Introduction and Purpose
The EcoTurbo device for metallic cages of sleeve filters based on impulse air cleaning technology aims to simultaneously improve sustainability aspects:
- The energy consumption of the dust collector
- The efficiency of filtration and cleaning of the sleeve filter
- The lifespan of the installed devices.
Inlet and Outlet Air Flow
One of the drawbacks sometimes attributed to the traditional use of the venturi tube in sleeve filters is that, while favoring cleaning operations by improving the dust discharge phase, it limits the air outlet under operating conditions compared to the useful section of the sleeve filter diameter. This does not occur with EcoTurbo, a high-performance venturi tube both during the cleaning phase and in normal suction operation.
Utilization of the Entire Filtration Surface
The EcoTurbo device is mounted elevated on the flanged collar of the cage. It effectively extends inward into the basket. In contrast to traditional venturis riveted with internal development, EcoTurbo utilizes the space properly created between the collar and venturi to achieve the patented dual effect of enhancing the shot with indirect air input and obtaining flows in the area immediately adjacent to the device, otherwise not affected by the shot's effect.
Sustainability and Durability
The EcoTurbo device is designed for maximum durability and sustainability. It can be riveted to the support collar or bolted and easily removed for reuse on a new support. It is also made of recyclable aluminum and is safe even in environments with combustible dust, especially when associated with the Ecoatex cataforesis cage.
Enhanced Shock Wave
The design of EcoTurbo has particularly emphasized those constructive features capable of enhancing the effect of the shock wave from the compressor shot, with the declared goal of being able to discharge a larger amount of dust from the sleeve at the same pressure offered by the shot. EcoTurbo practically amplifies the peak positive pressure and depression of the shock wave by percentages up to 50%.
Dust Cake Removal
The combined effect of enhancing the peak pressure and controlling a contained shot time allows slowing down the cleaning cycles operated by the compressor, simultaneously lowering the ∆P present on average in the system with substantial advantages in energy recovery, even on the collector fan.
Advantages
- Reduced compressed air and energy consumption for valves and compressor
- Reduced fan energy consumption
- Increased air outlet flow compared to traditional venturis
- Increased sleeve filter lifespan
Characterizing Elements of the EcoTurbo System
The Venturi Tube
The EcoTurbo venturi tube is only superficially similar to other venturis. In fact, the ratio between the diameters of the various sections, lengths, and radii of curvature has been designed using CFD analysis techniques and subsequently experimentally validated. The device is patented. An important element of the patent lies in the ability to recover space to increase the size of the central throat outside the cage space, avoiding closing the air outlet section too much (section lost due to maximum values of 4% compared to available space). Therefore, the goal is to maximize the available space inside the cage for device placement. The venturi tube marked with the CleanAir logo is marked with the recyclable aluminum symbol and production lot information.
Available Models
The unique shape of EcoTurbo has been studied in three different models to adapt to tubular plates with diameters from 120 mm up to 170 mm and respective cages.
The Tag
An appropriate seat on the upper part allows the application of digital tags and beacons, such as the EcoSmart tag, the CleanAir Europe basket EAM identification solution in NFC technology.
Technology
Peak Pressure
In the following charts, a comparison is made, using CFD techniques, of the values of the peak pressure detected for the EcoTurbo venturi compared to the traditionally used Venturi. The simulation was then experimentally validated with a field test.
Research with the Polytechnic of Milan – CFD Analysis and Experimental Verification
The design of the profile of the new EcoTurbo venturi, aimed at increasing the performance of the shot management in particular, is the result of the company's collaboration with the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Measurements of the Polytechnic of Milan. The analyses, especially carried out with CFD techniques, lasted for two years until the presentation of the device on the market. The analyses concluded with experimental validation confirming the validity of the CFD techniques used to study the peak pressure field of the shot.
European Patent
EcoTurbo devices are patented with European patent application No.230060/EP and two Italian prior rights numbers 102023000002421 of 13.02.23 and number 102023000015945 of 28.7.23. In particular, the patent emphasizes the innovative function of:
- The slots on the device to increase the flow of indirect air sucked during cleaning
- Ratios between the different throats of the venturi tube and the internal diameter of the support collar (and therefore of the tubular plate)
- The maximum percentage of space (internal light) subtracted from the useful section of the sleeve during emission.
Ecoturbo - Venturi Patent
Funded by the Regional Program under the European Regional Development Fund 2021/2027 of the Lombardy Region PR FESR 2021-2027
Action: 1.1.4. "Development and protection of the innovative capacity of the business system"
Announcement: Patents 2023
Beneficiary: CLEAN AIR EUROPE S.R.L.
Description: “Ecoturbo-Venturi” revolutionizes the cleaning of industrial sleeve filters.
This innovative device, based on pulse jet technology and a new Venturi diffuser design, offers:
- Unprecedented energy efficiency: optimizes airflow and boosts the shock wave, significantly reducing compressor consumption.
- Thorough and complete cleaning: dust is radically removed from the entire filter surface, extending its lifespan and maximizing efficiency.
With EcoTurbo-Venturi, cleaning sleeve filters becomes more economical, effective, and sustainable.
To finance the extension of the European patent of the industrial invention, an application for a non-repayable grant in the form of a lump sum was submitted to the Lombardy Region, which concluded successfully with the receipt of the research report in the second quarter of 2024 by the EPO.
Total amount: € 7,100.00.
Grant awarded: € 6,390.00.
Return on Investment
In the face of a slight initial cost increase due to the enlargement of the device, once installed, EcoTurbo provides a very rapid return on investment with significant savings over time, starting from the first year compared to the traditional solution. Substantial reductions in energy consumption of the compressor and valves, compressed air savings, and reduced power used by the fan characterize the solution.
Applications
Steel and Metals
Cement
Chemical Industry
Waste-to-Energy Plants
Food Industry
Waste Treatment
Agricultural Industry
