System of processing mixed-phase streams
AssigneeUnited States Filter Corporation
InventorsJames F. Rieke, Timothy J. Rittof
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Abstract
Heat transfer in non-turbulent highly viscous mixed-phase flowing streams can be improved by altering flow characteristics using spiral-shaped elements to eliminate boundary phenomena. The spiral-shaped element promotes helical or spiral flow paths to reduce or eliminate temperature gradients associated with laminar flow characteristics.
Claims15
A system for processing a biomaterial stream comprising a biomaterial source in communication with a heat exchanger including a heater tube wherein the heater tube forms a heating element for heating the biomaterial stream as the biomaterial stream is conveyed through the heater tube;
- and a spiral-shaped element extending through a substantial portion of the heater tube and configured to cause a substantial portion of the biomaterial stream to move in a generally spiral path through the heater tube, and wherein the heater tube heats the biomaterial stream moving in the spiral path through the heater tube wherein the spiral shaped element is fixed relative to the heater tube.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.