Technology Overview
The Device
The Thermal Membrane Condenser is a device that combines three functions to maximize efficiency gains. The device simultaneously acts as a condenser, a heat exchanger, and a membrane. This allows it to harvest water from humid gas streams as well as the sensible and latent heat from the gas. Recovered water can be used for boiler makeup or processes.
In a standard 1000 horsepower natural gas boiler, this can result in a 15% boost in efficiency and a 20% reduction in purchased makeup water.
Our Solution
One Patented Technology, Three Functions
Condenser
Cool water is fed through dozens of individual porous ceramic tubules spanning the width of the device. When placed in the path of the flue gas, water vapor condenses and collects on the outside of these structures. This recovery can be as great as 85% of moisture in the gas stream. Contamination of the condensate is avoided through management of the condensing temperature greater than the acid gas dew point.
Heat Exchanger
As the water flows through the ceramic tubules, they also act as an effective heat exchanger. They transfer thermal energy from both the sensible heat of the flue gas as well as the latent heat of the water vapor in the flue gas. This provides more effective heat transfer than comparable impermeable metallic heat exchangers. The result is a rise in water temperature from around 80°F up to as high as 175°F. This heated water can then be efficiently used for boiler feedwater or process water.
Membrane
The pressure gradient from the flue gas to the water inside the tubes is maintained with the tube interior slightly negative. A nano-coating on the tube exterior enhances the capillary effects of the ceramic tubes, drawing the condensed water into the tube. The result is that the outgoing water flow rate from the device is greater than the incoming water flow rate.