Abstract Particles are removed from fluids, such as water, previously subjected to electrostatic fields. When subjected to an initial electrostatic treatment, the fluid undergoes a reduction in surface tension and neutralization of charged, dissolved particles therein. Subsequent field treatments effect nucleation or coagulation of dissolved impurities and break molecule clusters to aid the nucleation or coagulation action. Suspended and nucleated or coagulated matter is removed from the fluid after the electric field treatments by discharging the fluid against an electrically conductive surface at ground potential maintained at a temperature different from that of the fluid. This causes the suspended and nucleated or coagulated matter to be deposited from the fluid and thus readily permits separation and removal.
The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the particles are removed form said surface by washing the same therefrom through use of the fluid being directed against the surface, and the particles are thereupon separated from the fluid by clarification of the fluid.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method as claimed in claim 2 wherein said clarification is effected by causing the particles to settle out of the fluid into a sediment.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method as claimed in claim 3; and removing the sediment from the fluid.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the particles are removed from said surface by scraping the particles therefrom.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
64 words
The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the particles are removed from said surface in part by washing the same therefrom through use of the fluid being directed against the surface, and the particles are thereupon separated from the fluid by clarification of the fluid, and wherein the particles remaining on said surface are removed therefrom by scraping the same from said surface.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said fluid is directed to said surface in the form of a spray.