Enhanced Low Pressure Drop Acoustic Suppressor Nozzle for Inert Gas Discharge Systems

An improved acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge systems that reduces pressure drop, turbulence, and sound generation while maintaining efficient inert gas flow and fire suppression performance.

Inert gas fire suppression systems are often limited by high pressure drops, turbulence, and noise generation in the nozzle, which can compromise system performance and safety. The original patent's low pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle, while effective, can still be improved upon. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel design elements that reduce pressure drop, turbulence, and sound generation.

The enhanced acoustic suppressor nozzle features a spiral-shaped middle portion in the second conduit to reduce turbulence and pressure loss. Additionally, the nozzle can be configured with a sound-dampening material strategically placed within the flow path to minimize sound power levels. Alternatively, the nozzle can incorporate helical grooves on the inner surface of the second conduit to reduce pressure loss and turbulence. The nozzle's design also allows for a tapered inner surface to reduce flow restriction and pressure drop. These design elements work together to optimize inert gas flow, reduce pressure drop, and minimize sound generation.

The new claims introduce novel design elements, such as the spiral-shaped middle portion, sound-dampening material, helical grooves, and tapered inner surface, which provide a significant reduction in pressure drop, turbulence, and sound generation compared to the original patent. These elements are non-obvious and provide a substantial improvement over the existing art.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different spiral patterns, varying sound-dampening materials, or modified helical groove geometries. Additionally, the nozzle could be designed with adjustable flow restrictors or interchangeable sound-dampening inserts to accommodate different system requirements.

The enhanced acoustic suppressor nozzle has significant commercial potential in the fire protection industry, particularly in applications where noise reduction and efficient inert gas flow are critical, such as in data centers, museums, and other sensitive environments. The improved design can also be applied to other gas discharge systems, expanding its market reach.