Device and Method for Treating Liquid

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device and method for treating liquids that is particularly effective in preventing or reducing unwanted foam during processing. The invention uses a system of reservoirs at different heights connected via specially designed channels (often spiral-shaped or helical), which guide the liquid primarily under the influence of gravitational and centrifugal forces. The channel design stabilizes the liquid flow and surface, minimizing agitation and thus preventing air or gas from being trapped in the liquid, which is the main cause of foaming. The process is entirely physical and avoids chemical additives, making it suitable for products sensitive to contamination.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial columns and reactors for chemical processing, distillation, or absorption steps prone to foaming
• Biotechnology and fermentation processes where foam can lead to product loss or contamination
• Water and wastewater treatment systems where foam generation needs to be minimized
• Food and beverage production processes (e.g., brewing, dairy, juice production) prone to foam formation
• Pharmaceutical processing where product or ingredient purity (free from anti-foam chemicals) is critical
• Gas scrubbing units (such as flue gas desulfurization) for better gas-liquid contact without excessive foam
• Cosmetic, detergent, or personal care product manufacturing processes requiring foam control without chemical defoamers

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly reduces or eliminates unwanted foam physically, without chemical additives
• Prevents process interruptions and equipment fouling caused by foam overflows
• Maintains product purity and safety, especially where chemical defoamers are undesirable
• Reduces need for post-process cleaning and chemical waste, benefiting the environment
• Improves process efficiency by avoiding slowed transport phenomena associated with foam formation
• Reduces energy consumption and operating costs (no need for thermal, acoustic, or mechanical anti-foam methods)
• Enhances process stability, scalability, and operational safety due to broadened process window
• Minimizes risk of contamination for sensitive applications in food, pharma, and biotech sectors

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for treating a liquid (4). The device comprises a first reservoir for receiving a liquid (4) and a second reservoir for receiving a liquid (4). The second reservoir is arranged lower than the first reservoir in the direction of gravity. The first reservoir is connected to the second reservoir via at least one line device (6). The second reservoir is fed with liquid (4) from the first reservoir via the line device (6). The line device (6) forms at least one channel, through which a liquid connection is formed between the first and the second reservoir. The liquid (4) is conducted through the channel into the second reservoir at least under the influence of the gravitational force and the centrifugal force.