Patent ID: 11278918

Abstract:
The present invention provides a flow insert and improved flow tube, such as a nozzle, that divides flow by generating an interrupted flow pattern, including pressure/energy gradients, in the otherwise uninterrupted flow of high pressure water through the nozzle. Cutting, cleaning, and boring performance is substantially improved. The interrupted flow pattern can provide for egress of cut or broken material to get out of the way, so cutting or cleaning action is not hampered by a continuous flow of high-pressure water. One or more balls circumferentially rotating around a ball-track assembly having a track support within the flow tube causes the flow interruption. When the flow is interrupted, the interruption's trailing edge (that is, the flow's restarting edge after the interruption) provides stronger cutting action than a continuous solid jet. The flow tube can be used for a broad array of industrial cleaning, surface preparation, cutting, and boring/drilling applications.