FLUID TREATMENT SYSTEM AND PROCESS

摘要

A fluid treatment system includes one or more radiation sources arranged in an irradiation zone within a treatment zone through which fluid to be treated passes and is irradiated. The irradiation zone has a closed cross-section to maintain the fluid within a predefined maximum distance from the radiation source. Preferably, the irradiation zone comprises a reduced cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of fluid flaw and thus the fluid flow velocity is increased through the irradiation zone. This allows the fluid to enter the treatment zone at relatively law speed, traverse the irradiation zone at high speed and exit the treatment zone again at relatively low speed to minimize the loss of hydraulic head throughout the system. Fluid entering the treatment zone passes through an inlet transition region wherein the cross-sectional area is reduced prior to entering the irradiation zone and fluid exiting the irradiation zone passes through an outlet transition region wherein the cross-sectional area is increased. Each transition region is designed to reduce hydraulic head losses as the fluid flow velocity is increased and decreased. In the irradiation zone, radiation sources are mounted on radiation modules which are arranged to provide improved accessibility for maintenance. The radiation modules may also be provided with cleaning assemblies which are operable to remove materials fouling the radiation sources in situ while the radiation sources are in the irradiation zone.