METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING LIQUID CONTAINING SOLIDS

摘要

Methods and apparatus are provided for treating liquids containing solids. Liquid is introduced into the bore of a conduit having an injection site. The liquid has a flow direction in the bore and fills the bore at locations upstream of the injection site. Froth is injected into the liquid at the injection site. The injected froth disrupts the flow of the liquid and creates a froth-liquid mixture downstream from the injection site. The froth-liquid mixture exhibits turbulent flow in the flow direction and corresponding high-intensity mixing of the froth-liquid mixture. Solids may attach to surfaces of bubbles. The attachment of the solids may be promoted by the turbulent flow of the froth-liquid mixture and the corresponding high-intensity mixing. The froth may comprise a charged material that creates a charged environment which further promotes the attachment.

主权项

1. A method for treating a liquid containing solids, the method comprising:
introducing the liquid into a conduit having a bore-defining surface which defines a bore, and an injection site for fluid injection into the bore, the liquid having a directional flow in a flow direction in the bore and the liquid filling the bore at locations upstream of the injection site; and injecting a froth into the liquid at the injection site, injecting the froth comprising:
disrupting the directional flow of the liquid; andcreating a froth-liquid mixture at locations downstream from the injection site, the froth-liquid mixture exhibiting turbulent flow in the flow direction and corresponding high-intensity mixing of the froth-liquid mixture.