Rotating plate heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to an improved evaporator and condenser unit for use in distilling a liquid such as water. The evaporator and condenser unit includes a plurality of stacked, spaced-apart plates disposed within a housing. The plates are horizontally arranged around a common, vertical axis for rotation. Adjacent plates define spaces between their oppositely facing surfaces, which are alternating configured as evaporating and condensing chambers. An outlet tube transfers vapor generated within the housing to a compressor and an inlet tube delivers compressed vapor to central receiving space within the stack of plates. A sump containing the liquid to be distilled is located at a lower portion of the housing. Each plate includes a plurality of ports for distributing liquid to be distilled and for extracting a condensate. In particular, each plate includes at least one liquid feed port that provides a generally vertical liquid flow path through each evaporating chamber, by-passing the adjacent condensing chambers. A rotary scoop tube draws liquid from the sump and distributes it to each of the evaporating chambers. A condensate port within each plate provides a generally vertical condensate flow path through each condensing chamber, by-passing the evaporating chambers. The inner diameter ends of the condensing chambers are open to receive the compressed vapor and the outer diameter ends of the evaporating chambers are open to transfer vapor and remaining liquid to the housing. A stationary scoop tube removes condensate generated within the condensing chambers of the unit.