Static Mixer Manifold

Abstract

This invention is primarily designed as a low pressure, steady volume supply static mixer manifold for a high pressure pump. A manifold fluid supply is achieved through the use of a centrifugal pump. The design comprises an internal diffuser cylindrical tube inside an external rectangular tube in which static mixing occurs. Capped at one end, the internal diffuser pipe, with flow coming from the opposite side, allows for one flow direction diffused into the outer rectangular tube that then allows for constant bidirectional flow at a constant pressure throughout. while adequately mixing all parts of the fluid makeup. The flow of slurry components between the cylindrical tube and the rectangular tube supports static mixing in part by creating alternating flow pressures between mixing ports (allowing flow of slurry components from the cylindrical tube) and the exit ports based on the different geometries of the cylindrical tube and rectangular tube. The combination of flow and pressure exiting the cylindrical tube through the mixing ports, at an angle to the bottom corners of the outer rectangular tube, creates a natural agitation of the slurry components. The manifold feeds 2 or 5 suction ports into the pump through polls exiting the rectangular outer tube at the top. The pump pulls fluid at intervals much the same way an internal combustion engine fires, in a repeated/patterned order designed to reduce system vibrations. The invention provides consistent pressure and a properly mixed slurry to each suction port. The cutouts in the inner tube are sized and spaced for providing the proper flow, mix, and pressure to each exit port. The cylindrical tube is held in place within the rectangular tube using a standard pipe flange and affixed by any known means to the rectangular tube. This allows for flow 360 degrees within the rectangular tube. As the slurry components flow into the corners of the rectangular tube through the mixing ports on the cylindrical tube, the slurry becomes turbulent but nonetheless creates a constant flow within the mixing chamber between the cylindrical tube and the rectangular tube, and up towards the exit ports leading out of the invention and into the pump. The result of the design is a more consistent slurry, of even pressure and equal flow to all suction ports as the pump pulls the slurry. This allows for a more even wear of the pump parts and less pressure fluctuations between ports. The pump will require less service, and the invention allows the high pressure fluid leaving the main pump to be a much more reliable mix. In the event that the outer or inner tube reaches the end of its effectiveness due to wear, the flanged connection will allow them to be replaced independently of one another, as opposed to replacing an entire manifold as is currently the industry standard for this application

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.