Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A spiral shaped device for thermally processing a gas stream and a method of use thereof is provided. The spiral shaped device has at least one sidewall formed into a coil; at least one spiral passage, defined by the sidewall, for directing the gas stream through the device, and having an inlet and an outlet; and a matrix of heat resistant inert media disposed in at least a portion of the device. The device is particularly useful as a recuperative flameless thermal oxidizer for oxidizing organic material contained in the gas stream or as a heat exchanger. When the device is used as a flameless thermal oxidizer, the device preferably has at least two coiled sidewalls; at least two spiral passages defined by the coiled sidewalls; a chamber located proximate to the interior ends of the coiled sidewalls for directing the gas stream from the spiral inlet passage to spiral outlet passage; and a matrix of heat resistant inert media, preferably disposed in at least the chamber. When the device is used as a heat exchanger, the device preferably has two separate loops, where one loop directs a gas stream and the second loop directs a fluid stream in and out of the device to enable heat transfer therebetween. In the method of the present invention, a gas stream is directed in the device of the present invention, and is thermally processed therein.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim