Wayne Robert Bailey

US Patent:

56815093, Oct 28, 1997

Filed:

Feb 1, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/565455

Inventors:

Wayne A. Bailey - Hermosa Beach CA

Assignee:

Biomixer Corporation - Hawthorne CA

International Classification:

B01F 304

US Classification:

261 87

Abstract:

Improved apparatus and method for mixing and introducing gas into a large body of liquid. The apparatus supports and rotates a plurality of spoke-like discharge members below the surface of the liquid. The members have upwardly facing perforated discharge surfaces through which compressed gas is released up into the liquid. Preferably the members have non-porous lower portions. To counter upward "lift pump" effect forces created by the rotating members, the members are tilted with their leading edges lower than their trailing edges. The tilt of the members and the speed of rotation are balanced so that the resultant angle of attack of the liquid relative to the discharge surfaces is zero or slightly greater, for efficiently and effectively shearing the emerging gas into relatively small size bubbles. To counter the tilt of the members and maintain generally equalized flow across the width of the members, each member interior is divided into a plurality of radially extending plena, with the gas pressure in the plena being progressively greater starting at the leading edge. A control system may change (I) the depth of submergence of the discharge members to regulate dissolved gas infusion rate and (ii) speed of member rotation to maintain angle of attack.