EP2183539A1 - Flow moderator - Google Patents
Flow moderatorInfo
- Publication number
- EP2183539A1 EP2183539A1 EP08796363A EP08796363A EP2183539A1 EP 2183539 A1 EP2183539 A1 EP 2183539A1 EP 08796363 A EP08796363 A EP 08796363A EP 08796363 A EP08796363 A EP 08796363A EP 2183539 A1 EP2183539 A1 EP 2183539A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- fluid
- heat exchange
- exchange device
- fluid flow
- conduit
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 269
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000005352 clarification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001627 detrimental effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012809 cooling fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920002994 synthetic fiber Polymers 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
- F28F3/08—Elements constructed for building-up into stacks, e.g. capable of being taken apart for cleaning
- F28F3/083—Elements constructed for building-up into stacks, e.g. capable of being taken apart for cleaning capable of being taken apart
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
- F28F9/04—Arrangements for sealing elements into header boxes or end plates
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D9/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
- F28D9/0031—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one heat-exchange medium being formed by paired plates touching each other
- F28D9/0043—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one heat-exchange medium being formed by paired plates touching each other the plates having openings therein for circulation of at least one heat-exchange medium from one conduit to another
- F28D9/005—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one heat-exchange medium being formed by paired plates touching each other the plates having openings therein for circulation of at least one heat-exchange medium from one conduit to another the plates having openings therein for both heat-exchange media
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
- F28F9/026—Header boxes; End plates with static flow control means, e.g. with means for uniformly distributing heat exchange media into conduits
- F28F9/0265—Header boxes; End plates with static flow control means, e.g. with means for uniformly distributing heat exchange media into conduits by using guiding means or impingement means inside the header box
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to heat exchange devices for fluids.
- the invention relates to a fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device, a plate heat exchange device containing the fluid flow moderator and to a method of moderating fluid flow.
- plate heat exchange devices for fluids are assembled from a series of metallic plates packed vertically in sequence to form a series of fluid chambers.
- the fluid chambers in a plate heat exchange device may alternately contain two fluids between which heat is to be exchanged.
- fluid ports may be positioned adjacent the corners of the plates to form a manifold through the device which allows the flow (eg, by mechanical pumping) of fluid through and between the alternating fluid chambers.
- each plate provides a heat exchange interface between the two fluids. This facilitates heat transfer between the fluids as they flow through the device cooling the higher temperature fluid while simultaneously heating the lower temperature fluid.
- a fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device comprising an open-sided fluid conduit adapted for positioning adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow.
- the fluid flow moderator of the invention reduces localised areas of fluid turbulence in a plate heat exchange device and also provides a means for obtaining improved evenness of fluid distribution over the plates compared to conventional plate heat exchange devices.
- a plate heat exchange device comprising a fluid flow moderator, wherein said fluid flow moderator comprises an open-sided fluid conduit positioned adjacent to a fluid port of the plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow.
- a method of moderating fluid flow in a plate heat exchange device comprising positioning an open-sided fluid conduit adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a surface for deflecting a fluid and moderating fluid flow in said heat exchange device.
- the fluid conduit may be a partial cylinder.
- the fluid conduit may be an open-ended and hollow partial cylinder.
- This provides a fluid conduit with an internal deflection surface which is arcuate, which assists deflection of the fluid in a controlled radial direction through a fluid port and into the fluid chamber through the open- ended portion of the cylinder.
- arcuate means shapes which may correspond to partial circles or partial ellipses.
- U- or V-shaped internal surfaces for the fluid conduit may also be considered to be within the scope of the invention.
- the open-sided portion of the fluid conduit can be an opening with parallel edges (eg, a longitudinal opening), which assists in the even distribution of the fluid in a fluid chamber by complementing the radial deflection of fluid from an arcuate deflection surface.
- the open-sided fluid conduit may include a conduit which has a side wall which is only partially open.
- this may be a fluid conduit which is an open-ended hollow cylinder with one or more holes and/or slits present in its side wall. These holes and/or slits may be provided at locations in the wall which direct fluid flow in a desired direction.
- the term open-sided fluid conduit is intended to include all of the above-described constructions and any equivalents providing the same function.
- the fluid conduit may be formed of a metallic material. However, in certain circumstances the fluid conduit may be formed of a plastics or other synthetic material for use in conditions where for example corrosive fluids are being cooled or heated. In any case, the skilled person will be able to select the material and dimensions for the fluid conduit dependent upon the environment in which it will be used.
- the fluid conduit may have a sealing ring to provide a seal between the fluid conduit and the fluid port. This can help to ensure that substantially all of the fluid flowing through a fluid port flows through the fluid conduit so that fluid flow remains controlled, homogeneous and without fluid turbulence. This is because fluid flowing between an external surface of a fluid conduit and a rim of a fluid port may create conditions of fluid turbulence.
- the sealing ring may be welded on to the fluid conduit or otherwise connected to the fluid conduit by any other suitable means known to the person skilled in the art.
- the sealing ring may be constructed from a resilient temperature- and/or corrosion-resistant rubber material or a metallic material.
- the fluid conduit may also be provided with a handle which provides a convenient means for removing the fluid flow moderator from a heat exchange device.
- the handle may be integral with the sealing ring or be attached to the fluid conduit separately.
- the fluid deflection surface is provided with indentations, corrugations and/or holes. These features can be arranged in a manner which assists in optimising flow distribution over the heat- exchange plates.
- an arcuate fluid deflection surface may be provided which subtends an angle of less than 360°, less than or equal to 270°, less than or equal to 180°, or less than or equal to 90°.
- fluid flow distribution over a heat-exchange plate can be modified to suit the requirements of the heat exchange device.
- a plate heat exchange device may be provided with a fluid flow moderator positioned adjacent a fluid port to moderate fluid flow as a fluid enters and/or exits a fluid port of a heat exchange plate in the heat exchange device.
- the plate heat exchange device may be provided with a series of heat exchange plates with fluid ports assembled to form a manifold defining flow passages for fluid flow through the heat exchange device.
- the fluid used in accordance with the present invention may be a liquid or a gas.
- the fluid flow moderator, heat exchange device and method of moderating fluid flow in accordance with the invention are equally applicable both to processes in which a high-temperature fluid is cooled and to processes in which a low temperature fluid is heated.
- Figure 1 shows a plan view of a conventional plate heat exchange device
- Figure 2 shows a partial schematic view of heat exchange plates packed inside the plate heat exchange device of Figure 1 forming fluid chambers and a counterflow arrangement of fluids through the chambers;
- Figure 3 shows partial diagrammatic representations of a conventional plate heat exchange device without a fluid flow moderator according to the invention ( Figure 3A) and a plate heat exchange device with a fluid flow moderator according to the invention ( Figure 3B);
- Figure 4 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of the fluid flow moderator of the invention
- Figure 5 shows cross-sectional views of second (Figure 5A), third ( Figure 5B) and fourth ( Figure 5C) embodiments of the fluid flow moderator according to the invention
- Figure 6 shows plan views of fluid distribution over the surface of a heat exchange plate in a heat exchange device according to the invention having the fluid flow moderators of Figures 5A (Figure 6A), 5B (Figure 6B) and 5 C ( Figure 6C), respectively, fitted; and
- Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a fluid flow moderator according to the invention.
- FIG. 1 there is shown a plate heat exchange device 1 for heat exchange between two fluids flowing through the device whereby the higher temperature fluid is cooled and the lower temperature fluid is heated.
- the device 1 has a head support 5, an end support 10, a top carrying bar 15 and a bottom carrying bar 20.
- Heat exchange plates (not shown) are vertically packed between head support 5 and end support 10 and secured by tie bars 21 on opposing sides of plate heat exchange device 1 to define a series of narrow fluid chambers (not shown) through which the two fluids can flow.
- fluid inlet ports 25,26 and fluid outlet ports 30,31 located on head support 5 provide a counterflow arrangement where one fluid flows between fluid inlet port 25 and fluid outlet port 30, and the other fluid flows between fluid inlet port 26 and fluid outlet port 31.
- the fluids may not be in a counterflow arrangement and can flow in the same direction through the fluid chambers 40.
- Heat exchange plates 35 arranged in a sequence internally within the plate heat exchange device of Figure 1 (not shown) to define a series of fluid chambers 40. Heat exchange plates 35 provide a heat exchange interface between fluid chambers 40 and have fluid ports 45 for the flow of a fluid between the fluid chambers 40.
- the fluid chambers 40 alternately provide a fluid flow passage for a first fluid 50 (fluid chambers 40a) and a second fluid 55 (fluid chambers 40b).
- the fluid flow direction of fluids 50 and 55 through fluid chambers 40 is shown by arrows 60 and 65, respectively.
- Fluid 50 enters heat exchange device 1 at fluid inlet port 25 near the top of heat exchange device 1 and exits at fluid outlet port 30 near the bottom of heat exchange device 1.
- Fluid 55 enters heat exchange device 1 at fluid inlet port 26 near the bottom of heat exchange device 1 and exits at fluid outlet port 31 near the top of heat exchange device 1. This provides a fluid counterflow arrangement of the two fluids 50,55 in heat exchange device 1.
- Figure 3 A shows heat exchange plates 35 of heat exchange device 1 separated by gaskets 75 and fluid 55 flowing through ports 45 in the direction of arrow 65.
- Channels 76 are present adjacent gaskets 75 resulting in localised turbulence of fluid 55 as shown by curved arrows 80.
- Arrows 85 show the direction of the flow of fluid 55 through fluid chambers 40b.
- the independent fluid flow system of fluid chambers 40a containing cooling fluid 50 is also shown.
- a fluid flow moderator 90 which has a partially cylindrical fluid conduit 95 with an arcuate internal deflection surface 100 and a longitudinal opening 1 10 defined by edges 115.
- Deflection surface 100 has indentations 105.
- Figure 3B shows fluid flow moderator 90 positioned adjacent ports 45.
- fluid 55 is blocked from migrating into channels 76 by deflection surface 100, thereby reducing fluid turbulence and improving the flow efficiency of fluid 55 through plate heat exchange device 1. Reduced loss of fluid pressure occurs and heat exchange from fluid 55 in fluid chambers 40b to fluid 50 in fluid chambers 40a is improved.
- Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5A has a fluid conduit 96 with an arcuate deflection surface 101 subtending an angle of less than 180°.
- Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5B has a fluid conduit 97 with an arcuate deflection surface 102 subtending an angle of between 180° and 270°.
- Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5C has a fluid conduit 98 with an arcuate deflection surface 103 subtending an angle of between 180° and 270° and also has perforations 120.
- the different angles and surface features of the arcuate deflection surface 101, 102, 103 provide fluid flow moderators 90 with different deflection properties to suit individual fluid flow distribution requirements. This provides versatility and adaptability to the present invention.
- fluid flow should be distributed over heat exchange plate 35 in the directions A and B shown by arrows 125 and 130, respectively.
- flow is predominantly in direction A (ie, arrow 125), because this flow direction provides the least overall resistance between the vertically oriented fluid ports 45. This results in an uneven distribution of fluid over heat exchange plate 40 resulting in inefficient heat exchange.
- fluid flow moderator 90 fluid (not shown) entering a fluid chamber (not shown) through port 45 is deflected by the arcuate deflection surface 101 evenly in the directions A and B.
- fluid flow moderator 90 by using fluid flow moderator 90, fluid (not shown) entering a fluid chamber (not shown) through a port 45 is deflected by the arcuate deflection surfaces 102 and 103 in a radial pattern over a wide area of heat exchange plate 40 in the direction of arrows 105.
- the fluid is evenly distributed as it flows over heat exchange plate 35 providing an optimal level of contact with heat exchange plate 35 and efficient heat exchange.
- FIG. 7 With reference to Figure 7, there is shown a fluid flow moderator 90 with fluid conduit 95 having fluid deflection surface 100 positioned adjacent fluid ports 45 with sealing rings 140 attached to the ends 101 of fluid conduit 95.
- Sealing ring 140 provides a seal between fluid conduit 95 and fluid port 45 so that substantially all of the fluid (not shown) is directed through fluid flow moderator 90.
- the sealing rings 110 are made from a temperature- and chemical resistant rubber and provide a tight seal of fluid conduit 90 with ports 45 (not shown).
- sealing ring 140 is made of a metallic material and is welded to fluid conduit 95.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Heat-Exchange Devices With Radiators And Conduit Assemblies (AREA)
Abstract
A fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device comprises an open-sided fluid conduit adapted for positioning adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow. A method of moderating fluid flow in a plate heat exchange device comprises positioning an open-sided fluid conduit adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a surface for deflecting a fluid and moderating fluid flow in said heat exchange device.
Description
FLOW MODERATOR
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] This invention generally relates to heat exchange devices for fluids. In particular, the invention relates to a fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device, a plate heat exchange device containing the fluid flow moderator and to a method of moderating fluid flow.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Generally, plate heat exchange devices for fluids are assembled from a series of metallic plates packed vertically in sequence to form a series of fluid chambers.
[003] The fluid chambers in a plate heat exchange device may alternately contain two fluids between which heat is to be exchanged.
[004] Normally, fluid ports may be positioned adjacent the corners of the plates to form a manifold through the device which allows the flow (eg, by mechanical pumping) of fluid through and between the alternating fluid chambers. In this manner, each plate provides a heat exchange interface between the two fluids. This facilitates heat transfer between the fluids as they flow through the device cooling the higher temperature fluid while simultaneously heating the lower temperature fluid.
[005] In certain circumstances, when fluid flows through the chambers, because of frictional effects localised areas of fluid turbulence can form due to irregularly-shaped features (eg, channels, indentations) present on the internal surface of the chambers and around the fluid ports. Energy is dissipated from the areas of fluid turbulence (also referred to as an eddy), which causes fluid
pressure loss in the heat exchange device and hinders fluid flow. This can have a detrimental effect on heat transfer efficiency in the device.
[006] Furthermore, in conventional plate heat exchange devices, the distribution of fluid over the surfaces of the heat-conducting plates can be uneven resulting in the fluid not always obtaining optimum exposure to the surface of the plate in order to facilitate efficient heat transfer. Again, this can have a detrimental effect on the overall heat transfer efficiency of the device.
[007] Accordingly, a means for ameliorating these problems has been sought.
SUMMARY
[008] According to the invention there is provided a fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device comprising an open-sided fluid conduit adapted for positioning adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow.
[009] It has surprisingly been found that the fluid flow moderator of the invention reduces localised areas of fluid turbulence in a plate heat exchange device and also provides a means for obtaining improved evenness of fluid distribution over the plates compared to conventional plate heat exchange devices.
[010] This surprising effect is achieved by positioning the fluid flow moderator of the invention adjacent a fluid port of a fluid chamber in a plate heat exchange device so that fluid flows through the fluid conduit and is deflected by the inner surface of the conduit as it enters the chamber. In this manner, localised areas of fluid turbulence caused by frictional effects are minimised resulting in a reduced loss in fluid pressure. This also has the effect of more evenly distributing the fluid across the surface of a heat-conducting plate when the fluid is deflected because it is forced to flow in a radial direction from the open-sided portion of
the conduit. Also, due to the even fluid flow distribution across the surface of the heat-conducting plate, improved heat exchange is observed.
[Oi l] Further according to the invention there is provided a plate heat exchange device comprising a fluid flow moderator, wherein said fluid flow moderator comprises an open-sided fluid conduit positioned adjacent to a fluid port of the plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow.
[012] Even further according to the invention there is provided a method of moderating fluid flow in a plate heat exchange device, the method comprising positioning an open-sided fluid conduit adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a surface for deflecting a fluid and moderating fluid flow in said heat exchange device.
[013] According to some aspects of the invention, the fluid conduit may be a partial cylinder. In particular, the fluid conduit may be an open-ended and hollow partial cylinder. This provides a fluid conduit with an internal deflection surface which is arcuate, which assists deflection of the fluid in a controlled radial direction through a fluid port and into the fluid chamber through the open- ended portion of the cylinder. For clarification, it should be understood that arcuate means shapes which may correspond to partial circles or partial ellipses. U- or V-shaped internal surfaces for the fluid conduit may also be considered to be within the scope of the invention.
[014] In some aspects of the invention, the open-sided portion of the fluid conduit can be an opening with parallel edges (eg, a longitudinal opening), which assists in the even distribution of the fluid in a fluid chamber by complementing the radial deflection of fluid from an arcuate deflection surface.
[015] In some aspects of the invention, the open-sided fluid conduit may include a conduit which has a side wall which is only partially open. To
exemplify, this may be a fluid conduit which is an open-ended hollow cylinder with one or more holes and/or slits present in its side wall. These holes and/or slits may be provided at locations in the wall which direct fluid flow in a desired direction. The term open-sided fluid conduit is intended to include all of the above-described constructions and any equivalents providing the same function.
[016] The fluid conduit may be formed of a metallic material. However, in certain circumstances the fluid conduit may be formed of a plastics or other synthetic material for use in conditions where for example corrosive fluids are being cooled or heated. In any case, the skilled person will be able to select the material and dimensions for the fluid conduit dependent upon the environment in which it will be used.
[017] According to some aspects of the invention, the fluid conduit may have a sealing ring to provide a seal between the fluid conduit and the fluid port. This can help to ensure that substantially all of the fluid flowing through a fluid port flows through the fluid conduit so that fluid flow remains controlled, homogeneous and without fluid turbulence. This is because fluid flowing between an external surface of a fluid conduit and a rim of a fluid port may create conditions of fluid turbulence.
[018] The sealing ring may be welded on to the fluid conduit or otherwise connected to the fluid conduit by any other suitable means known to the person skilled in the art. The sealing ring may be constructed from a resilient temperature- and/or corrosion-resistant rubber material or a metallic material.
[019] In some aspects of the invention, the fluid conduit may also be provided with a handle which provides a convenient means for removing the fluid flow moderator from a heat exchange device. The handle may be integral with the sealing ring or be attached to the fluid conduit separately.
[020] According to some aspects of the invention, the fluid deflection surface is provided with indentations, corrugations and/or holes. These features can be arranged in a manner which assists in optimising flow distribution over the heat- exchange plates.
[021] According to some aspects of the invention, an arcuate fluid deflection surface may be provided which subtends an angle of less than 360°, less than or equal to 270°, less than or equal to 180°, or less than or equal to 90°. Depending on the angle subtended by the arcuate deflection surface, fluid flow distribution over a heat-exchange plate can be modified to suit the requirements of the heat exchange device.
[022] According to some aspects of the invention, a plate heat exchange device may be provided with a fluid flow moderator positioned adjacent a fluid port to moderate fluid flow as a fluid enters and/or exits a fluid port of a heat exchange plate in the heat exchange device.
[023] According to some aspects of the invention, the plate heat exchange device may be provided with a series of heat exchange plates with fluid ports assembled to form a manifold defining flow passages for fluid flow through the heat exchange device.
[024] The fluid used in accordance with the present invention may be a liquid or a gas. Furthermore, the fluid flow moderator, heat exchange device and method of moderating fluid flow in accordance with the invention are equally applicable both to processes in which a high-temperature fluid is cooled and to processes in which a low temperature fluid is heated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 shows a plan view of a conventional plate heat exchange device;
Figure 2 shows a partial schematic view of heat exchange plates packed inside the plate heat exchange device of Figure 1 forming fluid chambers and a counterflow arrangement of fluids through the chambers;
Figure 3 shows partial diagrammatic representations of a conventional plate heat exchange device without a fluid flow moderator according to the invention (Figure 3A) and a plate heat exchange device with a fluid flow moderator according to the invention (Figure 3B);
Figure 4 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of the fluid flow moderator of the invention;
Figure 5 shows cross-sectional views of second (Figure 5A), third (Figure 5B) and fourth (Figure 5C) embodiments of the fluid flow moderator according to the invention;
Figure 6 shows plan views of fluid distribution over the surface of a heat exchange plate in a heat exchange device according to the invention having the fluid flow moderators of Figures 5A (Figure 6A), 5B (Figure 6B) and 5 C (Figure 6C), respectively, fitted; and
Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a fluid flow moderator according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[025] In Figure 1, there is shown a plate heat exchange device 1 for heat exchange between two fluids flowing through the device whereby the higher temperature fluid is cooled and the lower temperature fluid is heated. The device 1 has a head support 5, an end support 10, a top carrying bar 15 and a bottom carrying bar 20.
[026] Heat exchange plates (not shown) are vertically packed between head support 5 and end support 10 and secured by tie bars 21 on opposing sides of plate heat exchange device 1 to define a series of narrow fluid chambers (not shown) through which the two fluids can flow.
[027] In this embodiment, fluid inlet ports 25,26 and fluid outlet ports 30,31 located on head support 5 provide a counterflow arrangement where one fluid flows between fluid inlet port 25 and fluid outlet port 30, and the other fluid flows between fluid inlet port 26 and fluid outlet port 31. As an alternative, the fluids may not be in a counterflow arrangement and can flow in the same direction through the fluid chambers 40.
[028] Referring to Figure 2, there are heat exchange plates 35 arranged in a sequence internally within the plate heat exchange device of Figure 1 (not shown) to define a series of fluid chambers 40. Heat exchange plates 35 provide a heat exchange interface between fluid chambers 40 and have fluid ports 45 for the flow of a fluid between the fluid chambers 40.
[029] The fluid chambers 40 alternately provide a fluid flow passage for a first fluid 50 (fluid chambers 40a) and a second fluid 55 (fluid chambers 40b). The fluid flow direction of fluids 50 and 55 through fluid chambers 40 is shown by arrows 60 and 65, respectively.
[030] Fluid 50 enters heat exchange device 1 at fluid inlet port 25 near the top of heat exchange device 1 and exits at fluid outlet port 30 near the bottom of heat exchange device 1. Fluid 55 enters heat exchange device 1 at fluid inlet port 26 near the bottom of heat exchange device 1 and exits at fluid outlet port 31 near the top of heat exchange device 1. This provides a fluid counterflow arrangement of the two fluids 50,55 in heat exchange device 1.
[031] In use, when fluid 50,55 contact opposing surfaces 70 of heat exchange plates 35, heat is exchanged across the plates 35 between the fluids 50,55such
that the higher temperature fluid is cooled and the lower temperature fluid is heated.
[032] Figure 3 A shows heat exchange plates 35 of heat exchange device 1 separated by gaskets 75 and fluid 55 flowing through ports 45 in the direction of arrow 65. Channels 76 are present adjacent gaskets 75 resulting in localised turbulence of fluid 55 as shown by curved arrows 80. Arrows 85 show the direction of the flow of fluid 55 through fluid chambers 40b. For clarification, the independent fluid flow system of fluid chambers 40a containing cooling fluid 50 is also shown.
[033] Referring to Figure 4, there is shown a fluid flow moderator 90 which has a partially cylindrical fluid conduit 95 with an arcuate internal deflection surface 100 and a longitudinal opening 1 10 defined by edges 115. Deflection surface 100 has indentations 105.
[034] Figure 3B shows fluid flow moderator 90 positioned adjacent ports 45. In use, fluid 55 is blocked from migrating into channels 76 by deflection surface 100, thereby reducing fluid turbulence and improving the flow efficiency of fluid 55 through plate heat exchange device 1. Reduced loss of fluid pressure occurs and heat exchange from fluid 55 in fluid chambers 40b to fluid 50 in fluid chambers 40a is improved.
[035] Referring to Figures 5A to 5C, there are shown further embodiments of fluid flow moderators 90. Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5A has a fluid conduit 96 with an arcuate deflection surface 101 subtending an angle of less than 180°. Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5B has a fluid conduit 97 with an arcuate deflection surface 102 subtending an angle of between 180° and 270°. Fluid flow moderator 90 of Figure 5C has a fluid conduit 98 with an arcuate deflection surface 103 subtending an angle of between 180° and 270° and also has perforations 120. The different angles and surface features of the arcuate deflection surface 101, 102, 103 provide fluid flow moderators 90 with different
deflection properties to suit individual fluid flow distribution requirements. This provides versatility and adaptability to the present invention.
[036] Referring to each of Figures 6A to 6C, there is shown a heat exchange plate 35 with fluid ports 45 and fluid flow moderators 90.
[037] Referring now to Figure 6A, to optimise heat exchange across heat exchange plate 35, fluid flow should be distributed over heat exchange plate 35 in the directions A and B shown by arrows 125 and 130, respectively. In the absence of fluid flow moderator 90, flow is predominantly in direction A (ie, arrow 125), because this flow direction provides the least overall resistance between the vertically oriented fluid ports 45. This results in an uneven distribution of fluid over heat exchange plate 40 resulting in inefficient heat exchange. By using fluid flow moderator 90, fluid (not shown) entering a fluid chamber (not shown) through port 45 is deflected by the arcuate deflection surface 101 evenly in the directions A and B.
[038] Likewise, as shown in Figures 6B and 6C, by using fluid flow moderator 90, fluid (not shown) entering a fluid chamber (not shown) through a port 45 is deflected by the arcuate deflection surfaces 102 and 103 in a radial pattern over a wide area of heat exchange plate 40 in the direction of arrows 105. Thus, the fluid is evenly distributed as it flows over heat exchange plate 35 providing an optimal level of contact with heat exchange plate 35 and efficient heat exchange.
[039] With reference to Figure 7, there is shown a fluid flow moderator 90 with fluid conduit 95 having fluid deflection surface 100 positioned adjacent fluid ports 45 with sealing rings 140 attached to the ends 101 of fluid conduit 95. Sealing ring 140 provides a seal between fluid conduit 95 and fluid port 45 so that substantially all of the fluid (not shown) is directed through fluid flow moderator 90. The sealing rings 110 are made from a temperature- and chemical resistant rubber and provide a tight seal of fluid conduit 90 with ports 45 (not
shown). Alternatively, sealing ring 140 is made of a metallic material and is welded to fluid conduit 95.
[040] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims
1. A fluid flow moderator for a plate heat exchange device comprising an open-sided fluid conduit adapted for positioning adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow
2. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 1, wherein said fluid conduit is a partial cylinder.
3. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 1, wherein said fluid conduit has an arcuate fluid deflection surface.
4. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 2, wherein said open-sided portion of said fluid conduit is a longitudinal opening.
5. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 1, further comprising a sealing ring for said fluid conduit.
6. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 5, wherein said fluid conduit further comprises a handle for removing said moderator from said heat exchange device.
7. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 1, wherein said fluid deflection surface has indentations, corrugations and/or holes.
8. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 3, wherein said arcuate fluid deflection surface subtends an angle of less than or equal to 270°.
9. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 1, wherein the fluid flow moderation is a reduction of pressure loss in and/or adjacent to the fluid port.
10. A plate heat exchange device comprising a fluid flow moderator, wherein said fluid flow moderator comprises an open-sided fluid conduit positioned adjacent to a fluid port of the plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a fluid deflection surface for moderating fluid flow.
11. A plate heat exchange device according to claim 10, comprising a series of heat exchange plates with fluid ports assembled to form a manifold defining flow passages for fluid flow through said heat exchange device.
12. The plate heat exchange device according to claim 10, wherein said fluid conduit is a partial cylinder.
13. The plate heat exchange device according to claim 10, wherein said fluid conduit has an arcuate fluid deflection surface.
14. The plate heat exchange device according to claim 10, wherein said fluid deflection surface has indentations, corrugations and/or holes.
15. The plate heat exchange device according to claim 13, wherein said arcuate fluid deflection surface subtends an angle of less than or equal to 270°.
16. The fluid flow moderator according to claim 10, wherein the fluid flow moderation is a reduction of pressure loss in and/or adjacent to the fluid port.
17. A method of moderating fluid flow in a plate heat exchange device, the method comprising positioning an open-sided fluid conduit adjacent to a fluid port of a plate heat exchange device wherein said fluid conduit has a surface for deflecting a fluid and moderating fluid flow in said heat exchange device.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein said fluid conduit is a partial cylinder.
19. The method according to claim 17, wherein said fluid conduit has an arcuate fluid deflection surface.
20. The method according to claim 19, wherein said arcuate fluid deflection surface subtends an angle of less than 270°.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/828,069 US20090025918A1 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2007-07-25 | Flow moderator |
PCT/US2008/070628 WO2009015076A1 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2008-07-21 | Flow moderator |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2183539A1 true EP2183539A1 (en) | 2010-05-12 |
Family
ID=40281744
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP08796363A Withdrawn EP2183539A1 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2008-07-21 | Flow moderator |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090025918A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2183539A1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20100075828A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101842656A (en) |
DE (1) | DE112008001953T5 (en) |
SE (1) | SE1000176A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009015076A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP5689345B2 (en) * | 2011-03-29 | 2015-03-25 | 株式会社ティラド | Laminate heat exchanger |
JP6047181B2 (en) * | 2015-01-16 | 2016-12-21 | 大阪瓦斯株式会社 | Solid oxide fuel cell system |
JP6298135B2 (en) * | 2016-10-03 | 2018-03-20 | 大阪瓦斯株式会社 | Heat exchanger for fuel cell system |
JP7018299B2 (en) * | 2017-11-22 | 2022-02-10 | 株式会社日阪製作所 | Plate heat exchanger |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB2052723B (en) * | 1979-06-04 | 1983-04-07 | Apv Co Ltd | Plate heat exchanger |
US4303124A (en) * | 1979-06-04 | 1981-12-01 | The A.P.V. Company Limited | Plate heat exchanger |
US4287945A (en) * | 1979-07-03 | 1981-09-08 | The A.P.V. Company Limited | Plate heat exchanger |
DE3311579C2 (en) * | 1983-03-30 | 1985-10-03 | Süddeutsche Kühlerfabrik Julius Fr. Behr GmbH & Co. KG, 7000 Stuttgart | Heat exchanger |
US6179051B1 (en) * | 1997-12-24 | 2001-01-30 | Delaware Capital Formation, Inc. | Distributor for plate heat exchangers |
SE516537C2 (en) * | 2000-05-19 | 2002-01-29 | Alfa Laval Ab | Flat pack and plate heat exchanger |
SE516416C2 (en) * | 2000-05-19 | 2002-01-15 | Alfa Laval Ab | Plate package, heat transfer plate, plate heat exchanger and use of heat transfer plate |
US7036562B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-05-02 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Heat exchanger with core and support structure coupling for reduced thermal stress |
CA2381214C (en) * | 2002-04-10 | 2007-06-26 | Long Manufacturing Ltd. | Heat exchanger inlet tube with flow distributing turbulizer |
US7967060B2 (en) * | 2005-08-18 | 2011-06-28 | Parker-Hannifin Corporation | Evaporating heat exchanger |
-
2007
- 2007-07-25 US US11/828,069 patent/US20090025918A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-07-21 EP EP08796363A patent/EP2183539A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2008-07-21 KR KR1020107004119A patent/KR20100075828A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2008-07-21 DE DE112008001953T patent/DE112008001953T5/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2008-07-21 SE SE1000176A patent/SE1000176A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2008-07-21 CN CN200880100345A patent/CN101842656A/en active Pending
- 2008-07-21 WO PCT/US2008/070628 patent/WO2009015076A1/en active Application Filing
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
See references of WO2009015076A1 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE112008001953T5 (en) | 2010-09-09 |
SE1000176A1 (en) | 2010-03-10 |
KR20100075828A (en) | 2010-07-05 |
US20090025918A1 (en) | 2009-01-29 |
CN101842656A (en) | 2010-09-22 |
WO2009015076A1 (en) | 2009-01-29 |
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