Steam atmosphere drying exhaust steam recompression system

Patent · Tue Mar 08 04:00:00 EST 1994

OSTI ID:5124269

Becker, F E; Smolensky, L A; Doyle, E F; DiBella, F A

This invention relates to a heated steam atmosphere drying system comprising dryer in combination with an exhaust recompression system which is extremely energy efficient and eliminates dangers known to air dryers. The system uses superheated steam as the drying medium, which recirculates through the system where its heat of evaporation and heat of compression is recovered, thereby providing a constant source of heat to the drying chamber. The dryer has inlets whereby feedstock and superheated steam are fed therein. High heat transfer and drying rates are achieved by intimate contact of the superheated steam with the particles being dried. The dryer comprises a vessel which enables the feedstock and steam to enter and recirculate together. When the feedstock becomes dry it will exit the dryer with the steam and become separated from the steam through the use of a curvilinear louver separator (CLS). The CLS enables removal of fine and ultrafine particles from the dryer. Water vapor separated from the particles in the CLS as superheated steam, may then be recovered and recirculated as steam through the use of a compressor to either directly or indirectly heat the dryer, and a heat exchanger or a heater to directly provide heat to the dryer. This system not only provides a very efficient heat transfer system but results in a minimum carry-over of ultrafine particles thereby eliminating any explosive hazard. 17 figures.

• DOE Contract Number: FC07-89ID12826
• Assignee: Tecogen, Inc., Waltham, MA (United States)
• Patent Number(s): A; US 5291668
• Application Number: PPN: US 7-863435
• OSTI ID: 5124269
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320303* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Industrial & Agricultural Processes-- Equipment & Processes
DESIGN
DRYERS
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
ENERGY RECOVERY
EQUIPMENT
HEAT RECOVERY
HEAT RECOVERY EQUIPMENT
OPERATION
PARTICLES
PARTICULATES