Dynamic condensate system

Abstract

The present invention is a dynamic condensate system which can replace the hotwell designs currently available. The dynamic condensate system enhances the performance of a compact closed Rankine-cycle or similar engine using a single small-volume apparatus which actively separates noncondensables from the subcooled condensate; lowers condenser pressure; boosts feed-pump inlet pressure; allows the hotwell volume to remain at ambient pressure; and eliminates lateral acceleration effects on the engine. The dynamic condensate system includes a liquid ring pumping element and a side-branch hotwell. There is an inlet to the liquid ring pumping element from a condenser of the engine for receiving liquid and vapor flow. An outlet from the liquid ring pumping element provides a flow path for liquid from the dynamic condensate system to a feed pump of the engine. A discharge port from the liquid ring pumping element provides a flow path to the side-branch hotwell to remove vapor from the liquid and vapor flow from the condenser. Finally, there is an output from the side-branch hotwell connected to the inlet to the liquid ring pumping element for reintroducing remaining liquid captured during removal of the vapor.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.