EP0323939A1 - Steam generator for a cooking device - Google Patents

Steam generator for a cooking device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0323939A1
EP0323939A1 EP89420006A EP89420006A EP0323939A1 EP 0323939 A1 EP0323939 A1 EP 0323939A1 EP 89420006 A EP89420006 A EP 89420006A EP 89420006 A EP89420006 A EP 89420006A EP 0323939 A1 EP0323939 A1 EP 0323939A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
water
tube
heating tube
pipe
orifice
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Granted
Application number
EP89420006A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0323939B1 (en
Inventor
Raymond Violi
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Societe Cooperative de Production Bourgeois SCOP
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Societe Cooperative de Production Bourgeois SCOP
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Priority to AT89420006T priority Critical patent/ATE77466T1/en
Publication of EP0323939A1 publication Critical patent/EP0323939A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0323939B1 publication Critical patent/EP0323939B1/en
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Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
    • F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
    • F22B1/284—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water in reservoirs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to devices for producing steam from liquid water, the steam can be used in particular in cooking appliances.
  • Numerous steam generators are already known, which generally include an electrical resistance immersed in a water tank.
  • the supply of electrical resistance to electrical energy produces the rise in temperature of the water contained in the tank, then its boiling and the escape of water vapor at the surface of the liquid.
  • Document DE-A-3 532 261 describes a steam generator device comprising, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, a lower tank provided with a water intake device, an upper tank provided with an orifice steam exhaust, and several heating risers sealingly connecting the two lower and upper tanks; a return tube also connects the two tanks.
  • Water level detection and regulation means comprising a water level sensor and a water supply pump, maintain the water level at an intermediate height in the upper tank, so that the tank bottom and the heating tubes are completely filled with water, as well as about half of the upper tank.
  • the device described in this document which contains a large amount of water, has the same drawbacks of thermal inertia as those mentioned above in relation to devices with plunging resistors.
  • Document EP-A-0 238 955 describes a fryer having a structure relatively similar to that of document DE-A-3 532 261, with an upper reserve, a lower reserve, and tubes heaters connecting them to each other.
  • the liquid also fills the lower reserve, all of the heating tubes and part of the upper reserve, so that the drawbacks of thermal inertia and steam production are also present in this device.
  • Such a large inertia does not allow precise regulation of the production of steam.
  • known steam generators which may be suitable for producing a large amount of saturated steam, are no longer suitable as soon as one wants to precisely regulate the quantity of steam produced, for example for producing in an enclosure unsaturated vapor under well-defined conditions.
  • the object of the present invention is in particular to avoid the drawbacks of known generators, by proposing a new generator structure having very low inertia: with such a generator according to the invention, after a relatively long rest time after which the water is cold, it is possible to start obtaining steam after a very short heating time; from a state in which steam is produced, it is possible to stop the production of steam also in a very short time.
  • Such a device allows a very reliable control of steam production, its adjustment in quantity or in flow rate, and it is possible to control the production of steam without suffering significant delays.
  • the generator according to the present invention allows a very high vapor flow rate by the fact that, thanks to a new structure, the effective contact surface between the heating elements and the water is considerably increased.
  • the vapor produced is removed very quickly without recondensing on contact with the liquid phase, and is replaced by water in the liquid phase coming quickly in contact with the heating elements.
  • the power installed in electrical resistors necessary to obtain a determined flow of water vapor is significantly reduced compared to conventional solutions.
  • the invention provides special means for preventing the ejection of unvaporized water.
  • the device is very easy to clean, and cleaning is effective.
  • the limestone contained in the water is deposited in places that are easily accessible and well located.
  • this limestone is deposited in the form of plates which tend to detach naturally from the walls of the device, and to disintegrate in the form of powder which is deposited in the bottom of the device, which powder is discharged during emptying. The actual cleaning operations are thus considerably spaced and facilitated.
  • the heating tube can be easily removed for cleaning, or replaced.
  • the operation of such a generator is particularly silent.
  • the steam generator comprises: - a transverse lower pipe provided with a water intake orifice, - a transverse upper pipe provided with a steam exhaust orifice, disposed above the lower pipe, - at least one heating tube with axial cavity, a first end of which is tightly connected to a first corresponding orifice of the lower pipe, and a second end of which is tightly connected to a first corresponding orifice of the upper pipe to ensure the passage of fluid between the lower pipe and the upper pipe, the heating tube carrying on its external face an electrical resistance wound in a helix and welded on the heating tube, the electrical resistance being connectable to a source of electrical energy to heat the tube , - a return tube, a first end of which is tightly connected to a second corresponding orifice of the lower pipe and the second end of which is tightly connected to a second corresponding orifice of the upper pipe, the return tube ensuring the return of non-vaporized water from the upper pipe to the lower pipe, means for detecting
  • the heating tube is connected to the lower and upper pipes by means of flexible tubular connections, without direct contact between the heating pipe and the pipes, so that the heating pipe is removable, and the joints ensure soundproofing.
  • the upper pipe and the lower pipe are substantially horizontal and arranged one above the other, the heating tube is rectilinear and substantially vertical, the return tube is rectilinear and substantially vertical.
  • the means for detecting and regulating the water level comprises a third tube connecting the upper pipe and the lower pipe, the third tube containing a resistive axial probe for measuring the level of the water in the third tube, the probe being placed above the intermediate level upper diary of the water to be in contact with the water when the level thereof reaches or exceeds said upper intermediate level, so that the probe produces an electrical detection signal when the water level becomes greater or equal at the high intermediate level, the electrical detection signal being sent to a timed valve control circuit which produces an opening signal after a determined delay T, following a falling edge of the detection signal and keeps the valve open for the 'water entry until reappearance of the detection signal.
  • This arrangement ensures precise regulation of the water level, maintaining this level at a substantially constant height.
  • the steam generator 1 comprises a lower pipe 2 in the form of a substantially horizontal tube, one end of which comprises a water inlet orifice 3 and a drain orifice 4, the second end of which comprises a passage orifice 5, and the upper wall of which comprises a first orifice 6 and a second orifice 7.
  • An upper pipe 8, of tubular structure similar to the first pipe 2, is arranged in a substantially horizontal position and above the first pipe 2. It comprises, on the lower wall, a first opening 9 corresponding to the first opening 6 of the pipe lower, and a second orifice 10 corresponding to the second orifice 7 of the lower pipe.
  • the upper pipe 8 On the upper face, and opposite to the second orifice 10, the upper pipe 8 comprises a steam exhaust orifice 11.
  • the steam exhaust orifice 11 is offset laterally relative to the first orifice 9, for produce a chicane effect.
  • the upper pipe comprises a passage orifice 12.
  • a return tube 13 connects the second port 7 of the lower pipe and the second port 10 of the upper pipe.
  • the return tube 13 is metallic as well as the lower pipe 2 and the upper pipe 8, the return pipe 13 being welded to one and the other of the pipes to form a hollow monobloc assembly.
  • the first end 15 of the cavity of the heating tube 14 is tightly connected to the first orifice 6 of the lower pipe, and the second cavity end 16 of the heating pipe 14 is tightly connected to the first orifice 9 of the upper pipe 8.
  • the heating pipe 14 carries, on its external face, an electrical resistance 17 wound helically and welded to the heating tube, the electrical resistance comprising two output terminals 18 and 19 connectable to a source of electrical energy for heating the tube 14.
  • the helical part of the electrical resistance 17 occupies the central region of the heating tube 14 , as shown in the figure. In the embodiment shown, the helical part of the resistor substantially occupies the area between the lower quarter of the tube and the upper quarter of the tube.
  • the upper end 20 of the zone occupied by the helical part of the resistor 17 defines a remarkable position along the tube, a position which will be used as explained below.
  • FIG. 1 shows such appropriate tubular connections 21 and 22 in section.
  • the tubular connections 21 and 22 are identical, and are made of a relatively flexible material, to allow the installation and removal of the heating tube 14 between the lower 2 and upper pipes 8. It is necessary to use a material which resists the temperature of the tube , which can slightly exceed 100 ° C.
  • Such a connection structure can withstand a temperature of 315 ° C.
  • Each connector such as the connector 21 is shaped to fit into a first part 23, in the corresponding orifice such as the orifice 6 of the lower pipe 2; a second part 24 of the connector is shaped as a sleeve, which comes to be fitted on the heating tube 14.
  • the first part 23 of the connector has an outer annular groove 25 in which the edge of the corresponding orifice 6 of the pipe is inserted higher or lower.
  • the generator further comprises means for detecting and regulating the level of the water in the heating tube 14.
  • the detection and regulation means comprise a third hollow tube 26, connecting the passage orifice 5 of the lower pipe 2 and the passage orifice 12 of the upper pipe 8.
  • the third tube 26 is a straight tube, like the tubes 14 and 13, and parallel to them.
  • the third tube 26 comprises a resistive axial internal probe 27, of known type, making it possible to detect the level of water in the third tube 26.
  • a thermal probe 28 is arranged to measure the temperature of the heating tube 14 in the area occupied by the helical part of the resistor 17.
  • the thermal probe measures the temperature of the tube 14 in the vicinity of the upper end 20 of the helical part of electrical resistance 17.
  • the thermal probe 28 Associated with measurement and control means, the thermal probe 28 achieves a safety thermal, causing the electrical supply to the resistor 17 to be cut off when the measured temperature is above a determined threshold, which occurs for example in the event of the absence of water or lack of water in the tube 14.
  • the determined threshold, or maximum admissible temperature TM of the tube is chosen to be greater than the normal operating temperature of the tube, that is to say the temperature of the tube when water is boiling in its internal cavity.
  • FIG. 2 shows the steam generator 1 associated with its control and regulation elements.
  • the control and regulation assembly 30, diagrammatically represented, receives the information on the one hand from the thermal probe 28, on the other hand from the resistive probe 27, respectively by the two inputs 31 and 32.
  • the control assembly 30 generates, as a function of the input information, output signals sent on the one hand to a solenoid valve 33 by a control line 34, and on the other hand to a relay 35 or equivalent by a control line 36.
  • the solenoid valve 33 is arranged upstream of the inlet orifice 3 of the lower pipe 2, in the direction of flow of the admitted water.
  • the inlet 37 of the solenoid valve 33 can for this be connected to a water inlet pipe, and its outlet 38 is connected to the orifice 3 of water intake.
  • the control assembly 30 makes it possible to control the solenoid valve to close and open the water intake pipe coming from a water supply source. According to a first embodiment, shown in FIG.
  • the control is carried out as follows: the signal generated by the control assembly 30 on its control line 34 controls the opening of the solenoid valve 33 when the probe 27 indicates that the water level is lower than a predetermined low intermediate level B in the heating tube 14; the signal generated by the control assembly 30 on its control line 34 controls the closing of the solenoid valve 33 when the probe 27 indicates that the water level present in the heating tube is higher than a predetermined high intermediate level H .
  • the intermediate levels B and H are close to each other and are in the vicinity of the upper limit 20 of the helical resistance part 17, or slightly below.
  • the relay 35 is connected to, depending on the signals present on the control line 36, close or open the electrical supply circuit of the electrical resistor 17. For this, the control assembly 30 orders the opening of the relay 35 , and therefore the cut-off of the resistor 17, when the temperature probe 28 indicates that the temperature of the heating tube 14 exceeds a predetermined maximum temperature.
  • FIG. 3 gives an example of the structure of the control assembly 30.
  • a comparator 40 compares the information given by the probe 28 with a setpoint TM representing the maximum admissible temperature.
  • the output of comparator 40 is connected to a first input of an AND flip-flop 41 whose second input 42 receives external start and stop orders from the generator. The presence of a signal on the input 42 authorizes the production of steam, and the absence of a signal causes the interruption of steam production.
  • the output of the flip-flop 41 controls the relay 35.
  • the relay 35 is closed when on the one hand a signal is present on the input 42 to control the production of steam and on the other hand the temperature probe 28 indicates that the temperature of the tube 14 is lower than the maximum admissible temperature TM; when a signal is absent from the input 42, or when the temperature exceeds the admissible temperature, the relay 35 switches to the open position.
  • a comparator 43 with hysteresis compares the information communicated by the resistive probe 27 and the setpoint information Ho.
  • the output of the comparator 43 controls the solenoid valve 33.
  • the solenoid valve 33 switches to the open position when the probe 27 indicates that the height of water is less than the height Ho corresponding to the low mark B, and the valve 33 switches to the closed position when the probe 27 indicates that the water height is greater than or equal to the level Ho corresponding to the high mark H.
  • FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of the means for regulating the water level, making it possible to obtain precise regulation which is well suited to the aim sought in the present invention.
  • the probe 27 is arranged above the high intermediate level H of water, so as to be in contact with water when the level of the latter reaches or exceeds said high intermediate level.
  • the resistive probe 27 produces an electrical detection signal SE when the water level becomes higher than the high intermediate level H.
  • the electrical detection signal SE is sent to the control assembly 30 which, in this case, is an electronic circuit delayed, comprising a delay circuit 44 which receives the electric detection signal SE and which produces a delay signal ST sent to an NI gate 45.
  • the delay circuit 44 is such that it produces on its output terminal a signal of time delay ST upon receipt of a falling edge of the detection signal SE, the time delay signal ST having a predetermined duration, for example of the order of 3 to 4 seconds.
  • the door NI 45 receives, on its other input, the detection signal SE, and produces on its output an opening signal SO for the control of the solenoid valve 33. In this way, when the water level becomes lower than the high level H as a result of boiling, the electronic circuit produces an opening signal SO, causing the valve to open, after a delay T determined by the timing circuit 44, the valve remaining open for the input d until the SE detection signal reappears.
  • FIG. 4 shows the generator 1, producing steam in an outlet pipe 50 which brings the steam produced into an enclosure 51 such as a cooking enclosure for a culinary oven.
  • a regulation device 52 produces, on its output 53, a control signal sent to the steam generator 1, this control signal being sent on the input 42 shown in FIG. 3.
  • the regulation device 52 comprises for example a time delay with an adjustment button 54, by which the user can control the steam production cyclic ratio, that is to say the ratio between the on and off times of the steam generator 1.
  • the regulating device 52 may include a probe producing a signal depending on the state of the atmosphere in the enclosure 51, this signal being processed by the regulating device to produce on output 53 signals controlling production and stopping the steam by the steam generator 1. It is thus possible to maintain a determined state of the steam inside enclosure 51.
  • the operation of the device is as follows: by operating the solenoid valve 33, an intermediate and substantially constant level of water is maintained in the heating tube 14.
  • the heating tube 14 and the water it contains are heated.
  • the water inside the heating tube 14 heats up very quickly, so that steam is produced almost instantaneously as soon as the resistor 17 is supplied.
  • Due to the boiling, liquid water splashes occur, escaping from the heating tube and penetrating through the first orifice 9 inside the upper pipe 8.
  • the projected and non-vaporized water is separated from steam in the upper pipe 8, and flows into the return tube 13.
  • the lateral offset between the steam exhaust port 11 and the first port 9, producing a baffle effect prevents projections of liquid water pass through the vapor exhaust orifice 11.
  • the baffle effect is advantageously accentuated by the presence of a deflector 48 in the form of an oblique plate as shown in the figures.
  • the water vapor produced in the heating tube 14 escapes directly into the upper transverse pipe 8 and the steam exhaust orifice 11, without passing through a liquid layer.
  • the device For cleaning the heating tube, the device is drained to evacuate the residual water and a descaling liquid such as vinegar is introduced to completely fill the two tubes and at least part of the upper pipe 8.
  • a descaling liquid such as vinegar is introduced to completely fill the two tubes and at least part of the upper pipe 8.
  • This operation is carried out by preferably soon after a period of operation of the device. Leave to act for a few minutes in the cold. It is drained again to remove the vinegar, and it is filled with water up to the upper pipe 8. It is then heated by supplying the electrical resistance 17; there is then a circulation of water, the water tending to rise in the heating tube 14 and to descend by the return tube 13 and possibly by the third tube 26. The circulation considerably improves cleaning and rinsing. The residual liquid obtained is then drained.
  • the steam generator according to the The present invention presents fewer scaling problems than conventional boilers. However, it is necessary to fill the generator completely during cleaning.
  • the resistive probe 27, placed inside the tube 26, is naturally located outside the areas of lime deposition.
  • the third tube 26 is bypassed between the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes, and it can in particular be arranged in two different ways: a first way, represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, consists in connecting the third tube 26 directly to the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes.
  • a second way, represented in FIG. 5, consists in using a third tube 26 of shorter length, connected to the return tube 13 at two points situated respectively above and below of the high water level H. It is conceivable that the third tube 26, in both of the arrangements, contains water at relatively low temperature, in practice lukewarm water, since it does not there is no continuous circulation of hot water from the heating tubes 14 or 114 to the return tube 13 or to the third tube 26.
  • the upper pipe 8 constitutes a good separation between the heating tubes 14 or 114 and the third tube 26. This e separation is further accentuated by the presence of flexible tubular connections such as connections 21 and 22, which oppose the heating of the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes by thermal conduction between the heating tubes such as the heating tube 14 and said pipes.
  • heating tubes 14 distributed under the brand EGOTHERM by the German company EGO ELEKTRO-GERATE. Tubes with a diameter of approximately 40 millimeters and a length of approximately 200 millimeters may be suitable, with an electrical resistance 17 of 2, 3 or 4 kilowatts.
  • the low inertia of the generator it is possible to precisely regulate the injection of steam and the shutdown of steam production according to the different cooking modes. It is thus possible to control the production of steam, and to associate it with an adjustable time delay. This allows, depending on the food to be cooked, to dose the steam very precisely at a temperature of around 100 degrees Celsius, in the enclosure 51 of an oven.
  • FIG. 5 shows a generator according to the invention according to an embodiment making it possible to deliver a greater vapor flow.
  • the generator comprises a single return tube 13, a single probe tube 26, but several heating tubes, for example three tubes 114, 214 and 314.
  • Each tube connects the interior cavities of the lower pipe 2 and the upper pipe 8 to which it is connected by flexible tubular connectors such as the connector 322, similar to the connectors 21 and 22 in FIG. 1.
  • the connector 322 has been shown. It is preferable to arrange the heating tubes 114, 214 and 314 in a row, in alignment: the circulation of vapor in the upper pipe 8 thus ensures an orderly flow of the non-vaporized water, and favors its return in the tube back 13.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Cookers (AREA)
  • Baking, Grill, Roasting (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)
  • Air Humidification (AREA)
  • General Preparation And Processing Of Foods (AREA)
  • Monitoring And Testing Of Nuclear Reactors (AREA)
  • Measurement Of Levels Of Liquids Or Fluent Solid Materials (AREA)
  • Control Of Steam Boilers And Waste-Gas Boilers (AREA)

Abstract

The generator comprises 3 vertical tubes (14, 13, 26) connecting a lower duct (2) and an upper duct (8). The central tube (14) is a heating tube which bears an electric resistance heating element (17). The second tube (13) is a return tube which makes possible the return of water from the upper duct (8) to the lower duct (2). The steam escapes via an escape opening (11) of the upper duct (8). The third tube (26) comprises a resistive probe (27) which measures the level of the water and makes possible its adjustment to an intermediate level (20). <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne les dispositifs permettant de produire de la vapeur d'eau à partir d'eau liquide, la vapeur d'eau pouvant être utilisée notamment dans les appareils de cuisson.The present invention relates to devices for producing steam from liquid water, the steam can be used in particular in cooking appliances.

On connaît déjà de nombreux générateurs de vapeur d'eau, qui comprennent généralement une résistance électrique immergée dans un réservoir d'eau. L'alimentation de la résistance électrique en énergie électrique produit l'élévation de température de l'eau contenue dans le réservoir, puis son ébullition et l'échappement de vapeur d'eau à la surface du liquide.Numerous steam generators are already known, which generally include an electrical resistance immersed in a water tank. The supply of electrical resistance to electrical energy produces the rise in temperature of the water contained in the tank, then its boiling and the escape of water vapor at the surface of the liquid.

Ces dispositifs présentent l'inconvénient d'avoir une grande inertie : avant de commencer à produire de la vapeur, il faut échauffer l'ensemble du liquide contenu dans le réservoir, ce qui demande un temps relativement long ; à partir du moment où de la vapeur commence à être produite, si l'on veut arrêter la production de vapeur, il faut couper l'alimentation de la résistance électrique; une fois que l'alimentation électrique est coupée, l'eau contenue dans le réservoir est encore à une température importante, et la production de vapeur se poursuit quelque temps.These devices have the disadvantage of having a high inertia: before starting to produce steam, it is necessary to heat all of the liquid contained in the tank, which requires a relatively long time; from the moment when steam begins to be produced, if you want to stop the production of steam, you must cut the power to the electrical resistance; once the power is turned off, the water in the tank is still at a high temperature, and steam production continues for some time.

Le document DE-A-3 532 261 décrit un dispositif générateur de vapeur comprenant, dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 3, un réservoir inférieur muni d'un dispositif d'admission d'eau, un réservoir supérieur muni d'un orifice d'échappement de vapeur, et plusieurs tubes ascendants chauffants reliant de manière étanche les deux réservoirs inférieur et supérieur ; un tube de retour relie également les deux réservoirs. Des moyens de détection et de régulation de niveau d'eau, comprenant une sonde de niveau d'eau et une pompe d'alimentation en eau, maintiennent le niveau d'eau à une hauteur intermédiaire dans le réservoir supérieur, de sorte que le réservoir inférieur et les tubes chauffants sont entièrement emplis d'eau, ainsi que la moitié environ du réservoir supérieur. Le dispositif décrit dans ce document, qui contient une grande quantité d'eau, présente les mêmes inconvénients d'inertie thermique que ceux mentionnés ci-dessus en relation avec les dispositifs à résistances plongeantes.Document DE-A-3 532 261 describes a steam generator device comprising, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, a lower tank provided with a water intake device, an upper tank provided with an orifice steam exhaust, and several heating risers sealingly connecting the two lower and upper tanks; a return tube also connects the two tanks. Water level detection and regulation means, comprising a water level sensor and a water supply pump, maintain the water level at an intermediate height in the upper tank, so that the tank bottom and the heating tubes are completely filled with water, as well as about half of the upper tank. The device described in this document, which contains a large amount of water, has the same drawbacks of thermal inertia as those mentioned above in relation to devices with plunging resistors.

Le document EP-A-0 238 955 décrit une friteuse présentant une structure relativement similaire à celle du document DE-A-3 532 261, avec une réserve supérieure, une réserve inférieure, et des tubes chauffants les reliant l'une à l'autre. Le liquide remplit également la réserve inférieure, la totalité des tubes chauffants et une partie de la réserve supérieure, de sorte que les inconvénients d'inertie thermique et de production de vapeur sont également présents dans ce dispositif.Document EP-A-0 238 955 describes a fryer having a structure relatively similar to that of document DE-A-3 532 261, with an upper reserve, a lower reserve, and tubes heaters connecting them to each other. The liquid also fills the lower reserve, all of the heating tubes and part of the upper reserve, so that the drawbacks of thermal inertia and steam production are also present in this device.

Une si grande inertie ne permet pas de régler de manière précise la production de vapeur. Il en résulte que de tels générateurs de vapeur connus, qui peuvent convenir pour une production de vapeur saturée en quantité importante, ne conviennent plus dès que l'on veut régler de manière précise la quantité de vapeur produite, par exemple pour produire dans une enceinte une vapeur non saturée dans des conditions bien définies.Such a large inertia does not allow precise regulation of the production of steam. As a result, such known steam generators, which may be suitable for producing a large amount of saturated steam, are no longer suitable as soon as one wants to precisely regulate the quantity of steam produced, for example for producing in an enclosure unsaturated vapor under well-defined conditions.

En outre, les générateurs de vapeur connus présentent l'incon­vénient de contenir, lors de leur fonctionnement, une quantité relative­ment importante d'eau maintenue à une température élevée. Il en résulte que le calcaire contenu dans l'eau se dépose dans toutes les parties du dispositif contenant l'eau, occasionnant des pannes fréquentes. En particulier, le calcaire se dépose dans des endroits peu accessibles, difficiles à nettoyer, et requérant des opérations de détartrage longues et onéreuses.In addition, known steam generators have the disadvantage of containing, during their operation, a relatively large amount of water maintained at a high temperature. As a result, the limestone contained in the water is deposited in all the parts of the device containing the water, causing frequent breakdowns. In particular, limestone is deposited in places that are difficult to access, difficult to clean, and requiring long and expensive descaling operations.

La présente invention a notamment pour objet d'éviter les inconvénients des générateurs connus, en proposant une nouvelle struc­ture de générateur présentant une inertie très faible : avec un tel générateur selon l'invention, après un temps de repos relativement long à l'issue duquel l'eau est froide, il est possible de commencer à obtenir de la vapeur après un temps de chauffage très court ; à partir d'un état dans lequel on produit de la vapeur, il est possible de stopper la production de vapeur également dans un temps très court.The object of the present invention is in particular to avoid the drawbacks of known generators, by proposing a new generator structure having very low inertia: with such a generator according to the invention, after a relatively long rest time after which the water is cold, it is possible to start obtaining steam after a very short heating time; from a state in which steam is produced, it is possible to stop the production of steam also in a very short time.

Ainsi, un tel dispositif permet une commande très fiable de production de la vapeur, son réglage en quantité ou en débit, et il est possible d'asservir la production de vapeur sans subir des retards importants.Thus, such a device allows a very reliable control of steam production, its adjustment in quantity or in flow rate, and it is possible to control the production of steam without suffering significant delays.

D'autre part, le générateur selon la présente invention permet un débit de vapeur très important par le fait que, grâce à une nouvelle structure, la surface de contact effective entre les éléments chauffants et l'eau est considérablement augmentée. En particulier, la vapeur produite est évacuée très rapidement sans se recondenser au contact de la phase liquide, et est remplacée par de l'eau en phase liquide venant rapidement au contact des éléments chauffants. Il en résulte que la puissance installée en résistances électriques nécessaire pour obtenir un flux déterminé de vapeur d'eau est nettement réduite par rapport aux solutions classiques.On the other hand, the generator according to the present invention allows a very high vapor flow rate by the fact that, thanks to a new structure, the effective contact surface between the heating elements and the water is considerably increased. In particular, the vapor produced is removed very quickly without recondensing on contact with the liquid phase, and is replaced by water in the liquid phase coming quickly in contact with the heating elements. As a result, the power installed in electrical resistors necessary to obtain a determined flow of water vapor is significantly reduced compared to conventional solutions.

Selon un autre objet de l'invention, la production de vapeur s'effectuant dans un tube chauffant traversé par de l'eau, l'invention prévoit des moyens particuliers pour éviter l'éjection d'eau non vaporisée.According to another object of the invention, the production of steam taking place in a heating tube traversed by water, the invention provides special means for preventing the ejection of unvaporized water.

Selon un autre objet de l'invention, le dispositif est très facile à nettoyer, et le nettoyage est efficace. En particulier, le calcaire contenu dans l'eau se dépose en des endroits facilement accessibles et bien localisés. En outre, ce calcaire se dépose sous forme de plaques qui tendent à se détacher naturellement des parois du dispositif, et à se désagréger sous forme de poudre qui se dépose dans le fond de l'appareil, laquelle poudre est évacuée lors des vidanges. Les opérations de nettoyage proprement dites sont ainsi considérablement espacées et facilitées.According to another object of the invention, the device is very easy to clean, and cleaning is effective. In particular, the limestone contained in the water is deposited in places that are easily accessible and well located. In addition, this limestone is deposited in the form of plates which tend to detach naturally from the walls of the device, and to disintegrate in the form of powder which is deposited in the bottom of the device, which powder is discharged during emptying. The actual cleaning operations are thus considerably spaced and facilitated.

Selon un autre objet de l'invention, le tube chauffant peut être aisément enlevé pour nettoyage, ou remplacé.According to another object of the invention, the heating tube can be easily removed for cleaning, or replaced.

Selon un autre objet de l'invention, le fonctionnement d'un tel générateur est particulièrement silencieux.According to another object of the invention, the operation of such a generator is particularly silent.

Pour atteindre ces objets ainsi que d'autres, le générateur de vapeur d'eau selon l'invention comprend :
- une canalisation inférieure transversale munie d'un orifice d'admis­sion d'eau,
- une canalisation supérieure transversale munie d'un orifice d'échappe­ment de vapeur, disposée au-dessus de la canalisation inférieure,
- au moins un tube ascendant chauffant à cavité axiale dont une première extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un premier orifice correspondant de la canalisation inférieure, et dont une seconde extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un premier orifice correspondant de la canalisation supérieure pour assurer le passage de fluide entre la canalisation inférieure et la canalisation supérieure, le tube chauffant portant sur sa face externe une résistance électrique enroulée en hélice et soudée sur le tube chauffant, la résistance électrique étant connectable à une source d'énergie électrique pour chauffer le tube,
- un tube de retour, dont une première extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un second orifice correspondant de la canalisation inférieure et dont la seconde extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un second orifice correspondant de la canalisation supérieure, le tube de retour assurant le retour d'eau non vaporisée de la canalisation supérieure vers la canalisation inférieure,
- des moyens de détection et de régulation du niveau de l'eau présente dans le tube chauffant, comprenant une électrovanne disposée en amont de l'orifice d'admission de la canalisation inférieure dans le sens d'écoulement d'eau admise, l'électrovanne permettant de fermer et d'ouvrir la canalisation d'admission d'eau provenant d'une source d'alimentation en eau, l'électrovanne étant commandée par un ensemble de commande connecté au moyen de détection de niveau d'eau pour : provoquer l'ouverture de la vanne après que la sonde ait indiqué que le niveau d'eau dans le tube chauffant est inférieur à un niveau intermédiaire bas prédéterminé dans le tube chauffant, et provoquer la fermeture de la vanne lorsque le niveau d'eau dans le tube chauffant est supérieur à un niveau intermédiaire haut prédéterminé dans le tube chauffant, de sorte que la vapeur d'eau produite dans le tube chauffant s'échappe directe­ment dans la canalisation transversale supérieure et l'orifice d'échap­pement de vapeur, sans traverser de couche liquide, et que l'eau en phase liquide projetée hors du tube s'écoule dans le tube de retour.To achieve these and other objects, the steam generator according to the invention comprises:
- a transverse lower pipe provided with a water intake orifice,
- a transverse upper pipe provided with a steam exhaust orifice, disposed above the lower pipe,
- at least one heating tube with axial cavity, a first end of which is tightly connected to a first corresponding orifice of the lower pipe, and a second end of which is tightly connected to a first corresponding orifice of the upper pipe to ensure the passage of fluid between the lower pipe and the upper pipe, the heating tube carrying on its external face an electrical resistance wound in a helix and welded on the heating tube, the electrical resistance being connectable to a source of electrical energy to heat the tube ,
- a return tube, a first end of which is tightly connected to a second corresponding orifice of the lower pipe and the second end of which is tightly connected to a second corresponding orifice of the upper pipe, the return tube ensuring the return of non-vaporized water from the upper pipe to the lower pipe,
means for detecting and regulating the level of water present in the heating tube, comprising a solenoid valve disposed upstream of the inlet port of the lower pipe in the direction of flow of water admitted, the solenoid valve for closing and opening the water intake pipe from a water supply source, the solenoid valve being controlled by a control assembly connected to the water level detection means for: causing opening the valve after the probe has indicated that the water level in the heating tube is below a predetermined low intermediate level in the heating tube, and causing the valve to close when the water level in the heating tube is above a predetermined high intermediate level in the heating tube, so that the water vapor produced in the heating tube escapes directly into the upper transverse pipe and the steam exhaust port, s In the liquid layer, and that the liquid phase water projected from the tube flows into the return tube.

Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, le tube chauffant se raccorde aux canalisations inférieure et supérieure par l'intermédiaire de raccords tubulaires souples, sans contact direct entre le tube chauffant et les canalisations, de sorte que le tube chauffant est amovible, et les joints assurent l'insonorisation.According to an advantageous embodiment, the heating tube is connected to the lower and upper pipes by means of flexible tubular connections, without direct contact between the heating pipe and the pipes, so that the heating pipe is removable, and the joints ensure soundproofing.

Selon une réalisation avantageuse, la canalisation supérieure et la canalisation inférieure sont sensiblement horizontales et dispo­sées l'une au-dessus de l'autre, le tube chauffant est rectiligne et sensiblement vertical, le tube de retour est rectiligne et sensiblement vertical.According to an advantageous embodiment, the upper pipe and the lower pipe are substantially horizontal and arranged one above the other, the heating tube is rectilinear and substantially vertical, the return tube is rectilinear and substantially vertical.

De préférence, les moyens de détection et de régulation du niveau de l'eau comprennent un troisième tube reliant la canalisation supérieure et la canalisation inférieure, le troisième tube contenant une sonde axiale résistive de mesure du niveau de l'eau dans le troisième tube, la sonde étant disposée au-dessus du niveau intermé­ diaire haut de l'eau pour être au contact de l'eau lorsque le niveau de celle-ci atteint ou dépasse ledit niveau intermédiaire haut, de sorte que la sonde produit un signal électrique de détection lorsque le niveau d'eau devient supérieur ou égal au niveau intermédiaire haut, le signal électrique de détection étant envoyé à un circuit temporisé de commande de vanne qui produit un signal d'ouverture après un délai T déterminé, consécutif à un front de descente du signal de détection et maintient la vanne ouverte pour l'entrée d'eau jusqu'à réapparition du signal de détection. Cette disposition permet d'assurer une régulation précise du niveau de l'eau, maintenant ce niveau à une hauteur sensiblement constante. De manière inattendue, les inventeurs ont constaté qu'une telle régulation précise du niveau de l'eau, associée au fait que le niveau est maintenu au voisinage ou légèrement au-dessous de la limite supérieure de la partie hélicoïdale de résistance, permet de contrôler efficacement les dépôts de calcaire : ces dépôts se produisent dans la partie supérieure des tubes chauffants, et dans la canalisation transversale supérieure, à l'exclusion des autres parties du dispositif. Il en résulte que les dépôts de calcaire tendent à se détacher facilement, et à se transformer en une poudre qui vient se déposer dans le fond du dispositif et s'évacue naturellement lors des vidanges.Preferably, the means for detecting and regulating the water level comprises a third tube connecting the upper pipe and the lower pipe, the third tube containing a resistive axial probe for measuring the level of the water in the third tube, the probe being placed above the intermediate level upper diary of the water to be in contact with the water when the level thereof reaches or exceeds said upper intermediate level, so that the probe produces an electrical detection signal when the water level becomes greater or equal at the high intermediate level, the electrical detection signal being sent to a timed valve control circuit which produces an opening signal after a determined delay T, following a falling edge of the detection signal and keeps the valve open for the 'water entry until reappearance of the detection signal. This arrangement ensures precise regulation of the water level, maintaining this level at a substantially constant height. Unexpectedly, the inventors have found that such precise regulation of the water level, associated with the fact that the level is maintained in the vicinity of or slightly below the upper limit of the helical resistance part, makes it possible to control effectively scale deposits: these deposits occur in the upper part of the heating tubes, and in the upper transverse pipe, to the exclusion of the other parts of the device. As a result, the lime deposits tend to come off easily, and to turn into a powder which comes to settle in the bottom of the device and is naturally evacuated during emptying.

D'autres objets, caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront de la description suivante de modes de réalisa­tion particuliers, faite en relation avec les figures jointes, parmi lesquelles :

  • - la figure 1 représente une vue de côté en coupe d'un générateur de vapeur selon la présente invention ;
  • - la figure 2 représente le générateur de la figure 1 avec ses moyens de commande ;
  • - la figure 3 représente le schéma électrique de principe des moyens de commande du générateur de vapeur selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • - la figure 4 représente un générateur de vapeur selon l'invention associé à un four de cuisson ;
  • - la figure 5 représente un générateur de vapeur selon l'invention selon un mode de réalisation à tubes de chauffe multiples ; et
  • - la figure 6 illustre une variante de réalisation des moyens de commande et de régulation de niveau d'eau.
Other objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the following description of particular embodiments, given in relation to the attached figures, among which:
  • - Figure 1 shows a sectional side view of a steam generator according to the present invention;
  • - Figure 2 shows the generator of Figure 1 with its control means;
  • - Figure 3 shows the block diagram of the control means of the steam generator according to one embodiment of the invention;
  • - Figure 4 shows a steam generator according to the invention associated with a cooking oven;
  • - Figure 5 shows a steam generator according to the invention according to an embodiment with multiple heating tubes; and
  • - Figure 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the means for controlling and regulating the water level.

Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 1, le générateur de vapeur d'eau 1 selon la présente invention comprend une canalisation inférieure 2 sous forme d'un tube sensiblement horizontal, dont une première extrémité comprend un orifice d'admission d'eau 3 et un orifice de vidange 4, dont la seconde extrémité comprend un orifice de passage 5, et dont la paroi supérieure comprend un premier orifice 6 et un second orifice 7.In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the steam generator 1 according to the present invention comprises a lower pipe 2 in the form of a substantially horizontal tube, one end of which comprises a water inlet orifice 3 and a drain orifice 4, the second end of which comprises a passage orifice 5, and the upper wall of which comprises a first orifice 6 and a second orifice 7.

Une canalisation supérieure 8, de structure tubulaire similaire à la première canalisation 2, est disposée en position sensiblement horizontale et au-dessus de la première canalisation 2. Elle comprend, en paroi inférieure, un premier orifice 9 correspondant au premier orifice 6 de la canalisation inférieure, et un second orifice 10 correspondant au second orifice 7 de la canalisation inférieure. En face supérieure, et à l'opposé du second orifice 10, la canalisation supérieure 8 comprend un orifice d'échappement de vapeur 11. Ainsi, l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur 11 est décalé latéralement par rapport au premier orifice 9, pour produire un effet de chicane. A l'extrémité opposée à l'orifice d'échappement 11, la canalisation supérieure comprend un orifice de passage 12.An upper pipe 8, of tubular structure similar to the first pipe 2, is arranged in a substantially horizontal position and above the first pipe 2. It comprises, on the lower wall, a first opening 9 corresponding to the first opening 6 of the pipe lower, and a second orifice 10 corresponding to the second orifice 7 of the lower pipe. On the upper face, and opposite to the second orifice 10, the upper pipe 8 comprises a steam exhaust orifice 11. Thus, the steam exhaust orifice 11 is offset laterally relative to the first orifice 9, for produce a chicane effect. At the end opposite to the exhaust orifice 11, the upper pipe comprises a passage orifice 12.

Un tube de retour 13 met en communication le deuxième orifice 7 de la canalisation inférieure et le deuxième orifice 10 de la canalisation supérieure. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, le tube de retour 13 est métallique ainsi que la canalisation inférieure 2 et la canalisation supérieure 8, le tube de retour 13 étant soudé à l'une et l'autre des canalisations pour former un ensemble monobloc creux.A return tube 13 connects the second port 7 of the lower pipe and the second port 10 of the upper pipe. In the embodiment shown, the return tube 13 is metallic as well as the lower pipe 2 and the upper pipe 8, the return pipe 13 being welded to one and the other of the pipes to form a hollow monobloc assembly.

Un tube métallique chauffant 14, à cavité axiale, met en communication le premier orifice 6 de la canalisation inférieure 2 et le premier orifice 9 de la canalisation supérieure 8. La première extrémité 15 de la cavité du tube chauffant 14 est raccordée de manière étanche au premier orifice 6 de la canalisation inférieure, et la seconde extrémité 16 de cavité du tube chauffant 14 est raccordée de manière étanche au premier orifice 9 de la canalisation supérieure 8. Le tube chauffant 14 porte, sur sa face externe, une résistance électrique 17 enroulée en hélice et soudée sur le tube chauffant, la résistance électrique comportant deux bornes de sortie 18 et 19 connectables à une source d'énergie électrique pour chauffer le tube 14. La partie hélicoïdale de la résistance électrique 17 occupe la zone médiane du tube chauffant 14, comme le représente la figure. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, la partie hélicoïdale de la résistance occupe sensiblement la zone comprise entre le quart inférieur du tube et le quart supérieur du tube.A metal heating tube 14, with axial cavity, connects the first orifice 6 of the lower pipe 2 and the first orifice 9 of the upper pipe 8. The first end 15 of the cavity of the heating tube 14 is tightly connected to the first orifice 6 of the lower pipe, and the second cavity end 16 of the heating pipe 14 is tightly connected to the first orifice 9 of the upper pipe 8. The heating pipe 14 carries, on its external face, an electrical resistance 17 wound helically and welded to the heating tube, the electrical resistance comprising two output terminals 18 and 19 connectable to a source of electrical energy for heating the tube 14. The helical part of the electrical resistance 17 occupies the central region of the heating tube 14 , as shown in the figure. In the embodiment shown, the helical part of the resistor substantially occupies the area between the lower quarter of the tube and the upper quarter of the tube.

L'extrémité supérieure 20 de la zone occupée par la partie hélicoïdale de la résistance 17 définit une position remarquable le long du tube, position qui sera utilisée comme expliqué plus loin.The upper end 20 of the zone occupied by the helical part of the resistor 17 defines a remarkable position along the tube, a position which will be used as explained below.

Le raccordement étanche entre les extrémités 15 et 16 de cavité du tube chauffant 14 et les canalisations inférieure 2 et supérieure 8 s'effectue au moyen de raccords tubulaires souples appropriés. On a représenté sur la figure 1 de tels raccords tubulaires appropriés 21 et 22 en coupe. Les raccords tubulaires 21 et 22 sont identiques, et sont réalisés en une matière relativement souple, pour permettre la pose et la dépose du tube chauffant 14 entre les canalisations inférieure 2 et supérieure 8. Il faut utiliser une matière qui résiste à la température du tube, qui peut dépasser légèrement 100° C. On peut par exemple utiliser des raccords tubulaires au silicone alimentaire anthracite de type 1 C 61 HT. Une telle structure de raccord peut supporter une température de 315° C.The sealed connection between the ends 15 and 16 of the cavity of the heating tube 14 and the lower 2 and upper 8 pipes is carried out by means of suitable flexible tubular connections. FIG. 1 shows such appropriate tubular connections 21 and 22 in section. The tubular connections 21 and 22 are identical, and are made of a relatively flexible material, to allow the installation and removal of the heating tube 14 between the lower 2 and upper pipes 8. It is necessary to use a material which resists the temperature of the tube , which can slightly exceed 100 ° C. One can for example use tubular fittings with food grade anthracite silicone type 1 C 61 HT. Such a connection structure can withstand a temperature of 315 ° C.

Chaque raccord tel que le raccord 21 est conformé pour s'emboîter par une première partie 23, dans l'orifice correspondant tel que l'orifice 6 de la canalisation inférieure 2 ; une seconde partie 24 du raccord est conformée en manchon, venant s'emmancher sur le tube chauffant 14. La première partie 23 du raccord comporte une gorge annulaire 25 extérieure dans laquelle vient s'insérer le bord de l'orifice correspondant 6 de la canalisation superieure ou inférieure.Each connector such as the connector 21 is shaped to fit into a first part 23, in the corresponding orifice such as the orifice 6 of the lower pipe 2; a second part 24 of the connector is shaped as a sleeve, which comes to be fitted on the heating tube 14. The first part 23 of the connector has an outer annular groove 25 in which the edge of the corresponding orifice 6 of the pipe is inserted higher or lower.

Le générateur comprend en outre des moyens de détection et de régulation du niveau de l'eau dans le tube chauffant 14. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, les moyens de détection et de régulation comprennent un troisième tube 26 creux, mettant en communication l'orifice de passage 5 de la canalisation inférieure 2 et l'orifice de passage 12 de la canalisation supérieure 8. Par exemple, le troisième tube 26 est un tube rectiligne, comme les tubes 14 et 13, et parallèle à eux. Le troisième tube 26 comporte une sonde intérieure axiale 27 résistive, de type connu, permettant de détecter le niveau de l'eau dans le troisème tube 26.The generator further comprises means for detecting and regulating the level of the water in the heating tube 14. In the embodiment shown, the detection and regulation means comprise a third hollow tube 26, connecting the passage orifice 5 of the lower pipe 2 and the passage orifice 12 of the upper pipe 8. For example, the third tube 26 is a straight tube, like the tubes 14 and 13, and parallel to them. The third tube 26 comprises a resistive axial internal probe 27, of known type, making it possible to detect the level of water in the third tube 26.

Une sonde thermique 28 est disposée pour mesurer la température du tube chauffant 14 dans la zone occupée par la partie hélicoïdale de la résistance 17. De préférence, la sonde thermique mesure la tempéra­ture du tube 14 au voisinage de l'extrémité supérieure 20 de la partie hélicoïdale de résistance électrique 17. Associée à des moyens de mesure et de commande, la sonde thermique 28 réalise une sécurité thermique, provoquant la coupure d'alimentation électrique de la résistance 17 lorsque la température mesurée est supérieure à un seuil déterminé, ce qui se produit par exemple en cas d'absence d'eau ou de manque d'eau dans le tube 14. Le seuil déterminé, ou température maximale admissible TM du tube, est choisi supérieur à la température de fonctionnement normal du tube, c'est à dire la température du tube lorsque de l'eau est en ébullition dans sa cavité intérieure.A thermal probe 28 is arranged to measure the temperature of the heating tube 14 in the area occupied by the helical part of the resistor 17. Preferably, the thermal probe measures the temperature of the tube 14 in the vicinity of the upper end 20 of the helical part of electrical resistance 17. Associated with measurement and control means, the thermal probe 28 achieves a safety thermal, causing the electrical supply to the resistor 17 to be cut off when the measured temperature is above a determined threshold, which occurs for example in the event of the absence of water or lack of water in the tube 14. The determined threshold, or maximum admissible temperature TM of the tube, is chosen to be greater than the normal operating temperature of the tube, that is to say the temperature of the tube when water is boiling in its internal cavity.

On a représenté sur la figure 2 le générateur de vapeur 1 associé à ses éléments de commande et de régulation. L'ensemble de commande et de régulation 30, schématiquement représenté, reçoit les informations d'une part de la sonde thermique 28, d'autre part de la sonde résistive 27, respectivement par les deux entrées 31 et 32. L'ensemble de commande 30 génère, en fonction des informations d'entrée, des signaux de sortie envoyés d'une part à une électrovanne 33 par une ligne de commande 34, et d'autre part à un relais 35 ou équivalent par une ligne de commande 36.FIG. 2 shows the steam generator 1 associated with its control and regulation elements. The control and regulation assembly 30, diagrammatically represented, receives the information on the one hand from the thermal probe 28, on the other hand from the resistive probe 27, respectively by the two inputs 31 and 32. The control assembly 30 generates, as a function of the input information, output signals sent on the one hand to a solenoid valve 33 by a control line 34, and on the other hand to a relay 35 or equivalent by a control line 36.

L'électrovanne 33 est disposée en amont de l'orifice d'admis­sion 3 de la canalisation inférieure 2, dans le sens d'écoulement de l'eau admise. L'entrée 37 de l'électrovanne 33 peut être pour cela raccordée à une canalisation d'arrivée d'eau, et sa sortie 38 est raccordée à l'orifice 3 d'admission d'eau. L'ensemble de commande 30 permet de commander l'électrovanne pour fermer et ouvrir la canalisation d'admission d'eau provenant d'une source d'alimentation en eau. Selon un premier mode de réalisation, représenté sur la figure 3, la commande s'effectue de la manière suivante :
- le signal généré par l'ensemble de commande 30 sur sa ligne de commande 34 commande l'ouverture de l'électrovanne 33 lorsque la sonde 27 indique que le niveau d'eau est inférieur à un niveau intermédiaire bas B prédéterminé dans le tube chauffant 14 ;
- le signal généré par l'ensemble de commande 30 sur sa ligne de commande 34 commande la fermeture de l'électrovanne 33 lorsque la sonde 27 indique que le niveau d'eau présent dans le tube chauffant est supérieur à un niveau intermédiaire haut H prédéterminé. De préférence, les niveaux intermédiaires B et H sont proches l'un de l'autre et sont au voisinage de la limite supérieure 20 de la partie hélicoïdale de résistance 17, ou légèrement au-dessous.The solenoid valve 33 is arranged upstream of the inlet orifice 3 of the lower pipe 2, in the direction of flow of the admitted water. The inlet 37 of the solenoid valve 33 can for this be connected to a water inlet pipe, and its outlet 38 is connected to the orifice 3 of water intake. The control assembly 30 makes it possible to control the solenoid valve to close and open the water intake pipe coming from a water supply source. According to a first embodiment, shown in FIG. 3, the control is carried out as follows:
the signal generated by the control assembly 30 on its control line 34 controls the opening of the solenoid valve 33 when the probe 27 indicates that the water level is lower than a predetermined low intermediate level B in the heating tube 14;
the signal generated by the control assembly 30 on its control line 34 controls the closing of the solenoid valve 33 when the probe 27 indicates that the water level present in the heating tube is higher than a predetermined high intermediate level H . Preferably, the intermediate levels B and H are close to each other and are in the vicinity of the upper limit 20 of the helical resistance part 17, or slightly below.

Le relais 35 est connecté pour, en fonction des signaux présents sur la ligne de commande 36, fermer ou ouvrir le circuit d'alimentation électrique de la résistance électrique 17. Pour cela, l'ensemble de commande 30 ordonne l'ouverture du relais 35, et donc la coupure d'alimentation de la résistance 17, lorsque la sonde de température 28 indique que la température du tube chauffant 14 dépasse une température maximale prédéterminée.The relay 35 is connected to, depending on the signals present on the control line 36, close or open the electrical supply circuit of the electrical resistor 17. For this, the control assembly 30 orders the opening of the relay 35 , and therefore the cut-off of the resistor 17, when the temperature probe 28 indicates that the temperature of the heating tube 14 exceeds a predetermined maximum temperature.

La figure 3 donne un exemple de structure de l'ensemble de commande 30. Un comparateur 40 compare l'information donnée par la sonde 28 à une consigne TM représentant la température maximale admissible. La sortie du comparateur 40 est connectée à une première entrée d'une bascule ET 41 dont la seconde entrée 42 reçoit les ordres externes de marche et d'arrêt du générateur. La présence d'un signal sur l'entrée 42 autorise la production de vapeur, et l'absence de signal provoque l'interruption de production de vapeur. La sortie de la bascule 41 commande le relais 35. Ainsi, le relais 35 est fermé lorsque d'une part un signal est présent sur l'entrée 42 pour commander la production de vapeur et d'autre part la sonde de température 28 indique que la température du tube 14 est inférieure à la température maximale TM admissible ; lorsqu'un signal est absent de l'entrée 42, ou lorsque la température dépasse la température admissible, le relais 35 bascule en position ouverte.FIG. 3 gives an example of the structure of the control assembly 30. A comparator 40 compares the information given by the probe 28 with a setpoint TM representing the maximum admissible temperature. The output of comparator 40 is connected to a first input of an AND flip-flop 41 whose second input 42 receives external start and stop orders from the generator. The presence of a signal on the input 42 authorizes the production of steam, and the absence of a signal causes the interruption of steam production. The output of the flip-flop 41 controls the relay 35. Thus, the relay 35 is closed when on the one hand a signal is present on the input 42 to control the production of steam and on the other hand the temperature probe 28 indicates that the temperature of the tube 14 is lower than the maximum admissible temperature TM; when a signal is absent from the input 42, or when the temperature exceeds the admissible temperature, the relay 35 switches to the open position.

Dans la seconde partie de la figure 3, on a représenté un mode de réalisation des moyens de régulation du niveau d'eau. Un comparateur 43 à hystérésis compare l'information communiquée par la sonde résistive 27 et l'information de consigne Ho. La sortie du comparateur 43 commande l'électrovanne 33. L'électrovanne 33 bascule en position ouverte lorsque la sonde 27 indique que la hauteur d'eau est inférieure à la hauteur Ho correspondant au repère bas B, et la vanne 33 bascule en position fermée lorsque la sonde 27 indique que la hauteur d'eau est superieure ou égale au niveau Ho correspondant au repère haut H.In the second part of Figure 3, there is shown an embodiment of the means for regulating the water level. A comparator 43 with hysteresis compares the information communicated by the resistive probe 27 and the setpoint information Ho. The output of the comparator 43 controls the solenoid valve 33. The solenoid valve 33 switches to the open position when the probe 27 indicates that the height of water is less than the height Ho corresponding to the low mark B, and the valve 33 switches to the closed position when the probe 27 indicates that the water height is greater than or equal to the level Ho corresponding to the high mark H.

On a représenté sur la figure 6 un second mode de réalisation des moyens de régulation du niveau d'eau, permettant d'obtenir une régulation précise et bien adaptée au but recherché dans la présente invention. Dans ce mode de réalisation, la sonde 27 est disposée au-­dessus du niveau intermédiaire haut H de l'eau, pour être au contact de l'eau lorsque le niveau de celle-ci atteint ou dépasse ledit niveau intermédiaire haut. La sonde résistive 27 produit un signal électrique de détection SE lorsque le niveau d'eau devient supérieur au niveau intermédiaire haut H. Le signal électrique de détection SE est envoyé à l'ensemble de commande 30 qui, dans ce cas, est un circuit électronique temporisé, comprenant un circuit de temporisation 44 qui reçoit le signal électrique de détection SE et qui produit un signal de temporisation ST envoyé à une porte NI 45. Le circuit de temporisation 44 est tel qu'il produit sur sa borne de sortie un signal de temporisation ST dès réception d'un front de descente du signal de détection SE, le signal de temporisation ST ayant une durée prédéter­minée, par exemple de l'ordre de 3 à 4 secondes. La porte NI 45 reçoit, sur son autre entrée, le signal de détection SE, et produit sur sa sortie un signal d'ouverture SO pour la commande de l'électrovanne 33. De cette façon, lorsque le niveau d'eau devient inférieur au niveau haut H par suite de l'ébullition, le circuit électronique produit un signal d'ouverture SO, provoquant l'ouverture de la vanne, après un délai T déterminé par le circuit de temporisation 44, la vanne restant ouverte pour l'entrée d'eau jusqu à réapparition du signal de détection SE.FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of the means for regulating the water level, making it possible to obtain precise regulation which is well suited to the aim sought in the present invention. In this embodiment, the probe 27 is arranged above the high intermediate level H of water, so as to be in contact with water when the level of the latter reaches or exceeds said high intermediate level. The resistive probe 27 produces an electrical detection signal SE when the water level becomes higher than the high intermediate level H. The electrical detection signal SE is sent to the control assembly 30 which, in this case, is an electronic circuit delayed, comprising a delay circuit 44 which receives the electric detection signal SE and which produces a delay signal ST sent to an NI gate 45. The delay circuit 44 is such that it produces on its output terminal a signal of time delay ST upon receipt of a falling edge of the detection signal SE, the time delay signal ST having a predetermined duration, for example of the order of 3 to 4 seconds. The door NI 45 receives, on its other input, the detection signal SE, and produces on its output an opening signal SO for the control of the solenoid valve 33. In this way, when the water level becomes lower than the high level H as a result of boiling, the electronic circuit produces an opening signal SO, causing the valve to open, after a delay T determined by the timing circuit 44, the valve remaining open for the input d until the SE detection signal reappears.

On a représenté sur la figure 4 le générateur 1, produisant de la vapeur dans une canalisation de sortie 50 qui amène la vapeur produite dans une enceinte 51 telle qu'une enceinte de cuisson de four culinaire. Un dispositif de régulation 52 produit, sur sa sortie 53, un signal de commande envoyé au générateur de vapeur 1, ce signal de commande étant envoyé sur l'entrée 42 représentée sur la figure 3. Le dispositif de régulation 52 comprend par exemple une temporisation avec un bouton de réglage 54, par laquelle l'utilisateur peut commander le rapport cyclique de production de vapeur, c'est à dire le rapport entre les temps de marche et les temps d'arrêt du générateur de vapeur 1.FIG. 4 shows the generator 1, producing steam in an outlet pipe 50 which brings the steam produced into an enclosure 51 such as a cooking enclosure for a culinary oven. A regulation device 52 produces, on its output 53, a control signal sent to the steam generator 1, this control signal being sent on the input 42 shown in FIG. 3. The regulation device 52 comprises for example a time delay with an adjustment button 54, by which the user can control the steam production cyclic ratio, that is to say the ratio between the on and off times of the steam generator 1.

En alternative, le dispositif de régulation 52 peut comporter une sonde produisant un signal fonction de l'état de l'atmosphère dans l'enceinte 51, ce signal étant traité par le dispositif de régulation pour produire sur la sortie 53 des signaux commandant la production et l'arrêt de la vapeur par le générateur de vapeur 1. On peut ainsi assurer le maintien d'un état déterminé de la vapeur à l'intérieur de l'enceinte 51.Alternatively, the regulating device 52 may include a probe producing a signal depending on the state of the atmosphere in the enclosure 51, this signal being processed by the regulating device to produce on output 53 signals controlling production and stopping the steam by the steam generator 1. It is thus possible to maintain a determined state of the steam inside enclosure 51.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif est le suivant : par la manoeuvre de l'électrovanne 33, on maintient dans le tube chauffant 14 un niveau d'eau intermédiaire et sensiblement constant. Par alimentation de la résistance 17, on chauffe le tube chauffant 14 et l'eau qu'il contient. L'eau présente à l'intérieur du tube chauffant 14 s'échauffe très rapidement, de sorte que de la vapeur est produite presque instantanément dès que la résistance 17 est alimentée. Du fait de l'ébullition, il se produit des projections d'eau liquide s'échappant hors du tube chauffant et pénétrant par le premier orifice 9 à l'intérieur de la canalisation supérieure 8. L'eau projetée et non vaporisée est séparée de la vapeur dans la canalisation supérieure 8, et s'écoule dans le tube de retour 13. Le décalage latéral entre l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur 11 et le premier orifice 9, produisant un effet de chicane, évite que les projections d'eau liquide traversent l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur 11. L'effet de chicane est avantageusement accentué par la présence d'un déflecteur 48 en forme de plaque oblique telle que représentée sur les figures. La vapeur d'eau produite dans le tube chauffant 14 s'échappe directement dans la canalisation transver­sale supérieure 8 et l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur 11, sans traverser de couche liquide.The operation of the device is as follows: by operating the solenoid valve 33, an intermediate and substantially constant level of water is maintained in the heating tube 14. By supplying the resistor 17, the heating tube 14 and the water it contains are heated. The water inside the heating tube 14 heats up very quickly, so that steam is produced almost instantaneously as soon as the resistor 17 is supplied. Due to the boiling, liquid water splashes occur, escaping from the heating tube and penetrating through the first orifice 9 inside the upper pipe 8. The projected and non-vaporized water is separated from steam in the upper pipe 8, and flows into the return tube 13. The lateral offset between the steam exhaust port 11 and the first port 9, producing a baffle effect, prevents projections of liquid water pass through the vapor exhaust orifice 11. The baffle effect is advantageously accentuated by the presence of a deflector 48 in the form of an oblique plate as shown in the figures. The water vapor produced in the heating tube 14 escapes directly into the upper transverse pipe 8 and the steam exhaust orifice 11, without passing through a liquid layer.

Pour le nettoyage du tube chauffant, on vidange le dispositif pour évacuer l'eau résiduelle et on introduit un liquide détartrant tel que du vinaigre pour remplir complètement les deux tubes et au moins une partie de la canalisation supérieure 8. Cette opération s'effectue de préférence peu après une période de fonctionnement du dispositif. On laisse agir quelques minutes à froid. On vidange à nouveau pour évacuer le vinaigre, et on remplit d'eau jusqu'à la canalisation supérieure 8. On chauffe ensuite en alimentant la résistance électrique 17 ; il se produit alors une circulation d'eau, l'eau tendant à monter dans le tube chauffant 14 et à redescendre par le tube de retour 13 et éventuellement par le troisième tube 26. La circulation améliore considérablement le nettoyage et le rinçage. On vidange ensuite le liquide résiduel obtenu.For cleaning the heating tube, the device is drained to evacuate the residual water and a descaling liquid such as vinegar is introduced to completely fill the two tubes and at least part of the upper pipe 8. This operation is carried out by preferably soon after a period of operation of the device. Leave to act for a few minutes in the cold. It is drained again to remove the vinegar, and it is filled with water up to the upper pipe 8. It is then heated by supplying the electrical resistance 17; there is then a circulation of water, the water tending to rise in the heating tube 14 and to descend by the return tube 13 and possibly by the third tube 26. The circulation considerably improves cleaning and rinsing. The residual liquid obtained is then drained.

Grâce à la disposition des tubes ascendants à niveau d'eau intermédiaire fixe, les plus forts dépôts de calcaire se font au sommet du tube chauffant 14, dans la zone où s'effectue la transformation de l'eau en vapeur. Il en résulte que le générateur de vapeur selon la présente invention présente moins de problèmes d'entartrage que les chaudières classiques. Par contre, il s'avère nécessaire de remplir complètement le générateur lors du nettoyage.Thanks to the arrangement of the ascending tubes with a fixed intermediate water level, the strongest deposits of lime are formed at the top of the heating tube 14, in the zone where the transformation of water into vapor takes place. As a result, the steam generator according to the The present invention presents fewer scaling problems than conventional boilers. However, it is necessary to fill the generator completely during cleaning.

La sonde résistive 27, disposée à l'intérieur du tube 26, se trouve naturellement en dehors des zones de dépôt de calcaire. En effet, le troisième tube 26 est en dérivation entre les canalisations supérieure 8 et inférieure 2, et l'on peut notamment le disposer de deux manières différentes: une première manière, représentée sur les figures 1 et 2, consiste à raccorder le troisième tube 26 directement aux canalisations supérieure 8 et inférieure 2. Une seconde manière, représentée sur la figure 5, consiste à utiliser un troisième tube 26 de longueur plus courte, raccordé au tube de retour 13 en deux points situés respectivement au-dessus et au-dessous du niveau d'eau haut H. On conçoit que le troisième tube 26, dans l'une et l'autre des disposi­tions, contient de l'eau à température relativement basse, en pratique de l'eau tiède, puisqu'il n'existe pas de circulation continue d'eau chaude provenant des tubes chauffants 14 ou 114 vers le tube de retour 13 ou vers le troisième tube 26. La canalisation supérieure 8 constitue une bonne séparation entre les tubes chauffants 14 ou 114 et le troisième tube 26. Cette séparation est encore accentuée par la présence des raccords tubulaires souples tels que les raccords 21 et 22, qui s'opposent à l'échauffement des canalisations supérieure 8 et inférieure 2 par conduction thermique entre les tubes chauffants tels que le tube chauffant 14 et lesdites canalisations.The resistive probe 27, placed inside the tube 26, is naturally located outside the areas of lime deposition. In fact, the third tube 26 is bypassed between the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes, and it can in particular be arranged in two different ways: a first way, represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, consists in connecting the third tube 26 directly to the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes. A second way, represented in FIG. 5, consists in using a third tube 26 of shorter length, connected to the return tube 13 at two points situated respectively above and below of the high water level H. It is conceivable that the third tube 26, in both of the arrangements, contains water at relatively low temperature, in practice lukewarm water, since it does not there is no continuous circulation of hot water from the heating tubes 14 or 114 to the return tube 13 or to the third tube 26. The upper pipe 8 constitutes a good separation between the heating tubes 14 or 114 and the third tube 26. This e separation is further accentuated by the presence of flexible tubular connections such as connections 21 and 22, which oppose the heating of the upper 8 and lower 2 pipes by thermal conduction between the heating tubes such as the heating tube 14 and said pipes.

Dans une réalisation pratique, adaptée à la production de vapeur pour une rôtissoire ou un four culinaire professionnels, on peut utiliser des tubes chauffants 14 distribués sous la marque EGOTHERM par la société allemande EGO ELEKTRO-GERATE. Des tubes de diamètre 40 millimètres environ et de longueur 200 millimètres environ peuvent convenir, avec une résistance électrique 17 de 2, 3 ou 4 kilowatts.In a practical embodiment, suitable for the production of steam for a professional roasting pan or cooking oven, one can use heating tubes 14 distributed under the brand EGOTHERM by the German company EGO ELEKTRO-GERATE. Tubes with a diameter of approximately 40 millimeters and a length of approximately 200 millimeters may be suitable, with an electrical resistance 17 of 2, 3 or 4 kilowatts.

Avec un tel générateur, partant d'un état de repos à froid, il est possible d'obtenir de la vapeur après un très court délai d'attente, de l'ordre de 15 à 20 secondes. Lorsque le tube chauffant 14 est encore chaud, après une période d'interruption de la vapeur, il est possible d'obtenir à nouveau de la vapeur de manière quasi instantanée. La production de vapeur cesse de manière quasi instantanée dès l'interrup­tion d'alimentation de la résistance électrique 17.With such a generator, starting from a cold quiescent state, it is possible to obtain steam after a very short waiting time, of the order of 15 to 20 seconds. When the heating tube 14 is still hot, after a period of interruption of the steam, it is possible to obtain steam again almost instantaneously. The production of steam ceases almost instantaneously as soon as the supply to the electrical resistance 17 is interrupted.

Grâce à la faible inertie du générateur, il est possible de réguler avec précision l'injection de vapeur et la coupure de production de vapeur selon les différents modes de cuisson. Il est ainsi possible de contrôler la production de vapeur, et de l'associer à une temporisa­tion réglable. Cela permet, selon les aliments à cuire, de doser la vapeur de manière très précise à une température avoisinant les 100 degrés Celsius, dans l'enceinte 51 d'un four.Thanks to the low inertia of the generator, it is possible to precisely regulate the injection of steam and the shutdown of steam production according to the different cooking modes. It is thus possible to control the production of steam, and to associate it with an adjustable time delay. This allows, depending on the food to be cooked, to dose the steam very precisely at a temperature of around 100 degrees Celsius, in the enclosure 51 of an oven.

La présence des raccords tubulaires souples 21 et 22 réduit considérablement le bruit produit par l'ébullition de l'eau dans le tube chauffant 14 lors du fonctionnement. Il en résulte que le fonctionnement de ce générateur selon l'invention est considérablement plus silencieux que les chaudières classiques. Cette disposition participe en outre à l'élimination des dépôts calcaires, en favorisant la rupture et le détachement des plaques de tartre en partie supérieure des tubes chauffants.The presence of flexible tubular connections 21 and 22 considerably reduces the noise produced by the boiling of water in the heating tube 14 during operation. As a result, the operation of this generator according to the invention is considerably quieter than conventional boilers. This arrangement also contributes to the elimination of lime deposits, by promoting rupture and detachment of the tartar plates in the upper part of the heating tubes.

On a représenté, sur la figure 5, un générateur selon l'invention selon un mode de réalisation permettant de délivrer un flux de vapeur plus important. Le générateur comprend un seul tube de retour 13, un seul tube de sonde 26, mais plusieurs tubes de chauffage, par exemple trois tubes 114, 214 et 314. Chaque tube relie les cavités intérieures de la canalisation inférieure 2 et de la canalisation supérieure 8 auxquelles il se raccorde par des raccords tubulaires souples tels que le raccord 322, similaires aux raccords 21 et 22 de la figure 1. Pour simplifier le dessin, seul le raccord 322 a été représenté. Il est préférable de disposer les tubes de chauffage 114, 214 et 314 selon une rangée, en alignement: la circulation de vapeur dans la canalisation supérieure 8 assure ainsi un écoulement ordonné de l'eau non vaporisée, et favorise son retour dans le tube de retour 13.FIG. 5 shows a generator according to the invention according to an embodiment making it possible to deliver a greater vapor flow. The generator comprises a single return tube 13, a single probe tube 26, but several heating tubes, for example three tubes 114, 214 and 314. Each tube connects the interior cavities of the lower pipe 2 and the upper pipe 8 to which it is connected by flexible tubular connectors such as the connector 322, similar to the connectors 21 and 22 in FIG. 1. To simplify the drawing, only the connector 322 has been shown. It is preferable to arrange the heating tubes 114, 214 and 314 in a row, in alignment: the circulation of vapor in the upper pipe 8 thus ensures an orderly flow of the non-vaporized water, and favors its return in the tube back 13.

La présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisa­tion qui ont été explicitement décrits, mais elle en inclut les diverses variantes et généralisations contenues dans le domaine des revendica­tions ci-après.The present invention is not limited to the embodiments which have been explicitly described, but it includes the various variants and generalizations thereof contained in the field of claims below.

Claims (13)

1 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau, comprenant :
- une canalisation inférieure (2) transversale munie d'un orifice d'admission d'eau (3),
- une canalisation supérieure (8) transversale, munie d'un orifice d'échappement de vapeur (11), disposée au-dessus de la canalisation inférieure (2)
- au moins un tube ascendant chauffant (14) à cavité axiale dont une première extrémité (15) est raccordée de manière étanche à un premier orifice (6) correspondant de la canalisation inférieure (2), et dont une seconde extrémité (16) est raccordée de manière étanche à un premier orifice (9) correspondant de la canalisation supérieure (8) pour assurer le passage de fluide entre la canalisation inférieure (2) et la canalisation supérieure (8), le tube chauffant (14) portant sur sa face externe une résistance électrique (17) enroulée en hélice et soudée sur le tube chauffant, la résistance électrique (17) étant connectable à une source d'énergie électrique pour chauffer le tube,
- un tube de retour (13), dont une première extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un second orifice (7) correspondant de la canalisation inférieure (2) et dont la seconde extrémité est raccordée de manière étanche à un second orifice (10) correspondant de la canalisation supérieure (8),
- des moyens de détection (27) et de régulation (30, 33) du niveau de l'eau présente dans le générateur,
caractérisé en ce qu'une électrovanne (33) est disposée en amont de l'orifice d'admission (3) de la canalisation inférieure (2) dans le sens d'écoulement d'eau admise, l'électrovanne permettant de fermer et d'ouvrir la canalisation d'admission d'eau provenant d'une source d'alimentation en eau, l'électrovanne (33) étant commandée par un ensemble de commande (30) connecté au moyen de détection de niveau d'eau, tel que :
- l'ensemble de commande (30) provoque l'ouverture de la vanne (33) après que la sonde (27) ait indiqué que le niveau d'eau dans le tube chauffant (14) est inférieur à un niveau intermédiaire bas (B) prédéterminé dans le tube chauffant (14),
- l'ensemble de commande provoque la fermeture de la vanne lorsque le niveau d'eau dans le tube chauffant (14) est supérieur à un niveau intermédiaire haut (H) prédéterminé dans le tube chauffant (14), de sorte que la vapeur d'eau produite dans le tube chauffant (14) s'échappe directement dans la canalisation transversale supérieure (8) et l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur (11), sans traverser de couche liquide, et que l'eau en phase liquide projetée hors du tube chauffant (14) dans la canalisation transversale supérieure (8) se sépare de la vapeur et s'écoule dans le tube de retour (13).1 - Steam generator, comprising:
- a transverse lower pipe (2) provided with a water inlet orifice (3),
- a transverse upper pipe (8), provided with a steam exhaust orifice (11), disposed above the lower pipe (2)
- at least one heating ascending tube (14) with axial cavity, a first end (15) of which is tightly connected to a first orifice (6) corresponding to the lower pipe (2), and of which a second end (16) is tightly connected to a first orifice (9) corresponding to the upper pipe (8) to ensure the passage of fluid between the lower pipe (2) and the upper pipe (8), the heating tube (14) bearing on its face external an electrical resistance (17) wound in a helix and welded to the heating tube, the electrical resistance (17) being connectable to a source of electrical energy for heating the tube,
- a return tube (13), a first end of which is tightly connected to a second orifice (7) corresponding to the lower pipe (2) and the second end of which is tightly connected to a second orifice (10) corresponding to the upper pipe (8),
- means (27) for detecting and regulating (30, 33) the level of water present in the generator,
characterized in that a solenoid valve (33) is arranged upstream of the intake orifice (3) of the lower pipe (2) in the direction of flow of water admitted, the solenoid valve making it possible to close and d '' open the water intake pipe from a water supply source, the solenoid valve (33) being controlled by a control assembly (30) connected to the water level detection means, such as :
- the control assembly (30) causes the valve (33) to open after the probe (27) has indicated that the water level in the heating tube (14) is below a low intermediate level (B ) predetermined in the heating tube (14),
- the control assembly causes the valve to close when the water level in the heating tube (14) is above a level upper intermediate (H) predetermined in the heating tube (14), so that the water vapor produced in the heating tube (14) escapes directly into the upper transverse pipe (8) and the exhaust port of vapor (11), without passing through a liquid layer, and the liquid phase water projected from the heating tube (14) in the upper transverse pipe (8) separates from the vapor and flows into the return tube ( 13). 2 - Générateur de vapeur selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le niveau intermédiaire bas (B) et le niveau intermédiaire haut (H) de l'eau dans le tube chauffant (14) sont proches l'un de l'autre et disposés au voisinage ou légèrement au-desous de la limite supérieure (20) de la partie hélicoïdale de résistance (17).2 - Steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the low intermediate level (B) and the high intermediate level (H) of the water in the heating tube (14) are close to each other and arranged in the vicinity or slightly below the upper limit (20) of the helical resistance part (17). 3 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon l'une des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de détection et de régulation du niveau de l'eau comprennent un troisième tube (26) raccordé en dérivation entre la canalisation supérieure (8) et la canalisation inférieure (2), le troisième tube contenant une sonde axiale (27) résistive de mesure du niveau de l'eau dans le troisième tube, la sonde (27) étant disposée au-dessus du niveau intermédiaire haut (H) de l'eau pour être au contact de l'eau lorsque le niveau de celle-ci atteint ou dépasse ledit niveau intermédiaire haut (H), de sorte que la sonde produit au signal électrique de détection (SE) lorsque le niveau d'eau devient supérieur au niveau intermédiaire haut (H), le signal électrique de détection (SE) étant envoyé à un circuit temporisé de commande de vanne (33) qui produit un signal d'ouverture après un délai T déterminé consécutif à un front de descente du signal de détection (SE) et maintient la vanne (33) ouverte pour l'entrée d'eau jusqu'à réapparition du signal de détection (SE).3 - Steam generator according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the means for detecting and regulating the water level comprises a third tube (26) connected in bypass between the upper pipe ( 8) and the lower pipe (2), the third tube containing a resistive axial probe (27) for measuring the water level in the third tube, the probe (27) being disposed above the upper intermediate level (H ) water to be in contact with water when the level thereof reaches or exceeds said high intermediate level (H), so that the probe produces the electrical detection signal (SE) when the level of water becomes higher than the high intermediate level (H), the electrical detection signal (SE) being sent to a timed valve control circuit (33) which produces an opening signal after a determined delay T following a falling edge of the detection signal (SE) and keeps the valve (33) open to the water inlet until the detection signal (SE) reappears. 4 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que le tube chauffant (14) se raccorde aux canalisations inférieure (2) et supérieure (8) par l'intermédiaire de deux raccords tubulaires souples (21, 22) sans contact direct entre le tube chauffant (14) et les canalisations (2, 8), de sorte que le tube chauffant (14) est amovible, et les raccords tubulaires assurent l'insonorisation.4 - Steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the heating tube (14) is connected to the lower (2) and upper (8) pipes via two tubular connections flexible (21, 22) without direct contact between the heating tube (14) and the pipes (2, 8), so that the heating tube (14) is removable, and the tubular connections provide soundproofing. 5 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que chaque raccord tubulaire (21, 22) est conformé pour s'emboîter, par une première partie (23), dans l'orifice correspon­dant (6) de la canalisation supérieure ou inférieure, une deuxième partie (24) du raccord tubulaire étant conformée en manchon pour s'emmancher sur le tube chauffant (14).5 - Steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that each tubular connection (21, 22) is shaped to fit, by a first part (23), in the corresponding orifice (6) of the upper or lower pipe, a second part (24) of the tubular connection being shaped as a sleeve to be fitted on the heating tube ( 14). 6 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon la revendication 5, caractérisé en ce que la première partie (23) du raccord tubulaire comporte une gorge annulaire extérieure (25) dans laquelle vient s'insérer le bord de l'orifice correspondant (6) de la canalisation supérieure ou inférieure.6 - Steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that the first part (23) of the tubular connection comprises an outer annular groove (25) in which is inserted the edge of the corresponding orifice (6) from the upper or lower pipe. 7 - Générateur de vapeur selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que l'orifice d'échappement de vapeur (11) est décalé latéralement par rapport au premier orifice (9), pour réaliser un effet de chicane évitant la sortie d'eau liquide à travers l'orifice d'échappement (11).7 - Steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the steam exhaust orifice (11) is offset laterally relative to the first orifice (9), to achieve a baffle effect avoiding the liquid water outlet through the exhaust port (11). 8 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que le tube de retour (13) est un tube métallique soudé aux canalisations supérieure (8) et inférieure (2), l'ensemble formant un module monobloc.8 - Steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the return tube (13) is a metal tube welded to the upper (8) and lower (2) pipes, all forming a one-piece module. 9 - Générateur de vapeur d'eau selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que le tube chauffant (14) comprend en outre une sonde thermique (28) de sécurité reliée à l'ensemble de commande (30) et à un dispositif de coupure électrique (35) pour couper l'alimentation de la résistance (17) lorsque la température de la zone médiane du tube chauffant (14) dépasse une température maximale (TM) prédéterminée.9 - Steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the heating tube (14) further comprises a thermal probe (28) safety connected to the control assembly (30) and to an electric cut-off device (35) for cutting off the supply to the resistor (17) when the temperature of the central region of the heating tube (14) exceeds a predetermined maximum temperature (TM). 10 - Générateur de vapeur selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions 1 à 9, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend plusieurs tubes chauffants (114, 214, 314) reliant les mêmes canalisations transversales inférieure (2) et supérieure (8) et disposés en une rangée alignée avec un tube de retour (13).10 - Steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises several heating tubes (114, 214, 314) connecting the same lower (2) and upper (8) transverse pipes and arranged in a row aligned with a return tube (13). 11 - Appareil de cuisson caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un générateur de vapeur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10.11 - Cooking appliance characterized in that it comprises a steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 10. 12 - Procédé de production de vapeur d'eau, caractérisé en ce qu'il consiste à introduire, par une ouverture inférieure (6), dans un tube chauffant vertical (14), une quantité d'eau en maintenant un niveau intermédiaire (20) sensiblement constant, à recueillir l'eau éjectée mais non vaporisée en partie supérieure du tube et la séparer de la vapeur pour la réintroduire, par un tube de retour (13), en partie inférieure du tube chauffant, et à chauffer le tube chauffant (14) au moyen d'une résistance électrique (17) enroulée en hélice et soudée à la face extérieure du tube.12 - A method of producing steam, characterized in that it consists in introducing, through a lower opening (6), into a vertical heating tube (14), a quantity of water while maintaining an intermediate level (20 ) substantially constant, collect the ejected but not vaporized water in the upper part of the tube and separate it from the steam to reintroduce it, through a return tube (13), into the lower part of the heating tube, and to heat the heating tube (14) by means of an electrical resistance (17) wound in a helix and welded to the external face of the tube. 13 - Procédé selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que, lors du nettoyage du tube chauffant, on introduit un liquide détartrant pour remplir complètement les deux tubes (14, 13), on laisse agir quelques minutes à froid, on vidange et on remplit d'eau, on chauffe à l'aide de la résistance hélicoïdale (17) de sorte qu'il se produit dans les tubes une circulation d'eau, et on vidange le liquide résiduel.13 - Method according to claim 12, characterized in that, when cleaning the heating tube, a descaling liquid is introduced to completely fill the two tubes (14, 13), left to act for a few minutes in the cold, it is drained and filled of water, it is heated using the helical resistor (17) so that there is a circulation of water in the tubes, and the residual liquid is drained.
EP89420006A 1988-01-08 1989-01-04 Steam generator for a cooking device Expired - Lifetime EP0323939B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT89420006T ATE77466T1 (en) 1988-01-08 1989-01-04 STEAM GENERATOR FOR COOKING APPLIANCES.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8800513A FR2625794B1 (en) 1988-01-08 1988-01-08 WATER VAPOR GENERATOR FOR COOKING APPLIANCE
FR8800513 1988-01-08

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0323939A1 true EP0323939A1 (en) 1989-07-12
EP0323939B1 EP0323939B1 (en) 1992-06-17

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP89420006A Expired - Lifetime EP0323939B1 (en) 1988-01-08 1989-01-04 Steam generator for a cooking device

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US5058194A (en)
EP (1) EP0323939B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE77466T1 (en)
DE (1) DE68901773T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2033119T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2625794B1 (en)
GR (1) GR3005635T3 (en)

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EP0445089A1 (en) * 1990-01-16 1991-09-04 Ab El- Spiraler Overboiling protection for a steam generator
EP0511525A1 (en) * 1991-04-10 1992-11-04 C.AR.EL.( COSTRUZIONE ARMADI ELETTRICI) S.r.l. Steam producing apparatus, particularly for humidifying air
FR2677434A1 (en) * 1991-06-10 1992-12-11 Bourgeois Ste Coop Prod PILOT STEAM GENERATOR BY PRESSURE SWITCH.
FR2678359A1 (en) * 1991-06-25 1992-12-31 Soremam Self-contained and modular steam generator for household cooking appliances
EP0667486A1 (en) * 1994-02-10 1995-08-16 R.E.A. s.n.c. di Sassi e Baudin &amp; C. Instantaneous accumulating steam generator
EP0677703A1 (en) * 1994-04-15 1995-10-18 Applied Materials, Inc. Method and apparatus for dry vapor generation
FR2757607A1 (en) * 1996-12-24 1998-06-26 Prinderre Philippe Lime scale prevention device for probe of water level regulation system
EP1162402A3 (en) * 2000-06-09 2003-08-13 Convotherm-Elektrogeräte GmbH Method for monitoring the operation of a steam generator for cooking apparatus
FR2958727A1 (en) * 2010-04-09 2011-10-14 Fagorbrandt Sas Stream generating device for use in oven, has water supply channel and condensate return channel that are connected with respect to each other and separated by common partition, where water supply channel extends along vertical direction
WO2015197118A1 (en) * 2014-06-25 2015-12-30 Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg Pressure storage device and manual steam apparatus
US11633833B2 (en) 2019-05-29 2023-04-25 Applied Materials, Inc. Use of steam for pre-heating of CMP components

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US7627920B2 (en) * 2006-06-09 2009-12-08 Whirlpool Corporation Method of operating a washing machine using steam
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CN207412066U (en) * 2017-05-05 2018-05-29 广东美的厨房电器制造有限公司 Electric oven
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Cited By (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0445089A1 (en) * 1990-01-16 1991-09-04 Ab El- Spiraler Overboiling protection for a steam generator
EP0511525A1 (en) * 1991-04-10 1992-11-04 C.AR.EL.( COSTRUZIONE ARMADI ELETTRICI) S.r.l. Steam producing apparatus, particularly for humidifying air
FR2677434A1 (en) * 1991-06-10 1992-12-11 Bourgeois Ste Coop Prod PILOT STEAM GENERATOR BY PRESSURE SWITCH.
EP0518788A1 (en) * 1991-06-10 1992-12-16 SOCIETE COOPERATIVE DE PRODUCTION BOURGEOIS (Société Coopérative de Production Anonyme à Capital Variable) Pressure regulated steam generator
US5355840A (en) * 1991-06-10 1994-10-18 Societe Cooperative Deproduction Bourgeois Steam generator controlled by pressure switch
FR2678359A1 (en) * 1991-06-25 1992-12-31 Soremam Self-contained and modular steam generator for household cooking appliances
US5537508A (en) * 1993-03-22 1996-07-16 Applied Materials, Inc. Method and dry vapor generator channel assembly for conveying a liquid from a liquid source to a liquid vaporizer with minimal liquid stagnation
EP0667486A1 (en) * 1994-02-10 1995-08-16 R.E.A. s.n.c. di Sassi e Baudin &amp; C. Instantaneous accumulating steam generator
EP0677703A1 (en) * 1994-04-15 1995-10-18 Applied Materials, Inc. Method and apparatus for dry vapor generation
EP0874193A3 (en) * 1994-04-15 1998-12-16 Applied Materials, Inc. Method and apparatus for dry vapor generation
FR2757607A1 (en) * 1996-12-24 1998-06-26 Prinderre Philippe Lime scale prevention device for probe of water level regulation system
EP1162402A3 (en) * 2000-06-09 2003-08-13 Convotherm-Elektrogeräte GmbH Method for monitoring the operation of a steam generator for cooking apparatus
FR2958727A1 (en) * 2010-04-09 2011-10-14 Fagorbrandt Sas Stream generating device for use in oven, has water supply channel and condensate return channel that are connected with respect to each other and separated by common partition, where water supply channel extends along vertical direction
WO2015197118A1 (en) * 2014-06-25 2015-12-30 Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg Pressure storage device and manual steam apparatus
US11633833B2 (en) 2019-05-29 2023-04-25 Applied Materials, Inc. Use of steam for pre-heating of CMP components

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US5058194A (en) 1991-10-15
ATE77466T1 (en) 1992-07-15
ES2033119T3 (en) 1993-03-01
FR2625794B1 (en) 1990-05-04
GR3005635T3 (en) 1993-06-07
DE68901773T2 (en) 1992-12-24
DE68901773D1 (en) 1992-07-23
FR2625794A1 (en) 1989-07-13
EP0323939B1 (en) 1992-06-17

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