Pump-driven coolant filling device and methods
A pump driven coolant filling device and corresponding methods are configured for adding liquid coolant to a coolant circuit for removing heat. The device and methods may be used with liquid coolant circuits on electronic components, or in other industries that utilize liquid coolant. The device includes a base having an integrated pump for circulating coolant to the cooling circuit. A disposable container of coolant may be attached to the base using a threaded connection. The device includes a handle with a switch for controlling operation of the pump in some embodiments. A coolant circuit includes quick connect couplings configured for attachment to corresponding hoses extending from the base. During use, a cooling circuit may continue operation while adding coolant to the cooling circuit using the device.
1. A coolant filling apparatus, comprising:
a base defining a container socket;
a pump disposed on the base opposite the container socket;
a first orifice defined in the base inside the container socket, the first orifice in fluid communication with a first filling port on the base;
a second orifice defined in the base inside the container socket, the second orifice in fluid communication with a second filling port on the base through the pump;
a power supply disposed on the base, the power supply connected to the pump and configured to provide power to the pump;
a switch operable to selectively turn the pump on and off; and
a handle attached to the base.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a first coolant hose disposed on the base connected to the first filling port; and
a second coolant hose disposed on the base connected to the second filling port.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising:
a first quick-release coupling disposed on the first coolant hose opposite the first filling port; and
a second quick-release coupling disposed on the second coolant hose opposite the second filling port.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the pump is a centrifugal pump.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 , the apparatus further comprising:
a recess defined in the base; and
a pump housing disposed inside the housing recess.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising a circuit board disposed between the power supply and the pump.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the base comprises a lower base housing and an upper base housing.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the pump is disposed in the upper base housing.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the power supply is disposed in the lower base housing.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
the container socket including a lower wall; and
a boss protruding upwardly from the bottom wall, wherein the first orifice is defined in the boss.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the second orifice is located below the first orifice.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 , further comprising a flange extending from the base.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the handle extends from the flange in spaced relation to the base.