This disclosure relates to a refiner device for refining oil or fuel comprising a support substrate having a point heat source with a set temperature. The support substrate of the device is configured and arranged in a housing to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source by transporting the oil or fuel on a surface of the support substrate. The refiner device may be installed in various industrial applications and/or hydraulic applications. In addition, the refiner may be installed and used for refining oil such as lubrication oil or hydraulic oil or fuel such as biofuel. The disclosure also relates to a refiner device assembly comprising a refiner device for refining oil or fuel.

BACKGROUND ART

When operating internal combustion engines and hydraulic-mechanical devices, lubricating oil and hydraulic oil, respectively, is used. In addition, internal combustion engines are usually powered by energy-dense liquid fuel such as e.g. mineral fuel, petrol, diesel oil, i.e. liquids derived from fossil fuels, and/or bio fuels. When the internal combustion engine is operated, the lubricating oil that lubricates the engine becomes contaminated with non-combusted fuel, water, cooling agents such as glycol and/or substances from the fuel combustion. Hydraulic oil, as is used in various hydraulic-mechanical devices, is not subject to any combustion process. However, this type of oil is typically contaminated in a similar way as lubrication oil. In this type of applications, the oil absorbs water from air humidity and condensation in the tank, or from water penetrating the system at change-overs or when cleaning. Thus, there is a desire to refine or clean the oil from unwanted substances without replacing the oil in the device.

In some oil cleaning devices, which are adapted for cleaning lubricating oil in internal combustion engines, the device may include a particle filter that initially cleans the oil from particles and a liquid separation part intended for separating liquid in the form of water and fuel from the particle free oil. The liquid separation part can be provided in several different ways, e.g. as a substantially dome shaped heating plate. The heat plate may typically be shaped and arranged so that the oil remains on the heating plate for a certain period of time. In this manner, the complete oil film is brought to a temperature, by the heating plate, where the liquid can evaporate from the oil which remains on the plate. US 8 377263 B2 discloses one example of a device for regenerating oil, in which the device comprises a heat source, a support substrate and a transportation device. This type of device is based on the principle of heating e.g. hydraulic oil within a period of time to ensure that an appropriate level of evaporation of water can occur at a high flow rate. To this end, the device makes use of the fact that oil and water have different boiling temperatures.

Another problem relates to the fact that the outdoor temperature often differs in different climates and in different parts of the world, which affects the temperature of the oil entering the liquid separation part. Cold conditions give colder oil and further energy is therefore required in order for the oil to reach the right temperature. Warm conditions, on the other hand, give warmer oil requiring the heat from the heat plate to be regulated to compensate the heat increase in order for the oil not to reach too high temperature. A properly working regulating arrangement for the heat plate is thus necessary for a properly working system. Such a regulating arrangement comprises thermostats and other regulators comprising moving parts which in this context is a possible cause for malfunction, causing limited useful life, and often undesired high oil temperatures. Such a regulating arrangement is also expensive and hard to install.

Despite the activity in the field, there remains a need for an improved refiner device for refining contaminated oil or fuel. In particular, there is a need for an improved refiner device that easily can be installed and used in existing systems such as industrial applications, hydraulic applications or the like.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE An object of the present disclosure is to provide an improved refiner device for oil or fuel and to further improve the evaporation of contamination from the oil or fuel. This object is at least partly achieved by the features of claim 1.

The disclosure concerns a refiner device for refining contaminated oil or fuel. The refiner device comprises a housing defining an interior volume and having an inlet for receiving oil or fuel, a conduit for release of the refined oil or fuel, an air inlet for receiving air, an air discharge opening.

The refiner device further comprises a support substrate having a point heat source with a set temperature. The support substrate is configured and arranged in the housing to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source by

transporting the oil or fuel on a surface of the support substrate. Moreover, the set temperature of the point heat source amounts to an operating temperature that, at an interface between the point heat source and the oil, corresponds to a predetermined maximum allowed oil or fuel temperature which, with respect to the retention time the oil or fuel is exposed to the point heat source, allows the contamination to be at least partially evaporated.

In addition, the refiner device further comprises an air flow controller configured for supplying air to the interior volume of the housing and/or controlling a characteristics of the air entering the interior volume of the housing.

In this manner, there is provided a refiner device for refining oil or fuel, in which the process of refining the oil or fuel is improved by optimizing the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel by adding air into the process and typically actively controlling a characteristics of the air entering the interior volume, whilst the contaminated oil or fuel is subjected to an immediate heating by the point heat source, thus prevented from being damaged or burnt. The contamination here typically refers to liquid contaminations such as hydrocarbons, non-combusted fuel, water, cooling agent and substances from the fuel combustion.

By the provision that the air flow controller is configured for supplying air to the interior volume of the housing, it is believed that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency, as further described herein.

By the provision that the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. As will be further described below, the air controller can be configured to control a characteristics of the air flow in several different ways. Hereby, the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. In other words, by a refiner device according to example embodiments in which the air flow controller is configured for supplying air to the interior volume of the housing and configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing, it becomes possible to supply air and to adjust the operation of the air controller so as to optimize the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel in terms of speed and efficiency for various types of oil and fuel and for various types of installments and operational conditions of the system.

The refiner device according to example embodiments is configured to continuously eliminate liquid contaminations in lubricating and hydraulic oils while an engine/machine is operating. In particular, the refiner device is capable of reducing free and dissolved liquid in hydraulic oils well below 100 PPM. Analogously, the refiner device is capable of reducing free and dissolved liquid in lubrications oils well below 200 PPM, still preferably well below 100 PPM.

Due to the configuration of the refiner device, as mentioned above, it becomes possible to provide a device which is simple, yet effective, whilst decreasing maintenance needs to a minimum, thus enabling an economic operation in hydraulic and industrial applications.

The refiner may be installed and used for refining oil such as lubrication oil or hydraulic oil or fuel such as mineral-based fuel, biofuel or the like. Hence, the term "oil" as used herein typically refers to lubrication oil or hydraulic oil. Further, the term "fuel" as used herein typically refers to mineral-based fuel such as diesel fuel and/or biofuel. Thus, in one example, the refiner device is intended for refining lubrication oil. In another example, the refiner device is intended for refining hydraulic oil. In yet another example, the refiner device is intended for refining mineral-based fuel such as diesel fuel. In yet another example, the refiner device is intended for refining biofuel.

The refiner device may be installed in various industrial applications and/or hydraulic applications. In one example embodiment, the refiner device is intended to be operatively connected to e.g. an internal combustion engine for cleaning of lubricating oil. In addition, or alternatively, the refiner device is intended to be operatively connected to a hydraulic machine for cleaning of hydraulic oil.

By way of example, the refiner device may be installed and used for refining lubrication oil in engines, refining hydraulic oil in engines, engines operated with biofuels, refining hydraulic oils in stationary installations, refining hydraulic oils in mobile installations such as construction equipment, forestry equipment, agricultural and marine equipment or the like. In an example when the refiner device is intended for fuel such as biofuels, the refiner device may further be capable of facilitating the conversion to biofuels by minimizing the deterioration of oils caused by biofuels.

Further the refiner device may be operated continuously. Hereby, the refiner device continuous operation minimizes the need for stops due to oil change. In addition, the refiner device provides the advantages of reducing the number of oil changes, thus typically keeping maintenance costs to a minimum. Also, in contrast to other hitherto known devices operating by means of a filter, which frequently requires a change of filter to work effectively, the refiner device according to the example embodiments is provided without a filter, thus typically further reducing maintenance costs in view of existing device.

By the provision that the device is configured to use a point heat source, the oil or fuel is suppl ied with energy such that contaminations can evaporate from the oil or fuel . In addition, by the provision that the device comprises a point heat source, it becomes possible to allow for an immediate heating of the contamination in the oil when the oil or fuel comes in contact with the point heat source without having the oil destroyed, burnt and stuck.

Immediate heating here means that the surface temperature on the point heat source always corresponds to the maximum allowed oil temperature in respect of retention-time. This result in that at least a thin layer of the oil being in contact with the point heat source essentially immediately reaches maximum oil temperature at which the contamination at least partially is evaporated. After that, the oil is typically transported away from the point heat source such that the oil no longer is subject to heating. This gives the advantage that the retention-time for the oil at the point source becomes minimal, giving possibilities for a high temperature.

It is to be noted that the maximum allowed oil temperature typically depends on the retention period of the oil at the point heat source, i.e. the time period the oil is exposed to the heat, and the composition of the oil. Further, without being bound by any theory, it is believed that oil generally can withstand a high temperature during a short period better than a lower temperature during a long period. In this context, a lower temperature means a temperature above a specific oil temperature at which the oil starts to be damaged by the temperature in combination with the time.

Accordingly, the point heat source and the interface between the point heat source and the oil, and not the oil itself, has the predetermined maximum al lowed oil temperature.

It should be readily appreciated that the term "maximum allowed oil temperatu re" is a definition of a temperature that is dependent on the type of oil or fuel used.

Typical ly, the predetermined maximum allowed oil temperature is substantially higher than a specific temperature at which the oil or fuel starts to degrade, or be damaged, irrespective of the retention time the oil is exposed to the at least one point source of heat. In this context, a degraded or damaged oil or fuel refers to that the chemical and/or physical properties of the liquid medium are greatly changed to a critical level. As an example, the viscosity of the lubricating oil may be greatly reduced.

In this context, the term "specific temperature" refers to a temperature at which the oil or fuel starts to be degraded or damaged independent of the retention time over the point heat source.

As the oil flows over the point heat source, the maximum al lowed temperature is al lowed to be h igher than the specific temperature due to the short retention time over the point heat source. To this end, as the set temperature of the point heat source amounts (is set) to an operating temperature that, at an interface between the point heat source and the oil, corresponds to a predetermined maximum allowed oil or fuel temperature, the set temperature of the point heat source is higher than the specific temperature, as defined above. One advantage by having a temperature of the point heat source which is higher than the specific temperature at which the oil starts to be damaged and by having a flow over the point heat source, is that the oil is exposed to heat for a short time such that the contaminations can evaporate, whilst the oil takes little or no damage due to the short retention time over the point heat source.

This is contrary to other oil cleaning systems relating to the use of long retention times to heat the oil in order to allow the evaporation of contaminations or systems in which a large portion of oil is heated in the heating cham ber before the oil is passed over the outer su rface. Th is means that a large volume of oil is exposed to heat for a long time, thereby damaging the oil in the process. Typically, although not strictly required, the air flow controller is operably connected to the air inlet. In this manner, the characteristics of the air is controlled in a simple and effective manner prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. However, it is to be noted that the air flow controller may be installed or operably connected to other parts of the refiner device as long as the air flow controller is capable of controlling the characteristics of the air flow.

In some design variants, the air flow controller may in addition, or alternatively, be operably connected to an air pump or the like. It should be readily appreciated that the air flow controller may also be configured to initiate the initial flow of air into the interior volume of the housing. Further, the air flow controller may likewise be configured to determine when the flow of air into the interior volume of the housing should be terminated, e.g. when the process of refining oil or fuel is completed.

Typically, the air flow controller is configured for supplying compressed air. As an example, the air flow controller is configured for supplying compressed air with an air flow of about 2-10 litre per minute. That is, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 2-10 litre per minute. Typically, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 2-10 litre per minute. Still preferably, the air flow controller is configured for supplying compressed air with an air flow of about 3-8 litre per minute. That is, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 3-8 litre per minute. The air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus typically 3-8 litre per minute. Still preferably, the air flow controller is configured for supplying compressed air with an air flow of about 4-6 litre per minute. That is, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 4-6 litre per minute. The air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus typically 4-6 litre per minute. It is to be noted that the above ranges are typically for a refiner device having an inner volume of about 60 - 150 cm ³ ; still preferably, a refiner device having an inner volume of about 80 - 130 cm ³ , still preferably, a refiner device having an inner volume of about 100 - 120 cm ³ . The ultimate inner volume is also dependent on the size of other components in the housing such as the support substrate. In this context, the term "compressed air" typically refers to air having a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure. By using compressed air, the vapour holding capacity of the air is increased, thus compressed air further enhances the effect of capturing and transporting the contaminations as mentioned herein. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the air temperature rise as the air is compressed, which further contributes to improving the vapour holding capacity of the air. Compressed air is particularly useful when the contaminations in the oil or fuel relates to water because compressed air can keep a high level of water vapour.

Thus, the air controller may include a compressed air source, or an air supply that is coupled to a compressed air source.

In addition, or alternatively, the air flow controller is configured for supplying air with a low relative humidity. By way of example, the air flow controller is configured for supplying air with less than 50% relative humidity. In addition, or alternatively, the air flow controller is configured for supplying compressed air with a low relative humidity, preferably less than 50% relative humidity.

In another example, the air flow controller is configured for supplying air with less than 40% relative humidity. In another example, the air flow controller is configured for supplying air with less than 30% relative humidity. In another example, the air flow controller is configured for supplying air with less than 20% relative humidity.

Further, in this context, it has been observed that supplying compressed air with a low relative humidity into the device is particularly useful for further optimizing the process of refining oil or fuel by a refiner device using a point heat source as mentioned above. By way of example, the characteristics of the air flow corresponds to any one of air pressure, air temperature, air flow, air velocity, and humidity.

Typically, as mentioned above, the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume is controlled so that the air entering the interior volume is compressed air. However, it is to be noted that the refiner device may also use ambient air in some design variants. Thus, the air entering the interior volume entering the housing may be ambient air.

Thus, in one example, the air controller is configured for regulating the pressure of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. In addition, or alternatively, the air controller is configured for regulating the temperature of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the

contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

In addition, or alternatively, the air controller is configured for regulating the air flow of air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

In addition, or alternatively, the air controller is configured for regulating the humidity of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristic of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. Thus, by way of example, the characteristics of the air flow corresponds to any one of air pressure, air temperature, air flow, air velocity, and humidity. As an example, the air temperature is controlled to be about 0-60 degrees Celsius. Typically, the air temperature is close to 60 degrees Celsius, still preferably equal to 60 degrees Celsius.

As an example, the air flow is controlled to be about 2-10 litre per minute. That is, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 2-10 litre per minute.

Typically, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 2-10 litre per minute. Still preferably, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 3-8 litre per minute. Still preferably, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 4-6 litre per minute.

As an example, the humidity is controlled to be about 5-50% relative humidity, still preferably, the humidity is controlled to be about 5-20% relative humidity. Typically, the characteristics of the air flow, i.e. air pressure, air temperature, air flow in volume unit, air velocity, and humidity are set relative to each other.

In one example embodiment, the distribution and direction of the air inside the housing is controlled. As an example, the device may comprise an adjustable nozzle configured for distributing and directing the air inside the housing. Typically the adjustable nozzle is arranged at the air inlet.

In one example embodiment, the refiner device comprises an adjustable nozzle configured for directing the air towards the support substrate of the refiner device. In this manner, the air is allowed to sweep over the surface of the support substrate, thereby further enhancing the transportation of contaminations from the oil or fuel. Typically, the nozzle is directed towards the support substrate with an angle different than a right angle with respect to the surface of the support substrate in order to reduce the risk of having fuel or oil splash within the refiner device. In other words, the nozzle is directed towards the support substrate with an angle so that the air flow meets the surface of the support substrate with either an acute or obtuse angle.

To further improve the evaporation of contaminations from the oil or fuel, the oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing can be pre-heated. By way of example, the oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing is pre-heated oil or fuel having a temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably a temperature of about 50 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably a temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees Celsius.

It has been observed that pre-heating the oil or fuel to a temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius is particularly useful for optimizing the process of refining oil or fuel by a refiner device using a point heat source as mentioned above because the point heat source(s) may typically not itself be configured to increase the temperature of the oil or fuel from a very low temperature to the desired temperature as discussed herein.

In one example embodiment, the refiner device further comprises an oil or fuel flow controller operably connected to the inlet for receiving the oil or fuel, and configured for controlling the amount of oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing. The oil or fuel flow controller may also be configured for controlling the temperature of the oil entering the interior volume of the housing. In other words, the refiner device may in some design variants further comprises a flow controller for the oil or fuel being configured to control a characteristics of the oil or fuel such as the amount of oil or fuel, the velocity of the oil or fuel, or the temperature of the oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing. In this manner, the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. For instance, it has been found that a high velocity of the oil flow entering the support substrate typically contributes to a thick oil film over the surface of the support substrate, whilst a low velocity of the oil flow typically contributes to a thin oil film over the surface of the support substrate.

In one example embodiment, the support substrate is arranged in the housing to bring oil or fuel in contact with the point heat source by gravity. That is, the oil or fuel is typically transported within the refiner device by gravity and due to the shape of the support substrate.

The design of the support substrate together with the gravitation makes the oil flow along the surface of the support substrate and, due to its motion, be brought in contact with the point source.

By way of example, the point heat source is a semiconductor such as positive temperature coefficient (PCT) semiconductor. In one example, the PCT semiconductor is a PCT stone. In one example embodiment, the semiconductor is a point heat source element such as heating pipe. Thus, according to an embodiment, the point heat source is constituted of a semiconductor. A semiconductor allows for bringing and maintaining the operating temperature of the point heat source to a correct and constant level. Another advantage with using semiconductors is that regulation of the temperature of the point heat source depending on different conditions becomes optimally simple by only increasing or decreasing the current to the semiconductors.

One example of a type of semiconductor is a positively temperature dependent resistor, a so-called PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient). Other types of possible semiconductors are NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) giving current limitation but which also generates heat. A combination of the two types is also possible. Further, the point heat source may be provided in the form of a heating pipe.

In the context of the example embodiments, the point heat source typically has an area of maximum 12 square centimeters, still preferably, an area of maximum 5 square centimeters, still preferably, an area of maximum 3 square centimeters, still preferably an area of maximum 2 square centimeters. Although the dimensions of the point heat source may vary depending on installation, use and type of oil to be refined as long as the point heat source is capable of proving the type of heat as described above.

Typically, the area of the point heat source is a part of the area of the support substrate.

In one example embodiment, the device further comprises a transportation device including the support substrate being configured to support the point heat source. In this example, the

transportation device is configured to transport the oil or fuel on a surface of the support substrate. To this end, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the transportation device comprises the support substrate supporting the point heat source. The support substrate is heat conducting and the interface includes the contact surface between the support substrate and the oil. The point heat source in this case is integrated into the support substrate which means that the oil is brought in contact with the point heat source via the support substrate. To compensate for the transportation loss of heat from the point heat source through the support substrate to the interface, the point heat source can be required to be brought to a temperature exceeding the evaporation temperature, but the temperature at the interface corresponds to the evaporation temperature of the contamination.

In one example embodiment, the air controller further comprises a pre-heating mechanism operable to pre-heat the air to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device.

In one example embodiment, the device further comprises a pre-heating mechanism operable to preheat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. When the refiner device comprises the pre-heating mechanism for pre-heating the oil, the oil may be pre-heated to a first temperature of about 40-60 degrees Celsius, still preferably to a first temperature of about 50-60 degrees Celsius.

A further advantage with the example embodiments of the disclosure may be that the regulation of the point heat source is not necessary, as the size of the point source allows for keeping the temperature steady, i.e. that the temperature is constant. The lack of regulating arrangement of the point heat source gives a low cost device easy to apply, and which minimizes the risk for a too high temperature.

Typically, although not strictly necessary, the set temperature of the point heat source is constant.

As the point heat source can be kept at a constant temperature, the refiner device according to the example embodiments can be used at high flow rates giving a continuous high degree of purity of the oil because the oil circulation can be kept high. In one example embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of spaced arranged point heat sources.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the device comprises at least two point heat sources. The refiner device can of course comprise a large number of point heat sources, depending on the amount of oil to be refined or the desired degree of purity. The oil can then be transported from a point heat source to another point source, so that the oil or fuel is at each point heat source subjected to maximum allowed oil or fuel temperature with respect to retention-time. The number of point heat sources should, however, not be that many per area unit such that the oil continuously is affected by the same temperature resulting in the total retention-time becomes too long. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the different point heat sources may have different temperatures depending on their location. Where the flow rate is high, the temperature is high and where the flow rate is low the temperature is correspondingly low. An advantage with this is that the oil is always heated to its maximum allowed temperature depending on the given retention-time. The support substrate is typically heat conductive. Hence, the material of support substrate is typically a heat conductive material.

Typically, although not strictly necessary, the interface includes the contact surface between the support substrate and the oil.

In one design variant, the interface consists of the contact surface between the support substrate and the oil. In this variant, the point heat source is arranged immediately under the contact surface.

As mentioned herein, the provision relating to having an interface between the point heat source and the oil (or fuel) is that the point heat source never is in direct contact with the oil or fuel.

The support substrate may have several different shapes depending on the design and use of the refiner device. In some design variants, the support substrate comprises at least one of a group consisting of a substantially conical unit, a convex unit, and a stair shaped unit.

The support substrate can have optional geometry, e.g. circular, oval, triangular, square-shaped, multi- edged, or a combination of the geometries mentioned as long as the support substrate is designed so that the point heat source is allowed to transfer a sufficiently amount of heat to refine the oil or fuel in a satisfactory manner. The refiner device may typically, although not strictly required, comprise electrical connections for power to the point source. Thus, the refiner device may include an electrical connector.

In some design variants, the support substrate may be a waterproof unit where the oil is flowing on the surface of the waterproof unit. The support substrate can consist of a liquid pervious unit where the oil can flow freely through the support substrate as long as no direct contact is made with the point heat source.

Typically, the refiner device is installed such that gravitation distributes the oil symmetrically or asymmetrically over the support substrate. The oil regeneration device can thus be installed straight or inclined in relation to a vertical line.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the support substrate consists of a vertical construction wherein the point heat source is positioned on a vertical wall at the side of the support substrate. In this example, the oil enters the interior volume of the refiner device and is directed or sprinkled towards the vertical wall, i.e. 90° in relation to gravitation, wherein heating up of the contamination is carried out instantaneous at contact with the point heat source, whereupon the oil due to gravity is transported away from the support substrate along the vertical wall. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the support substrate comprises a roof construction where the point heat source is located beneath contact surface of the support substrate as seen in a vertical direction. The present disclosure also concerns a refiner device assembly comprising a refiner device according to any one of example embodiments as mentioned above and a pre-heater device fluidly connected to the refiner device. The pre-heater device is configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. The pre-heater device is operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. In one design variant, the pre-heater device is installed remote from the refiner device and operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. The oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing should be pre-heated to a temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably heated to a temperature of about 50 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably heated to a temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees Celsius. In other words, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius. Still preferably, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50 - 80 degrees Celsius. Still preferably, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees Celsius. If the oil is hydraulic oil, it has been observed that an oil temperature of about 45-60 degrees Celsius typically results in an optimal temperature of the hydraulic oil entering the interior volume of the housing. Thus, in one example, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 45-60 degrees Celsius. If the oil is lubrication oil, it has also been observed that an oil temperature of about 50-80 degrees Celsius typically results in an optimal temperature of the lubrication oil entering the interior volume of the housing. Thus, in another example, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50-80 degrees Celsius. It should be readily appreciated that the refiner device of the refiner device assembly in this example may be provided according to any one of example embodiments, design variants, features or functions as mentioned above. Typically, the pre-heater device comprises a heating element such as a point heat source, as mentioned above with respect to the point heat source of the refiner device.

In one example embodiment, the air is controlled so that the air entering the interior volume is compressed air and the oil or fuel is pre-heated to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device, preferably to a first temperature corresponding to about 40-80 degrees Celsius. In this manner, the assembly enables an optimized refining of oil or fuel in a refiner device using a support substrate with a point heat source. In addition, the assembly provides optimal conditions for refining oil or fuel both with respect to the fuel or oil entering the device and the interior volume of the device, which also enables a minimal regulation of the point heat source of the refiner device. The lack of regulating arrangement of the point heat source gives a low cost device being easy to apply, and that also minimizes the risk for a too high temperature of the oil or fuel being refined in the device.

According to one example, the refiner device assembly further comprises a pump arrangement and a conduit connectable to an industrial application such as an internal combustion engine, hydraulic machine or the like, wherein the pump arrangement is operably connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the industrial application to the refiner device.

According to one example embodiment, the refiner device assembly further comprises a particle filter arranged between the pump arrangement and the pre-heater device. By way of example, the refiner device assembly may be part of a by-pass system.

The present disclosure also concerns a system comprises a refiner device according to any one of the example embodiments, design variants, features or functions as mentioned above, a pump arrangement and a conduit connectable to an industrial application such as an internal combustion engine, hydraulic machine or the like. The pump arrangement is operably connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the industrial application to the refiner device.

The pump arrangement is configured for pumping the oil or fuel from the industrial application to the refiner device.

In one example, the application is a container for oil or fuel, wherein the container is connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the container to the refiner device. The application may also be an industrial combustion engine or a hydraulic machine.

In one example, the system is a by-pass system comprises a refiner device according to any one of example embodiments, design variants, features or functions as mentioned above.

In addition, the by-pass system may comprise the pre-heating mechanism for the oil, as mentioned above. In addition, the by-pass system may comprise a control unit for operating the by-pass system. Typically, the by-pass system may also include a power source, such as an electrical engine or the like. The components of the by-pass system may be provided on a sheet material, such as a steel sheet material and provided as an integral module.

In addition, or alternatively, the refiner device may comprise the pump arrangement for oil. The pump arrangement may be run by the oil pressure in the machine coupled to the refiner device. The pump arrangement can consist of a set of gearwheels on the primary side run by the oil pressure of the machine and where the primary side runs a secondary side pumping oil to the device. In the case with an internal combustion engine, the advantage with a pump arrangement run by oil pressure is that the device may be independent of the pressure status of the engine/crankcase.

Further features of, and advantages with, the disclosure will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following description. The skilled person realize that different features of the disclosure may be combined to create embodiments other than those described in the following, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various example embodiments of the disclosure, including its particular features and example advantages, will be readily understood from the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. la is a perspective view of a first example embodiment of a refiner device according to the disclosure, wherein the refiner device is in an assembled configuration; Fig. lb is a top view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in Fig. la;

Fig. lc is a side view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in Fig. la;

Fig. 2a is a cross-sectional view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in Figs, la-lc;

Fig. 2b schematically illustrates a more detailed view of a support substrate of a refiner device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the support substrate has a point heat source;

Fig. 2c is a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment of a refiner device;

Fig. 3a-3c schematically illustrate example embodiments of a refiner device assembly comprising a refiner device according to an example embodiment of the disclosure;

Fig. 3d schematically illustrates a by-pass system comprising a refiner device or refiner device assembly according to an example embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a system including a container and a refiner device assembly according to various example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the

accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiment set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness. Like reference characters refer to like elements throughout the description. For purposes of description herein the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal,", "longitudinal," and derivatives thereof relate to the example embodiment of the disclosure as oriented in e.g. fig. la. However, it is to be understood that the example embodiments may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the examples illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the appended claims expressly state otherwise.

In figs, la-lc an example embodiment of a refiner device 1 according the disclosure is shown. This example refiner device 1 is suitable for refining lubrication oil in an engine (not shown), such as an internal combustion engine or the like. The refiner device 1 is intended to be operatively connected to e.g. an internal combustion engine for cleaning of lubricating oil. As the components and

characteristics of an internal combustion engine are well-known in the art, no further details are described herein.

The refiner device may be form a refiner device assembly. Some example embodiments of a refiner device assembly are shown in Figs. 3a-3c. The refiner device assembly may be connected to an industrial application or a hydraulic application.

By way of an example, the refiner device or refiner device assembly may be included in a by-pass system connected to an industrial application or a hydraulic application. One example of a by-pass system is shown in Fig. 3d. When the internal combustion engine is operated, the lubricating oil that lubricates the engine becomes contaminated with non-combusted fuel, water, refrigerant and substances from the fuel combustion. Also, it is to be noted that although the following description has been made on refiner device for refining lubrication oil, it is to be noted that the example embodiments described herein may likewise be implemented in a refiner device for refining hydraulic oil or fuel such as biofuel. Thus, the refiner device may be installed in various industrial applications and/or hydraulic applications. In addition, or alternatively, the refiner device 1 is intended to be operatively connected to a hydraulic machine for cleaning of hydraulic oil.

Hydraulic oil is contaminated in a similar way as lubrication oil, although is not subject to any combustion process. On the other hand, hydraulic oil is subject to the oil absorbing water from air humidity and condensation in the tank or from water penetrating the system at change-overs or when cleaning.

In view of the aforesaid, there is provided a refiner device, as described herein, in order to refine (sometimes also denoted "clean") the oil from unwanted substances (i.e. contaminations) without replacing the oil in the device.

Typically, although not strictly necessary, the refiner device 1 is here operated continuously. Hereby, the refiner device continuous operation minimizes the need for stops due to oil change.

Turning now to Figs, la to lc, and 2a to 2b, an example embodiment of a refiner device is illustrated. Fig. la is a perspective view of a first example embodiment of a refiner device according to the disclosure, wherein the refiner device is in an assembled configuration, whilst fig. lb is a top view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in fig. la and fig. lc is a side view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in Fig. la. The interior of the refiner device shown in figs, la-lc is further described in conjunction to figs. 2a-2c

In this example embodiment, the refiner comprises a housing 5 defining an interior volume 11 (as illustrated in e.g. fig. 2a). The housing 5 in this example embodiment has an extension in the longitudinal (horizontal) direction X, an extension in the transverse direction Y and an extension in the vertical direction Z. The X-and Y-directions are sometimes generically called lateral directions. The device 1 is typically installed in a horizontal orientation in e.g. an industrial application (not shown). It should be readily appreciated that the directions are only provided for ease of understanding, and refers to the directions of the device 1 and the housing 5 when the device is installed in an essentially plane configuration. In other words, the directions may not be essentially horizontal and vertical in a configuration when the device (and the housing) is installed in an angled position. Alternatively, the device can be installed in an essentially vertical orientation in the industrial application. As such, the directions should be construed to refer to the directions of the device when the device is in an essentially plane installation in the industrial application of the device. The shape of the housing is in this example embodiment a three-dimensional shape having an oval or a circular cross-section as defined in the directions X and Y and an essentially triangular cross-section as seen in the directions X and Z. However, other shapes are conceivable such as a three-dimensional shape having a circular cross-section, i.e. a cylinder. It is even possible that the shape of the housing is provided in the form of a bowl.

The housing 5 here comprises an upper part 51 and a lower part 52. The upper part and the lower part are connected, but may be releasable connected in order to facilitate maintenance or the like.

However, the housing should provide a liquid and air-tight module in use so that liquid and air may only enter and leave the housing via the inlets and the outlets, respectively The housing 5 may be impervious to gas and liquid. The housing 5 encircles the components of the refiner device such as the support substrate and the point heat source, further described below. As an example, the housing is made of plastic. However, other materials are also conceivable.

The refiner device for contaminated oil or fuels comprises the housing 5 defining the interior volume 11 and having an inlet for receiving oil or fuel 22, a conduit for release of the refined oil or fuel 20, an air inlet for receiving air 12, an air discharge opening 6. The air discharge opening is also the opening where the separated contamination can be transported away. To this end, the conduit 20 is the outlet where the remaining cleaned oil can be transported away from the refiner device. The oil enters the refiner device via the inlet 22 for receiving the oil. Hence, when the oil has entered the refiner device via the inlet 22, the oil is transported within the housing due to gravity and the shape of the support substrate and subsequently get in contact with the support substrate 2 and the point heat source 3, and thereafter passes downwardly to the conduit 20 for the refined oil due to gravity. Accordingly, in all example embodiments as shown in the Figures herein, the housing has an air inlet 12 at one side of the housing, an air and contamination discharge opening 6 at the same side of the device. Thus, it should be readily appreciated that the interior of the housing here defines an air flow passage through the housing 5 for transporting a flow of air between the air inlet 12 and the air discharge opening 6. The air inlet 12 is typically connected to an air duct or air channel (not shown), which is connected to e.g. an air resource or the like for supplying air to the device. Thus, the air inlet 12 is configured for receipt of air from an air duct (not shown). The air discharge opening 6 is configured for discharging air from the refiner device. In addition, the discharge opening is configured for discharging the contamination, i.e. the evaporated particles.

Analogously, the interior of the housing here defines oil flow passage through the housing 5 for transporting a flow of oil between the inlet 22 and the conduit 20. The interior volume 11 may have an inner surface extending in the direction X, Y and Z. Thus the housing here is defined by an inner surface. The inner surface is typically encircling the inner components of device and defines a space for the flow of oil and flow of air.

The refiner device also comprises a support substrate 2, as shown in figs. 2a and 2b. Fig. 2a is a cross- sectional view of the first example embodiment of the refiner device in Figs, la-lc. Fig. 2b

schematically illustrates a more detailed view of a support substrate of a refiner device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the support substrate has a point heat source. The support substrate here comprises a plurality of point heat sources 3. However, it is to be noted that the support substrate may in some examples only comprise one point heat source. The point heat source will be described further below. Typically the support substrate is connected to the inner surface of the housing 5 to provide stability to the device. In other words, the housing is designed to surround the complete support substrate. The refiner device 1 is here installed such that gravity gives an even distribution of oil over the support substrate 2.

The support substrate has a surface 2a. Typically, the surface is the contact surface for the oil or fuel. In other words, the support substrate has a contact surface adapted for supporting and transporting a flow of oil, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid.

To this end, the support substrate is configured to bring the oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source by transporting the oil or fuel over the surface 2a of the support substrate so that the point heat source is permitted to heat the oil or fuel through the interface 2b and the surface 2a. In other words, the term "contact" here refers to that the point heat source is arranged to heat the oil or fuel via the interface 2b and the contact surface 2a. Thus, the point heat source is not in direct contact with the oil or fuel.

The support substrate may have several different shapes depending on the design and use of the refiner device. In some design variants, the support substrate comprises at least one of a group consisting of a substantially conical unit, a convex unit, and a stair shaped unit. The example as shown in the figs. la-2c essentially resembles a stair shaped unit. This type of support substrate has inclined vertical circumferential surfaces 21 extending between a top surface section 23 and a bottom surface section 24, as shown in e.g. fig. 2a or 2b. This type of support substrate may be seen as a roof construction as the point heat source is located beneath the contact surface 2a of the support substrate 2 as seen in the vertical direction Z. However, other type of support substrate structures are conceivable as long as the support substrate is capable of being configured and arranged in the housing 5 to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source 3 by transporting the oil or fuel on the surface of the support substrate. The direction and flow of the oil is indicated by solid arrows in figs. 2a and 2b. Thus, the solid arrows show the transport of the oil 17 from the inlet 22 through device, to the support substrate 2 and finally out through the lower openings 20 for transportation back to an external oil container (not shown). Hence, the oil or fuel is here denoted with reference numeral 17 in fig. 2a. Figs. 2a and 2b also show the transport of an evaporated contamination with dashed arrows 18 from point sources 3 to the opening 6. The evaporated contamination is part of the air dispensing from the air discharge opening/outlet 6.

The support substrate can have optional geometry, e.g. circular, oval, triangular, square-shaped, multi- edged, or a combination of the geometries mentioned as long as the support substrate is designed so that the point heat source is allowed to transfer a sufficiently amount of heat to refine the oil or fuel in a satisfactory manner. That is, the heat from the point heat source permits the contamination to evaporate from the oil or fuel. The example as shown in the figs. la-2c has an essentially circular shape as seen in the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y.

As mentioned above, the support substrate 2 has a point heat source 3. In other design variants, the refiner device comprises a plurality of spaced arranged point heat sources 3. By way of example, although not explicitly shown in the figures, the plurality of spaced arranged point heat sources 3 are arranged circumferential about a center line L, indicated in fig. 2a and 2b. In this example, the plurality of the spaced arranged point heat sources 3 are arranged in a circumferential manner at distance from the center line L, as seen in the longitudinal direction X. As mentioned above, the point heat source has a set temperature T. typically, although not strictly required, the set temperature of the point heat source is constant. The set temperature of the point heat source may either be a predetermined temperature set prior to operation of the device, or be changed to an appropriate set temperature during operating of the device.

As may be gleaned from the figs. 2a and 2b, the support substrate 2 is configured and arranged in the housing to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source 3 by transporting the oil or fuel on a surface 2a of the support substrate 2. In this example embodiment, the distance between the contact surface 2a and the point heat source defines an interface 2b, as seen in the vertical direction Z. The contact surface 2a may be a part of the interface 2b. By the interface 2b and the contact surface 2a, it is ensured that the oil or fuel is never in direct contact with the point heat source. In other words, the point heat source is arranged in the support substrate so that the point heat source is arranged with a distance from the contact surface 2a, as shown in the figures 2a or 2b. To this end, the set temperature of the point heat source 3 amounts to an operating temperature that, at the interface 2b between the point heat source 3 and the oil, corresponds to a predetermined maximum allowed oil or fuel temperature which, with respect to the retention time the oil or fuel is exposed to the point heat source 3, allows the contamination to be at least partially evaporated. When the contamination is at least partially evaporated, the contamination is discharged from interior volume of the housing together with the air via the air discharge opening 6.

Typically, although not strictly required, the predetermined maximum allowed oil temperature is substantially higher than a specific temperature at which the oil or fuel starts to be damaged irrespective of the retention time the oil is exposed to the point source of heat. As mentioned above, the support substrate 2 is arranged in the housing 5 to bring oil or fuel in contact with the point heat source. As an example, the support substrate is arranged in the housing to bring oil or fuel in contact with the point heat source by gravity.

The point heat source may be an integral part of the support substrate. Alternatively, the point heat source may be a separate part being incorporated in the support substrate. Further design variants are conceivable as long as the point heat source is arranged in or to the support substrate with a distance to the contact surface 2a (i.e. by the interface 2b).

In this example, the point heat source is a semiconductor such as positive temperature coefficient semiconductor. Further, in this example, the point source has a size of maximum 5 square centimeters. Typically, although not strictly required, the point heat sources is operated by a current, e.g. 24 V. However, the magnitude of the current may be between 12-400 V. Typically, the current to operate the support substrate is supplied via an electrical connector 70b, see e.g. fig. la.

The number of point heat sources in the device may vary. Typically, the device comprises between 1- 15 point heat sources, still preferably between 3-13 point heat sources, still preferably between 5-12 point heat sources. In one example, the refiner device has 12 point heat sources. The point sources 3 are attached to the underside of the support substrate 2 and are in this example not in direct contact with the oil 17. The support substrate 2 is here heat conducting which means that the point heat sources 3 can generate point heating to the upper surface 2a of the support substrate.

In some designs variants, the area of the point heat source is a part of the area of the support substrate. However, as mentioned above, it is sufficient that the point heat source is arranged so that the set temperature of the point heat source 3 amounts to an operating temperature that, at the interface 2b between the point heat source 3 and the oil, corresponds to a predetermined maximum allowed oil or fuel temperature which, with respect to the retention time the oil or fuel is exposed to the point heat source 3, allows the contamination to be at least partially evaporated.

The support substrate is in this example heat conductive. Further, in this example, the interface 2b includes the contact surface 2a between the support substrate and the oil. As mentioned above, the oil or fuel is typically transported within the refiner device by gravity and due to the shape of the support substrate 2.

Typically, the refiner device is installed such that gravitation distributes the oil symmetrically or asymmetrically over the support substrate. The refiner device can thus be installed straight or inclined in relation to a vertical line. The example in the figures la-2c is installed in straight orientation to the vertical line. In other words, the refiner device is here installed in an essentially horizontal orientation, whilst the oil flows along the support substrate and over the point heat source due to the shape of the support substrate, as shown in e.g. fig. 2b.

In the example embodiment as shown in e.g. fig. 2a, the support substrate 2 is shaped to form an essentially conical unit, hence being configured and arranged in said housing to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source by transporting the oil or fuel on a surface of said support substrate. As such, the support substrate 2 is configured to transport the oil or fuel on a surface 2a of the support substrate. To this end, the design of the support substrate together with the gravitation provides a support substrate being configured and arranged to transport oil over the surface of the support substrate, thus permitting the oil to flow along the substrate and, due to its motion, be brought in contact with the point heat source.

The support substrate is heat conducting and the interface 2b includes the contact surface 2a between the support substrate and the oil. The point heat source 3 in this case is integrated into the support substrate which means that the oil is brought in contact with the point heat source via the support substrate (i.e. the interface 2b). To compensate for the transportation loss of heat from the point heat source through the support substrate to the interface, the point heat source can be required to be brought to a temperature exceeding the evaporation temperature, but the temperature at the interface corresponds to the evaporation temperature of the contamination.

By the provision of having the point heat source arranged with a distance corresponding to the extension of the interface 2b, the point heat source is arranged to ensure that no direct contact can be established between the point heat source and the oil surface.

Thus, the point heat source heats the oil or fuel via the interface 2b and the surface 2a of the support substrate. Furthermore, the refiner device comprises an air flow controller 60 configured for supplying air to the interior volume of the housing. In addition, in this example, the air flow controller 60 is configured for controlling a characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing. In this manner, the air flow controller 60 is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

In this example, the air flow controller 60 is operably connected to the air inlet 12. This means that the air flow controller is connected to the air inlet so as to control the characteristics of the air directly at the air inlet.

In this manner, the characteristics of the air is controlled in a simple and effective manner prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. However, it is to be noted that the air flow controller may be installed or operably connected to other parts of the refiner device as long as the air flow controller is capable of controlling the characteristics of the air flow.

As will be further described below, the air controller can be configured to control a characteristics of the air flow in several different ways.

Typically, the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume is controlled so that the air entering the interior volume is compressed air. In other examples, the air may be ambient air. Thus, in one example, the air controller 60 is configured for regulating the pressure of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

In addition, or alternatively, the air controller 60 is configured for regulating the temperature of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the

contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

In addition, or alternatively, the air controller 60 is configured for regulating the air flow of air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency. In addition, or alternatively, the air controller 60 is configured for regulating the humidity of the air. In this manner, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing to enhance the level of evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel. To this end, the air flow controller is configured for controlling the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior volume of the housing so that the evaporation of the

contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency.

Thus, by way of example, the characteristics of the air flow corresponds to any one of air pressure, air temperature, air flow, air velocity, and humidity. Some further details of an example of controlling the characteristics of the air flow is provided below.

It should thus be readily appreciated that the air controller is configured for controlling the air at the air inlet 12 entering the interior volume of the housing. The air controller may as an example be an electronic air flow controller. Alternatively, or in addition, the air controller may be a mechanical air flow controller. As an example, the air controller may be a valve, nozzle or the like.

In one design variant, the characteristics of the air entering the interior volume is heated to a certain level, e.g. about 40-60 degrees Celsius. In one example, the air is pre-heated compressed air. By way of example, the air can also be pre-heated by an external pre-heating mechanism such as a PTC resistor.

Typically, although strictly not required, the distribution and direction of the air flow inside the housing may further be controlled. Fig. 2c shows an example of a device, in which the refiner device includes an adjustable nozzle configured for distributing the air inside the housing. Thus, in this example, the device comprises an adjustable nozzle configured for distributing the air inside the housing. In order to further enhance the evaporation of the contamination from oil or fuel, the device may further comprise an oil or fuel flow controller (not explicitly shown) being operably connected to the inlet for receiving oil or fuel. In one design variant, the oil or fuel flow controller is integrated into the inlet for receiving oil or fuel. The oil or fuel flow controller is configured for controlling a characteristics of the oil or fuel, such as the amount of oil or fuel, the velocity of the oil or fuel, or the temperature of the oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing. Thus, the evaporation of the contamination from the oil or fuel is optimized in terms of speed and efficiency, and with particular attention to the immediate heating from the point heat source as well as the characteristics of the air flow entering the interior housing. In some design variants, the device further comprises a transportation device (not shown) including the support substrate being configured to support the point heat source. The transportation device being configured to transport the oil or fuel on a surface of said support substrate. The support substrate may be part of a transportation device. Thus, in one example embodiment, the device further comprises a transportation device including the support substrate being configured to support the point heat source. In this example, the transportation device is configured to transport the oil or fuel on a surface of the support substrate. To this end, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the transportation device comprises the support substrate supporting the point heat source. The support substrate is heat conducting. Further, the interface includes the contact surface between the support substrate and the oil. The point heat source in this case is integrated into the support substrate which means that the oil is brought in contact with the point heat source via the support substrate. To compensate for the transportation loss of heat from the point heat source through the support substrate to the interface, the point heat source can be required to be brought to a temperature exceeding the evaporation temperature, but the temperature at the interface corresponds to the evaporation temperature of the contamination.

It should be readily appreciated that the transportation device may likewise be formed by the arrangement and configuration of the support substrate and the principle of gravity, as provided by the example embodiment as shown in the figures. Thus, in the context of the example embodiments, it is sufficient that the support substrate is configured and arranged in the housing so that oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, can be brought in contact with the point heat source 3 by transporting the oil or fuel on a surface 2a of the support substrate 2.

In some design variants, the air controller further comprises a pre-heating mechanism operable to preheat the air to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. In some design variants, the pre-heating mechanism may be installed internal of the refiner device. In other design variants, the pre-heating mechanism may be installed remote from the refiner device as long as the mechanism is operable to pre-heat the air to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device.

In some design variants, the refiner device further comprises a pre-heating mechanism 64 (shown in fig. 2c) operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. In some design variants, the pre-heating mechanism may thus be installed internal of the refiner device. In other design variants, the pre-heating mechanism may be installed remote from the refiner device, as long as the mechanism is operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. One example of this type of assembly is illustrated in fig. 3a. Other examples are shown in figs. 3a-3d. Fig. 2c illustrates another example embodiment of a refiner device. In this example, the refiner device comprises an adjustable air nozzle. The adjustable air nozzle 62 is configured for distributing and directing a flow of air within the housing of the device. In addition, or alternatively, the adjustable air nozzle may be configured for altering the dimension of opening of the air inlet. Typically, the adjustable air nozzle is arranged at the air inlet for receiving air. The adjustable nozzle is in this example configured for directing the air towards the support substrate of the refiner device. In this manner, the air is allowed to sweep over the surface of the support substrate, as shown by the arrows in fig. 2a or fig. 2c, thereby further enhancing the transportation of contaminations from the oil or fuel. Typically, the nozzle is directed towards the support substrate with an angle different than a right angle with respect to the surface of the support substrate in order to reduce the risk of having fuel or oil splash within the refiner device. In other words, the nozzle is directed towards the support substrate with an angle so that the air flow meets the surface of the support substrate with either an acute or obtuse angle.

The device in fig. 2c also comprises the pre-heating mechanism 64 operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. Typically, the pre-heating mechanism 64 is arranged at the inlet for receiving oil or fuel.

It is to be noted that the refiner device may include only one of the pre-heating mechanism 64 and the adjustable air nozzle. Besides these differences, the example of the refiner device in fig. 2c may include any one of the features, functions or components as described in relation to the example embodiment in figs. la-2b herein.

In all example embodiments of the disclosure, the refiner device 1 typically includes the electrical connector 70b, as shown in the figures la-2c. The electrical connection or electrical connector is provided to supply power to the point heat source. Thus, the refiner device may include the electrical connector for supplying power to the point heat source. The reference number 70a in the figures refers to the physical connection of the refiner device to other components of e.g. a by-pass system or to an industrial application/hydraulic application or the like. Thus, in all example embodiments of the disclosure, the refiner device may typically also include a connector 70a for connecting the refiner device to a by-pass system, an industrial application/hydraulic application or the like. To this end, the refiner device is configured for connecting to another component of a system, e.g. a by-pass system.

In some design variants (not shown), the refiner device may comprise a pump arrangement for oil. The pump arrangement may be run by the oil pressure in the machine coupled to the refiner device. The pump arrangement may comprise a set of gearwheels on the primary side run by the oil pressure of the machine and where the primary side runs a secondary side pumping oil to the device. In the case with an internal combustion engine, the advantage with a pump arrangement run by oil pressure is that the device may be independent of the pressure status of the engine/crankcase.

Although the operating conditions and operating parameters of the refiner device of the example embodiments may vary depending on the installation and use of the device, type of oil or fuel to be refined as well as the installation environment, the following is an example of the operating conditions and parameters of the device in order to facilitate the understanding of the refiner device. However, it should be readily appreciated that there are several different possibilities to operate, install and design the device in order to provide the example technical advantages of the example embodiments as described herein.

By way of example, the refiner device is here connected to an internal combustion engine.

The support substrate in this example refiner device here resembles the example embodiment as described in conjunction with figs. la-2b. The support substrate in this example refiner device has a surface of 15 centimetres in diameter and the number of point heat sources is 12. As mentioned above, the number of point heat sources can, however, be more or fewer depending on the size of the point sources.

In this example embodiment, the area of the point heat source is about 2 square centimetres. In this context, the area of the point heat source refers to the area of the source intended for being directed towards the oil or fuel. In other words, the area of the point heat source directed towards the contact surface of the support substrate.

The set temperature of the point source should be about 80 degrees Celsius - 220 degrees Celsius depending on the heat resistance of the oil and the retention time. The set temperature thus depends on whether the oil is hydraulic oil, lubrication oil, gear shift oil or the like. For lubrication oil, the set temperature of the point heat source may be about 180-220 degrees Celsius. In this context, the temperature of the contact surface between the support substrate 2a and the oil is typically maximum 200 degrees Celsius and the oil is heated to a temperature of about 160 degrees Celsius. In addition, the oil flow entering the interior volume is about 0.5-1.0 litre per minute. The oil flow is in this example, as mentioned above, typically controlled by the oil flow controller. Furthermore, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 2-10 litre per minute. Also, in this example, the air is compressed air. The air flow here typically refers to the air entering the inner volume. The air flow of the air is controlled by the air flow controller 60, as mentioned above. In addition, in this example, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 2-10 litre per minute. In this example, the air temperature may vary between 0-60 degrees Celsius. However, the air temperature is typically close to 60 degrees Celsius, still preferably equal to 60 degrees Celsius. Similar to the air flow, the air temperature is here typically controlled by the air flow controller 60.

For hydraulic oil, the set temperature of the point heat source is typically about 80 - 90 degrees Celsius. In this context, the temperature of the contact surface between the support substrate 2a and the oil is typically maximum 90 degrees Celsius and the hydraulic oil is heated to a temperature of about 50-60 degrees Celsius. Similar to the example with lubrication oil, the oil flow of hydraulic oil entering the interior volume is about 0.5-1.0 litre per minute. Furthermore, the air flow entering the interior volume is about 2-10 litre per minute. Also, in this example, the air is compressed air. The air flow here typically refers to the air entering the inner volume. The air flow of the air is controlled by the air flow controller 60, as mentioned above. In addition, in this example, the air exchange of the air in the refiner is thus 2-10 litre per minute. In this example, the air temperature may vary between 0-60 degrees Celsius. However, the air temperature is typically close to 60 degrees Celsius, still preferably equal to 60 degrees Celsius. Also in this example, the oil flow and the air characteristics (e.g. air flow and air temperature) are typically controlled by the oil flow controller and the air flow controller, respectively.

It should also be noted that the above ranges may be set in view of the inner volume of the housing of the refiner device. Thus the ulitamte ranges of the above parameters and air characteristics as well as the oil characteristics should be set in view of the dimenstions of the refiner device. The above examples relates to a refiner device having an inner volume of about 60 - 150 cm ³ . In an example when the refiner device comprises a pre-heating mechanism for pre-heating the oil, or the refiner device assembly comprises the pre-heater device 86 coupled to the refiner device, the oil or fuel may be pre-heated to a first temperature of about 40-80 degrees Celsius. The pre-heating of oil or fuel is particularly beneficial for devices for refining hydraulic oil due to the initial low temperature of the hydraulic oil. Further, in examples relating to both lubrication oil and hydraulic oil, it has been observed that an optimal result is typically obtained by using compressed air in combination with pre-heated oil entering interior of the refiner device housing to be further heated by the point heat source therein. Thus, in one example, the air is controlled so that the air entering the interior volume is compressed air and the oil or fuel is pre-heated to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device, preferably to a first temperature corresponding to about 40-80 degrees Celsius. In this manner, the assembly enables an optimized refining of oil or fuel in a refiner device using a support substrate with a point heat source. In addition, the assembly provides optimal conditions for refining oil or fuel both with respect to the fuel or oil entering the device and the interior volume of the device, which also enables a minimal regulation of the point heat source of the refiner device. The lack of regulating arrangement of the point heat source gives a low cost device being easy to apply, and that also minimizes the risk for a too high temperature of the oil or fuel being refined in the device.

Typically, although strictly not required, in all examples above, the air entering the interior housing of the refiner device should have a low relative humidity, preferably less than 50% relative humidity.

The time of the process for refining the oil or fuel to a satisfied level of purity typically depends on the volume of oil or fuel to be refined as well as on conditions such as the air temperature, oil temperature and other operating conditions of the device and the system connected to the device. However, it is believed that an effect of the example embodiments of the refiner device may be discerned already after about 25-50 hours. A more significant effect of the example embodiments of the refiner device may be discerned after about 150-300 hours. Thus, the time of the process for refining the oil or fuel should typically last between 25-300 hours, still preferably, 100-300hours, still preferably 150-300 hours.

In an internal combustion engine, the oil flows typically varies between approximately 0.3

litres/minute and approximately 1.0 litres/minute. The low flow of 0.3 litres/minute is valid at idling and is not an optimal flow, but the device works at all low flows as the temperature is constantly kept at maximum temperature for the oil with respect to retention time.

Maximum- and minimum-flows that the refiner device is capable of handling varies depending on the power of the point heat source and the retention time. The oil flow rates, air flow rates and temperatures given above are thus not limiting for the disclosure.

Other temperatures and flows are of course possible depending on retention time and the properties and composition of the oil or fuel.

Further, it is to be noted that the device may normally be used without a particle filter. In this manner, the device can be even simpler in structure than existing prior art systems. The refiner device may typically be used and implemented in a system, as shown in e.g. fig. 4. The system may e.g. comprises a container for oil or fuel 200, a conduit and a refiner device or refiner device assembly according to any one of example embodiments described herein, wherein the container is connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the container to the refiner device. According to an embodiment of the disclosure (not shown), the support substrate further comprises a transportation device in the form of a coupling device connectable to an oil container. The coupling device advantageously comprises a threaded pin which can be threaded to a corresponding part at the oil container. A particle filter may be located between the oil container and the coupling device. The coupling device is then coupled to the particle filter. An oil container is here meant a container intended to keep oil. An oil container can e.g. be an internal combustion engine or a hydraulic construction. Typical for such arrangements is that there is a collecting vessel for oil, e.g. an oil tray, from which the oil is brought to the active parts for which the oil is intended to be used. During use, the oil is contaminated and is brought to the oil refiner device which separates at least parts of the contamination from the oil. The oil is then brought back to the collecting vessel.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the coupling device comprises at least one conduit extending through the oil refiner device and arranged to transport oil from the oil container to the refiner device.

In use, as mentioned above, the oil refiner device is installed such as to allow gravitation to move the oil from the conduit to the point heat source. Typically, the refiner device is installed such that gravitation distributes the oil symmetrically or asymmetrically over the support substrate. The device can thus be installed straight or inclined in relation to a vertical line parallel to the vertical direction Z. However, it should be readily appreciated that the refiner device may not necessarily always be installed to transport oil or fuel by gravity. Instead, it is sufficient that the support substrate is configured and arranged in said housing to bring oil or fuel, containing a contamination in the form of a liquid, in contact with the point heat source by transporting the oil or fuel on the surface of the support substrate. Thus, the refiner device may in some design variants use an active transportation unit or device for transporting the oil or fuel as described above. To this end, the support substrate may be movably arranged in the housing for permitting a transportation of the oil or fuel over the surface 2a of the support substrate.

As mentioned above, the oil or fuel is typically pre-heated to a first temperature. Fig. 3a illustrates one example embodiment of a refiner device assembly comprising a pre-heating device 86 operable to pre- heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. In this design variant, the pre-heating device is installed remote from the refiner device and operable to pre-heat the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. In other words, fig. 3a depicts a refiner device assembly 10 which comprises a refiner device 1 according to any one of example embodiments as mentioned above and a pre-heater device 86 fluidly connected to the refiner device. Further, the pre-heater device is configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device. As mentioned above, the oil or fuel entering the interior volume of the housing should be pre-heated to a temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably to a temperature of about 50 - 80 degrees Celsius, still preferably to a temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees Celsius. In other words, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 40 - 80 degrees Celsius. Still preferably the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50 - 80 degrees Celsius. Still preferably, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees Celsius. If the oil is hydraulic oil, it has also been observed that an oil or a fuel temperature of about 45-60 degrees Celsius has proven to result in an optimal temperature of the hydraulic oil entering the interior volume of the housing. Thus, in one example, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 45-60 degrees Celsius. If the oil is lubrication oil, it has also been observed that an oil or a fuel temperature of about 50-80 degrees Celsius has proven to result in an optimal temperature of the lubrication oil entering the interior volume of the housing. Thus, in another example, the pre-heater device is typically configured for heating the oil or fuel to a first temperature of about 50-80 degrees Celsius. It should be readily appreciated that the refiner device 1 of the refiner device assembly in this example may be provided according to any one of example embodiments, design variants, features or functions as mentioned above.

In one example embodiment, the air is controlled so that the air entering the interior volume is compressed air and the oil or fuel is pre-heated to a first temperature prior to entering the interior volume of the housing of the device, preferably to a first temperature corresponding to about 40-80 degrees Celsius. In this manner, the assembly enables an optimized refining of oil or fuel in a refiner device using a support substrate with a point heat source. In addition, the assembly provides optimal conditions for refining oil or fuel both with respect to the fuel or oil entering the device and the interior volume of the device, which also enables a minimal regulation of the point heat source of the refiner device. The lack of regulating arrangement of the point heat source gives a low cost device being easy to apply, and that also minimizes the risk for a too high temperature of the oil or fuel being refined in the device.

Although not shown, the pre-heater device 86 may as an example be shaped as a hollow cylinder defining a fluid passage for the fuel or oil. In addition, an inner surface of the hollow cylinder is configured for heating the fuel or oil flowing in the fluid passage to the first temperature. Typically, the pre-heater device comprises a heating element such as a point heat source, as mentioned above with respect to the point heat source of the refiner device.

According to one example, the refiner device assembly further comprises a pump arrangement 80 and a conduit connectable to an industrial application such as an internal combustion engine, hydraulic machine or the like, wherein the pump arrangement is operably connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the industrial application to the refiner device. Fig. 3b illustrates a refiner device assembly 10 comprising the refiner device 1, the pre-heater 86 and a particle filter 92. The refiner device 1, the pre-heater 86 and the pump arrangement 80 are fluidly connected to each other.

According to one example embodiment, the refiner device assembly further comprises a particle filter 92 arranged between the pump arrangement 80 and the pre-heater 86. Fig. 3c illustrates a refiner device assembly 10 comprising the refiner device 1 and a particle filter 92 arranged between the pump arrangement 80 and the pre-heater 86. The refiner device 1, the pre-heater 86, the pump arrangement 80 and the particle filter 92 are fluidly connected to each other.

By way of example, the refiner device assembly may be part of a by-pass system 100.

Fig. 3d illustrates the use of the refiner device 1 or the refiner device assembly 10 in a by-pass system 100, said system being connectable to an industrial application or a hydraulic application 90. The bypass system 100 comprises the refiner device 1, and typically a pump arrangement 80 operably connected to the refiner device 1. The refiner device 1 in this example may be provided according to any one of example embodiments, design variants, features or functions as mentioned above. The pump arrangement 80 is configured for pumping the oil or fuel from the industrial application to the refiner device when the by-pass system is connected to the application 90. The by-pass system typically includes a conduit 102 connecting the pump arrangement to the refiner device. The conduit also connects the application to the by-pass system. In addition, the by-pass system may comprise a pre-heating mechanism for the oil or fuel 86, as mentioned above. In addition, the by-pass system may comprise a control unit 82 for operating the by-pass system 100. The control unit typically includes a processing circuit containing software configured for operating the by-pass system. Typically, the bypass system may also include a power source 83, such as an electrical engine, battery or the like. The power source is configured to power the components of the by-pass system. The components of the by-pass system may be provided on a sheet material, such as a steel sheet material 84. The by-pass system is thus provided as an integral module configured to connect to an industrial application or the like. It is to be noted that the refiner assembly 10 may also include the filter 92 as shown in fig. 3c. Thus, the system 100 may also include the filter 92 as shown in fig. 3c. In one embodiment, as also is shown in fig. 4, when the refiner device is used and implemented in a system, the supply of air can also be supplied to the refiner device via the conduit for release of the refined oil or fuel to the container, i.e. via the conduit 20. The system in this example comprises the container for oil or fuel 200, a conduit and a refiner device 1 or refiner device assembly 10 according to any one of example embodiments described herein, wherein the container is connected to the refiner device via the conduit to permit transportation of oil or fuel from the container to the refiner device. In other words, the air is entering the container and the refiner device via the ait inlet of the container 210. Thus, the refiner device should typically be installed above the oil level of the container 200, as in a vertical direction. In this manner, it becomes possible to supply air to the refiner device both via the air controller 60 and the conduit 20.

Reference signs mentioned in the claims should not be seen as limiting the extent of the matter protected by the claims, and their sole function is to make claims easier to understand.

As will be realised, the disclosure is capable of modification in various obvious respects, all without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the drawings and the description thereto are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive. It should be understood that the present refiner device and its components are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they are intended to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims. They are further intended to include embodiments that may be formed by combining features from the disclosed embodiments, and variants thereof.