Corkscrew Filter Extracts Liquid From Air Charge

About this technology

Overview

Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center in collaboration with IRPI, LLC, have developed a compact inline filter that utilizes a unique multi-phase flow method to separate liquid from an incoming air charge. The filter also traps particulate matter and does so without significantly impinging upon flow velocity. Unique to the filter is a multitude of helical (corkscrew-shaped) open flow channels that are impregnated into the filter element. Due to the constant curvature of the channels, the liquid and particulates from the incoming air charge are inertially dispersed onto the channel walls using centrifugal force. Wicking material holds the liquid in place, while stepped contours within the channels also help trap particulates. Development of the filter was performed to provide the Orion Spacecraft with a method to absorb liquid water and particulates from the cabin atmosphere after a fire event and discharge of a water-based fire extinguisher. However, applications here on Earth have commercial viability for this high-flow phase separation technology. These applications may include vehicle or laboratory fire safety systems, petrochemical refining, water filtration, municipal solid waste derivatives, and wet/dry vacuum systems.