Device for Switching a High-Pressure Suspension

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

This invention describes a device and method for switching high-pressure suspensions, specifically fluid flows loaded with solid particles under high pressure. The apparatus uses a combination of primary and secondary flow paths, along with specially arranged wear-resistant valves, to rapidly start or stop the flow of high-pressure suspensions without significant pressure loss or system depressurization. The solution helps ensure reliable and damage-free operation, particularly in applications where suspensions with abrasive particles are switched on and off repeatedly.

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

• Industrial cleaning using high-pressure suspensions for removing contaminants from surfaces
• Surface roughening and preparation processes in manufacturing
• Abrasive water jet cutting or machining of various materials (metals, ceramics, composites)
• Stone, glass, or tile cutting using high-pressure suspension streams
• Controlled deposition or removal of coatings or layers from workpieces in precision industries
• Handling and processing abrasive fluids in laboratory or industrial test setups

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables quick and complete switching of high-pressure suspensions without depressurizing the system, saving time and reducing interruptions
• Minimizes wear and potential blockage of valves and flow passages by allowing near pressure-balanced switching, even with highly abrasive suspensions
• Maintains system pressure at all times, reducing mechanical stress and fatigue on equipment, thereby extending lifespan
• Improves operational safety by reducing the risks associated with sudden depressurization or blockages
• Supports the use of various carrier fluids, including water, technical gases, oils, solutions, or emulsions, increasing versatility for different industrial applications
• Reduces downtime and maintenance needs due to effective handling of abrasive particulate-laden flows

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for switching high-pressure suspension, in particular for engaging or disengaging a solid-particle-laden fluid flow which is under high-pressure, said apparatus having a fluid reservoir (1), a high-pressure generator (2) and a nozzle (11), wherein the apparatus has a primary flow path, a suspension generator and a secondary flow path, such that - a counter pressure can be generated via the secondary flow path (13), which leads into the primary flow path (12) downstream of the suspension generator (5) in the primary flow direction, decreasing or completely eliminating a pressure difference in order to engage or disengage the high-pressure suspension via a first valve (6), and such that - the primary flow path (12) can be opened or closed via the first valve (6), which is located downstream of the suspension generator (5) and upstream of the inlet of the secondary flow path (13) in the flow direction in the primary flow path (12), and via a second valve (8), which is located upstream of the suspension generator (5) in the flow direction in the primary flow path (12), and such that - the counter pressure can be reduced by separating the secondary flow path (13) from the high-pressure generator via a switch valve (7). The invention furthermore relates to an associated method for engaging and disengaging a solid-particle-laden fluid flow which is under high pressure.