(77c) The Use of a Controlled Cavitation Reactor for Process Intensification

Hydro Dynamics, Inc. of Rome, GA utilizes an innovative next generation reactor technology based upon "controlled cavitation" called the ShockWave Power Reactor (SPR). The SPR works by taking a fluid, pure or impure, into the machine housing, where it is passed over the generator's spinning cylinder. The specific geometry of cavities in the cylinder and rotational speed create pressure differences within the liquid where tiny bubbles form and collapse. These collapsing bubbles generate shock waves that are used to heat and mix. These bubbles collapse only inside the cavities and away from the metal surfaces and are therefore not damaging to the equipment, the cavitation is controlled. For heating applications this means that a liquid can be heated with no heat transfer surfaces or temperature gradient, eliminating scaling and scorching. In the case of mixing, the shock waves increase the surface area of the compounds being mixed so that a higher mass transfer rate occurs. The technology can be used on liquid-liquid, liquid-solid and liquid-gas systems with gas to liquid ratios as high as five to one. Because of the process intensification, many traditional batch processes can be converted to continuous. Cavitation provides a unique mechanism of mixing not found in standard shear devices.

"Controlled cavitation" can be applied to any industry where increased mass transfer and process intensification are desired. The SPR can be utilized in the biodiesel transesterification reaction to provide high yields and quality in decreased reaction time. The SPR is also an excellent gas-liquid mixer and has been proven in laboratory and mill trials to greatly enhance oxidation. The technology also finds great utility in the manufacture of consumer products, as it easily mixes very thick and viscous fluids. Enhancements to the controlled cavitation technology also allow for the use of UV and electrochemistry with the process intensification.