Description:[0001] The present invention relates to a revolving trashrack cleaning machine, specifically a continuous chain-raked bar screen arrangement with multiple cleaner arrangements. It is designed for use in water intakes of industries such as thermal power stations, nuclear power plants, and water treatment facilities. The machine effectively removes naturally floating debris, trash, and artificial or natural contaminants, preventing them from blocking water flow or damaging critical downstream equipment, such as pumps and condensers. By maintaining unobstructed water flow, the invention enhances the efficiency and safety of industrial water intake systems.

Background of the Invention
[0002] Industries such as thermal and nuclear power stations, chemical plants, refineries, and desalination facilities depend on large quantities of water for processes like cooling, washing, and production. These facilities draw water from natural sources, such as rivers, lakes, canals, or seas, using intake systems equipped with trashracks to filter out debris and contaminants. Trashracks are critical components that prevent foreign objects such as logs, branches, plastic waste, jellyfish, and other debris from entering the water intake system and damaging downstream equipment, including pumps, condensers, and heat exchangers.
[0003] However, with increasing deforestation, urbanization, and pollution, the amount of natural and artificial debris in water bodies has risen significantly. This has created a pressing problem of frequent blockages in trashracks, leading to disruptions in water flow and increased operational inefficiencies. Blockages can cause the following issues:
[0004] Reduced Operational Efficiency: Debris accumulation restricts water flow, forcing pumps to work harder, which increases energy consumption and reduces the system's overall efficiency.
[0005] Damage to Equipment: Blocked trashracks can lead to debris entering the system, causing cavitation and damage to critical components like pumps and turbines.
[0006] Operational Downtime: Manual cleaning of trashracks often necessitates system shutdowns, resulting in production losses and additional labor costs.
[0007] Increased Maintenance Costs: Regular manual cleaning and the resulting wear and tear on trashracks contribute to higher operational expenses.
[0008] Traditional methods of trashrack cleaning involve manual labor, which is slow, hazardous, and often inefficient in dealing with large volumes of debris. In some cases, mechanical systems are employed, but these systems are often limited in scalability and do not offer continuous cleaning capabilities.
[0009] The need for an effective, automated, and continuous cleaning solution has become paramount. To address this challenge, the present invention introduces a revolving trashrack cleaning machine equipped with a chain-raked bar screen system and a rotary wiper mechanism. This innovative solution provides:
Continuous Cleaning: The machine operates without the need for manual intervention, ensuring uninterrupted water flow.
High Efficiency: The system is capable of handling large volumes of debris while protecting downstream equipment.
Cost Savings: By reducing energy consumption, operational downtime, and maintenance requirements, the invention offers significant cost advantages.
Enhanced Safety: Automation eliminates the risks associated with manual trashrack cleaning.
[0010] This invention represents a significant advancement in the field of water intake system management, ensuring reliable and efficient operations for industries that rely on large-scale water use.

Objects of the Invention
[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide an automated system capable of continuous and efficient trashrack cleaning.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to prevent blockages in water intake systems, ensuring uninterrupted water flow.
[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to safeguard downstream equipment, such as pumps and condensers, from debris-induced damage.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to minimize operational downtime and reduce the need for manual intervention.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to enhance the efficiency and lifespan of industrial water intake systems.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to deliver a scalable, cost-effective, and durable solution for industries with high water usage.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to improve safety by eliminating the need for manual trashrack cleaning.

Summary of the Invention
[0018] The present invention is a continuous chain-raked bar screen system paired with a rotary wiper mechanism. This system includes horizontal raking beams (skipgrabs) equipped with teeth for cleaning vertical trashrack bars. The beams are attached to durable chains that continuously move to collect debris and transfer it to a discharge point. A rotary wiper blade at the top cleans the beams, ensuring uninterrupted operation. The system can operate in automatic mode using differential level indicators or timers to initiate and halt cleaning based on debris accumulation. This automated process eliminates blockages, reduces maintenance costs, protects downstream equipment, and ensures high operational efficiency. Designed with corrosion-resistant materials, the invention is both durable and adaptable to various industrial needs.
[0019] In this respect, before explaining at least one object of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of set of rules and to the arrangements of the various models set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other objects and of being practiced and carried out in various ways, according to the need of that industry. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0020] These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

Brief Description of drawings
[0021] The advantages and features of the present invention will be understood better with reference to the following detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which:
[0022] Figure 1 illustrates the line diagram of revolving trashrack cleaning machine (continuous chain raked bar screens) in accordance with the present invention.
[0023] Figure 2 illustrates the line diagram of GMW developed multi cleaner arrangement (MCA) for revolving trashrack cleaning machine (continuous chain raked bar screens) in accordance with the present invention.
[0024] Figure 3 illustrates the revolving trashrack cleaning machine in accordance with the present invention.
[0025] Referral Numerals
PART NO DESCRIPTION
1 Chain Link
2 Intermediate Structure
3 Bar Screen [Trash Rack]
4 Skip Rakes
5 Head Sprocket
6 Head Shaft
7 Head Section Weldment
8 Deflector Plate
9 Scrapper
10 Wiper Blade
11 Geared Motor
12 Sprocket And Chain Drive

Detailed description of the Invention
[0026] An embodiment of this invention, illustrating its features, will now be described in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items.
[0027] The terms “first,” “second,” and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
[0028] The present invention relates to an automated revolving trashrack cleaning machine equipped with a continuous chain-raked bar screen (CBA) and a multiple cleaner arrangement (MCA). The system is designed to efficiently remove and dispose of floating debris, including trash, fish, plastics, and other materials from water intakes in industries such as power plants, refineries, and desalination facilities. The machine utilizes continuous, automated operation through skipgrabs mounted on a chain system to comb the bar screen and transport collected debris to a top-mounted rotary wiper, which clears and releases the debris into a discharge canal.
Key Components
[0029] The system consists of several key components that work in unison to provide efficient and continuous trashrack cleaning. The primary component is the chain-raked bar screen, which includes horizontal raking beams or skip rakes. These beams are equipped with teeth that engage with the trashrack bars to effectively remove debris. The raking beams are evenly spaced and attached to continuous chains driven by a robust drive mechanism. This setup ensures consistent and reliable debris collection and removal.
[0030] The rotary wiper mechanism is another critical component of the system. Installed at the top of the machine, the wiper mechanism cleans the raking beams after each cleaning cycle. The wiper uses rubber scrapers to remove accumulated debris from the beams, ensuring they are clean before re-entering the water. This self-cleaning feature significantly enhances the system's efficiency and reduces maintenance requirements.
[0031] The drive mechanism is designed to ensure the continuous movement of the raking beams. Powered by a high-torque geared motor, it enables smooth operation even under heavy debris loads. The drive mechanism is robust and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for industrial applications.
[0032] A control system manages the operation of the entire machine. It offers both manual and automatic modes to suit different operational needs. In automatic mode, the system uses differential level indicators to detect blockages and initiate cleaning cycles. The control system can also be configured for timer-based operation, allowing for cleaning at predefined intervals. This flexibility ensures that the system can adapt to various operational conditions and requirements.

Operation
[0033] The operation of the system begins with the raking beams traversing through the trashrack. As they move, the teeth on the beams engage with the trashrack bars, collecting debris and transporting it upward. At the top of the machine, the debris is scraped off the raking beams by the rotary wiper mechanism. The wiper directs the debris onto a deflector plate, which channels it into a trash disposal system. Once cleaned, the raking beams return to the water to begin another cleaning cycle. This continuous operation ensures that the trashracks remain debris-free, maintaining optimal water flow and protecting downstream equipment such as pumps and condensers.
Features
[0034] The system offers several advanced features that make it a superior solution for trashrack cleaning. Its self-cleaning mechanism ensures that the raking beams remain free of debris, enabling consistent and efficient performance. The system is capable of cleaning widths of up to 4 meters or more, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Built with corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel and duplex stainless steel, the machine is designed for durability and long-term operation.
[0035] The system is also highly customizable, with options for time-based or automated cleaning triggered by water level differentials. Its automated operation eliminates the need for manual handling, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of workplace injuries. These features make the system a reliable and cost-effective solution for industries that rely on large-scale water use.
Applications
[0036] The system is ideal for a variety of industrial applications, including thermal and nuclear power stations, water treatment plants, refineries, chemical process industries, desalination plants, sewage pre-screening facilities, and hydro-electric power stations. Its ability to handle large volumes of debris efficiently makes it a valuable asset for any industry that depends on uninterrupted water flow.
[0037] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present invention, and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.
, Claims:1. A system for continuous cleaning of trashracks, comprising:
a continuous chain-raked bar screen arrangement with horizontal raking beams equipped with teeth for engaging and collecting debris from the trashrack;
a robust drive mechanism that moves the raking beams along the bar screen;
a rotary wiper mechanism installed at the top of the system for cleaning debris off the raking beams, comprising rubber scrapers that push the debris into a discharge canal;
a control system that operates the system in either manual or automatic mode, with automatic operation being responsive to differential water levels or pre-set timers.

2. A method for cleaning trashracks, comprising the steps of:
a) engaging horizontal raking beams equipped with teeth to collect debris from a bar screen;
b) moving the raking beams along the bar screen using a continuous chain system powered by a high-torque drive mechanism;
c) transferring the collected debris to a rotary wiper at the top of the system;
d) using the rotary wiper to clean debris from the raking beams and directing the debris into a discharge canal;
e) operating the system in either manual mode or automatic mode, wherein automatic operation is triggered by water level indicators or timers.

3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the automatic mode uses differential level indicators to detect blockages and initiate cleaning cycles.

4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the raking beams are constructed from stainless steel or duplex stainless steel for enhanced resistance to corrosion.

5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotary wiper is adjustable to accommodate varying debris volumes and ensure consistent cleaning performance.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a deflector plate that channels the debris collected by the rotary wiper into a discharge canal.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the raking beams are spaced to maximize debris collection efficiency based on water intake conditions.

8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control system includes a timer for scheduling cleaning intervals, offering pre-scheduled operation options.

9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the raking beams are designed to be detachable for ease of maintenance and replacement.

10. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the manual mode allows an operator to initiate cleaning cycles on demand, providing flexibility for maintenance or specific operational conditions.