CA1117851A - Liquids extractor and process for extracting same - Google Patents
Liquids extractor and process for extracting sameInfo
- Publication number
- CA1117851A CA1117851A CA000351635A CA351635A CA1117851A CA 1117851 A CA1117851 A CA 1117851A CA 000351635 A CA000351635 A CA 000351635A CA 351635 A CA351635 A CA 351635A CA 1117851 A CA1117851 A CA 1117851A
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- piston
- chamber
- unit
- compression
- solids
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B30—PRESSES
- B30B—PRESSES IN GENERAL
- B30B9/00—Presses specially adapted for particular purposes
- B30B9/02—Presses specially adapted for particular purposes for squeezing-out liquid from liquid-containing material, e.g. juice from fruits, oil from oil-containing material
- B30B9/04—Presses specially adapted for particular purposes for squeezing-out liquid from liquid-containing material, e.g. juice from fruits, oil from oil-containing material using press rams
- B30B9/06—Presses specially adapted for particular purposes for squeezing-out liquid from liquid-containing material, e.g. juice from fruits, oil from oil-containing material using press rams co-operating with permeable casings or strainers
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Extraction Or Liquid Replacement (AREA)
Abstract
Abstract This invention relates to a novel process and apparatus for continuously extracting liquids from liquid containing solids material. Change are processed on a continuous throughput basis with each change undergoing a minimum of three compressions. Each following compression of the charge is in a direction normal to its predecessor. Exuded liquid or juice is recovered during each compression. Where desired, the liquid released during second and ongoing compression can be recovered in diluted form and portions of this diluted recovery recycled with hot water or steam in the second and succeeding compressions. A higher percentage yield is obtained over that of conventional screw of roller presses.
Description
This invention relates to a device and method for extractin3 liquids from liquid containing solids material and m~re particularly, a multi-stage liquids extractor or press apparatus and its method of extraction which is primarily intended to extrac~ juices from fruits, vegetables, seeds, bagasse and the like, although it will be apparent that its application is not limited to liquid extraction in the vegetable arts.
Liquid or juice extractors are well known in the art. Small scale or early types of extractors or presses subjected the uncompressed solids material to a single unidirectional compression, whereupon the liquid exuded therefrom was recovered in its raw or concentrated state.
In large scale or industrial applications, presses of the foregoing variety have in the main been supplanted by either screw presses such as those ~anufactured by The French Oil Mill Machinery Co. of Piqua, Chio, U.~.A. or roller presses having two or more pairs of rollers through which the uncompressed material passes. These industrial presses are designed to extract liquid on a continuous basis frcm an ongoing supply or throughput of uncompressed material.
However, these types of presses involve a high initial o~st. Further, since they are designed to ocmpress or squeeze solids material on a continuous basis, they are relatively inefficient insofar as recovered liquid yield is concerned. l~oreover, when extracting liquid from relatively hard or fiberous ~laterial, such as bagasse, the charge normally must be introduced with water meaning the liquid exuded from the charge during pressing is only initially recovered in a diluted state. mis can o~ntribute significantly to overall recovery costs, as in ~he case o sugar recovery, the sugar in diluted Eorm must be evaporated for the purpose of reconcentrating it or for producing sugar crystals.
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A further drawback existing in known industrial presses is their high energy consumption during operation and their ongoing high maintenance costs and down time which is particularly acute when abrasive solids material is being processed through the press or extractor.
The liquids extractor of my invention is intended to provide, on a continuous basis, maximum extraction of the liquids component from the solids onponent. Furthermore, compared to screw or roller presses, the operating energy re~uired for a given capacity consumption is significantly less as is its down-time and maintenance (repair or replacement) costs. The apparatus itself can be dimensioned so as to handle different volumetric inputs as required by the end user. Additionally, given the simplicity of the extractor, relatively unskilled operators and maintenance personnel can be advantageously e~ployed.
My novel apparatus and process also has the ability to initially - recover raw (undiluted) liquid from its host solids material; a shortcoming existing in screw and roller presses when processing certain solids as discussed above. Moreover~ my technique is also capable of secondary and tertiary recovery from the once liquid depleted solids material, either from the standpoint of additional liquid recovery in its native form or in a diluted form.
In accordance with my invention, the novel device for extracting liquids from liquid c3ntaining solids material comprises, at least three oompression units. Each unit includes a piston within a piscon chamber and which are so arranged that the first piston chamber of the first unit is normal to the second piston chamber of the second unit and the second piston chamber of the second unit is nor~al to the third piston chamber of the third unit. As will be evident fro~ that which follows, the three compression units which intercommunicate, are disposed at right angles to each other so that the first piston chamber can be said to be on the x-axis, the second piston chamber on the y-axis and the third piston ehamber on either of the x or z-axis and preferably the z-axis. The axial relationship of the ccmpression units, one to the other, is designed so that solids material which is cornpressed in one chamber and its fibrous content which tends to align itself parallel to the head of the piston of that chamber, is subjected to an ensuing compression stroke whieh is preferably directed in line with the previously aligned fibrous product of the prior xmpression. m is is believed to further "work"
the previously o~npressed colids product for the purpose of extraeting additional liquids therefrom Each piston in eaeh piston ehamber is reeiproeal between points of maximum and minimum ehamber volume. Where three piston ehambers are employed, the volumetrie size of the first piston chamber obviously will be larger than the remaining two sinee it must initially aeeo~modate an uncompressed eharge of the liquid containing solids material. Similarly, the seeond piston ehamber whieh is intended to accommodate the once eornpressed solids may be of reduced maximum ~hamber volume c~npared to the first, and the third piston charnber, if desired, can be similarly made with a smaller maximum ehamber volume than the seeond or first.
The three o~npression units are so arran~ed that the minimum ehamber volume of the first unit is ineluded within the maximum chamber volume of the second unit, and the minimum ehamber volume of the second unit is ineluded within the maximum ehamber volume of the third ~nit. This interrelationship is neeessary so that a eharge of initially uncornpressed solids ean be eontinuously subjeeted to cornpression in eaeh of the three compression units as i~ passes through the apparatus. Beeause the piston chambers intereommunieate ~ ~'7~
and each piston chamber must effectively be sealed during ccmpression, a first gate means is positioned intermediate the piston chamber of the second ~nit to thereby define the piston wall opposed the piston of the second unit when the first unit is in its maximum volume position. Similarly, a second gate means is positioned intermediate the piston chamber of said third unit so as to define the piston wall opposed the piston of the third unit when the second unit is in its maximum volume ~osition. ~eans is provided for opening and closing the piston chamber of the second unit with the first gate and for opening and closing the piston chamber of the third unit with the - second gate. The opening of these gates is necessary in order to enable the product of cnpression to pass through the piston chamber in which each gate is located.
The first compression unit is provided with means for introducing the uncompressed solids material into the compression chamber thereof when it is at its maximum volume position. Once charged with uncompressed solids, this material is subjected to a first campression in the first unit by suitable means acting on the piston of the unit. During this ccmpression step, the second unit is in its maximum volume position and the first gate is closed. The solids product of the first campression is subjected to a second c~npression in the second unit when the third ~nit is in its maximum volume p~sition, said first gate is opened and said second gate is closed~ In a similar fashion, the solids product of the second c~npression is subjected to a third compression in the third unit when the second unit is in its minimum v~lume position and the second gate is cpen. The solid products af the third compression in the third unit is then discharged therefrom.
Located in the area af ~inimum chamber volume of each of the units is liquids drain-off means which facilitates withdrawal of the L--~j exuded liquid fran the o~mpressed ~aterial. The drain-off means, if desired, may ~ake the form of a perforated cylinder head in each compression unit. The liquid so recovered at each stage can be advantageously delivered to storage, or settled, filtered or otherwise treated as the particular dictates of the recovered liquid being handled may re~uire. Alternatively, the liquid draw-off from the second and third ccmpression stage can be recycled, as discussed in greater detail below.
In order to cpen and close the first and second gates, and to subject the solids to the first, second and third compressions employing the pistons as above described, I prefer to employ hydraulic means. Indeed, double acting (two-way) hydraulic pistons can be advantageously employed and usefully serve to drive a second apparatus of the foregoing description. Where a second apparatus is utilized and which effectively doubles the capacity of the single device, the hydraulic drive means can cause the first unit of the first mentioned device to be in its minimum volume p~sition when the first unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position. Similarly, the second unit of the first device can be in its maximum volume position when the second unit of the second device is in its minimum volume position and the third unit of the first device is in its minimum volume p~sition ~hen the third unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position. In other words, the complimentary pistons in each of the two apparatus are reciprocating in cpposed directions.
As a further embodiment to my invention and regardless of whether or not one or two devices as above described are simultaneously employed, liquid or steam can advantageously be introduced into the piston chambers of the second and third units of each device. m is liquid or steam introduction into one or both of the second an~ third compression chambers has the effect cf enhancing the recovery of residual liquids remaining in the previously compressed solids; albeit in a diluted form, yet which contributes significantly to the overall recovery of liquids yield. ~dditionally, and as indicated above, by subjecting the solids product to a further compression in a direction normal to the preceding direction, the interaction of the injected liquid or steam together with the rearrangement of the otherwise aligned fibrous material further assists in liquids extraction.
Based on the foregoing, in practicing the process of my invention, a charge of uncompressed solids material is introduced into a first compression chamber wherein it is subjected to a unidirectional first oonpression whereby the liquids exuded therefrom are withdrawn. me solids product of the first compression is then subjected to a unidirectional second compression which is normal to the direction of the first ccmpression in a second compression chamber and the exuded liquids again withdrawn therefrom. Again, the remaining solids product of the second ccmpression is subjected to a unidirectional third compression which is normal to the second, in a third o~mpression chamber and the exuded liquids withdrawn therefrom.
If desired, the product of the first ccmpression or the product of the second compression, or both, can also be subjected to at least one of steam or water exposure prior to the subsequent compression step as above described.
Stean or water introduction has the effect of diluting the recovered juice. However, in accordance with my invention, it is possible to recycle a portion of the natural juice or liquid recovered from the first compression stage by combining same with the water or steam in predetermined quantities and thereby enhancing the percentage of natural juice content recovered in the second and third stages.
Thus, the degree of diluted juice recovered can effectively be controlled within oertain percentage limits and which has a direct bearing u~on the later dehydration that may be required following extraction. It will also be apparent that portions of the diluted liquid recovery fr~n the second or third c~npression can, in a sirnilar fashion, be o~mbined and recycled with the steam or water.
In the accompanying drawings which illustrate one working embodiment of my invention:
Figure 1 is a generalized plan sectional view of two extractors each one of which employs similarly constructed compression units;
Figure 2 is an enlarged cross-section view of the first com~ression unit illustrated on the right-hand side of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a plan sectional view, illustrated in greater detail, of part of the first and second compression chambers shown in the left-hand bottan c Figure l;
Figure 4 is a partial cut-away and cross-sectional view of the piston, piston rod, hydraulic cyclinder and canpression chamber of the second compression unit appearing on the left hand side of Figure 1, and which also illustrates the steam or water inlet ~eans;
Figure 5 is a detailed plan sectional view of a portion of the third o~npression unit when its filter and gate is in the closed condition as generally illustrated on the left-hand side of Figure l;
Figure 6 is a crcss-section along the third compression unit shown in Figure 5, again with the filter gate closed;
Figure 7 is a similar view to that of Figure 6 but w~ere the gate is cpen when the compressed solid is being ejected, and Figure 8 is a block plan ~ia~ram illustrating a typical raw liquid recovery and recycling arrangement suitable for use with the apparatus cf this invention or when practising the process of this invention.
With reference to Figure 1, an extractor employing three compression units 1, 2 and 3 is illustrated on the left-hand side whilst a similar extractor also employing three canpression units 101, 102 and 103 is shown on the right-hand side of Figure 1. Because the left-hand and right-hancl extractors employ similar components, for ease of understanding, the same reference numerals have been employed but those reference numerals appearing on the right-hand extractor are increased by a factor of 100.
Ccm~on to both extractors, and as illustrated in Figure 1 are double-acting hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15. With reference to the left-hand extractor of Figure 1, the three canpression units 1, 2 and 3 as generally illustrated therein in plan each have rectilinear-shaped compression walls. It will be appreciated, however, that the compression units can be made to any desired configuration, such as o~npression units having cylindrical-shaped - compression walls, without departing from the spirit of this invention.
As illustrated, oomp~ession unit 1 is normal to compression unit 2 and ccmpression unit 3 is normal to compression unit 2 so that unit 3 is actually aligned with unit 1. ~npression unit 1 includes piston 5 and compression chamber 4; unit 2 includes piston 7 and compression chamber 6 and finally, unit 3 includes piston 9 and canpression chamber 8. Piston 5 which is activated by hydraulic cylinder 13 is reciprocal between points of maximum chamber volume when the piston 5 is at its 5' position shown in broken chain-line and minimum chamber v~lume when at its position shown by reference numeral 5. Piston 7 of compression unit 2 is illustrated in its maximum chamber volume Fosition and ~hen at 7' as shown in broken chain-line, is at its minimum chamber v~lume p~sition. Piston 7 reciprocates in cempression unit 2 by ~eans of two-way hydraulic eylinder 14.
Reciproeal piston 9 of cempression unit 3 is aetivated by two-way hydraulic eylinder 15 for movement between its maximum volume position 9 to its minimum v~lu~.e position 9' indieated by chain-line.
It will be evident that when piston 5 is in its minimum volume position, this volume is ineluded within the maximum ehamber volume of eompression unit 2 when piston 7 is in its retraeted condition as : shown~ Similarly, when piston 7 is in its 7' position, this volume is ineluded within the maximum chamber volume of ccmpression unit 3 when piston 9 is similarly in its retraeted position as shown.
Referring ncw to the extractor shown on the right-hand side of Figure 1, it will be evident that the pistons 105, 107 and.109 are effectively cut-of-phase with pistons 5, 7 and 9 of the left-hand extractor. Thus, piston 105 is at its minimum ehamber volume eondition when at position 105'; piston 107 is at its maximum volume condition when at 107' and finally, piston 109 is at its minimum volume Fosition when at 109'.
~: With referenee to Figures 1 and 3, the "piston head" of unit1 comprises a perforated plate, screen or filter 19. Also ineluded within unit 2 is reciprocal gate 16 which ean effectively open and elose piston chamber 6 and when in its elosed position, defines the piston wall opposed the head of piston 7 when the latter is in its retraeted Fosition. With reference to the right-hand extraetor of Figure 1 and as shown in greater detail in Figure 2, comparable gate 116 reeiprocates between opened and closed positions; it being illustrated in its partially opened eondition exposing, for ease of understanding, lower edge 140.
Guides c,r side supports 41 and 141 support gates 16 and 116 for reciprocatable m~vement when opening or elosing chambers 6 and 106, respeetively. As illustrated in Figure 2, gate 116 is eonneeted ,tt~t~
to double-acting hydraulic piston 142 on upper plate 143 by means of piston rod 144.
A similar gate arrangement is provided in oompression unit 3 and nDre particularly gate 17 which, when in its closed position is opposed piston 9 when the latter is in its retracted position indicated at 9'. From the foregoing, it will be obvious that as piston 5 moves in oompression, piston 7 will be retracted and gate 16 closed. When piston 7 moves in compression from its retracted position, piston 5 is in its extended p~sition as illustrated and gate 16 open. Piston 9, on the other hand, is in its retracted position as illustrated during the oompression stroke of piston 7 and gate 17 is closed. Thereafter, piston 7 remains in its extended position (minimum chamber volume) while piston 9 moves in its compression direction and gate 17 is open.
The extractor illustrated in the left-hand side of Figure 1 can function independently of i~s right-hand e~uivalent. However, by utilizing two-way hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15 and aligning compression unit 1 with compression unit 101 and compression unit 3 with compression unit 103, hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15 can advantageously be e~ployed to drive the cpposed pistons to which they are attached in a reciprocating manner. Thus, while piston 5 mov~s in compression, piston 105 is withdrawn from oompression and similarly, when piston 9 moves in oompression, piston 109 is withdrawn from ccmpression, and vice versa.
The right-hand extractor of Figure 1, with piston 105 at its maximum chamber volume position is in a charging condition. With specific reference to Figures 1 and 2, liquid containing solids material (not shown) enters compression chamber 104 via delivery hopper 118. With gate 116 open, piston 107 is withdrawn to its position 107' indicated ~y chain-line in Figure 1 and thereafter gate p~
116 is closed. The lcosely packed solids material is then compressed as piston 105 moves to its 105' chain-line position with the exuded liquid therefrom passing through filter 119 into collection chamber 122 and thereafter exiting via drain s~out 125 for collection. ~ith piston 105 in its 105' position and gate 116 open, the once compressed solids material is then mQved along chamber 106 by piston commencing fran its 107' position. Once piston 107' has passed unit 1, piston 105 is withdrawn. When piston 107 is at its minimum chamber volume position as illustrated, with piston 109 at its 109' position and gate 117 closed, exuded liquid from this second canpression is filtered off through filter 120 into oollection chamber 123 and withdrawn through drain 126. Following this second compression and with piston at position 107 as shown, gate 117 is c~ened and piston 109 permitted to move from position 109' to its minimum volume position 109 as illustrated. Once piston 109 traverses unit 102, piston 107 is in a condition to ~e withdrawn back to its maximum chamber volume 107' position. Exuded liquid from the third compression when piston 109 is at its 109' location shown, is withdrawn via filter 121 as discussed in greater detail in oonnection with Figures 5, 6 and 7.
Gates 17 and 117 are constructed in a manner similar to gates 16 and 116 previously discussed employing side supports 45 and 145, piston rods 46 and 146, as well as double-acting hydraulic pistons for opening and closing same (not shown).
The three pistons of each of the left and right-hand extractors are provided with pairs of piston seals 47 and 147. It will also ~e apparent that pistons 7, 9, 107 and 109 are provided with central c~enings 48, 49 and 148, 149. mese openings communicate with their corresponding hollow piston rcds 50, 150, 51 and 151 as shown and which are driven by hydraulic cylinders 14, 114 and 15. The hollow portion c piston rods 50, 150, 51 and 151 communicate with ~3 ~7~
complimentary stems 52, 152, 53 and 153 as illustrated generally in Figure 1 and in detail in Figure 4. These stems are connected in a known ashion to a hot water or steam supply (not shown). As any of pistons 7, 9, 107 or 109 rrove fr~n its maximum chamber volume position to its minimum chamber volwlle position, steam or hot water is capable of being introduced into the compress ion chamber in wh ich they are located for the purpose of further liquid recovery, albeit in diluted form. As it is not intended to dilute the liquid during the first compression, no oamparable arrangement is provided in pistons 5 and 105 and their associated piston rods 54 and 154 although this feature can be included if s~ desired.
Referring now to Figures 5, 6 and 7 which illustrate the ; final or third compression in unit 3 and the discharge of the liquid depleted solids plug 55, screen plate 21 is connected to vable backing support 56 so that both are r[ovable vertically along guides 57 in order to effectively open and close the end of chamber 8. In a - manner similar to gates 16~ 17, 116 and 117, a hydraulic double-acting cylinder 58 is positioned on plate 59 and is connected to the screen or perforated plate 21 and m~vable support 56 by means of rod 60.
Screen plate 21 is in its closed condition during final campression in this unit as seen in Figures 5 and 6 and is in its raised condition for the purpose of discharging plug 55 as illustrated in Figure 7. As best seen in Figure 7, a cavity 61 is defined between screen 21 and backing support 56 for the collection of liquid passing through the screen and ~en it is in its closed condition, is drawn oEf or collection via drain 62.
Following o~npression of plug 55 between screen plate 21 and piston 9 (Figures 5 and 6), the ~creen plate 21 is raised and piston 9 permitted to n~ve further along in its ccmpression direction in order to discharge plug 55 therefrclm as seen in Figure 6. Piston 9 is then r~
withdrawn to its 9I position and screen 21 closed so that the process can then be repeated with the next, twice compressed charge or plug 55.
If desired, plug ejection may also be achieved when screen plate 21 is open merely ky injecting a further quantity of steam or water through hollow rod 57 and piston 9 which will have the effect of ejecting plug 55 under pressure.
Because the left and right~hand extractors illustrated in Figure 1 are effectively cperating cut of phase with the pistons of the opposed extractors m~ving in opposite directions, this is also true with the gates 16 and 116 of units 2 and 102 and gates 17 and 117 of units 3 and 103. Accordingly, a central hydraulic governing means (not shown) can advantageously be employed for simultaneously opening ; and closing gates 16 and 116 and for cpening and closing gates 17 and 117 on an cut-of-phase basis. Where desired, the same or a similar type of governing means can be employed for orchestrating all reciprocating movement of the extractor or extractors during operation.
Based on the foregoing, sequential charges can be fed into unit 1 and unit 101 on an out of-phase basis and each charge in each extractor subjected to first, second and third compressions, again in an cut-of-phase basis. As the cycle of each extractor repeats itself from its initial charging condition to the third condition, during continuous operation, there is always a through-put of solids material undergoing oompression.
The flow diagram illustrated in Figure 8 shows, in block form, one way in which the extracted liquids (extractate) may be rec~vered or recycled. On the left hand side of this figure, first, second and third compression units of one extractor - extractor "A"
are illustrated and are constructed in a manner as described above. A
second extractor - extractor "B" consisting again of first, second and third o~npression units is shown on the right hand side of the drawing.
It will ke seen 1-hat the native or raw liquid extracted fran first canpression units "A" and "B" is drawn off in the direction of the arrows via lines 200 and 201 to a primary liquid recovery tank from where it may undergo further processing or re-cycling as discussed below.
Second compression units "A" and l'B" have introduced therein, via lines 202, 203 and 204, intermediate recovered liquid, as shown, ~hich in fact is the product of the liquid recovery from the third canpression units "A" and "B". Steam or water is externally introduced, via lines 207, 208 and 209 into the two third compression units "A" and "B". If no provision were made for dilution or recycling, it is apparent that on a volume basis, maximum recovery of extractate would be at the first compression stage and minimum recovery at the third oompression stage. Where outside water or steam is introduced, as shown, it is evident that the volumetric recovery at the æcond and third stages is increased although the extractate is now recovered in diluted form. By way of example, if sufficient external water or steam is added during the third compression stage, the recovered liquid - identified in the diagram as the intermediate liquid recovery - may consist of 85-90% water and 10-15% extractate which may, in certain circumstances, not contain a sufficient quantity of natural liquid or juice to water to warrant further processing in the nature of evaporation for the purpose making it more ooncentrated.
However, by taking the intermediate liquid recovery and recycling it via lines 202, 203 and 204 and introducing sarne into the second canpression units of extractors "A" and "B", it will be evident that the dilution effect, o~npared to the straight injection of water or ~ $~
steam into these second compression units, is reduced by a factor commensurate with the percentage of extractate in recovered intermediate liquid. Thus, the Fercentage of extractate drawn off via lines 205 and 206 to the secondary recovery tank will be higher than that at the intermediate recovery stage, and in the example given, could be in the range of 30 to 35~ extractate to water. Where desired, the secondary recovery can undergo further processing directly in ~he form as recovered, or blended with the primary liquid recovery (not shown) for the F~rpose of diminishing the water content to acceptable limits. Similarly, primary rec~ery liquid can be mixed with the intermediate liquid recovery to enhance the extractate percentage (not shown). Thus, by regulating the percentage of extractate in the intermediate recovery or the initial amount of water or stream introduced, the overall system can be brought into an operating equilibrium considered cptimal for the type of material being processed.
Liquid or juice extractors are well known in the art. Small scale or early types of extractors or presses subjected the uncompressed solids material to a single unidirectional compression, whereupon the liquid exuded therefrom was recovered in its raw or concentrated state.
In large scale or industrial applications, presses of the foregoing variety have in the main been supplanted by either screw presses such as those ~anufactured by The French Oil Mill Machinery Co. of Piqua, Chio, U.~.A. or roller presses having two or more pairs of rollers through which the uncompressed material passes. These industrial presses are designed to extract liquid on a continuous basis frcm an ongoing supply or throughput of uncompressed material.
However, these types of presses involve a high initial o~st. Further, since they are designed to ocmpress or squeeze solids material on a continuous basis, they are relatively inefficient insofar as recovered liquid yield is concerned. l~oreover, when extracting liquid from relatively hard or fiberous ~laterial, such as bagasse, the charge normally must be introduced with water meaning the liquid exuded from the charge during pressing is only initially recovered in a diluted state. mis can o~ntribute significantly to overall recovery costs, as in ~he case o sugar recovery, the sugar in diluted Eorm must be evaporated for the purpose of reconcentrating it or for producing sugar crystals.
-1 ~
A further drawback existing in known industrial presses is their high energy consumption during operation and their ongoing high maintenance costs and down time which is particularly acute when abrasive solids material is being processed through the press or extractor.
The liquids extractor of my invention is intended to provide, on a continuous basis, maximum extraction of the liquids component from the solids onponent. Furthermore, compared to screw or roller presses, the operating energy re~uired for a given capacity consumption is significantly less as is its down-time and maintenance (repair or replacement) costs. The apparatus itself can be dimensioned so as to handle different volumetric inputs as required by the end user. Additionally, given the simplicity of the extractor, relatively unskilled operators and maintenance personnel can be advantageously e~ployed.
My novel apparatus and process also has the ability to initially - recover raw (undiluted) liquid from its host solids material; a shortcoming existing in screw and roller presses when processing certain solids as discussed above. Moreover~ my technique is also capable of secondary and tertiary recovery from the once liquid depleted solids material, either from the standpoint of additional liquid recovery in its native form or in a diluted form.
In accordance with my invention, the novel device for extracting liquids from liquid c3ntaining solids material comprises, at least three oompression units. Each unit includes a piston within a piscon chamber and which are so arranged that the first piston chamber of the first unit is normal to the second piston chamber of the second unit and the second piston chamber of the second unit is nor~al to the third piston chamber of the third unit. As will be evident fro~ that which follows, the three compression units which intercommunicate, are disposed at right angles to each other so that the first piston chamber can be said to be on the x-axis, the second piston chamber on the y-axis and the third piston ehamber on either of the x or z-axis and preferably the z-axis. The axial relationship of the ccmpression units, one to the other, is designed so that solids material which is cornpressed in one chamber and its fibrous content which tends to align itself parallel to the head of the piston of that chamber, is subjected to an ensuing compression stroke whieh is preferably directed in line with the previously aligned fibrous product of the prior xmpression. m is is believed to further "work"
the previously o~npressed colids product for the purpose of extraeting additional liquids therefrom Each piston in eaeh piston ehamber is reeiproeal between points of maximum and minimum ehamber volume. Where three piston ehambers are employed, the volumetrie size of the first piston chamber obviously will be larger than the remaining two sinee it must initially aeeo~modate an uncompressed eharge of the liquid containing solids material. Similarly, the seeond piston ehamber whieh is intended to accommodate the once eornpressed solids may be of reduced maximum ~hamber volume c~npared to the first, and the third piston charnber, if desired, can be similarly made with a smaller maximum ehamber volume than the seeond or first.
The three o~npression units are so arran~ed that the minimum ehamber volume of the first unit is ineluded within the maximum chamber volume of the second unit, and the minimum ehamber volume of the second unit is ineluded within the maximum ehamber volume of the third ~nit. This interrelationship is neeessary so that a eharge of initially uncornpressed solids ean be eontinuously subjeeted to cornpression in eaeh of the three compression units as i~ passes through the apparatus. Beeause the piston chambers intereommunieate ~ ~'7~
and each piston chamber must effectively be sealed during ccmpression, a first gate means is positioned intermediate the piston chamber of the second ~nit to thereby define the piston wall opposed the piston of the second unit when the first unit is in its maximum volume position. Similarly, a second gate means is positioned intermediate the piston chamber of said third unit so as to define the piston wall opposed the piston of the third unit when the second unit is in its maximum volume ~osition. ~eans is provided for opening and closing the piston chamber of the second unit with the first gate and for opening and closing the piston chamber of the third unit with the - second gate. The opening of these gates is necessary in order to enable the product of cnpression to pass through the piston chamber in which each gate is located.
The first compression unit is provided with means for introducing the uncompressed solids material into the compression chamber thereof when it is at its maximum volume position. Once charged with uncompressed solids, this material is subjected to a first campression in the first unit by suitable means acting on the piston of the unit. During this ccmpression step, the second unit is in its maximum volume position and the first gate is closed. The solids product of the first campression is subjected to a second c~npression in the second unit when the third ~nit is in its maximum volume p~sition, said first gate is opened and said second gate is closed~ In a similar fashion, the solids product of the second c~npression is subjected to a third compression in the third unit when the second unit is in its minimum v~lume position and the second gate is cpen. The solid products af the third compression in the third unit is then discharged therefrom.
Located in the area af ~inimum chamber volume of each of the units is liquids drain-off means which facilitates withdrawal of the L--~j exuded liquid fran the o~mpressed ~aterial. The drain-off means, if desired, may ~ake the form of a perforated cylinder head in each compression unit. The liquid so recovered at each stage can be advantageously delivered to storage, or settled, filtered or otherwise treated as the particular dictates of the recovered liquid being handled may re~uire. Alternatively, the liquid draw-off from the second and third ccmpression stage can be recycled, as discussed in greater detail below.
In order to cpen and close the first and second gates, and to subject the solids to the first, second and third compressions employing the pistons as above described, I prefer to employ hydraulic means. Indeed, double acting (two-way) hydraulic pistons can be advantageously employed and usefully serve to drive a second apparatus of the foregoing description. Where a second apparatus is utilized and which effectively doubles the capacity of the single device, the hydraulic drive means can cause the first unit of the first mentioned device to be in its minimum volume p~sition when the first unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position. Similarly, the second unit of the first device can be in its maximum volume position when the second unit of the second device is in its minimum volume position and the third unit of the first device is in its minimum volume p~sition ~hen the third unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position. In other words, the complimentary pistons in each of the two apparatus are reciprocating in cpposed directions.
As a further embodiment to my invention and regardless of whether or not one or two devices as above described are simultaneously employed, liquid or steam can advantageously be introduced into the piston chambers of the second and third units of each device. m is liquid or steam introduction into one or both of the second an~ third compression chambers has the effect cf enhancing the recovery of residual liquids remaining in the previously compressed solids; albeit in a diluted form, yet which contributes significantly to the overall recovery of liquids yield. ~dditionally, and as indicated above, by subjecting the solids product to a further compression in a direction normal to the preceding direction, the interaction of the injected liquid or steam together with the rearrangement of the otherwise aligned fibrous material further assists in liquids extraction.
Based on the foregoing, in practicing the process of my invention, a charge of uncompressed solids material is introduced into a first compression chamber wherein it is subjected to a unidirectional first oonpression whereby the liquids exuded therefrom are withdrawn. me solids product of the first compression is then subjected to a unidirectional second compression which is normal to the direction of the first ccmpression in a second compression chamber and the exuded liquids again withdrawn therefrom. Again, the remaining solids product of the second ccmpression is subjected to a unidirectional third compression which is normal to the second, in a third o~mpression chamber and the exuded liquids withdrawn therefrom.
If desired, the product of the first ccmpression or the product of the second compression, or both, can also be subjected to at least one of steam or water exposure prior to the subsequent compression step as above described.
Stean or water introduction has the effect of diluting the recovered juice. However, in accordance with my invention, it is possible to recycle a portion of the natural juice or liquid recovered from the first compression stage by combining same with the water or steam in predetermined quantities and thereby enhancing the percentage of natural juice content recovered in the second and third stages.
Thus, the degree of diluted juice recovered can effectively be controlled within oertain percentage limits and which has a direct bearing u~on the later dehydration that may be required following extraction. It will also be apparent that portions of the diluted liquid recovery fr~n the second or third c~npression can, in a sirnilar fashion, be o~mbined and recycled with the steam or water.
In the accompanying drawings which illustrate one working embodiment of my invention:
Figure 1 is a generalized plan sectional view of two extractors each one of which employs similarly constructed compression units;
Figure 2 is an enlarged cross-section view of the first com~ression unit illustrated on the right-hand side of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a plan sectional view, illustrated in greater detail, of part of the first and second compression chambers shown in the left-hand bottan c Figure l;
Figure 4 is a partial cut-away and cross-sectional view of the piston, piston rod, hydraulic cyclinder and canpression chamber of the second compression unit appearing on the left hand side of Figure 1, and which also illustrates the steam or water inlet ~eans;
Figure 5 is a detailed plan sectional view of a portion of the third o~npression unit when its filter and gate is in the closed condition as generally illustrated on the left-hand side of Figure l;
Figure 6 is a crcss-section along the third compression unit shown in Figure 5, again with the filter gate closed;
Figure 7 is a similar view to that of Figure 6 but w~ere the gate is cpen when the compressed solid is being ejected, and Figure 8 is a block plan ~ia~ram illustrating a typical raw liquid recovery and recycling arrangement suitable for use with the apparatus cf this invention or when practising the process of this invention.
With reference to Figure 1, an extractor employing three compression units 1, 2 and 3 is illustrated on the left-hand side whilst a similar extractor also employing three canpression units 101, 102 and 103 is shown on the right-hand side of Figure 1. Because the left-hand and right-hancl extractors employ similar components, for ease of understanding, the same reference numerals have been employed but those reference numerals appearing on the right-hand extractor are increased by a factor of 100.
Ccm~on to both extractors, and as illustrated in Figure 1 are double-acting hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15. With reference to the left-hand extractor of Figure 1, the three canpression units 1, 2 and 3 as generally illustrated therein in plan each have rectilinear-shaped compression walls. It will be appreciated, however, that the compression units can be made to any desired configuration, such as o~npression units having cylindrical-shaped - compression walls, without departing from the spirit of this invention.
As illustrated, oomp~ession unit 1 is normal to compression unit 2 and ccmpression unit 3 is normal to compression unit 2 so that unit 3 is actually aligned with unit 1. ~npression unit 1 includes piston 5 and compression chamber 4; unit 2 includes piston 7 and compression chamber 6 and finally, unit 3 includes piston 9 and canpression chamber 8. Piston 5 which is activated by hydraulic cylinder 13 is reciprocal between points of maximum chamber volume when the piston 5 is at its 5' position shown in broken chain-line and minimum chamber v~lume when at its position shown by reference numeral 5. Piston 7 of compression unit 2 is illustrated in its maximum chamber volume Fosition and ~hen at 7' as shown in broken chain-line, is at its minimum chamber v~lume p~sition. Piston 7 reciprocates in cempression unit 2 by ~eans of two-way hydraulic eylinder 14.
Reciproeal piston 9 of cempression unit 3 is aetivated by two-way hydraulic eylinder 15 for movement between its maximum volume position 9 to its minimum v~lu~.e position 9' indieated by chain-line.
It will be evident that when piston 5 is in its minimum volume position, this volume is ineluded within the maximum ehamber volume of eompression unit 2 when piston 7 is in its retraeted condition as : shown~ Similarly, when piston 7 is in its 7' position, this volume is ineluded within the maximum chamber volume of ccmpression unit 3 when piston 9 is similarly in its retraeted position as shown.
Referring ncw to the extractor shown on the right-hand side of Figure 1, it will be evident that the pistons 105, 107 and.109 are effectively cut-of-phase with pistons 5, 7 and 9 of the left-hand extractor. Thus, piston 105 is at its minimum ehamber volume eondition when at position 105'; piston 107 is at its maximum volume condition when at 107' and finally, piston 109 is at its minimum volume Fosition when at 109'.
~: With referenee to Figures 1 and 3, the "piston head" of unit1 comprises a perforated plate, screen or filter 19. Also ineluded within unit 2 is reciprocal gate 16 which ean effectively open and elose piston chamber 6 and when in its elosed position, defines the piston wall opposed the head of piston 7 when the latter is in its retraeted Fosition. With reference to the right-hand extraetor of Figure 1 and as shown in greater detail in Figure 2, comparable gate 116 reeiprocates between opened and closed positions; it being illustrated in its partially opened eondition exposing, for ease of understanding, lower edge 140.
Guides c,r side supports 41 and 141 support gates 16 and 116 for reciprocatable m~vement when opening or elosing chambers 6 and 106, respeetively. As illustrated in Figure 2, gate 116 is eonneeted ,tt~t~
to double-acting hydraulic piston 142 on upper plate 143 by means of piston rod 144.
A similar gate arrangement is provided in oompression unit 3 and nDre particularly gate 17 which, when in its closed position is opposed piston 9 when the latter is in its retracted position indicated at 9'. From the foregoing, it will be obvious that as piston 5 moves in oompression, piston 7 will be retracted and gate 16 closed. When piston 7 moves in compression from its retracted position, piston 5 is in its extended p~sition as illustrated and gate 16 open. Piston 9, on the other hand, is in its retracted position as illustrated during the oompression stroke of piston 7 and gate 17 is closed. Thereafter, piston 7 remains in its extended position (minimum chamber volume) while piston 9 moves in its compression direction and gate 17 is open.
The extractor illustrated in the left-hand side of Figure 1 can function independently of i~s right-hand e~uivalent. However, by utilizing two-way hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15 and aligning compression unit 1 with compression unit 101 and compression unit 3 with compression unit 103, hydraulic cylinders 13 and 15 can advantageously be e~ployed to drive the cpposed pistons to which they are attached in a reciprocating manner. Thus, while piston 5 mov~s in compression, piston 105 is withdrawn from oompression and similarly, when piston 9 moves in oompression, piston 109 is withdrawn from ccmpression, and vice versa.
The right-hand extractor of Figure 1, with piston 105 at its maximum chamber volume position is in a charging condition. With specific reference to Figures 1 and 2, liquid containing solids material (not shown) enters compression chamber 104 via delivery hopper 118. With gate 116 open, piston 107 is withdrawn to its position 107' indicated ~y chain-line in Figure 1 and thereafter gate p~
116 is closed. The lcosely packed solids material is then compressed as piston 105 moves to its 105' chain-line position with the exuded liquid therefrom passing through filter 119 into collection chamber 122 and thereafter exiting via drain s~out 125 for collection. ~ith piston 105 in its 105' position and gate 116 open, the once compressed solids material is then mQved along chamber 106 by piston commencing fran its 107' position. Once piston 107' has passed unit 1, piston 105 is withdrawn. When piston 107 is at its minimum chamber volume position as illustrated, with piston 109 at its 109' position and gate 117 closed, exuded liquid from this second canpression is filtered off through filter 120 into oollection chamber 123 and withdrawn through drain 126. Following this second compression and with piston at position 107 as shown, gate 117 is c~ened and piston 109 permitted to move from position 109' to its minimum volume position 109 as illustrated. Once piston 109 traverses unit 102, piston 107 is in a condition to ~e withdrawn back to its maximum chamber volume 107' position. Exuded liquid from the third compression when piston 109 is at its 109' location shown, is withdrawn via filter 121 as discussed in greater detail in oonnection with Figures 5, 6 and 7.
Gates 17 and 117 are constructed in a manner similar to gates 16 and 116 previously discussed employing side supports 45 and 145, piston rods 46 and 146, as well as double-acting hydraulic pistons for opening and closing same (not shown).
The three pistons of each of the left and right-hand extractors are provided with pairs of piston seals 47 and 147. It will also ~e apparent that pistons 7, 9, 107 and 109 are provided with central c~enings 48, 49 and 148, 149. mese openings communicate with their corresponding hollow piston rcds 50, 150, 51 and 151 as shown and which are driven by hydraulic cylinders 14, 114 and 15. The hollow portion c piston rods 50, 150, 51 and 151 communicate with ~3 ~7~
complimentary stems 52, 152, 53 and 153 as illustrated generally in Figure 1 and in detail in Figure 4. These stems are connected in a known ashion to a hot water or steam supply (not shown). As any of pistons 7, 9, 107 or 109 rrove fr~n its maximum chamber volume position to its minimum chamber volwlle position, steam or hot water is capable of being introduced into the compress ion chamber in wh ich they are located for the purpose of further liquid recovery, albeit in diluted form. As it is not intended to dilute the liquid during the first compression, no oamparable arrangement is provided in pistons 5 and 105 and their associated piston rods 54 and 154 although this feature can be included if s~ desired.
Referring now to Figures 5, 6 and 7 which illustrate the ; final or third compression in unit 3 and the discharge of the liquid depleted solids plug 55, screen plate 21 is connected to vable backing support 56 so that both are r[ovable vertically along guides 57 in order to effectively open and close the end of chamber 8. In a - manner similar to gates 16~ 17, 116 and 117, a hydraulic double-acting cylinder 58 is positioned on plate 59 and is connected to the screen or perforated plate 21 and m~vable support 56 by means of rod 60.
Screen plate 21 is in its closed condition during final campression in this unit as seen in Figures 5 and 6 and is in its raised condition for the purpose of discharging plug 55 as illustrated in Figure 7. As best seen in Figure 7, a cavity 61 is defined between screen 21 and backing support 56 for the collection of liquid passing through the screen and ~en it is in its closed condition, is drawn oEf or collection via drain 62.
Following o~npression of plug 55 between screen plate 21 and piston 9 (Figures 5 and 6), the ~creen plate 21 is raised and piston 9 permitted to n~ve further along in its ccmpression direction in order to discharge plug 55 therefrclm as seen in Figure 6. Piston 9 is then r~
withdrawn to its 9I position and screen 21 closed so that the process can then be repeated with the next, twice compressed charge or plug 55.
If desired, plug ejection may also be achieved when screen plate 21 is open merely ky injecting a further quantity of steam or water through hollow rod 57 and piston 9 which will have the effect of ejecting plug 55 under pressure.
Because the left and right~hand extractors illustrated in Figure 1 are effectively cperating cut of phase with the pistons of the opposed extractors m~ving in opposite directions, this is also true with the gates 16 and 116 of units 2 and 102 and gates 17 and 117 of units 3 and 103. Accordingly, a central hydraulic governing means (not shown) can advantageously be employed for simultaneously opening ; and closing gates 16 and 116 and for cpening and closing gates 17 and 117 on an cut-of-phase basis. Where desired, the same or a similar type of governing means can be employed for orchestrating all reciprocating movement of the extractor or extractors during operation.
Based on the foregoing, sequential charges can be fed into unit 1 and unit 101 on an out of-phase basis and each charge in each extractor subjected to first, second and third compressions, again in an cut-of-phase basis. As the cycle of each extractor repeats itself from its initial charging condition to the third condition, during continuous operation, there is always a through-put of solids material undergoing oompression.
The flow diagram illustrated in Figure 8 shows, in block form, one way in which the extracted liquids (extractate) may be rec~vered or recycled. On the left hand side of this figure, first, second and third compression units of one extractor - extractor "A"
are illustrated and are constructed in a manner as described above. A
second extractor - extractor "B" consisting again of first, second and third o~npression units is shown on the right hand side of the drawing.
It will ke seen 1-hat the native or raw liquid extracted fran first canpression units "A" and "B" is drawn off in the direction of the arrows via lines 200 and 201 to a primary liquid recovery tank from where it may undergo further processing or re-cycling as discussed below.
Second compression units "A" and l'B" have introduced therein, via lines 202, 203 and 204, intermediate recovered liquid, as shown, ~hich in fact is the product of the liquid recovery from the third canpression units "A" and "B". Steam or water is externally introduced, via lines 207, 208 and 209 into the two third compression units "A" and "B". If no provision were made for dilution or recycling, it is apparent that on a volume basis, maximum recovery of extractate would be at the first compression stage and minimum recovery at the third oompression stage. Where outside water or steam is introduced, as shown, it is evident that the volumetric recovery at the æcond and third stages is increased although the extractate is now recovered in diluted form. By way of example, if sufficient external water or steam is added during the third compression stage, the recovered liquid - identified in the diagram as the intermediate liquid recovery - may consist of 85-90% water and 10-15% extractate which may, in certain circumstances, not contain a sufficient quantity of natural liquid or juice to water to warrant further processing in the nature of evaporation for the purpose making it more ooncentrated.
However, by taking the intermediate liquid recovery and recycling it via lines 202, 203 and 204 and introducing sarne into the second canpression units of extractors "A" and "B", it will be evident that the dilution effect, o~npared to the straight injection of water or ~ $~
steam into these second compression units, is reduced by a factor commensurate with the percentage of extractate in recovered intermediate liquid. Thus, the Fercentage of extractate drawn off via lines 205 and 206 to the secondary recovery tank will be higher than that at the intermediate recovery stage, and in the example given, could be in the range of 30 to 35~ extractate to water. Where desired, the secondary recovery can undergo further processing directly in ~he form as recovered, or blended with the primary liquid recovery (not shown) for the F~rpose of diminishing the water content to acceptable limits. Similarly, primary rec~ery liquid can be mixed with the intermediate liquid recovery to enhance the extractate percentage (not shown). Thus, by regulating the percentage of extractate in the intermediate recovery or the initial amount of water or stream introduced, the overall system can be brought into an operating equilibrium considered cptimal for the type of material being processed.
Claims (19)
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A device for extracting liquids from liquid containing solids material, comprising:
(a) three compression units each of which includes a piston within a piston chamber and wherein the first piston chamber of the first unit is normal to the second piston chamber of the second unit, and the second piston chamber of the second unit is normal to the third piston chamber of the third unit, (b) each piston in each piston chamber being reciprocable between points of maximum and minimum chamber volume, (c) the minimum chamber volume of the first unit being included within the maximum chamber volume of the second unit, and the minimum chamber volume of the second unit being included within the maximum chamber volume of the third unit, (d) first gate means intermediate the piston chamber of said second unit and defining the piston wall opposed the piston of said second unit when the first unit is in its minimum volume position, (e) second gate means intermediate the piston chamber of said third unit and defining the piston wall opposed the piston of said third unit when the second unit is in its minimum volume position, (f) means for opening and closing the piston chamber of said second unit with said first gate, (g) means for opening and closing the piston chamber of said third unit with said second gate, (h) means for introducing uncompressed solids material into said first unit when the piston of the first unit is at its maximum volume Position, (i) means for subjecting said uncompressed solids to a first compression in said first unit when the piston of said second unit is at its maximum volume position and said first gate is closed, (j) means for subjecting the solids product of the first compression to a second compression in said second unit when the piston of said third unit is in its maximum volume position, said first gate is open and said second gate is closed, (k) means for subjecting the solids product of the second compression to a third compression in the third unit when the piston of said second unit is in its minimum volume position and said second gate is open, (1) means for discharging the solids product of the third compression from said third unit, and (m) liquids recovery drain-off means in each of said units and which communicates with the minimum chamber volume of each of said units.
(a) three compression units each of which includes a piston within a piston chamber and wherein the first piston chamber of the first unit is normal to the second piston chamber of the second unit, and the second piston chamber of the second unit is normal to the third piston chamber of the third unit, (b) each piston in each piston chamber being reciprocable between points of maximum and minimum chamber volume, (c) the minimum chamber volume of the first unit being included within the maximum chamber volume of the second unit, and the minimum chamber volume of the second unit being included within the maximum chamber volume of the third unit, (d) first gate means intermediate the piston chamber of said second unit and defining the piston wall opposed the piston of said second unit when the first unit is in its minimum volume position, (e) second gate means intermediate the piston chamber of said third unit and defining the piston wall opposed the piston of said third unit when the second unit is in its minimum volume position, (f) means for opening and closing the piston chamber of said second unit with said first gate, (g) means for opening and closing the piston chamber of said third unit with said second gate, (h) means for introducing uncompressed solids material into said first unit when the piston of the first unit is at its maximum volume Position, (i) means for subjecting said uncompressed solids to a first compression in said first unit when the piston of said second unit is at its maximum volume position and said first gate is closed, (j) means for subjecting the solids product of the first compression to a second compression in said second unit when the piston of said third unit is in its maximum volume position, said first gate is open and said second gate is closed, (k) means for subjecting the solids product of the second compression to a third compression in the third unit when the piston of said second unit is in its minimum volume position and said second gate is open, (1) means for discharging the solids product of the third compression from said third unit, and (m) liquids recovery drain-off means in each of said units and which communicates with the minimum chamber volume of each of said units.
2. The device as claimed in claim 1, including a second device as claimed in claim 1, and wherein the first piston in the first unit of the first mentioned device is in its minimum volume position when the first piston in the first unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position, the second piston in the second unit of the first device is in its maximum volume position when the second piston in the second unit of the second device is in its minimum volume position and the third piston in the third unit of the first device is in its minimum volume position when the third piston of the third unit of the second device is in its maximum volume position.
3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for opening and closing said first and second gates, and the means for subjecting the solids to said first, second and third compressions includes hydraulic actuation means.
4. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the means for opening and closing said first and second gates, and the means for subjecting the solids to said first, second and third compressions includes hydraulic actuation means.
5. The device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said liquid recovery drain-off means in each of said units includes a perforated cylinder head.
6. The device as claimed in claim 4, wherein said liquid recovery drain-off means in each of said units includes a perforated cylinder head.
7. The device as claimed in claim 5, further including means for introducing at least one of hot water and steam into the piston chambers of said second and third units.
8. The device as claimed in claim 6, further including means for introducing at least one of hot water and steam into the piston chambers of said second and third units.
9. The devices as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein walls of said piston chambers in said compression units, in cross section, are rectilinear.
10. The device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the walls of said piston chambers in said compression units, in cross-section, are curvilinear.
11. The device as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein said means for discharging the solids product of the third compression from said third unit includes a retractable Perforated cylinder head which retracts following said third compression and whereby said third piston extends past its maximum chamber volume position when said perforated cylinder head is in its retracted condition.
12. The device as claimed in claim 7 or 8 further including means for introducing recovered liquid with said hot water and steam.
13. A device for extracting liquid from solids comprising: at least three communicating chambers each one of which is provided with a piston therein which is reciprocable between points of maximum and minimum chamber volume, the second chamber being normal to the first chamber and the third chamber being normal to the second chamber, the minimum volume of the first chamber being included in the maximum volume of said second chamber and the minimum volume of the second chamber being included in the maximum volume of the third chamber, one wall of the first chamber when its piston is in the minimum volume position being defined by the piston of the second chamber, one wall of the second chamber when its piston is in the minimum volume position being defined by the piston of the third chamber, a first reciprocable gate Perpendicular to said second chamber and defining the wall of said first chamber opposed said second piston when said first piston is in its minimum volume position, a second reciprocable gate perpendicular to said third chamber and defining wall of a said second chamber opposed said third piston when said second piston is in its minimum volume position, means for introducing uncompressed solids into said first chamber when its piston is in its maximum volume position, means for a first compression of said uncompressed solids in said first chamber when the piston in said second chamber is in its maximum volume position and said first gate is closed, means for a second compression of said first compression solids in said second chamber when said first gate is open, said second gate is closed and the piston of said third chamber is in its maximum volume positon, means for a third compression of said second compression solids in said third chamber when said second gate is open, means associated with said first, second and third chambers for draining off liquids exuded from the solids during each of said compressions, and means for discharging the solids product of the third compression from said third chamber.
14. The devices as claimed in claim 13 including a second device as claimed in claim 13 which is interconnected to the first mentioned device whereby the piston in the first chamber of the first device reciprocates out of phase with the piston in the first chamber of the second device, the piston in the second chamber of the first device reciprocates out of phase with the piston in the second chamber of the second device, and the piston in the third chamber of the first device reciprocates out of phase with the piston in the third chamber of the second device.
15. A process for extracting liquids from liquid-containing solids material comprising the steps of:
(a) introducing uncompressed solids material into a first chamber, (b) subjecting said uncompressed solids to a unidirectional first compression in said first chamber and withdrawing the liquids extracted therefrom, (c) subjecting the remaining solids product of the first compression to a unidirectional second compression which is normal to the direction of the first compression and withdrawing the liquids extracted therefrom, and (d) subjecting the remaining solids product of the second compression to a unidirectional third compression which is normal to the direction of the second compression and withdrawing liquids extracted therefrom.
(a) introducing uncompressed solids material into a first chamber, (b) subjecting said uncompressed solids to a unidirectional first compression in said first chamber and withdrawing the liquids extracted therefrom, (c) subjecting the remaining solids product of the first compression to a unidirectional second compression which is normal to the direction of the first compression and withdrawing the liquids extracted therefrom, and (d) subjecting the remaining solids product of the second compression to a unidirectional third compression which is normal to the direction of the second compression and withdrawing liquids extracted therefrom.
16. The process as claimed in claim 15 wherein the steps of claim 15 are carried out on a continuous and sequential basis.
17. The process as claimed in claim 16 including a second process as claimed in claim 16, and wherein, while step (a) of the first process is taking place step (b) in the second process is taking place, while step (b) of the first process is taking place step (c) in the second process is taking place, while step (c) in the first process is taking place step (d) in the second process is taking place and while step (d) in the first process is taking place step (a) in the second process is taking place.
18. The process as claimed in claim 15, further including the steps of subjecting the remaining solids product of the first compression to at least one of steam and water prior to the second compression and subjecting the remaining solids product of the second compression to at least one of steam and hot water prior to the third compression.
19. The process as claimed in claim 18 wherein said steam and hot water include recycled extracted liquid.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000351635A CA1117851A (en) | 1980-05-09 | 1980-05-09 | Liquids extractor and process for extracting same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000351635A CA1117851A (en) | 1980-05-09 | 1980-05-09 | Liquids extractor and process for extracting same |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1117851A true CA1117851A (en) | 1982-02-09 |
Family
ID=4116910
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000351635A Expired CA1117851A (en) | 1980-05-09 | 1980-05-09 | Liquids extractor and process for extracting same |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1117851A (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITTO20111068A1 (en) * | 2011-11-21 | 2013-05-22 | Vm Press Srl | MATERIAL HANDLING MACHINE WITH WET ORGANIC CONTENT |
| US10589486B2 (en) | 2013-10-13 | 2020-03-17 | Anaergia B.V. | Device and method for pressing organic material out of waste |
| US10807124B2 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2020-10-20 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for separating particles of plastic foil and particles of organic material |
| US11033940B2 (en) | 2015-11-02 | 2021-06-15 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for processing solid waste |
| US11180391B2 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2021-11-23 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for processing solid waste |
-
1980
- 1980-05-09 CA CA000351635A patent/CA1117851A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITTO20111068A1 (en) * | 2011-11-21 | 2013-05-22 | Vm Press Srl | MATERIAL HANDLING MACHINE WITH WET ORGANIC CONTENT |
| US10807124B2 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2020-10-20 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for separating particles of plastic foil and particles of organic material |
| US11180391B2 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2021-11-23 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for processing solid waste |
| US10589486B2 (en) | 2013-10-13 | 2020-03-17 | Anaergia B.V. | Device and method for pressing organic material out of waste |
| US11458701B2 (en) | 2013-10-13 | 2022-10-04 | Anaergia B.V. | Device and method for pressing organic material out of waste |
| US11033940B2 (en) | 2015-11-02 | 2021-06-15 | Anaergia B.V. | Method and device for processing solid waste |
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