EP0087733B1 - Distributor unit for heating and/or cooling systems operating by a heat carrier capable of flowing - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a distributor unit for heating and / or cooling systems working with a flowable heat exchange medium with identical or similar distributor elements with flow and return chambers, and partly integrated fittings of a control system for connecting a plurality of flow circuits to cross distributors, the distributor elements being arranged next to one another Intermediate distances to distributor elements of other flow circuits are summarized in a panel-like manner and surrounded by thermal insulation.

In the case of thermal energy supply systems through which a media flow is conducted, horizontally located distribution blocks made from individual round tubes are generally built to divide this volume flow. Such horizontally located distributor sticks serve the task of dividing media flowing through on the supply and return sides vertically upwards in individual groups. These individual groups, which are arranged perpendicular to the distributor stick, also consist of round pipes between which pumps, shut-off valves, as well as control, measuring and regulator bodies are installed by means of threaded or flange connections.

The task of these individual supply and return groups is to supply the medium flowing through, regulated and controlled according to the requirements, to the consumer units. In thermal systems such as Central heating systems demand that the heat generated be passed on to the heat consumer as quickly as possible and without losses.

The distributor sticks and the vertical individual groups, e.g. in central heating systems in the boiler room, pipe insulation against heat loss must be provided in accordance with the standard. The valves, pump bodies, regulator bodies, flanges and sleeves are insulated against heat loss almost exclusively in large systems. In smaller thermal systems, this important insulation is mostly dispensed with for all economic reasons and because of the difficult to install total thermal insulation across all fittings.

From the difficulties described above, today heat distribution systems are only insulated on the pipe side, but not - as is now required by law in the Federal Republic of Germany - also on the valve body side.

A very essential heat-conducting intermediate element in the form of heat distribution systems is connected between heat generation and heat dissipation, which in known systems does not meet today's requirements for saving thermal energy. It is also not possible to meet the requirements with conventional materials and structures at the construction site.

• In der Bundesrepublik Deutschland werden zur Zeit 4,8 Millionen ölbefeuerte Anlagen überwacht und auf ihre Abgasverluste überprüft. Nimmt man diese nur kleine Anzahl der in Wirklichkeit betriebenen Zentralheizungsanlagen in Deutschland als Grundlage, so ergibt sich folgendes Bild:
• Auf der Basis einer mittleren Warmwasserheizungsvorlauftemperatur von 50° C, über den ganzen Tag gerechnet, und einer Umgebungstemperatur von 20° C, gibt ein nicht isolierter Ventilkörper mit der Nennweite DN 50 ca. 90 Watt pro Stunde an Wärme ab.

The following figures show the order of magnitude of total heat losses in these systems in central heating systems:

• In the Federal Republic of Germany, 4.8 million oil-fired systems are currently being monitored and checked for their exhaust gas losses. If you take this small number of actually operated central heating systems in Germany as a basis, the following picture emerges:
• On the basis of an average hot water heating flow temperature of 50 ° C, calculated over the whole day, and an ambient temperature of 20 ° C, an uninsulated valve body with a nominal diameter of DN 50 emits approx. 90 watts per hour of heat.

The control group of a medium-sized hot water central heating system includes: 2 flow valves, 2 return valves, 1 control valve, 1 circulation pump, a total of 6 valves for each control group. On average, however, every central heating system has two control groups with 12 valve bodies, which lead to a heat loss of 1080 watts / h (with non-insulated valve bodies).

With 24-hour operation, this results in a heat loss of approx. 26,000 watt hours / day = 26 kWh / day. If you calculate a heating period of approx. 210 heating days, this results in 26 x 210 = approx. 5460 kWh / year, for the 4.8 million z mentioned at the beginning. Central heating systems currently monitored result in a heat loss volume of approx.26.2 million MWh = 26,200 GWh.

From DE-AS 2 014 093 it is known to provide a distributor unit as a square pillar which rises freely in space with individual panel-like limiting parts, the distributor pipes having a rectangular cross section and projecting from above from below annular distributors. However, the installation is again carried out in a conventional manner with fittings arranged exclusively on the outside, which leads to the disadvantages described above.

From DE-specification 25 07 044 a distribution station is also known, in which between an electrotechnical and a thermal supply column _P for connecting branch lines of a row of intermediate distribution elements are provided, all of which are required for the respective control circuit delivery and control parts such as circulating pumps with motor drive and mixing valves. In this way, the reduced compact design and the associated simplified shielding make it possible in particular reduces heat loss to the outside. However, since the fluid-carrying parts are largely freely laid within the outer casing, the surface to be shielded is relatively large, and a balance between the supply and return lines is achieved exclusively by special fittings such as control and mixing devices.

The invention is based on the distributor unit defined at the outset and pursues the task of further developing this unit in such a way that compactness and thermal insulation are further improved to the outside and temperature compensation between the flow and return temperatures is easily achieved within a flow circuit and the heat losses are thereby further reduced.

To solve this problem, the supply and return lines are each formed in a common hollow column as a distribution column, which is divided into two chambers by a heat-permeable partition and is surrounded by a thermal insulation layer encompassing the entire outer circumference, and the fittings, such as shut-off, throttling, and control and deflecting elements, feed pumps and the like are arranged in the interior of the chambers and connected to their actuators, which are external to the chambers, through the thermal insulation layer.

By designing the distributor elements for the individual flow circuits as hollow columns, the entire distributor assembly is extraordinarily compact with a small volume and has a correspondingly small outer surface, so it is also easy to isolate it as a whole from the outside. The heat-emitting surfaces are further reduced by the fact that almost all of the fittings required for the different control and regulating processes are accommodated within the walls of the individual distributor columns, and therefore cannot themselves emit any heat to the outside. It is therefore generally not necessary to pull in any connecting lines between the immediately adjacent column chambers. Since the flow and return chambers are immediately adjacent to each other, the desired heat shift in the respective flow circuits is at least partially achieved there by raising the return temperature before it is introduced into the boiler and by initially reducing the supply temperature. Both result in an additional reduction in heat losses.

In this way it is possible to adapt to a wide variety of requirements. The distribution columns can also be designed so that the flow processes can largely run optimally against low resistances, and the heat transfer volume can be matched very precisely and economically to the heat generators, consumers and the like. Pumps, regulating and control devices, valves and heat protection and the like can therefore also be dimensioned particularly economically. As a result of the smaller overall surface, the insulation is simplified overall and the heat losses are reduced.

In the panel version, the entire unit can be precisely aligned by bumping against the ceiling, so that the pipe connections on the distributor unit and on the building can also be assigned to each other exactly at the specified height. So you can lay it before the unit is delivered and installed. In addition, the entire assembly, but in any case the hollow columns, can be provided with a prefabricated, tightly insulated, heat-insulating covering, at least on the outer surface of the panel. In principle, thermal insulation can be carried out after the panel has been completed, in principle also at the construction site, but preferably during pre-assembly.

The individual distribution columns, which can also be oriented horizontally, can basically be arranged in one piece in a common hollow plate which is divided into individual, adjacent flow channels by numerous partition walls. However, heat transfers between switched on and switched off flow circuits can occur. For this reason, the double-chamber hollow columns assigned to each flow circuit are expediently provided at intervals between them and insulated from one another, in particular under thermal insulation layers firmly attached to their side surfaces. In principle, each distributor column can thus be encased circumferentially with an insulating shell, which reduces the heat emission practically in all directions.

At the head or foot end of the distributor columns, cross distributors for total flow and return are expediently connected, in particular molded on. Such cross distributors can also be prefabricated and, if necessary, connected to corresponding transition openings in the hollow columns with clamp connections, but they can also be integrally formed. Such a cross distributor can be attached at the front end at the upper end and another at the front end at the lower end, that is to say it can be completely classified into the outline shape of a panel.

The distributor unit should have at least one main distributor column arranged in its plane along the individual distribution columns for passing through the entire heat transfer medium for all branch lines to be connected. In this way, a presetting or regulation in the entire heating or cooling circuit of the system is possible without this causing significant heat losses or appearing to be disruptive to the outside. Although usually the same cross sections for the individual hollow columns and their chambers are aimed for, these chambers can nevertheless be designed to have different widths within the distribution unit and thus adapt to the volume of the flowing media.

From the load-bearing wall of the distributor columns, connecting pipe sockets can be led through the insulating sleeve to the outside and preferably surrounded by a molded insulating jacket socket. After the pipe connections have been made, the insulation only needs to be completed at a distance from the hollow column.

Separate heat transfer devices for transferring heat from a column chamber through the plane of the partition wall into the adjacent column chamber can be assigned to each distributor column in the region of the partition. While this usually required exposed line connections, there is only one easy barrier to overcome. In this way, the return temperature can be raised specifically before it is introduced into the boiler, so that the dew point limit in the heat generator is not exceeded.

In the area of action of the feed pump, at least one through-opening can be provided between the two column chambers, in particular in the partition, and this can be assigned adjusting means for setting or regulating the flow through this through-opening.

Flow passage means for guiding the flow in the column chamber downstream of the passage opening can also be assigned to the passage opening. For example, these guide means, for example lamellae, can have guide elements provided in the downstream column chamber upstream of the passage opening and oriented along the column chamber for largely laminar introduction of the main flow and downstream of the passage opening to the longitudinal direction of the column chamber with differently inclined vortex and / or mixer guide elements. In this way, the two partial flows can be brought together and into each other in the shortest possible way in the desired manner and then mixed thoroughly, so that the possibly under a short distance from the mixing elements and therefore in a matter of seconds. can measure the temperature required for further control processes. In this way, the length of the controlled system or the columns can be shortened.

The or one further passage opening between the two column chambers is preferably assigned a thermostatically controllable mixing valve which automatically adjusts the guide flow according to a sensed temperature and can optionally be controlled electronically.

At least one distributor column can also have a heat meter with temperature sensors in both column chambers, possibly for controlling the mixing valve and / or a thermostatically controllable feed pump.

It has proven to be particularly expedient to arrange the heat transfer means in divided longitudinal shafts of both chambers of the distributor column, at least in the main distributor column. At least in the divided longitudinal shaft of one of the two column chambers, the or a feed pump can then be attached, which can be connected to its shaft on the suction or pressure side.

The two longitudinal shafts can also be delimited at one end by a common deflection bend which delimits the opening. It is therefore possible to start a reversing control by switching on the pump, which transfers part of the flow from the flow chamber into the return chamber on a U-shaped loop. At the outlet end of the downstream longitudinal shaft, a mixing device for mixing the shaft flow with the remaining chamber flow should then again be provided if possible.

Another embodiment of the invention is characterized by the design of the heat transfer devices as thermally connecting the two column chambers and the intermediate partition arranged therebetween, which is essentially fluid-tight, and has heat transfer elements with large heat exchanger surfaces in both longitudinal shafts. Such heat transfer means are known per se and do not require any special energy supply in order to improve the heat transfer, but they can be activated by switching on a pump on at least one side, since in this way the heat gradient and thus the heat transfer current is increased. In any case, it is not necessary to divert the heat transfer medium from one chamber to the other, but only to heat it up (or cool it down) through the partition.

It is thus possible to use heat transfer elements which, in the manner of "heat pipes", each have a tubular hollow body which is filled with a flowable, rapidly reacting heat exchange medium or refrigerant, the condensation temperature of which is somewhat above the temperature of the return chamber. A flow then forms in the upper part opposite to the flow in the lower part of the transverse hollow body, the initially vaporous refrigerant condensing in the return chamber, flowing back into the supply comb and evaporating there again by heating at the higher temperature. Such devices are known, inter alia, by "Gesundheits Ingenieur, 1976, pp. 164-167" and do not require any further Explanation.

The distribution unit is also one with the same height (or length) and depth laterally connected to the unit, in particular integrated in this a control and regulation column with individually removable inserts for measurement, control and regulation groups. At least towards the panel, this column can also be shielded by a thermal insulation layer.

The invention further pursues the task of designing the cross distributor arrangement in such a way that the individual column chambers can be easily connected, and this is done according to the invention primarily in that both cross distributors have flow channels penetrating the distributor columns within their outer surfaces. These flow channels can then be arranged as desired within the distributor columns so that they can be connected to each of the two column chambers without a special throttling effect. This is relatively easy if you choose different or irregular cross sections, but even with regular cross sections this can be done without any particular difficulty.

According to a further proposal of the invention, closable, in particular adjustable, connection openings are provided between each flow channel and at least one column chamber of a distributor column. If it is advisable for manufacturing reasons, such connecting openings can be provided for each of the two chambers, and one of the openings is closed. It is essential, however, that the opening cross-section for the individual flow paths can be set as required for the same chamber volume and thus the respective volume flows can be preset in relation to the expected heating or cooling output.

The flow channels of the cross distributors can in principle be permanently integrated in the distributor columns, but they are preferably formed by individual pipe elements which can be sealed in the wall of the hollow columns. As a rule, it is advisable to give the flow channels a circular cross section, in particular to form them by at least partially cylindrical tube sleeves, regardless of whether such tube sleeves are now welded or soldered to the distributor columns or can be interchangeably sealed in them. The wall of the flow channels is expediently provided with a thread on the inside, which can serve various purposes.

Thus, the closure elements can be designed as throttle elements attached to the flow channels, in particular screwed into their walls. These can be throttle bushings that can be adjusted in the longitudinal direction or pivotable throttle slides. The setting is usually made before assembly, but can also be done subsequently using a nipple wrench or the like if the throttle elements have corresponding inwardly projecting cams.

It is also possible to provide the flow channels of the individual distributor columns with opposite internal threads at their ends and to connect them by means of socket-shaped coupling means provided with opposite external threads. In this way, the individual distributor columns can then be braced and sealed against one another, in particular via interposed sealing rings.

If, as a rule, the transverse distributors are attached to one and preferably the lower end of the column, it may still be expedient to mount them in the middle of the distributor columns projecting from there towards their outside ends to the connecting lines provided. Practically, this means that two column chambers of different, opposite, protruding columns are connected to a connection point. It must then be decided on a case-by-case basis whether the two column chambers can remain in flow connection or whether at least a limited separation is provided in the area of the cross-distributors, for example in such a way that the distribution columns are subdivided there and the two chambers through separate openings on the same flow channel or connects to different flow channels.

Regardless of whether such double columns or simple hollow columns are used, in principle there can always be several, in particular two, individual distribution chambers arranged one behind the other. Of course, this creates difficulties if the unit is only accessible from one side, because then one would have to intervene through or past a chamber, provided that more than two subchambers do not come next to each other. In such a case, it is therefore advisable to arrange two panels on the rear side, accessible from opposite sides, in particular to attach them to the side of a building wall. One builds into the room from the building wall, for example, but especially when using double columns, these are relatively few chambers that hardly need more space from the wall than the chambers accessible from the front. You can continue the lines coming from the unit without deflection in different directions and shield the unit so that it is less disruptive. The compact arrangement further reduces heat losses and the insulation can be easily improved by additional covering.

A complete interior arrangement of all fittings can only be achieved if you focus on certain Valve brands specifies. However, due to the extensive technical development, this is not easily possible with some fittings. It may therefore be appropriate there to provide only the necessary connecting means, such as wall openings, pipe sockets or the like, in order to be able to attach the fittings in question on the outside. It is also important that this external arrangement is only prepared and then optionally carried out as required, ie the distributor unit is normally supplied with fittings installed inside, but some of these fittings can already be replaced during installation or later by other fittings arranged outside.

If in principle the one-piece design of the distributor column is desired, it may still be expedient to design this column so that it is longitudinally divided, at least at one end, so that the fittings in the column chambers are made accessible by lifting off, in particular, a single wall part. You then get by with fewer and easier interruptions in the column chambers. Above all, however, the assembly is simplified, since the fittings can be installed in the housing-fixed or in the removable wall part, depending on the expediency. The simplest design of the subdivision is seen in the design of the removable wall part as a front cover, which is preferably attached to a one-piece double tub.

• Fig. 1 eine räumliche Ansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Verteileraggregates mit zum oberen Ende hin geschnittenen Hohlsäulen,
• Fig. 2 einen Schnitt durch eine solche Hohlsäule längs der Linie II/II in Fig. 1,
• Fig. 3 einen Schnitt durch diese Säule nach der Linie III/III in Fig.2,
• Fig. 4 einen Schnitt durch zwei benachbarte Hohlsäulen gemäß Linie IV/IV in Fig. 2,
• Fig. 5 in vergrößertem Maßstab die Stelle V aus Fig.4,
• Fig. 6 eine schematische Frontansicht des Verteileraggregates, teilweise dicht unter den Frontpiatten geschnitten,
• Fig. 7 einen Schnitt durch dieses Verteileraggregat nach der Linie VII/VII in Fig. 6,
• Fig. 8 einen solchen Schnitt nach der Linie VIII/VIII in Fig. 6,
• Fig. 9 eine der Fig. 6 entsprechende Darstellung eines im Bereich der Hauptverteilersäulen abgewandelten Verteileraggregates, die
• Fig. 10 und 11 den Fig. 7 und 8 entsprechende Darstellungen dieser Abwandlung,
• Fig. 12 eine der Fig. 1 entsprechende räumliche Ansicht eines abgewandelten Verteileraggregates,
• Fig. 13 einen Schnitt durch eine Verteilersäule längs der Linie XIII/XIII in Fig. 12,
• Fig. 14 einen Schnitt durch diese Säule nach der Linie XIV/XIV in Fig. 13,
• Fig. 15 einen dem unteren Teil der Fig. 13 entsprechenden vergrößerten Teilschnitt nach der Linie XV/XV in Fig. 16,
• Fig. 16 einen Teilschnitt nach der Linie XVI/XVI in Fig.15,
• Fig.17 eine räumliche Prinzipdarstellung eines Paneels mit in der Mitte zwischen zwei äusseren Säulenteilen angebrachten Querverteilern,
• Fig. 18 eine schematische räumliche Darstellung eines im Raum oder an einer Wand freistehend angeordneten Verteileraggregates mit Doppelsäulen und
• Fig. 19 einen Schnitt durch dieses Verteileraggregat nach der Linie XIX/XIX in Fig. 18, und
• die Fig. 20 bis 22 Querschnitte durch als Doppelwannen mit Deckel ausgeführte Verteilersäulen.

Show in the drawing, for example, the invention

• 1 is a perspective view of a distribution unit according to the invention with hollow columns cut towards the upper end,
• 2 shows a section through such a hollow column along the line II / II in FIG. 1,
• 3 shows a section through this column along the line III / III in FIG. 2,
• 4 shows a section through two adjacent hollow columns according to line IV / IV in FIG. 2,
• 5 shows the location V from FIG. 4 on an enlarged scale,
• 6 is a schematic front view of the distributor assembly, partially cut close to the front plates,
• 7 shows a section through this distributor unit along the line VII / VII in FIG. 6,
• 8 shows such a section along the line VIII / VIII in FIG. 6,
• FIG. 9 shows a representation corresponding to FIG. 6 of a distributor unit modified in the area of the main distributor columns
• 10 and 11 of FIGS. 7 and 8 corresponding representations of this modification,
• 12 is a spatial view corresponding to FIG. 1 of a modified distribution unit,
• 13 shows a section through a distributor column along the line XIII / XIII in FIG. 12,
• 14 shows a section through this column along the line XIV / XIV in FIG. 13,
• 15 shows an enlarged partial section corresponding to the lower part of FIG. 13 along the line XV / XV in FIG. 16,
• 16 shows a partial section along the line XVI / XVI in FIG. 15,
• 17 shows a basic spatial representation of a panel with transverse distributors attached in the middle between two outer column parts,
• Fig. 18 is a schematic spatial representation of a distribution unit with double columns and arranged freestanding in the room or on a wall
• 19 shows a section through this distribution unit according to the line XIX / XIX in Fig. 18, and
• 20 to 22 cross-sections through distributor columns designed as double trays with covers.

The distributor assembly shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 is essentially formed from a main distributor column 1, two individual distributor columns 2, 3 and a cross distributor 4 attached to the foot end thereof. The distribution columns 1 to 3 are, as can be best explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5 with regard to the individual distribution columns 2, 3, cuboid or square tubes, the body of which has a front wall 5, a rear wall 6 and two side walls 7, 8 has. The distributor columns are divided into two column chambers of equal size, a flow chamber 11 and a return chamber 12, by means of a partition 9 drawn in longitudinally in the column body.

In the same way, the body of the double cross-distributor 4 is divided by a partition 13 into two distributor chambers, an upper flow chamber 14 and a lower return chamber 15. These chambers stand with the chambers of the individual distributor columns, with the flow chambers through openings 16 and with the return chambers through openings 17 in connection.

The cross distributor 4 can optionally be attached to the lower or upper end of the hollow columns, it is also possible to attach one chamber at the top and the other at the bottom. Instead of attaching the two column chambers 11 and 12 next to one another, they can in principle also be arranged one behind the other, in any case, however, with a greater depth than initially provided.

Apart from the cross distributor 4, the distribution columns 1, 2, 3 can be combined in a manner to be described later to form a closed plate body, a panel, which can be attached as a whole to consoles 18 on a building wall 19 so that the upper end of the panel 20 is flush with the ceiling 21. In principle, the columns or square tubes can of course also be arranged horizontally and the cross distributor vertically.

In each of the two column chambers 11, 12 there is a shut-off valve 22 at the bottom the same shut-off valve 23 is attached. At the lower end, a drain port 24 is provided, at the closed upper end, which forms a ventilation chamber or air collection chamber, a ventilation port 25. A pipe connector 26 protrudes just below this from the front wall for connecting the various lines serving for heat supply and for connection to consumers 27th

28 is an insertion opening for a thermometer 281, 29 a feed pump arranged in the feed chamber 11 and 30 a check valve arranged in the return chamber 12.

A first passage opening 31 is provided in the partition 9 below the feed pump 29 and is associated with an adjustment member 32 that can be preset from the outside by means of a toggle. This setting member delimits the free opening of the passage opening 31 by means of a cylinder segment 33 and, depending on the setting, also directs a more or less large amount of flow from the return chamber 12 through the passage opening into the flow chamber 11. These are close to and outside the path of the cylinder segment 33 first guide vanes 34 arranged parallel to the dividing wall 9 upstream and to the dividing wall differently inclined mixing elements 35 attached downstream. Through the guide vane 34, a part of the feed flow is first introduced transversely into the flow branched off from the return flow into the feed chamber, and this mixed flow is intimately mixed by the mixing elements 35 so that the mixing temperature can be precisely felt and displayed on the thermometer 281.

Below the passage opening 31 there is a further passage opening 40 which is equipped with a thermostatic, possibly electronically controllable three- or four-way mixing valve 36, the shut-off segment 37 of which blocks the outlet of the return chamber in the operating position Fig. 3, i.e. the whole returned in the return chamber Flow leads back into the flow chamber. The control can be influenced by in the column, in addition to this or also by remote control devices, in particular from information from the thermometers 281 of both column chambers.

6 to 8, two longitudinal shafts 39, 41 are divided in the main distributor column 1 by an intermediate wall 38 on the front wall 5 in both column chambers 69, 70 above the opening 311 provided only in the front part. The feed pump 291 is arranged only in the longitudinal shaft 39 of the flow chamber 69. Both chambers, like the opening 311, are delimited by a curved deflection bend 42. In the longitudinal shaft 41 of the return chamber 70, the check valve 301, which is only placed on this part, is also attached and at the outlet end of the shaft a mixing device 60, which in turn effects the mixing of the two partial flows in the return chamber 70. The feed pump 291, which acts as an admixing pump for raising the return temperature, which is sometimes necessary, is controlled by a thermostat 67 in the return chamber.

As can be seen above all from FIG. 5, laterally projecting Z-shaped edge strips 50 are formed on the rear wall 6 of the individual columns, the intermediate web 59 of which has a predetermined distance from the respective side wall 7 or 8, which is the thickness of one on the whole Corresponds to the circumference around the body of the column adapted thermal insulation layer 43, which is formed by a U-shaped shell 44 and a plate part 45 which forms on both sides a protruding nose strip 46. In this way, a positive alignment of the plate part 45 to the column body is achieved. The screws can also be fastened to the wall or a suitable intermediate support from the flange ends 47.

Depending on how wide the space 48 desired between the thermal insulation layers of adjacent columns should be, the flange edges can be arranged side by side or overlapped. For this purpose, the one web 59 can also be dimensioned somewhat shorter than the other. One of the two leading edges 46 can be severed at the joint 49.

At the flange ends 47, a C-shaped holding rail 51 can additionally be fastened, into which various device parts, possibly also an intermediate plate 53, can be attached by means of foot anchors 52, which, for example, shields electrical lines 54 carried up there, while above it, for example, the application of compressed air - Enable control lines or the like 68. The space 48 is then closed off from the outside by a strip cover 55.

As shown in FIG. 1, a control and regulating column 56 can be inserted laterally next to the panel 20 or also partially integrated therein, in the inserts 57 of which a wide variety of control, measuring and regulating devices can be accommodated. From the column 56, the individual connections to the various hollow columns can then be introduced under, above or in the thermal insulation layer, as required, rooms 48 also being recommended for the upward movement.

Instead of attaching the various distribution columns separately to the wall, they can also be attached to one or more intermediate supports, such as at the upper or lower end of cross bars attached to the rear, which may consist of a load-bearing and heat-insulating plastic are attached to the wall. The panel can also be shielded against heat from the brackets 18.

As with the entire circumference of each distributor column, a thermal insulation layer can also be attached to the end faces and to the outer surfaces of the transverse distributor. All parts of the distributor assembly that conduct the heat transfer medium are stripped on their outer surface. The fittings attached within the hollow columns are e.g. T. connected with thin connecting elements through the thermal insulation layer attached to the front wall 5 to the external parts. This also applies to the motor 292 of the pump 29. In addition, the pipe socket 26 is assigned an outer socket 261, which enables the insertion of an insulating sleeve 58. By bumping the panel against the ceiling, the various connecting lines 27 can also be aligned with the ceiling before the panel is installed.

9 to 11, the passage opening 311 with the deflection bend 42 previously provided in the partition 9 is omitted. Rather, there is a heat transfer unit 63 with a heat exchanger 63 in a section between the two approximately equally long longitudinal shafts 61, 62 in the partition A plurality of individual heat transfer tubes 64 are attached.

The heat transfer pipes 64 are filled with a quickly reacting heat exchanger or refrigerant, which is evaporated in the longitudinal shaft 61 of the flow chamber 69, the steam migrating along the upper wall of the pipe to the longitudinal shaft 62 of the return chamber 70 and condensing there. After the condensate has returned to the longitudinal shaft 61, the cycle begins again. The intensity of the heat transfer can be controlled by simple motor-operated flap valves 65, 66, which inhibit or release the flow in the two longitudinal shafts. A feed pump 291 according to FIG. 6 can of course also be used there if the intensity of the heat transfer is to be influenced more strongly.

Except for the motor 292 of the feed pump 29 and various adjusters, the fittings can be arranged entirely within the distribution columns. According to the representation in FIGS. 12 to 14, however, the feed pump 29, the adjusting member 32 and the mixing valve 36 are attached outside the distributor columns in the optionally provided option. For this purpose, as shown in Fig. 13 in the front wall 5 in addition to the insulation mounted thereon, connection sockets 83 are provided, to which fittings to be attached, for example by means of bends 84, are connected. The mixing valve 36 requires a third connection socket 83 for this purpose. In this case, deflecting bodies 85, 86 are used within the respective partial chambers, of which the deflecting bodies 85 completely shut off the respective column and divert the entire flow through the connection sockets 83 to the outside, while the smaller one Deflector 86 directs only part of the chamber flow to the outside.

You then have the choice whether to attach the fittings inside or outside. The interior arrangement will be selected if the special fittings provided for this construction are available or suitable for the respective purpose. If, on the other hand, another fitting has to be used, then this is connected to the outside of the front wall 5 in the manner shown. You have the choice between quite different brands. In this case, it may also be advisable to cover the front of the panel with an insulating hood 87, the edge parts 88 of which may be fixedly attached to the panel to reduce the heat losses, while the outer plate 89 may be at least partially removable and windows provided with insulating glass, for example can have.

The two cross-distributors 71, 72, which can be used either as distributors or collectors, are guided below the shut-off valves 22 within the outline of the column chambers across the panel. They form largely cylindrical flow channels 73, 74 by means of individual tube sleeves 75 assigned to each hollow column, which, as can best be seen from FIG. 5, have the same pitch length as the distributor columns 1 to 3. They fit snugly in the manner known from heating element members in nozzle lugs 76 protruding from the outer wall of the distributor columns and are sealed with them to the adjacent distributor column by an interposed ring seal 77.

For the bracing are provided with two opposing and inwardly projecting cams 79 nipple sleeves 78, which are provided with opposite external threads at their ends, while the tubular sleeves 75 have opposite internal threads towards their ends. A centering, rigid connection and, on the other hand, an axial bracing of the tube sleeves 75 and, with them, the distributor columns 1 to 3 are thus achieved. However, the coupling means are not visible from the outside.

Each tube sleeve 75 has at least one opening 81, which is offset towards one end of the tube sleeve so that it lies approximately in the middle of the flow chamber 11 in the transverse distributor 71 and, in the reverse arrangement, in the transverse distributor 72 approximately in the middle of the return chamber 12 is coming. Each opening 81 is also a throttle bushing 82 assigned, which sits with its external thread in the internal thread of the tubular sleeve 75 and can be adjusted in such a way that the free cross section of the opening 81 can be adapted to the size of the volume flow that is to be controlled in the respective flow branch. Since the flow and return flow are the same in each branch flow, the throttle bushings 82 of a hollow column must also be set in the same way. This setting also enables quite different flow circuits to be routed through uniform supply and return chambers. On the inside of the throttle bushings 82 there are also cams 79 which allow adjustment even after assembly.

4, the transverse distributor 71 has moved somewhat towards the rear wall 6, the lower-lying transverse distributor 72 towards the front wall 5. The heat transfer medium can therefore flow past the transverse distributor 71 largely unhindered in the return chamber 12. The ends of the cross distributors 71, 72 can be closed by threaded plugs.

FIG. 17 shows a schematic spatial representation of two double columns 91, each of which is practically formed by a lower hollow column 92 and an upper hollow column 93, both of which have lines 27 extending from their ends (below and above) and at their central connection point from common cross-distributors 71, 72 are crossed. In principle, the two columns 92, 93 can be separated from one another by a cross plate or the like and can be provided with separate cross distributors. You can also arrange the cross distributors 71, 72 so that they cause a separation of the two hollow columns, but this separation is usually not necessary. In any case, it is advisable to provide the openings 81 in both transverse distributors at the top and bottom. Thus, flow medium flows out of the cross distributor 71 through opposite openings 81 into the flow chambers 11 of the two hollow columns 92, 93 arranged one above the other, and the return chambers 12 are connected in the same way to the cross distributor 72.

In principle, it is now possible not only to arrange the individual column chambers next to one another, but also one behind the other. However, this causes considerable difficulties with the conventional arrangements on the wall, since fittings in a rear chamber could then only be operated through the front chamber or through gaps between these chambers. However, if you place two double columns according to Fig. 17 with their backs against each other freely in the room (Fig. 18) or against the building wall 19 (Fig. 19), then all hollow columns are directly accessible from the front. Since the same column chambers 11 and 12 are located opposite each other of the two rows of columns, in principle the middle insulation layer 94 can be omitted entirely. In the middle of the double columns, the connection can then be formed by simple wall openings with a common rear wall 6, and - in contrast to FIGS. 18, 19 - only two transverse distributors 71, 72 are sufficient. In this way, column assemblies, as they are assembled in pairs in FIGS. 18 and 19, can be produced by opening to opposite ends and by a wall cross made up of rear wall 6 and partition 9, of which several can be joined together as required. It is then also possible to mount the outer plate 89 as a pivotable door in an axis 39 attached directly to the building wall 19.

While fundamentally the distributor columns can be designed as all-round closed pipes of various cross-sectional shapes, the rear wall 6, side walls 7, 8 and partition 9 are integrated into a longitudinal double trough 90, which is closed by a cover 105 which is detachably and sealingly flanged on by screws 96 at the front is. This makes it possible to provide the built-in fittings either on the lid 105 or on the double tub 90. Assembly, maintenance and repairs are simplified in this way.

According to FIG. 21, the double trough 190 is rounded at its rear longitudinal edges, and according to FIG. 22, a double trough 290 is formed by two troughs 97 which are rounded on the back in a partially cylindrical manner. The flow resistances can be reduced in this way.

Also worth mentioning is a heat meter 120, which is primarily arranged in the return line, determines the flow and return temperature using temperature buttons and, in conjunction with the amount of medium flowing through, records the amount of heat emitted between the two temperature buttons and normally feeds it to a recording device.

In principle, the individual distributor columns can only be coupled to one another by the nipple sleeves 78 drawn into the transverse distributors 71 and 72. They are expediently attached with circumferential spacing in an outer housing, the interstices being filled with thermal insulation material. Slidable throttle bushings 82 are also used here at the connections of the column chambers.

Claims (27)

1. Distributor unit for heating and/or cooling installations which operate with a flowable heat exchange medium, for connection of a plurality of flow circuits with like or equivalent distributor elements with lead and return chambers (11, 12) as well as in some cases integrally installed valves and fittings in a control section on transverse distributors (4, 14, 15, 71, 72), the distributor elements being grouped together in a side-by-side arrangement with intermediate spaces between them and distributor elements of other flow circuits, the arrangement resembling a panel and the distributor elements being enclosed by a heat insulation, characterised in that lead and return lines are in each case constructed in a common hollow column as distributor columns (1, 2, 3) which are sub-divided by a heat-permeable partition (9) into two chambers (11, 12), each distributor column being enclosed by a heat lagging engaging around the entire outer periphery, and in that the valves, such as check, throttle, regulating and reversing elements (22, 23, 36, 32, 35), delivery pumps (29, 291) and the like are disposed in the interior of the chambers (11, 12), being connected through the heat lagging layer (43, 44) to their positioning devices which are on the outside in relation to the chambers.

2. Distributor unit according to Claim 1, characterised in that the transverse distributors (4,14,15,71,72) for overall lead and return are connected, and in particular integrally moulded on the head or base end of the distributor columns.

3. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 or 2, characterised in that the panel comprises at least one main distributor column (1) disposed in its plane along the individual distributor columns (2, 3), for conveying the entire quantity of heat carrier medium for all the branch lines (27) which have to be connected.

4. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that out of the bearer walls of the distributor columns (1 to 3), connecting unions (26) lead outwards through the insulating casing (44, 45) and are preferably enclosed by an integrally moulded union (261) on the insulating jacket.

5. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that in the region of the partition (9), separate heat transfer means for conveying the heat from one column chamber (11) to the adjacent column chamber (12) are associated with each distributor column (1 to 3).

6. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterised in that in the area of effect of a delivery pump (29, 291) between two column chambers (11, 12) there is at least one port (31), with which are associated positioning means (32, 33) for adjusting or regulating the flow conveyed through this port.

7. Distributor unit according to Claim 5, characterised in that there are associated with the port (31) flow guide means (34, 35) for guiding the flow in the column chamber (11) downstream of the port.

8. Distributor unit according to Claim 7, characterised in that the guide means comprise in the downstream column chamber (11) upstream of the port (31) and orientated lengthwise of the column chambers (11, 12), guide elements (34) for substantially laminar introduction of the main flow and downstream of the port (31) vortex and/or mixer guide elements (35) inclined in various attitudes in relation to the longitudinal direction of the column chamber.

9. Distributor unit according to Claim 6, characterised in that the or a further port (40) has associated with it an in particular thermostatically regulable mixing valve (36) which is preferably constructed as a multi-way valve connected to at least one column chamber (11) by means of two separate connections.

10. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterised in that at least one distributor column has a heat quantity meter with temperature sensors in both column chambers (11, 12), possibly for controlling the mixing valve or a thermostatically controllable delivery pump and/or ...

11. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 5 to 10, characterised in that at least in the main distributor column (1) the heat transfer means are disposed in sub-divided longitudinal shafts (39, 41) in the two chambers (69, 70), a delivery pump (291) being preferably disposed at least in the sub-divided longitudinal shaft (39) of one of the two column chambers (69, 70).

12. Distributor unit according to Claim 11, characterised in that the two longitudinal shafts (39, 41 ) are closed at one end by a common bend (42) which restricts the part (311).

13. Distributor unit according to Claim 11 or 12, characterised by a mixing means (60) for thoroughly mixing the shaft flow with the remaining chamber flow and disposed at the outlet end of the longitudinal shaft (41) which is on the downstream side.

14. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 5, 11, or 13, characterised in that the heat transfer means are constructed as heat transfer elements (64) with large heat exchanger surfaces in both longitudinal shafts (61, 62) and thermally connecting the two column chambers and in that they traverse the partition (9) located between them in such a way as to be substantially sealed in respect af flow medium.

15. Distributor unit according to Claim 14, characterised in that the heat transfer element (64) have in each case a tubular hollow body (heat pipe) filled with a flowable rapidly reacting heat exchange medium or coolant medium, the condensation temperature of which lies in the range of the temperature of the return chamber (70).

16. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 15, characterised in that laterally connected to and in particular integrated into the unit and being of the same height (or length and depth) there is a control and regulating column (56) having individually withdrawable push-in racks (57) for measuring, controlling and regulating assemblies.

17. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 16, characterised in that both transverse distributors (71, 72) comprise flow passages (73, 74) which traverse the distributor columns (1 to 3) within their outer surfaces.

18. Distributor unit according to Claim 17, characterised in that closeable, particularly adjustable connecting apertures (81) are provided between each flow passage (73, 74) and at least one column chamber (11, 12) of a distributor column (1 to 3).

19. Distributor unit according to Claim 17 or 18, characterised in that the flow passages (73, 74) of the transverse distributors (71, 72) are rigidly integrated into the distributor columns (1 to 3).

20. Distributor unit according to Claim 17 or 18, characterised in that the flow passages (73, 74) are formed by pipe elements adapted to be sealed individually and provided in the walls of the distributor columns (1 to 3), and particularly by at least partially cylindrical and internally screw threaded pipe sleeves (75).

21. Distributor unit according to Claim 20, characterised in that the closure elements of the connecting apertures (81) are constructed as throttle elements mounted in the flow passages (73, 74), being in particular screwed into the walls thereof, such as adjustable-length throttle bushes (82) or pivotable throttle slide valves.

22. Distributor unit according to Claim 20, characterised in that the flow passages (73, 74) are the individual distributor columns (1 to 3) have oppositely directed internal screw threading at their ends and can be coupled by bush-shaped coupling nipples (82) provided with oppositely directed external screw threads.

23. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 17 to 22, characterised in that the transverse distributors (71, 72) are provided in the middle of the distributor columns (91 to 93) projecting away from there towards their two ends and to the connecting lines (27) provided on the outside.

24. Distributor unit according to one of the preceeding Claims, characterised in that a plurality of individual column chambers (11, 12), and in particular two such chambers in each case, are disclosed one after another.

25. Distributor unit according to Claim 24, characterised in that two panels (20) are at the back to each other in such a way as to be accessible from both sides, being in particular mounted on the side of a housing wall (19).

26. Distributor unit according to one of Claims 1 to 25, characterised in that the distributor column (101) is longitudinally sub-divided at least towards one end in such a way that by lifting off particularly one single wall part (105,10), it is possible to gain access to the fittings (132, 136, 118) in the column chambers (11, 12).

27. Distributor unit according to Claim 26, characterised by the construction of the detachable wall part as a front cover (105) which is preferably mounted on a one-piece double tank (90, 190, 290).

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