FLUID STERILIZATION APPARATUS

摘要

Apparatus for treating water or other fluid with radiant energy from an ultraviolet lamp (90) includes a helical shaped input fluid flow guide or helical ramp (60) disposed at or near one end an elongated annular chamber around the lamp. The guide or ramp serves to impart input spiral flow momentum to the fluid upon entry to the chamber. A corresponding output fluid flow guide or helical ramp (70) may be disposed at or near the opposed end of the chamber to impart output spiral flow momentum to the fluid as it approaches discharge from the chamber. Spiral flow serves to extend the time that the fluid is exposed to ultraviolet light and thereby increases the probability that any microbiological contaminants present in the fluid will be killed. The use helical shaped guides or ramps better serves to establish such a flow in circumstances where the available fluid pressure is relatively low.