Structures for normalizing multi-planar flow distribution within an electrochemical separation system
A module comprises a cell stack having a plurality of alternating ion depleting compartments and ion concentrating compartments, an inlet manifold configured to facilitate a flow of fluid into the cell stack, and a first flow distribution system, associated with the inlet manifold, including a first ramp to promote the circulation of the flow of fluid into the cell stack.
1. A method of facilitating uniform fluid flow distribution in an electrochemical separation apparatus having a cell stack comprising a plurality of alternating ion depleting compartments and ion concentrating compartments, the method comprising:
providing a first flow distribution system in fluid communication with the cell stack, the first flow distribution system comprising a plurality of radially spaced baffles and a plurality of first ramps to promote vertical redirection of fluid flow from a bottom plane of the cell stack to a top plane of the cell stack.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing an inlet manifold associated with the first flow distribution system.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein providing the first flow distribution system comprises inserting the first flow distribution system into the inlet manifold.
4. The method of claim 2 , wherein providing the first flow distribution system is formed by injection molding.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein providing a plurality of radially spaced baffles comprises providing at least one of ribs and teeth.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of first ramps are spaced to define first grooves.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing an outlet manifold in fluid communication with the electrochemical separation apparatus.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising providing a second flow distribution system associated with the outlet manifold.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein providing the second flow distribution system comprises inserting the second flow distribution system into the outlet manifold.
10. The method of claim 8 , wherein providing the second flow distribution system is formed by injection molding.