraviolet radiation is vacuum ultraviolet radiation and the acoustic energy is ultrasonic energy.

25. The device of claim 22, wherein the throat is straight or tapered.

26. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the throat is connected to the pump volute or hydrocyclone head.

27. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first and second electrodes comprise a conductive material.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the conductive material comprises carbon.

29. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the liquid is irradiated by plasma nuclei generated by an arc between the first electrode and the second electrode.

30. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein said plasma kernel provides at least two wave energy zones.

31. The device of claim 22, wherein the liquid spreads out in a parabolic or conical shape as it exits the throat.

32. The device of claim 22, further comprising a power source connected to the first electrode and the second electrode.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries.

34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the one or more batteries are rechargeable by wind, photovoltaic or hydro turbines.

35. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a mechanism for triggering an arc between the first electrode and the second electrode.

36. The device of claim 35, wherein the mechanism comprises a driver to move the first electrode into contact with the second electrode, or a push rod to contact the second electrode.

37. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, further comprising a source of gas forming a central core of gas about the wave energy source.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the gas comprises oxygen, hydrogen, an inert gas, or a combination thereof.

39. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the gas reduces oxidation of the wave energy source, alters the energy spectrum of one or more wave energies, or a combination thereof.

40. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the liquid comprises water, drinking water, wastewater, beverages, juices, milk, emulsions, ballast water, bilge water, cooling tower water, poultry carcass cooler water, mill run water, paint booth water, metalworking fluids, untreated sewage, crude oil, hydrocarbon streams, black liquor, or spent caustic.