Muffler apparatus with filter trap and method of use
AssigneeDonaldson Company, Inc.
InventorsWayne M. Wagner, Douglas E. Flemming
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Muffler-filter apparatus for reducing both sound and particulates from exhaust gases from an engine. The apparatus includes resonating chambers, flow distribution means and a cellular ceramic core filter module. Filter regeneration mechanism includes a heating element for heating the carbon on the inlet end of the ceramic core to combustion temperature. Particulate ignition resulting in regeneration occurs when combustion air is provided. In alternate embodiments, combustion air first flows through a preheater system. A processor unit with particular logic controls the apparatus. The particular method of regeneration depends on the application in which the muffler-filter is used.
Claims8
A method for regenerating a ceramic filter loaded with particulates from exhaust gases of a diesel engine, said ceramic filter being mounted to a housing, said method comprising the steps of:
- turning on a heating element to radiate heat toward one end of said ceramic filter;
- turning on an air source to blow a low flow of air passed said heating element and toward said one end of said ceramic filter;
- sensing one of a temperature of said heating element, a temperature of fluid between said heating element and said ceramic filter, and a temperature of said one end of said ceramic filter and identifying a first triggering relationship when said one temperature is no less than a predetermined temperature which is less than the combustion temperature of said particulates;
- turning off said air after identifying said first triggering relationship;
- sensing said one temperature and identifying a second triggering relationship when said one temperature is no less than the combustion temperature of said particulates;
- turning on said air source after identifying said second triggering relationship to blow a regular flow of air passed said heating element and toward said one end of said ceramic filter;
- starting a timer after identifying said second triggering relationship;
- turning said heating element off after identifying said second triggering relationship;
- and
- turning said air source off after said timer has timed out.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.