EA040052B1 - DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FILTERING FLUID CIRCULATED IN WATER SUPPLY AND HEATING SYSTEM - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an apparatus and an associated method for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system.

The invention has an advantageous application in plumbing systems for temperature control and/or domestic hot water supply in residential, commercial or industrial buildings.

Domestic heating or hot water systems circulate a fluid, usually water, that circulates through the various components of the system (pipes, boiler, pump, valves, radiating elements, utilities, etc.).

In such systems, it is well known to use filters suitable for keeping the circulating fluid as clean as possible, i.e. free from impurities such as dirt, sand, contaminants, etc. This is because such contaminants circulating within the system can cause clogging and malfunction of certain components, in particular the boiler and valves, and generally cause deterioration in the performance of various components and loss of overall efficiency.

Among the various contaminants, it is particularly important to remove ferrous particles normally emitted by system components such as pipes and radiant elements (eg heaters and radiators), as they can cause ruptures within boiler elements or perforations in system pipes.

Filters are typically installed between a line carrying fluid returning from a system, typically containing impurities and iron particles, and a line that sends the incoming fluid to the boiler (or heat pump). Thus, the filter can act on the supply to the boiler, i.e. upstream of the latter, by sending a fluid that has been filtered and cleaned of impurities.

Because of this traditional installation, known filters are commonly referred to as underboiler filters, moreover, in the jargon of this technical industry, such filters are called dirt separators due to their function of removing impurities.

It is also known that the filter can be opened to perform periodic maintenance operations, and in particular to remove dirt collected by the filter or to replace the filter elements.

One known type of filter involves both the use of mesh filter elements, which trap impurities such as sand and dirt, and the use of magnetic type filter elements, which allow ferrous particles to be separated from the passing fluid by attracting and keeping them in contact with the magnetic element.

An example of a mechanical magnetic filter is described in European patent application EP 3159313 A1. This solution provides for a filter housing equipped with three different inlet/outlet pipes, identical to each other, two of which are lateral, in opposite positions of the housing, and one is at the top; in essence, the three pipes are arranged in a T-shape. During installation, it is possible to choose which of the three pipes will be connected to the return line of the system, and which should be connected to the supply line to the boiler. This allows the filter to be installed vertically or horizontally, based on the space available under the boiler (which is very limited in some cases) and the position of the wall to which the boiler is attached, by connecting the pipes accordingly.

The Applicant has found that the prior art solutions described above are not without drawbacks and can be improved in several respects.

First of all, some known solutions, provided with three pipes arranged in the shape of the letter T, provide effective filtration only when the central pipe, that is, the one located in the upper part of the filter housing, is used to inlet fluid into the filter or to discharge fluid. media from the filter. This is because such known solutions provide a cylindrical mesh filter element (mechanical filtration) located longitudinally inside the filter chamber along the entire length of the chamber itself, and a magnetic filter element located, in turn, inside the cylindrical mesh element. In this configuration, the center nozzle (located at the top of the cylinder body) is inside the cylindrical screen element, while the two side nozzles (on opposite sides of the cylinder body) are instead outside the cylindrical screen element.

This means, in particular in configurations where the two side ports are used for the inlet of the filtered fluid and the outlet of the filtered fluid (and the top port is closed) that the flow can easily move through the filtration chamber, passing around the cylindrical screen element, without having to pass through it, and as a result, most of the fluid passes through the filter without being subjected to mechanical filtration (that is, without passing through the mesh), with a subsequent decrease in the filtration of impurities and dirt, and does not flow near the magnetic element, with a subsequent decrease in the filtration of ferrous particles.

Briefly, although some of the known solutions have been proposed for use in various configurations to meet the various needs of the installation, they work effectively in only one configuration, while other configurations do not ensure the passage of the entire flow through the filter elements, but just a simple transition from inlet to outlet.

In addition, known solutions create a risk of clogging of the cylindrical mesh element performing mechanical filtration due to suboptimal control of the flows circulating inside the filtration chamber. Clogging leads to a decrease in the flow rate through the filter or even to complete obstruction. In addition, known filters are not able to provide efficient solutions in terms of assembly, access and maintenance for all different installation conditions and different types of boilers, heat exchangers or heat pumps.

In this situation, the object of the present invention, in its various aspects and/or embodiments, is to provide a device and method for filtering a fluid capable of eliminating one or more of the above disadvantages.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a device and method capable of effectively filtering the fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a fluid filtration device that is highly versatile and adaptable to a large number of different types of boilers or other components of a heating system.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a fluid filtration device capable of operating at a consistently high performance regardless of the method of installation within a plumbing and heating system.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a fluid filtration device which is highly operationally reliable and/or less prone to failure and malfunction and/or which can be serviced in a simple and quick manner.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a fluid filtration device having a simple and efficient structure.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a fluid filtration device having a low manufacturing cost relative to the offered quality and performance.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide alternative solutions to the prior art in constructing devices and methods for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system and/or for opening up new areas of design.

These and any other objects that will become clear from the following description are essentially solved using a device for filtering a fluid and a method for filtering a fluid according to one or more of the claims of the attached claims, each of which is taken separately (without corresponding dependencies) or in any combination with other claims, as well as in accordance with the following aspects and/or embodiments, variously combined also with the above claims.

In its first aspect, the invention relates to a device for filtering a fluid, comprising a body of the device, defining in it a filter chamber designed to pass through it the fluid to be filtered, while said body contains a first inlet/outlet that communicates said filter chamber with the outside of the device and configured to communicate with the line so as to receive from it or send to it the fluid entering into the specified device housing or leaving it;

a second inlet/outlet that communicates said filter chamber with the outside of the device and is configured to communicate with a corresponding line to receive or send fluid into or out of said device body;

a third inlet/outlet that communicates said filter chamber with the outside of the device and is configured to communicate with the corresponding line so as to receive or send fluid from it into or out of said device body.

In one aspect, the device is configured to pass fluid through the filter chamber, selectively in accordance with a plurality of operating configurations, from one opening among said first inlet/outlet, said second inlet/outlet, and said third inlet/outlet to another hole. among the number of said first inlet/outlet, said second inlet/outlet, and said third inlet/outlet.

In one aspect, the device comprises filter elements that are at least partially located within said filter chamber, or associated with said device body, and are operatively located between said first inlet/outlet, said

- 2 040052 the second inlet/outlet and the specified third inlet/outlet for filtering the fluid passing through the filter chamber.

In one aspect, the filter elements comprise at least one filter baffle configured to mechanically separate substances and solids present in the fluid to be treated from the fluid in which they are suspended, said filter baffle being positioned within said filter chamber such that to divide the filter chamber into a first half-chamber and a second half-chamber.

In one aspect, the first semi-chamber is in fluid communication with (only) the first inlet/outlet (and not the second and/or third holes) without passing through the filter septum.

In one aspect, the second half-chamber is in fluid communication with (only) the second inlet/outlet and with the third inlet/outlet (not the first hole) without passing through the filter septum.

In one aspect, the apparatus is configured such that, in each of said plurality of operating configurations, for passing from said first half-chamber to said second half-chamber, or vice versa, the fluid moving in the filter chamber (necessarily) passes through said filter septum.

In one aspect, the device is configured to be connected or installed along a supply line or in series with a supply line carrying fluid to plumbing and heating system equipment to filter fluid circulating in the system at a position upstream of such equipment.

In one aspect, passage between the first half-chamber and the second half-chamber is necessarily through a filter septum.

In one aspect, the first half-chamber and the second half-chamber communicate with each other only through the filter septum.

In one aspect, the filter partition has, in at least one of its parts, a structure provided with a plurality of channels having a predetermined filter section, so that the passage of fluid from the first side of the filter partition to the second side of the filter partition ensures that, on the first side, substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section.

Conversely, if the passage of the fluid occurs from the second side of the filter partition to the first side of the filter partition, the retention of substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section occurs on the second side.

In one aspect, the filter septum is in the form of a thin sheet or membrane extending longitudinally along the expansion plane between the upper end and the lower end.

In one aspect, the filter septum is positioned in the filter chamber such that its first side faces the first inlet/outlet and its second side faces the third inlet/outlet and/or the second inlet/outlet.

In one aspect, said filter septum is configured to operate in a single use position that is maintained for each of said plurality of operating configurations accepted by the device in which it prevents fluid from passing directly from the first port to the second port or from the first port to the third port without passing through the filtering partition;

it prevents direct passage of the fluid from the second opening to the first opening or from the third opening to the first opening without passing through the filter septum.

In one aspect, the filter wall does not need to be moved when the operating configuration received by the device changes.

In one aspect, said filter septum is configured to operate in a single position for use, which is maintained for each of said plurality of operating configurations accepted by the device, in which the passage of fluid from the first hole to the second hole or from the first hole to the third hole occurs by passing through filter partition;

passage of the fluid from the second opening to the first opening or from the third opening to the first opening occurs by passing through the filter septum.

In one aspect, said plurality of operating configurations includes at least the following: a first operating configuration in which said first opening receives fluid flow entering the device, said second opening sends filtered fluid flow leaving the device, and said third opening is blocked by said closing element;

a second operating configuration wherein said first opening receives fluid flow entering the device, said third opening sends a filtered fluid flow exiting the device, and said second opening is blocked by said closing

- 3 040052 element;

a third operating configuration, wherein said third opening receives a fluid flow entering the device, said first opening sends a filtered fluid flow exiting the device, and said second opening is blocked by said closing member;

a fourth operating configuration, wherein said second opening receives a fluid flow entering the device, said first opening sends a filtered fluid flow exiting the device, and said third opening is blocked by said closing element.

In one aspect, the device comprises said closure element configured to selectively cover one opening among said first inlet/outlet, second inlet/outlet, and third inlet/outlet.

In one aspect, the above operating configurations allow fluid to pass through the septum from the first side to the second side when the fluid enters the device through the first inlet/outlet and exits the device through the second inlet/outlet or through the third inlet/outlet .

In one aspect, said operating configurations allow fluid to pass through the filter septum from the second side to the first side as the fluid enters the device through the second inlet/outlet or through the third inlet/outlet and leaves the device through the first inlet/outlet.

In one aspect, when the fluid enters the device through the second inlet/outlet and exits the third inlet/outlet or vice versa, and the first inlet/outlet is blocked by a closure member, it is not necessary for the fluid to pass through the filter septum and the filtration is magnetic. occurs through said at least one first magnetic filter.

In one aspect, the filter chamber is bounded laterally by a side surface, above by a top surface, and below by a bottom surface of the device housing.

In one aspect, the filter elements comprise a magnetic filter coupled to the body of the device and configured to collect and retain ferromagnetic substances and particles present in the fluid to be treated so as to separate them from the fluid passing through the device.

In its independent aspect, the present invention relates to a heating system comprising an apparatus according to one or more of the above aspects.

In its independent aspect, the present invention relates to a method for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system, comprising the following steps:

placing at least one device for filtering the fluid;

determining a line coming from the plumbing and heating system, in particular from the hot water return line from the heating element system, which moves the flow of water to be filtered;

define a line directed to the boiler plumbing and heating system, and this line moves the flow of water, past the filtration, to the boiler;

control the operation of the device selectively in one of the specified operating configurations:

first working configuration containing the following steps:

hydraulically connecting the first inlet/outlet to a line from the plumbing and heating system, in particular to a heating water return line from the heating element system, so as to receive the water flow to be filtered;

hydraulic connection of the second inlet / outlet with a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the flow of water there after filtering;

closing the third inlet/outlet by means of a closing element;

introducing the fluid flow entering the first opening into the first half-chamber such that it is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall from the first side, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side to flow into the second half-chamber;

causing the fluid to pass through the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter, and causing the fluid to exit through the second inlet/outlet, while the third inlet/outlet is blocked;

second working configuration containing the following steps:

hydraulically connecting the first inlet/outlet to a line from the plumbing and heating system, in particular to a heating water return line from the heating element system, so as to receive the water flow to be filtered;

overlapping the second inlet/outlet by means of a closing element;

hydraulic connection of the third inlet/outlet with a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the water flow there after filtering;

introducing the fluid flow entering the first opening into the first half-chamber such that it is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall from the first side, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side to flow into the second half-chamber;

causing the fluid to pass through the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter, and causing the fluid to exit through the third inlet/outlet, while the second inlet/outlet is blocked;

a third operating configuration in which the third inlet/outlet is hydraulically connected to a line from the plumbing and heating system, in particular to a heating water return line from the heating element system, so as to receive a water flow to be filtered;

the second inlet/outlet is blocked by a closing element;

the first inlet/outlet is hydraulically connected to a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, so as to send a flow of water there after filtering;

the fluid flow entering the third port is introduced into the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by a magnetic filter, and in such a way that (the second inlet/outlet is blocked) the fluid is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter wall from the second side, being subjected to mechanical filtration and leaving the first side to flow into the first semi-chamber;

the fluid is caused to pass through the first semi-chamber and the fluid is caused to exit the first inlet/outlet;

the fourth working configuration containing the following steps:

hydraulically connecting the second inlet/outlet to a line from the plumbing and heating system, in particular to a heating water return line from the heating element system, and receiving a water flow to be filtered;

closing the third inlet/outlet by means of a closing element;

hydraulic connection of the first inlet / outlet with a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, so as to send the water flow there after filtering;

introduction of the flow of fluid entering the second hole into the second half-chamber, where it is subjected to magnetic filtration by means of a magnetic filter, and in such a way that (the third inlet/outlet is blocked) the fluid is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter septum from the second side, being subjected to mechanical filtration and leaving the first side to flow into the first semi-chamber;

causing the fluid to pass through the first half-chamber; and causing the fluid to exit through the first inlet/outlet.

Each of the above aspects of the invention may be taken alone or in combination with any of the claims or other aspects described.

Additional features and advantages will become more apparent from a detailed description of some exemplary, but not exclusive, embodiments, including the preferred embodiment, of an apparatus and method for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system in accordance with the present invention. The following is a description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided solely for the purpose of providing approximate and therefore non-limiting examples, and where FIG. 1 illustrates a possible embodiment of a fluid filtration device according to the present invention;

fig. 2 illustrates a front view of the device of FIG. 1;

fig. 3 illustrates a plan view of the device of FIG. 1;

fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the device of FIG. 1;

fig. 5 illustrates a sectional view along plane V-V and an exploded view of the device of FIG. 1 in the longitudinal direction with the removal of some parts;

fig. 6 illustrates the device of FIG. 1 in section along the plane V-V, in the first working configuration;

fig. 7 illustrates the device of FIG. 1 in section along the plane V-V, in the second working configuration;

fig. 8 illustrates the device of FIG. 1 in section along the plane V-V, in the third working configuration;

fig. 9 illustrates the device of FIG. 1 in section along the plane V-V, in the fourth working configuration;

fig. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a fluid filtration device according to the present invention;

fig. 11 illustrates a longitudinal sectional and exploded view of the device with

- 5 040052 fig. 10 in the longitudinal direction with some parts removed;

fig. 12 illustrates the device in FIG. 10 in section along the central longitudinal plane;

fig. 13 illustrates the device of FIG. 10 in section along a central longitudinal plane perpendicular to the sectional plane of FIG. 12;

fig. 14 illustrates the device of FIG. 13 with the filter baffle removed.

As shown in the drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes in general the fluid filtering device according to the present invention. In general, the same position number is used for identical or similar elements, possibly in its embodiments.

Device 1 is designed to filter fluid, usually water, circulating within a plumbing and heating system, typically containing pipes and channels, valves, a boiler or power generator, pumps, radiating elements (heaters, radiators, floor heating coils, etc.), communications and etc.

In the drawings, the system for which said device is intended is neither illustrated nor described in detail, since it is known per se in the technical field to which the present invention pertains.

The device 1 comprises first of all a housing 2 defining in it a filter chamber 3 intended for passing through it the fluid to be filtered. The housing 2 is provided with a first inlet/outlet 10, a second inlet/outlet 20 and a third inlet/outlet 30: each of them communicates said filter chamber 3 with the outside of the device and is configured to communicate with the system line so as to receive from it or send a fluid into it entering or exiting said device body.

The device 1 is configured to pass fluid through the filter chamber 3 from one opening among said first inlet/outlet 10, second inlet/outlet 20 and third inlet/outlet 30 to another hole among said first inlet/outlet 10, second an inlet/outlet 20 and a third inlet/outlet 30. The two holes (among the aforementioned three holes 10, 20 and 30) between which fluid flows can be selected as desired in accordance with a variety of operating configurations, as described in more detail. below.

The device 1 comprises filter elements 40 which are at least partially located within the filter chamber 3 or associated with the body 2 of the device and are operatively located between the three inlet/outlet openings 10, 20 and 30 to filter the fluid passing through the filter chamber 3 .

The filter elements comprise at least one filter septum 41 configured to perform mechanical separation of substances and solids present in the fluid to be treated from the fluid in which they are suspended.

The filter partition 41 is located inside the filter chamber 3 so as to divide it, preferably in the longitudinal direction, into the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9, while the first half-chamber 8 is in fluid communication only with the first inlet/outlet hole 10, but not with the second 20 and the third inlet/outlet 30 without passing through the filter septum 41;

the second semi-chamber 9 is in fluid communication only with the second inlet/outlet 20 and with the third inlet/outlet 20, but not with the first inlet/outlet 10, without passing through the filter septum 41.

Thus, the fluid passing in the filter chamber 3, in each of the aforementioned plurality of operating configurations, necessarily passes through the filter septum 41 in order to pass from the first half-chamber 8 to the second half-chamber 9, or vice versa.

The device preferably comprises a closure member 4 configured to selectively close one opening among said first inlet/outlet 10, second inlet/outlet 20, and third inlet/outlet 30. According to a preferred embodiment, the plurality of operating configurations includes a first operating configuration, in which the first hole 10 receives the fluid flow entering the device, the second hole 20 sends the filtered fluid flow out of the device, and the third hole is blocked by the closing element 4;

a second operating configuration in which the first opening 10 receives a fluid flow entering the device, the third opening 30 sends a filtered fluid flow leaving the device, and the second opening 20 is covered by a cover 4;

a third operating configuration in which the third opening 30 receives a fluid flow entering the device, the first opening 10 sends a filtered fluid flow exiting the device, and the second opening 20 is covered by a cover 4;

a fourth operating configuration in which the second opening 20 receives fluid flow,

- 6 040052 entering the device, the first hole 10 sends a flow of filtered fluid leaving the device, and the third hole 30 is blocked by a closing element 4.

The closing element 4 is preferably a lid removably connected to the openings.

Obviously, in each of the operating configurations, one of the three holes acts as an inlet, the other of the three holes acts as an outlet, and the remaining hole is closed and preferably not used.

Operating configurations are shown in Fig. 6-9 and are detailed in the description below.

It should be noted that in each of the above four configurations, regardless of which opening receives the flow of fluid entering the device, which of them directs the flow of filtered fluid leaving the device, and which is blocked, the filter septum 41 is always located in the same way. and works properly without any need to change its position or configuration.

As shown by way of example in the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, the passage between the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9 preferably necessarily passes through the filter wall 41. In other words, the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9 preferably communicate with each other only through the filter wall 41 .

The filter partition 41 preferably has, at least in one part, a structure provided with a plurality of channels 42 having a predetermined filter section, so that the passage of fluid from the first side 43 of the filter partition to the second side 44 of the filter partition provides retention, on the first side 43 , substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section. Conversely, in a completely analogous way, if the passage of the fluid occurs from the second side 44 of the filter partition 41 to the first side 43 of the filter partition 41, the retention of substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section occurs on the second side 44.

Channels 42 are preferably through holes or holes between the first and second sides. The channels are preferably distributed evenly throughout the structure of the filter wall.

Said filter wall structure preferably has a mesh (or grid, or sieve, or cloth) or a plurality of micro-holes.

It should be noted that the holes 42 indicated in the drawings are approximate; these holes may have different sizes and/or shapes depending on different applications and the required filter section.

The filter septum 41 is preferably in the form of a thin sheet or membrane that extends longitudinally along a plane of extent 45 between the upper end 46 and the lower end 47 (as shown in the orientation of the drawings, and in particular in Figs. 4 and 10).

The filter baffle 41 is preferably positioned in the filter chamber 3 such that its first side 43 faces the first inlet/outlet and its second side 44 faces the third inlet/outlet 30 and/or the second inlet/outlet 20.

The filter septum 41 is preferably configured to operate in a single use position that is maintained for each of said plurality of operating configurations accepted by the device in which it prevents fluid from passing directly from the first opening 10 to the second opening 20 or from the first opening 10 to the third opening. 30 without passing through the filtering partition;

it prevents direct passage of fluid from the second opening 20 to the first opening 10 or from the third opening 30 to the first opening 10 without passing through the filter septum.

In short, the filtering baffle 41 prevents the passage of fluid from the first half-chamber 8 to the second half-chamber 9 and from the second half-chamber 9 to the first half-chamber 8 without passing through the filtering baffle. In use, the filter partition 41 does not need to be moved when the operating configuration received by the device 1 changes.

The baffle 41 is preferably configured to operate in a single use position that is supported for each of said plurality of operating configurations accepted by the device in which the passage of fluid from the first opening 10 to the second opening 20 or from the first opening 10 to the third opening 30 is by passing through the filtering partition 41;

the passage of the fluid from the second hole 20 to the first hole 10 or from the third hole 30 to the first hole 10 occurs by passing through the filter septum 41.

In the drawings illustrating the filter baffle 41, the upper end 46 of the filter baffle 41 along the plane of extension 45 faces upwards, while the lower end 47 faces

- 7 040052 down.

The filter wall 41 is preferably made in one piece. The filter membrane 41 is preferably made of a plastic or metallic material such as stainless steel.

In one aspect, the above operating configurations allow fluid to pass through the baffle 41 (from first side 43 to second side 44) as fluid enters the device at first inlet/outlet 10 and exits the device at second inlet/outlet 20 or from the third inlet/outlet 30 (FIGS. 6 and 7).

The above operating configurations preferably allow fluid to pass through the filter wall 41 (from the second side 44 to the first side 43) when the fluid enters the device through the third inlet/outlet 30 or from the second inlet/outlet 20 and exits the device through the first inlet/outlet 10 (FIGS. 8 and 9).

According to the embodiments shown by way of example in the drawings, the device body 2 has a substantially cylindrical shape and has a longitudinal axis 2A, a top surface 5, an outer side surface 6 and a bottom surface 7.

The body preferably has a body of revolution configuration about the longitudinal axis 2A and has radial symmetry around it.

The first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are preferably located on the outer side surface 6 of the body 2 of the device and on opposite sides with respect to the filter chamber 3.

The second inlet/outlet 20 is preferably located on the top surface 5 of the body 2 of the device.

The first inlet/outlet 10, the second inlet/outlet 20, and the third inlet/outlet 30 are preferably circular in cross-section and each has a respective central axis (the central axes of the holes are indicated in the drawings as 10A, 20A and 30A, respectively).

The central axis 20A of the second inlet/outlet 20 preferably coincides with the axis of the longitudinal extent 2A of the body 2 of the device.

The axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the device body 2 preferably lies in the extension plane 45 of the filter wall.

The respective central axis of the second inlet/outlet 20 preferably lies in the extension plane 45 of the filter wall 41.

The filter partition 41 is preferably in the form of a wall or a separating element (between two half-chambers 8 and 9).

The respective central axes 10A and 30A of the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 preferably intersect (preferably at the same point inside the filter chamber 3) the longitudinal axis 2A of the device body 2.

The respective central axes 10A and 30A of the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2A of the device body 2.

The respective central axes 10A and 30A of the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 preferably coincide with each other.

The body of the device preferably has a central plane of symmetry V-V on which lies a longitudinal axis 2A, said central plane of symmetry separating the body 2 of the device into two substantially identical halves. The plane V-V is indicated in Fig. 3 and the sections in Fig. 59 and 11-12 are shown relative to her.

The body of the device is also essentially symmetrical with respect to the median plane 2B, on which lies the longitudinal axis 2A, and which is orthogonal to the central plane of symmetry V-V.

All three of the respective central axes 10A, 20A and 30A of the first opening 10, the second opening 20 and the third opening 30 preferably lie on the symmetry plane V-V of the device body 2.

The filter wall 41 is preferably symmetrically divided into two halves by a plane (it corresponds to the middle plane 2B in Fig. 3) on which lies the axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the body 2.

The filter chamber 3 is preferably defined laterally by a side surface 3A, from above by an upper surface 3B, and from below by a lower surface 3C of the device body 2.

The filter wall 41 is preferably located in the longitudinal direction between the lower surface 3C and the upper surface 3B of the filter chamber of the device body 2.

The filter wall 41 preferably has two major dimensions in the plane of extension 45 and a third smaller dimension perpendicular to the plane of extension.

The above two main dimensions are the height of the filter partition 41 in the direction coinciding with the axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the housing, and the width of the filter

- 8 040052 partitions in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the longitudinal extension of the housing.

The aforementioned height of the filter wall 41 preferably essentially corresponds to the distance between the top surface 3B and the bottom surface 3C of the filter chamber 3, so that the filter wall is in top and bottom contact (preferably sealed) with said surfaces of the filter chamber 3.

The aforementioned width of the filter partition preferably corresponds to the radial dimension (preferably the diameter) of the filter chamber 3 to be in contact (preferably sealed) with the side surface 3A of the filter chamber 3. The third dimension of the filter partition 41 preferably corresponds to its thickness.

The filter wall preferably divides the filter chamber 3 into a first half-chamber 8 and a second half-chamber 9 and is in contact and/or has a fluid-tight seal with the side surface 3A, the top surface 3B and/or the bottom surface 3C.

Preferably, the first semi-chamber 8 is formed between the filter partition 41 (in particular its first side 43) and the first inlet/outlet 10, while the second half-chamber 9 is formed between the filter partition 41 (in particular its second side 44) and the second 20 and a third with 30 inlet/outlet holes.

The first semi-chamber 8 and the second semi-chamber 9 preferably have a predominantly semi-cylindrical shape and form as a whole - together with the filter wall 41 placed between them - a single filter chamber inside the body 2 of the device with a substantially or predominantly cylindrical shape. The filter wall 41 is preferably positioned inside the filter chamber 3 so that the subdivision of the filter chamber into a first half-chamber 8 and a second half-chamber 9 is of an axial type, that is to say essentially predominantly along the axis 2A of the apparatus body.

As shown by way of example in the embodiment of FIG. 4-9, the filter wall 41 may comprise a first part 48 having a lower end 47 in its lower part and aligned with the axis of the longitudinal extent 2A of the housing 2, and a second part 49 extending continuously above the first part and terminating in the upper end 46, the second part is tilted sideways with respect to the first part. The second part 49 extends inside the filter chamber 3 between the upper end of the first part 48 of the filter partition and the point of the upper surface 3B located between the first inlet/outlet 10 and the second inlet/outlet 20.

Preferably, the second part 49 extends continuously over the first part 48, and the two parts together form a filter wall 41 in a single housing, that is, in a monobloc.

The second part 49 is preferably located inside the filter chamber 3 between the axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the housing 2 and the first inlet/outlet 10.

In other words, the second part 49 extends inside the filter chamber 3 entirely in one half of the filter chamber located between the middle plane 2B, perpendicular to the central plane of symmetry V-V of the body 2, on which the longitudinal axis 2A passes, and the first inlet/outlet 10.

For example, the second part forms a constant angle with respect to the first part.

According to a further exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 10-14, the body of the device may be provided with a partition wall 21 extending inside the filter chamber 3 between the upper end of the filter partition 41 and the top surface point located between the first inlet/outlet 10 and the second inlet/outlet 20.

The dividing wall preferably extends continuously relative to the filter partition 41 and, together with the latter, contributes to the division of the filter chamber 3 in the longitudinal direction into the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9.

The separating wall 21 can preferably lie at least partially in the plane of extension 45 of the filter partition and/or on the axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the device housing.

Starting from one side of the second inlet/outlet 20 facing the first inlet/outlet 10, the partition wall 21 preferably extends inside the filter chamber 3 in a direction substantially coinciding with the axis of the longitudinal extent 2A of the device body and essentially to a height Q, coinciding with the dimensions of the first inlet/outlet hole 10 on the outer side surface 6 of the device body 2 and/or with the dimensions of the third inlet/outlet hole 30 on the outer side surface 6 of the device body 2 (see, for example, Fig. 12). According to this embodiment, the filter baffle 41 is located longitudinally between the lower surface 3C of the device body 2 and the partition wall 21. The filter baffle 41 is preferably located in the filter chamber 3 under the partition wall so that it is below the three inlet/outlet openings 10, 20 and 30 along the axis of the longitudinal extent 2A of the body 2 of the device in the direction from the second inlet/outlet 20.

According to the embodiment shown as an example in FIG. 10-14, separator

- 9 040052 wall 21 may include a first part 22 aligned with the filter wall 41 and extending continuously from its upper end 46, and a second part 23 extending continuously over the first part 22 and inclined sideways with respect to the first part 22. The second part 23 extends inside the filter chamber 3 between the upper end of the first part 22 of the dividing wall and the point of the upper surface 3B located between the first inlet/outlet 10 and the second inlet/outlet 20. The second part 23 preferably extends continuously over the first part 22 and the two parts together contribute the formation of a dividing wall 21 in a single housing, that is, in a monoblock.

The dividing wall 21 preferably extends from the second inlet/outlet 20 inside the filter chamber 3 along a direction parallel to the axis of the longitudinal extension 2A of the device body 2 and substantially up to a height coinciding with the dimensions of the first inlet/outlet 10 on the outer side surface. 6 building 2.

The partition wall 21 preferably extends inside the filter chamber 3 starting from the top surface 3B delimiting the filter chamber 3 from above.

The separating wall 21 is preferably fixed relative to the body 2 of the device.

It should be noted that, as in the embodiment of FIG. 4-9 as well as in the embodiment of FIG. 10-14, the filter wall 41 - or the partition wall 21 respectively - ends at the top with a second part (49 or 23 respectively) which is inclined relative to the first (48 or 22 respectively). This is due to the fact that the filter wall 41 or dividing wall 21 must end at the top at a point located between the second hole 20 and the first hole 10: in fact, this allows you to divide the filter chamber 3 into the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9. Taking into account the fact that in embodiments, the second inlet/outlet 20 has its axis coinciding with the axis of the longitudinal extent 2A of the housing 2, it is necessary that the filter wall 41 or the partition wall 21 deviate (by tilting) from the axis 2A in order to properly reach the top surface point 3B located on the side of the second hole 20 and located between the last and first hole 10.

If the second inlet/outlet 20 were offset sideways with respect to the axis 2A, closer to the third hole 30, the filter wall 41 or, if present, the partition wall 21 could have a completely straight or flat shape and lie completely on the axis of the longitudinal extent 2a. The first inlet/outlet 10, the second inlet/outlet 20 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are preferably the same shape and size; more preferably they are identical to each other.

The closing element 4 can preferably be selectively applied to any of the three inlet/outlet openings 10, 20 and 30 in order to close them. The first inlet/outlet 10, the second inlet/outlet 20 and the third inlet/outlet 30 preferably have respective interconnection means configured to hydraulically connect the hole to external pipes, fittings or water valves. The interconnection means is also preferably adapted to receive the closing element 4. The interconnection means preferably comprise threads or pressurized connections or similar mechanisms. The means of interconnection of the first inlet/outlet 10, the second inlet/outlet 20 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are preferably structurally identical to each other. For example, the three inlets/outlets 10, 20, and 30 are standard sizes for the plumbing sector, such as 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", or 1".

The following is a description, in particular, of FIG. 4-9.

The filter elements 40 preferably comprise at least one magnetic filter 50 associated with the device body 2 and configured to collect and retain substances and ferromagnetic particles (or particles having ferromagnetic properties in general) present in the fluid to be treated, so that separate them from the fluid passing through the device.

The device body 2 preferably comprises at least a first hollow protrusion 51 which protrudes axially from the bottom surface 3C towards the top surface 3B, said first hollow protrusion 51 forming, outside the device body, a first casing 52 which has an elongated shape corresponding to (mirror) to the first hollow ledge 51, and is accessible from the bottom surface 7; the first housing 52 accommodates the first magnetic filter 50.

The first hollow protrusion 51 preferably extends axially into the interior of the second half-chamber 9 (as shown by way of example in FIGS. 5-9). Alternatively, the first hollow protrusion may protrude axially within said first half-chamber.

The magnetic filter 50 preferably comprises at least one magnetic element 53 configured to generate a constant magnetic field and inserted into the first housing 52 of the housing 2 so as to act on the fluid passing through the filter chamber 3 and retain the substances and ferrous particles present. in a fluid medium, on the surface of the hollow protrusion 51 inside the body 2 (in particular, inside the chamber). In short, the first magnetic

- 10 040052 the filter 50 is located inside the filter chamber 3, even if it is physically located in the first housing 52, which can be accessed from the outside of the housing 2 without access to the filter chamber.

The first hollow protrusion 51 extending from the bottom surface 3C is preferably spaced laterally from the filter wall 41 and is entirely contained in the second half-chamber 9 (or alternatively the first half-chamber).

In this configuration, although the first magnetic filter 50 is not in direct contact with the flow, that is, it is not in direct contact with the fluid circulating in the filter chamber, due to its position and magnetic effect, it allows the ferrous particles to be blocked on the first hollow ledge inside the housing.

In an alternate embodiment not shown, the magnetic filter may be placed directly within the filter chamber.

The magnetic filter 50 preferably includes a plurality of magnetic elements 53 connected to each other to form a rod-shaped magnetic cartridge 54 axially inserted into the first casing 52 of the device body.

The first magnetic cartridge 54 preferably includes a first cover 55 suitable for removably connecting with the access opening of the first case 52 on the bottom surface 7 to close said first magnetic cartridge 54 within the first case 52 and facilitate their removal as needed.

The body 2 preferably comprises a first half body 61 and a second half body 62 removably connected to each other, wherein the assembly of the first half body 61 with the second half body 62 defines a filter chamber 3, within the body of the apparatus, which is fluid tight in the outward direction, except for said first an inlet/outlet 10, a second inlet/outlet 20 and a third inlet/outlet 30;

disassembly of the first half-shell 61 with the second half-shell 62 provides access to the filter chamber 3 and the placement of the filter septum 41, as well as cleaning or maintenance operations.

Preferably, the first semi-body 61 comprises a first inlet/outlet 10, a second inlet/outlet 20, a third inlet/outlet 30, a top surface 3B, and a partition wall 21 (if present);

the second semi-body 62 includes a bottom surface 3C and a first hollow projection 51.

The side surface 3A of the filter chamber 3 is preferably formed partly by the first half-body 61 and partly by the second half-body 62.

The first half-body and the second half-body are preferably interconnected by means of a threaded connection (not shown, known type).

The body 2 of the device preferably includes a gasket located between the first half body 61 and the second half body 62 to seal the filter chamber 3 when assembled.

The four operating configurations presented above are described below with reference to specific FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9. These configurations correspond to various possible modes of operation of the device according to the present invention. As illustrated, the device 1 is configured to operate selectively in one of the operating configurations in accordance with the installation requirements.

The first working configuration is shown in FIG. 6; in this configuration, the first inlet/outlet 10 is intended to be connected to a line coming from a plumbing and heating system, in particular a heating water return line from a system of heating elements (e.g. heaters or radiators), so as to receive the water flow to be filtered ;

the second inlet/outlet 20 is designed to communicate with a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system in order to send the flow of water there after filtering;

the third inlet/outlet 30 is covered by the closing element 4;

the fluid flow entering the first opening 10 flows into the first half-chamber 8 and is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall 41 from the first side 43, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side 44 to flow into the second half-chamber 9;

the fluid passes through the second semi-chamber 9 where it is magnetically filtered by the first magnetic filter 50;

the fluid is directed towards the second inlet/outlet 20, while the third inlet/outlet 30 is blocked.

The second working configuration is shown in FIG. 7; in this configuration, the first inlet/outlet 10 is intended to establish communication with the line coming from the plumbing and heating system, in particular with the heating water return line from

- 11 040052 systems of heating elements (for example, heaters or radiators), so as to receive the flow of water to be filtered;

the second inlet/outlet 20 is covered by a closing element 4;

the third inlet/outlet 30 is intended to establish communication with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, so as to send the flow of water there after filtering;

the fluid flow entering the first opening 10 flows into the first half-chamber 8 and is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall 41 from the first side 43, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side 44 to flow into the second half-chamber 9;

the fluid passes through the second semi-chamber 9 where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter 50;

the fluid is supplied towards the third inlet/outlet 30, while the second inlet/outlet 20 is blocked.

The third operating configuration is shown in FIG. 8; in this configuration, the third inlet/outlet 30 is intended to be in communication with a line coming from a plumbing and heating system, in particular a heating water return line from a system of heating elements (e.g. heaters or radiators), so as to receive a water flow, to be filtered;

the second inlet/outlet 20 is covered by a closing element 4;

the first inlet/outlet 10 is intended to communicate with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system in order to send the water flow there after filtering;

the fluid flow entering the third orifice 30 flows into the second half-chamber 9 where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter 50 and (the second inlet/outlet 20 is closed off) is necessarily directed to pass through the filter septum 41 on the second side 44 undergoing mechanical filtration and leaving the first side 43 to flow into the first semi-chamber 8;

the fluid passes through the first semi-chamber 8 and is directed towards the first inlet/outlet 10.

The fourth working configuration is shown in FIG. 9; in this configuration, the second inlet/outlet 20 is intended to communicate with a line coming from a plumbing and heating system, in particular a heating water return line from a system of heating elements (e.g. heaters or radiators), so as to receive the water flow to be filtration;

the third inlet/outlet 30 is covered by the closing element 4;

the first inlet/outlet 10 is intended to communicate with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system in order to send the water flow there after filtering;

the fluid flow entering the second inlet/outlet 20 flows into the second half-chamber 9 where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter 50 and (the third inlet/outlet 30 is closed off) is necessarily directed to pass through the filter septum 41 from the second side 44, being subjected to mechanical filtration and exiting from the first side 43 to flow into the first semi-chamber 8;

the fluid passes through the first semi-chamber 8 and is directed towards the first inlet/outlet 10.

Preferably, in the first operating configuration, in the second operating configuration and in the third operating configuration, the device is positioned vertically, ie with the longitudinal axis 2A of the device body 2 oriented vertically;

in the fourth operating configuration, the device is positioned horizontally, that is, with the longitudinal axis 2A of the device body 2 oriented horizontally.

In FIG. 6-9 arrows indicate the path of the fluid within the device.

In particular:

in the first configuration (FIG. 6), the fluid enters from the first orifice 10, descends into the first semi-chamber 8, passes through the filtering baffle 41 (subjected to mechanical filtration) and rises to the second semi-chamber 9 (where it is mechanically filtered) to exit the second orifice 20 (third hole closed); impurities and mechanical filtration residues remain in the first semi-chamber 8, while impurities and magnetic filtration residues remain in the second semi-chamber 9;

in the second configuration (FIG. 7), the fluid enters from the first orifice 10, descends into the first semi-chamber 8, passes through the filtering baffle 41 (subjected to mechanical filtration) and rises into the second semi-chamber 9 (where it is mechanically filtered) before exiting the third

- 12 040052 holes 30 (the second hole is closed); impurities and mechanical filtration residues remain in the first semi-chamber 8, while impurities and magnetic filtration residues remain in the second semi-chamber 9;

if the boiler is located above the device, it is possible to connect an elbow fitting (90°) outside the third opening to rise to the boiler;

in the third configuration (Fig. 8), the fluid enters from the third hole 30, descends into the second semi-chamber 9, where it is mechanically filtered, passes through the filtering partition 41 (mechanically filtered) and rises into the first half-chamber 8 until it exits the first hole 10 (the only communicating with the first semi-chamber); impurities and residues of both magnetic filtration and mechanical filtration remain in the second semi-chamber 9; if the boiler is positioned above the appliance, it is possible to connect an elbow fitting (90°) outside the first opening to ascend to the boiler;

in the fourth configuration (FIG. 9), the fluid enters through the second opening 20, passes horizontally into the second semi-chamber 9 where it is mechanically filtered, passes through the filtering baffle 41 (mechanically filtered) and passes through the first semi-chamber 8 before exiting through the first opening 10 ( the only one that communicates with the first half-chamber); impurities and residues of both magnetic filtration and mechanical filtration remain in the second semi-chamber 9.

Briefly, in the third configuration the fluid path is opposite to the second configuration, in the fourth configuration the fluid path is opposite to the first configuration.

It should be noted that in all four operating configurations as shown, the opening that acts as the fluid inlet is horizontal as it is intended to be connected to the return line from the system, which normally exits the wall below the boiler. In any case, the first, second and third configurations can also work horizontally, and the fourth can also work vertically. In this case, suitable connections of a known type can be used to provide water connections between the openings acting as the inlet and outlet of the device and the pipes of the system to which they are to be connected.

In addition, it should be noted that the fluid paths within the device in the four configurations are mandatory due to the filtering baffle and the design and arrangement of the elements of the device body.

The following is a description, in particular, of FIG. 10-14. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in these drawings, the body 2 of the device may include a second hollow protrusion 81, which protrudes axially in the filter chamber 3 from the bottom surface 3C to the top surface 3B, and the specified second hollow protrusion 81 sets, outside of the housing 2 device, the second casing 82, which has an elongated shape corresponding to the second hollow protrusion and accessible from the bottom surface 7.

The second hollow projection 81 preferably extends axially into the half-chamber not occupied by the first hollow projection 51.

Preferably, the second hollow protrusion 81 protrudes axially inside the first semi-chamber 8, while the first hollow protrusion 51 protrudes axially inside the second semi-chamber 9.

The second hollow protrusion 81 extending from the bottom surface is preferably located at a distance laterally from the filter wall 41 and is completely contained within the first half-chamber (or alternatively the second half-chamber if the first half-chamber contains the first hollow protrusion).

The first magnetic filter 50 may preferably be selectively associated with the first hollow lip 51 or the second hollow lip 81 of the device body 2, depending on the selected operating configuration.

This can be done by removing the first cap 55 of the first magnetic filter and moving it into the desired housing 52 or 82.

When the first magnetic filter 50 is associated with the first hollow projection 51, it preferably magnetically filters the fluid passing in the second semi-chamber 9, while when the first magnetic filter 50 is associated with the second hollow projection 81, it magnetically filters the fluid passing in the first half-chamber 8. In short, the device may comprise two hollow projections and one magnetic filter 50 to be inserted selectively into the first housing 52 or the second housing 82. In both cases, since operating configurations always provide for the passage of fluid between the two half-chambers (and always the passage filter baffle 41), magnetic filtration by at least the magnetic filter 50 is guaranteed regardless of the housing in which it is inserted.

In an exemplary embodiment, the filter elements 40 may further comprise a second magnetic filter 80 associated with the device body 2 and configured to collect and retain substances and particles having ferromagnetic properties present in the fluid to be treated so as to separate them from the fluid. passing through the device. The second magnetic filter 80 is preferably structurally identical to the first magnetic filter 50.

The second magnetic filter 80 preferably includes at least one second magnetic

- 13 040052 element 83, configured to create a constant magnetic field, inserted into the second casing of the housing 2 so as to act on the fluid passing through the filter chamber 3 and to keep the ferromagnetic substances and particles present in the fluid on the surface of the second hollow protrusion 81 inside the body of the device.

The second magnetic element 83 is preferably structurally identical to the first magnetic element 53.

The second magnetic filter 80 preferably includes a plurality of second magnetic elements 83 connected to each other to form a second rod-shaped magnetic cartridge 54 axially inserted into the second casing 82 of the device body.

The second magnetic cartridge 84 preferably includes a second cover 85 suitable for removably connecting with the access hole of the second casing 82 on the bottom surface 7 to cover said second magnetic cartridge 84 within the second casing 82 and allow it to be removed as needed. Preferably, the second magnetic filter 80 is designed to be placed in the second housing 82, while the first magnetic filter 50 is designed to be placed in the first housing 52.

It should be noted that the embodiment of FIG. 10-14 operates in the same operating configurations as described with respect to FIGS. 6-9.

As shown in FIG. 6-9 and 10-12 and further illustrated in FIG. 13-14, the device may preferably comprise a drain cock 90 configured to empty the filter chamber 3 without dismantling the device from the system in which it is installed, without disconnecting the first, second, and third inlet/outlet ports from their respective lines, and without dismantling the device housing (in in particular, the first half-body 61 and the second half-body 62).

The drain cock 90 is preferably located at the drain hole 91 located on the lower surface 3C of the body 2 of the device, and allows you to selectively empty the contents of the filter chamber 3 to perform cleaning or maintenance of the device.

The drain hole 91 is preferably located on the lower surface, surrounding the lower end 47 of the filter wall 41 so as to communicate laterally with both the first half-chamber 8 and the second half-chamber 9, but without communication between the first and second half-chambers.

The drain hole 91 is preferably located at the lower end of the sloping portion 92 of the lower surface 3C extending downward, i.e. from the upper surface with respect to the remainder of the lower surface, said sloping portion 92 makes it possible to guide the material filtered inside the filter chamber, in particular by the filter wall 41, to the drain hole by gravity or sedimentation.

The drain cock 90 can preferably be operated selectively in a closed state, in which the drain hole 91 is blocked and does not allow the fluid to leave the filter chamber 3, or in an open state, in which the drain hole 91 is installed in communication with the outside of the device 1.

The drain cock 90 preferably includes a shut-off element 93 operating on the drain opening 91 in such a way as to block the drain opening in said closed state or leave the passage through the drain opening free in said open state. The drain cock 90 preferably includes a handle 94 or similar manual or automatic means for selecting the position of the closure 93.

The drain valve preferably includes a removable protective cap 95 installed downstream of the closure element 93 and configured, when it is in position, to close the drain hole even if the handle opens the closure element.

It should be noted that the drain cock is preferably configured, due to the position of the drain hole, to draw in both half-chambers 8 and 9 in order to ensure efficient draining of the material to be filtered and cleaning of both half-chambers. This is particularly advantageous because, as illustrated above, according to the operating configuration and the type of connection made for the first, second and third inlets, the material can be filtered on the first side 43 or the second side 44 of the filter partition 41 and thus accumulate in the first half-chamber 8 or in the second half-chamber 9. In any case, the drain cock 90 allows easy cleaning of both half-chambers.

In a possible alternative embodiment, shown as an example in the drawings, the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are not aligned with each other, that is, the respective central axes 10A and 30A of the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet outlet openings 30 do not coincide with each other, but are rather displaced. This means that the first inlet/outlet 10 and the third inlet/outlet 30 are located on the outer side surface 6 of the housing 2 at different heights compared to the second hole 20 along the longitudinal extent. This makes it possible to have two different longitudinal or center distances, between the first opening 10 and the second opening 20, and between the third opening 30 and the second opening 20. Thus, it is advantageously possible to select

- 14 040052 which hole to use as the inlet or outlet, either the first hole 10 or the third hole 30, simply by turning the whole body of the device 180°.

This can be useful depending on the position of the system return pipe (to which the device inlet must be connected) and the pipe leading back to the boiler (to which the device outlet must be connected), in particular during operation in the fourth configuration. In such a case, for example, based on the distance of the supply pipe to the boiler from the installation wall, it may be useful to select either the first or the third inlet as the outlet of the fluid from the device.

In general, regardless of the operating configuration chosen, device 1 is usually supported directly by the two lines of the system on which it is installed (or on which holes are installed to act as inlet and outlet).

The method for filtering the fluid circulating in the plumbing and heating system according to the present invention preferably corresponds to the mode of operation of the device 1. Essentially, the method includes the following steps:

place the device 1 preferably as described;

defining a line coming from the plumbing and heating system, in particular a hot water return line from the heating element system moving the flow of water to be filtered;

define a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, and this line moves the flow of water that has passed the filtration;

control the operation of the device selectively in one of the specified operating configurations.

The invention thus made is susceptible to numerous modifications and variations, all of which are included within the scope of the invention, and said components may be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

The invention provides important advantages. First of all, as is clear from the above description, the invention overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art.

The device according to the present invention provides effective filtration of the fluid circulating in the plumbing and heating system and achieves it in any operating configuration. In particular, no matter which orifice acts as an inlet and which as an outlet, optimum filtration of the fluid is always ensured. In fact, as detailed above and illustrated in the drawings, in each operating configuration, the entire fluid stream is effectively subjected to both mechanical filtration and magnetic filtration, with no part of the fluid passing through the device without being completely filtered, as is the case, on the contrary, in prior art solutions. Therefore, the device according to the present invention combines versatility of use, since three inlet/outlet ports are available, and the ability to select which one will act as a fluid inlet and which one as an outlet, with maximum efficiency in terms of filtration in any working configuration.

This allows the device to be adapted to a large number and different types of boilers or other components of the heating system and be able to be installed even in very limited spaces, while at the same time effectively performing the necessary filtration operations. In short, the device according to the present invention is capable of operating at consistently high performance regardless of the mode of installation within the plumbing and heating system.

This is made possible, in particular, by the design and arrangement of the filter partition, which allows two half-chambers to be defined and to direct the fluid in such a way that it always (i.e. in any operating configuration) passes through the mechanical filter (i.e. filter partition) and the magnetic filter. (or magnetic filters, if there are two): this makes the filtration always optimal, overcoming the problems of the prior art.

The path of the fluid in the filter chamber, always first through one half-chamber and then through the other, always results in an effective double filtration. In fact, the filter baffle is designed to work with all four different configurations: after selecting the inlet and outlet (and closing the remaining hole), the device is already ready for operation without the need to change the position of the elements of the device. In particular, the baffle allows the device to operate in a variety of configurations without the need to move or change position.

In addition, the apparatus of the present invention is highly reliable in operation and less prone to failure and malfunction, and can be easily and quickly assembled, disassembled, cleaned and maintained.

Finally, the device according to the present invention is characterized by competitive cost and simple, rational design.

Claims (13)

CLAIM 1. A device (1) for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system, wherein said device (1) comprises a body (2) of the device that defines a filter chamber (3) in it, designed to pass through it the fluid to be filtered, with In this case, the specified housing contains the first inlet/outlet (10) providing communication of the specified filter chamber (3) with the outer part of the device and configured for communication with the line so as to receive from it or send to it the fluid entering the specified device housing or coming out of it; a second inlet/outlet (20) providing communication of the specified filter chamber (3) with the outer part of the device and configured to communicate with the corresponding line so as to receive from it or send to it the fluid entering into the specified device body or leaving it ; a third inlet/outlet (30) providing communication of said filter chamber (3) with the outside of the device and configured to communicate with the corresponding line so as to receive from or send to it the fluid entering or leaving said device body ; moreover, the device is configured to carry out the passage of fluid through the filter chamber (3), selectively in accordance with a variety of operating configurations, from one hole among the specified first inlet/outlet (10), the specified second inlet/outlet (20) and the specified third inlet/outlet (30) to another hole among the specified first inlet/outlet (10), the specified second inlet/outlet (20) and the specified third inlet/outlet (30), the device additionally contains filter elements (40), which are at least partially located inside the specified filter chamber (3) or connected with the specified body (2) of the device and are functionally located between the specified first inlet/outlet, the specified second inlet/outlet and the specified third inlet/outlet to perform filtration of the fluid passing through the filter th camera; wherein said filter elements (40) comprise at least one filtering baffle (41) configured to perform mechanical separation of substances and solid particles present in the fluid to be processed from the fluid in which they are suspended, and said filtering baffle ( 41) is located inside the specified filter chamber (3) so as to divide the filter chamber into the first half-chamber (8) and the second half-chamber (9), while the first half-chamber (8) is in fluid communication with the first inlet/outlet without passing through the filter partition; the second semi-chamber (9) is in fluid communication with the second inlet/outlet and with the third inlet/outlet without passing through the filter septum; in such a way that in each of the specified set of operating configurations for the transition from the specified first semi-chamber (8) to the specified second semi-chamber (9) or vice versa, the fluid moving in the filter chamber (3) passes through the specified filtering partition (41). 2. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the passage between the first semi-chamber (8) and the second semi-chamber (9) is necessarily carried out through a filtering partition (41), and/or the first semi-chamber (8) and the second semi-chamber (9) are connected to each other with the other only through the filtering baffle (41), and/or the filtering baffle (41) has at least one of its parts a structure provided with a plurality of channels (42) having a given filtering section, so that the passage of fluid from the first side (43 ) of the filtering partition to the second side (44) of the filtering partition ensures the retention on the first side (43) of substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section, and vice versa, the passage of the fluid from the second side (44) to the first side (43) ensures retention on the second side (44) of substances and particles present in the fluid and having dimensions larger than the specified filter section, and/or the filter partition (41) It has the form of a thin sheet or membrane extending in the longitudinal direction along the plane of extension (45) between the upper end (46) and the lower end (47). 3. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter partition (41) is located in the filter chamber (3) in such a way that its first side (43) faces the first inlet/outlet and its second side (44) faces the third inlet/outlet (30) and/or the second inlet/outlet (20), and/or the filter wall (41) is configured to operate in a single position for use, which is supported for each of the specified set of operating configurations accepted a device in which it prevents the passage of the fluid directly from the first hole (10) to the second hole (20) or from the first hole (10) to the third hole (30) without passing through the filter wall; it prevents the direct passage of the fluid from the second hole (20) to the first hole (10) or from the third hole (30) to the first hole (10) without passing through the filter septum; and/or the filter septum (41) is configured to operate in a single position for use, which is supported for each of the specified set of operating configurations accepted by the device, in which the passage of fluid from the first hole (10) to the second hole (20) or from the first holes (10) into the third hole (30) occurs by passing through the filter partition; the passage of fluid from the second hole (20) to the first hole (10) or from the third hole (30) to the first hole (10) occurs by passing through the filter septum. 4. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a closing element (4) configured to selectively close one opening among said first inlet/outlet (10), said second inlet/outlet (20) and said the third inlet/outlet (30), and the specified set of working configurations contains at least the first working configuration, in which the specified first hole (10) receives the fluid flow entering the device, the specified second hole (20) sends the flow of filtered fluid leaving the device, and the specified third hole (30) is blocked by the specified closing element (4); a second operating configuration, in which said first opening (10) receives a fluid flow entering the device, said third opening (30) sends a filtered fluid flow leaving the device, and said second opening (20) is blocked by said closing element (4 ); a third operating configuration, in which said third hole (30) receives the fluid flow entering the device, said first hole (10) sends the filtered fluid flow leaving the device, and said second hole (20) is blocked by said closing element (4 ); a fourth operating configuration, in which said second hole (20) receives the fluid flow entering the device, said first hole (10) sends a filtered fluid flow leaving the device, and said third hole (30) is blocked by said closing element (4 ), and/or said operating configurations allow fluid to pass through the filter wall (41) from the first side (43) to the second side (44) as the fluid enters the device through the first inlet/outlet (10) and exits the device through the second inlet/outlet (20) or through the third inlet/outlet (30), and/or said operating configurations allow fluid to pass through the filter septum (41) from the second side (44) to the first side (43) when fluid enters the device through the second inlet/outlet (20) or through the third inlet/outlet (30) and leaves the device through the first inlet/outlet outlet (10). 5. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the filter chamber is limited on the side by a side surface (3A), from above - by an upper surface (3B) and from below - by a lower surface (3C) of the body (2) of the device, and the filter partition is located longitudinally between the lower surface (3C) and the upper surface (3B) of the filter chamber of the housing (2) of the device, and/or the filter partition has two main dimensions in the specified extension plane (45) and a third smaller dimension perpendicular to the specified extension plane, while said two main dimensions are the height of the filtering baffle in the direction coinciding with the axis of the longitudinal extension (2A) of the housing (2), and the width of the filtering baffle in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the longitudinal extension (2A) of the housing (2), and the specified height of the filtering baffle is essentially corresponds to the distance between the upper surface (3B) and the lower surface (3C) of the filter chamber (3), so that the top and bottom from the outside, the partition is in contact with the surfaces of the filter chamber (3), and the specified width of the filter partition corresponds to the radial dimension of the filter chamber (3), so that it is in contact with the side surface (3A) of the filter chamber (3). 6. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the body (2) of the device is provided with a dividing wall (21) extending inside the filter chamber (3) between the upper end (46) of the filter partition and the top surface point located between the first inlet/outlet (10) and the second inlet/outlet (20), while the dividing wall (21) runs continuously with respect to the filter partition (41) and together with it ensures the separation of the filter chamber in the longitudinal direction into the first half-chamber and the second semi-chamber, and/or the dividing wall (21) lies at least partially in the plane of the extension of the filter partition and/or on the axis of the longitudinal extension (2A) of the device body, and/or starting from one side of the second inlet/outlet (20 ), said side facing the first inlet/outlet (10), the separating wall (21) extends inside the filter chamber (3), - 17 040052 in accordance with the direction, essentially coinciding with the axis of the longitudinal extent (2A) of the body of the device and essentially the height (Q), coinciding with the dimensions of the first inlet/outlet (10) on the outer side surface (6) of the body (2) device and / or with the dimensions of the third inlet / outlet (30) on the outer side surface (6) of the body (2) of the device, and / or the filter partition is located longitudinally between the lower surface (3C) of the body (2) of the device and the separating wall (21 ). 7. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the filter elements (40) comprise at least a first magnetic filter (50) associated with the body (2) of the device and configured to collect and retain substances and particles having ferromagnetic properties and present in the fluid to be treated, so as to separate them from the fluid passing through the device, while the body (2) of the device contains at least the first hollow protrusion (51) extending in the axial direction , in the filter chamber, from said lower surface (3C) towards said upper surface (3C), wherein said first hollow protrusion (51) defines, outside the body (2) of the device, the first casing (52) having an elongated shape corresponding to the first hollow protrusion (51) and accessible from the bottom surface (7), wherein said first casing (52) accommodates the first magnetic filter (50), and/or said first hollow protrusion (51) protrudes axially inside the indicated in the second half-chamber or, alternatively, inside the said first half-chamber, and/or the first magnetic filter (50) contains at least the first magnetic element (53) configured to create a constant magnetic field and inserted into the said first casing (52) housing (2) in such a way as to act on the fluid passing through the filter chamber (3) and retain ferromagnetic substances and particles present in the fluid on the surface of the said first hollow protrusion (51) inside the device housing. 8. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said device (1) is configured to selectively operate, when used, in one of the following operating configurations: a first operating configuration in which the first inlet/outlet (10) is intended to communicate with a line coming from the plumbing and heating system, in particular with a hot water return line from the heating element system, to receive a water flow to be filtered; the second inlet/outlet (20) is designed to communicate with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system in order to send the flow of water there after filtering; the third inlet/outlet (30) is blocked by a closing element (4); the flow of fluid entering the first hole (10) flows into the first half-chamber (8) and is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter partition (41) from the first side (43), being subjected to mechanical filtration and exiting from the second side (44) to flow into the second half-chamber (9); the fluid passes through the second semi-chamber (9), where it is magnetically filtered by the first magnetic filter (50); the fluid medium is directed towards the second inlet/outlet (20), while the third inlet/outlet (30) is blocked; a second operating configuration, in which the first inlet/outlet (10) is intended to communicate with a line coming from the plumbing and heating system, in particular with a hot water return line from the heating element system, to receive the water flow to be filtered; the second inlet/outlet (20) is blocked by a closing element (4); the third inlet/outlet (30) is designed to communicate with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the water flow there after filtering; the flow of fluid entering the first hole (10) flows into the first half-chamber (8) and is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter partition (41) from the first side (43), being subjected to mechanical filtration and exiting from the second side (44) to flow into the second half-chamber (9); the fluid passes through the second semi-chamber (9), where it is magnetically filtered by the first magnetic filter (50); fluid is supplied towards the third inlet/outlet (30), while the second inlet/outlet (20) is blocked; a third operating configuration, in which the third inlet/outlet (30) is intended to communicate with a line coming from a plumbing and heating system, in particular a hot water return line from a heating element system, to receive a water flow to be filtered; the second inlet/outlet (20) is blocked by a closing element (4); the first inlet/outlet (10) is designed to communicate with the line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the flow of water there after filtering; - 18 040052 the fluid flow entering the third hole (30) flows into the second semi-chamber (9), where it is magnetically filtered by the first magnetic filter (50) and, since the second inlet/outlet hole (20) is blocked, it, thus necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter wall (41) from the second side (44), undergoing mechanical filtration and leaving the first side (43) to flow into the first half-chamber (8); the fluid passes through the first semi-chamber (8) and is directed towards the first inlet/outlet (10); a fourth operating configuration, in which the second inlet/outlet (20) is intended to communicate with a line coming from a plumbing and heating system, in particular a hot water return line from a heating element system, to receive a water flow to be filtered; the third inlet/outlet (30) is blocked by a closing element (4); the first inlet/outlet (10) is designed to communicate with a line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system in order to send the flow of water there after filtering; the fluid flow entering the second inlet/outlet (20) flows into the second half-chamber (9), where it is magnetically filtered by the first magnetic filter (50), since the third inlet/outlet (30) is blocked, it is thus thus necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter wall (41) from the second side (44), undergoing mechanical filtration and leaving the first side (43) to flow into the first half-chamber (8); the fluid passes through the first semi-chamber (8) and is directed towards the first inlet/outlet (10). 9. The device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the body (2) of the device comprises a second hollow protrusion (81), protruding in the axial direction, in the filter chamber (3), from the specified lower surface (3C) towards the specified upper surface (3B), wherein said second hollow protrusion (81) defines, outside the body (2) of the device, a second casing (82) having an elongated shape corresponding to the second hollow protrusion (51) and accessible from the bottom surface (7), and/ or said second hollow ledge (81) protrudes axially into the semi-chamber, between the first (8) and second half-chamber (9) not occupied by the first hollow ledge (51), or wherein said second hollow ledge (81) protrudes axially inward said first semi-chamber (8), while said first hollow ledge (51) protrudes axially into said second half-chamber (9), and/or said first magnetic filter (50) is selectively placed in the first hollow ledge (51) or in the second break ledge (81) of the body (2) of the device in accordance with the selected operating configuration. 10. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the filter elements (40) comprise a second magnetic filter (80) associated with the body (2) of the device and configured to collect and retain substances and particles having ferromagnetic properties and present in the product to be treated. fluid, so as to separate them from the fluid passing through the device, and/or the specified second magnetic filter (80) is structurally identical to the specified first magnetic filter (50), and/or the specified second magnetic filter (80) contains, according to at least a second magnetic element (83) configured to create a constant magnetic field and inserted into the specified second casing of the housing (2) in such a way as to act on the fluid passing through the filter chamber (3) and retain ferromagnetic substances and particles, present in the fluid, on the surface of the specified second hollow protrusion (81) inside the device housing, while the specified second magnetic filter (80) placed in the second casing (82). 11. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, containing a drain valve (90) configured to allow the filter chamber (3) to be emptied without dismantling the device from the system in which it is installed, without disconnecting the first, second and third inlet / outlets from the respective lines and without disassembling the body (2) of the device, while the drain cock (90) is located at the drain hole (91) located on the lower surface (3C) of the body (2), covering the lower end (47) of the filter partition (41) in such a way as to be in communication with the first half-chamber (8) and with the second half-chamber (9), without communicating the first and second half-chambers with each other, and/or the drain hole (91) is located at the lower end of the inclined part (90 ) of the bottom surface (3C) extending downwards, i.e. from the top surface (3B), with respect to the rest of the bottom surface, said inclined part (92) ensures the movement of the material filtered inside the filter chamber into in particular the filtering partition, to the drain hole (91) under the action of gravity or sedimentation, and/or the drain cock (90) is operable to operate selectively in a closed state in which the drain hole (91) is blocked and does not allow the fluid to leave the filter chamber (3), or in an open state in which the drain hole (91) is in communication with the outside of the device. 12. A method for filtering fluid circulating in a plumbing and heating system, said method comprising the steps of: placing at least one fluid filtering device (1) according to any one of claims 1-11 - 19 040052 in connection with the corresponding lines in the plumbing and heating system; determine the line coming from the plumbing and heating system, moving the flow of water to be filtered; define a line directed to the boiler plumbing and heating system, and this line moves the flow of water, past the filtration, to the boiler; control the operation of the device (1) selectively in one of the following operating configurations: first working configuration containing the following steps: hydraulic connection of the first inlet/outlet with a certain line coming from the plumbing and heating system to receive the flow of water to be filtered; hydraulic connection of the second inlet / outlet with a certain line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the flow of water there after filtering; closing the third inlet/outlet by means of a closing element; introducing the fluid flow entering the first opening into the first half-chamber such that it is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall from the first side, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side to flow into the second half-chamber; causing the fluid to pass through the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter, and causing the fluid to exit through the second inlet/outlet, while the third inlet/outlet is blocked; second working configuration containing the following steps: hydraulic connection of the first inlet/outlet with a certain line coming from the plumbing and heating system to receive the flow of water to be filtered; overlapping the second inlet/outlet by means of a closing element; hydraulic connection of the third inlet / outlet with a certain line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system so as to send the flow of water there after filtering; introducing the fluid flow entering the first opening into the first half-chamber such that it is necessarily directed to pass through the filter wall from the first side, being mechanically filtered and exiting from the second side to flow into the second half-chamber; causing the fluid to pass through the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by the magnetic filter, and causing the fluid to exit through the third inlet/outlet, while the second inlet/outlet is blocked; a third operating configuration in which the third inlet/outlet is hydraulically connected to a certain line coming from the plumbing and heating system so as to receive the flow of water to be filtered; the second inlet/outlet is blocked by a closing element; the first inlet/outlet is hydraulically connected to a certain line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, so as to send the flow of water there after filtering; the fluid flow entering the third hole is introduced into the second half-chamber where it is magnetically filtered by a magnetic filter, and in such a way that the second inlet/outlet is blocked and the fluid is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter partition from the second side , undergoing mechanical filtration and exiting from the first side to flow into the first semi-chamber; causing the fluid to pass through the first semi-chamber and causing the fluid to exit the first inlet/outlet; the fourth working configuration containing the following steps: hydraulic connection of the second inlet/outlet with a certain line coming from the plumbing and heating system, and receiving the flow of water to be filtered; closing the third inlet/outlet by means of a closing element; hydraulic connection of the first inlet / outlet with a certain line directed to the boiler of the plumbing and heating system, so as to send the flow of water there after filtering; introduction of the fluid flow entering the second hole into the second half-chamber, where it is subjected to magnetic filtration by means of a magnetic filter, and in such a way that the third inlet/outlet is blocked and the fluid is necessarily directed so as to pass through the filter partition from the second side , undergoing mechanical filtration and exiting from the first side to flow into the first semi-chamber; causing the fluid to pass through the first half-chamber; and causing the fluid to exit through the first inlet/outlet. - 20 040052 13. The filtration method according to claim 12, wherein said inlet/outlet openings are hydraulically connected to a heating water return line from the heating element system.