High-volume disposable and semi-disposable cartridge humidifier with

Abstract

A cartridge-type humidifier apparatus embodying a separate heater module with a cylindrical opening for replaceably receiving therein disposable cylindrical humidifier cartridge modules. Certain upgraded embodiments of the cartridge modules are sterilizable and reusable several times before being disposed of, or portions thereof recycled. The cartridge modules each have a tubular metal main body adapted for a sliding fit within a complementary tubular walled heater. The metal tubular body has rigid plastic top and bottom end portions. The plastic top end portion is a cap with a center axial gas inlet tube, and a separate transverse gas delivery pipe, the cap forming a closed air space over a pool of humidifying liquid. Each cartridge includes an absorption column preferably of the cylindrical tube form which is adapted to lay closely adjacent and draw water up along the cartridge's cylindrical metal body wall which serves the evaporating surface when heated by the heater modules. The gas to be humidified is dispersed within a hollow chamber formed between the gas inlet pipe projecting concentrically into the cartridge, and the radially spaced wall of the main cartridge body and absorption column. The inlet tube always terminates above the water. The water may be introduced into the lower end portion by way of conduits or other communication means.