Novel T-junction for liquid-gas separation
Previous research has demonstrated the potential of Direct Steam Generation (DSG) for making solar energy more technically and economically attractive. DSG boasts a number of benefits in comparison with conventional collector technology. However, it does pose a challenge with respect to handling the complex water-steam mixture generated by the intense heat. Engineers with the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) worked on a pilot DSG installation during INDITEP, an R&D project sponsored by the Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development Programme. They designed a prototype T-junction with an internal diameter of 5 centimetres where the exit pipe is perpendicular to the main pipe. Testing of the new T-junction in DLR's laboratory with water and air revealed an increase in separation efficiency when it is tilted slightly downwards. Furthermore, separation efficiency can be further maximised (>90%) when the inlet flow is stable and not chaotic. DLR applied for and has been granted a patent for its new T-junction. In addition to helping solar collectors produce more energy for less money, DLR's invention could also be utilised in other liquid-gas separation applications.
