EP2741861B1 - Device for the cryogenic descaling of non-planar surfaces, particularly the inside of a tube - Google Patents

Device for the cryogenic descaling of non-planar surfaces, particularly the inside of a tube Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2741861B1
EP2741861B1 EP12750439.7A EP12750439A EP2741861B1 EP 2741861 B1 EP2741861 B1 EP 2741861B1 EP 12750439 A EP12750439 A EP 12750439A EP 2741861 B1 EP2741861 B1 EP 2741861B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
downstream
gear
tube
duct
driving
Prior art date
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Not-in-force
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EP12750439.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2741861A1 (en
Inventor
Charles Truchot
Frédéric Richard
Jacques Quintard
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LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
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Publication of EP2741861A1 publication Critical patent/EP2741861A1/en
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Publication of EP2741861B1 publication Critical patent/EP2741861B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B13/00—Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00
    • B05B13/02—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work
    • B05B13/04—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation
    • B05B13/0405—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation with reciprocating or oscillating spray heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B13/00—Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00
    • B05B13/02—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work
    • B05B13/04—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation
    • B05B13/0421—Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation with rotating spray heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B13/00—Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00
    • B05B13/06—Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00 specially designed for treating the inside of hollow bodies
    • B05B13/0627—Arrangements of nozzles or spray heads specially adapted for treating the inside of hollow bodies
    • B05B13/0636—Arrangements of nozzles or spray heads specially adapted for treating the inside of hollow bodies by means of rotatable spray heads or nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/14—Arrangements for preventing or controlling structural damage to spraying apparatus or its outlets, e.g. for breaking at desired places; Arrangements for handling or replacing damaged parts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/60—Arrangements for mounting, supporting or holding spraying apparatus
    • B05B15/65—Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits
    • B05B15/652—Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits whereby the jet can be oriented

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a jetting device for jets of cryogenic fluid, in particular high pressure liquid nitrogen, suitable for and designed to effectively strip the surface of a non-planar structure, in particular inside a tube. .
  • a nozzle-holder tool with a rotary movement distributing one or more jets of liquid nitrogen at a pressure of 500 to 4000 bar and at a cryogenic temperature of between -100 and -200 ° C, typically between -140 and -160 ° C.
  • the nozzle holder tool is attached to the end of a cryogenic fluid supply line which supplies the tool with cryogenic fluid, and a rotary movement about the axis of the pipe is conferred on the pipe and tool via a drive system with sprockets or belts driven by a motor.
  • the dynamic sealing of the rotary system is usually provided by a cylindrical rotating cylinder seal, arranged around the pipe being traversed longitudinally by a bronze piece and surrounded for a solid piece of stainless steel.
  • the problem to be solved is to propose a device for distributing cryogenic fluid, in particular liquid nitrogen, which makes it possible to clean and / or strip effectively the surface of a non-planar structure, in particular the interior of a tube or the like, for example the inner surface of a heat exchanger tube or used to perform a plastic extrusion.
  • the solution of the invention is a stripping device comprising a fluid supply pipe, in particular a cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen, supplying one or more fluid distribution nozzles arranged at a free downstream end of said supply duct, and a drive motor cooperating with the fluid supply duct via a transmission mechanism, wherein the fluid supply duct comprises a fixed portion located upstream of the duct; an anchor point located on said supply pipe; and a downstream portion located downstream of the anchor point and comprising the free downstream end; and the transmission mechanism acts mechanically on the downstream portion of the pipe to obtain a determined movement of the downstream end carrying the nozzle or nozzles, characterized in that the transmission mechanism acts mechanically on the downstream portion of the pipe to give it a deformation angular torsion about its longitudinal axis.
  • a fluid supply pipe in particular a cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen
  • the invention also relates to a method of stripping the inner surface of a tube with a fluid, in which a device according to the invention is used to deliver one or more jets of cryogenic fluid at a pressure of at least 500 bar, advantageously at least 1000 bar, the cryogenic fluid being liquid nitrogen.
  • the Figure 1 illustrates the principle of an embodiment of a pickling device according to the present invention using jets of fluid at cryogenic temperature, such as liquid nitrogen, and at high pressure, that is to say more 500 bar.
  • cryogenic temperature such as liquid nitrogen
  • This device comprises a main pipe 7 for supplying fluid, such as a stainless steel tube, supplying one or more fluid distribution nozzles 6 arranged at the free downstream end 5 of said pipe 7.
  • the nozzles 6 are carried by a nozzle holder tool 3 which is fixed to said downstream end 5 or formed in one piece therewith.
  • the fluid to be dispensed is a fluid at cryogenic temperature and at high pressure, in particular liquid nitrogen at a pressure between 500 and 4000 bar and a temperature between -140 and -200 ° C.
  • the fluid emanates from a source of fluid (not shown), such as a compressor, a tank, a heat exchanger, a feed line, a gas cylinder or the like, feeding the upstream end of the pipe 7 of fluid.
  • a source of fluid such as a compressor, a tank, a heat exchanger, a feed line, a gas cylinder or the like, feeding the upstream end of the pipe 7 of fluid.
  • the line 7 for supplying fluid to the cryogenic pickling device according to the invention cooperates with a drive motor 1 via a rotary transmission shaft 2 and a transmission mechanism 8, 9, which will be detailed below.
  • the pipe 7 of supply of fluid comprises, meanwhile, a fixed portion 7b upstream, that is to say, maintained so that it is not animated by any movement, and a downstream portion 7a and which it is not fixed, that is to say that it is driven by a movement which is conferred on it by the motor 1, via the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 as explained below.
  • the downstream portion 7a carries the downstream end 5 of the pipe 7 where the fluid distribution nozzle or nozzles 6 are arranged, for example on a nozzle-carrying tool 3.
  • the number of nozzles 6 used is related to the twist angle ⁇ of the downstream pipe 7a so that the entire surface of the substrate to be treated is swept by the jets of cryogenic liquid as schematized in Figure 6 .
  • the twist angle ⁇ of the downstream pipe 7a is preferably between 0 and 120 °, more preferably between 30 and 90 °.
  • the fluid supply pipe 7 comprises an anchoring point 10 separating the fixed upstream portion 7b and the downstream portion 7a and movable which is situated downstream of the anchoring point 10.
  • the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 acts in fact mechanically on the downstream portion 7a so as to give it a deformation, that is to say an angle twist ⁇ , and thus obtain a determined movement of the end downstream 5 carrying the nozzles 6, for example a reciprocating oscillating movement.
  • the nozzles 6 each have an axis forming an angle ⁇ between 0 and 180 ° with the axis AA of the downstream pipe portion 7a, which makes it possible to obtain jets of liquid cryogenic, such as liquid nitrogen, distributed laterally, for example radially, and oriented outwardly of the pipe 7, so as to clean the inside of a tube, for example.
  • liquid cryogenic such as liquid nitrogen
  • the Figure 6 illustrates how the fluid jets clean the inside of a tube.
  • a jet emanating from a nozzle 6 is de facto also oscillated and sweeps an inside portion of the tube.
  • the jet of liquid nitrogen delivered by each nozzle has an effect on a surface perpendicular to the axis of the cleaned tube.
  • the two parameters to achieve this complete cleaning are the number of nozzles 6 and the torsion angle P of the downstream pipe 7a.
  • the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 comprises moving means acting mechanically on the downstream pipe portion 7a so as to give it a determined torsion movement, in particular an oscillatory torsion movement about its axis. longitudinal.
  • the engine 1 cooperates with the upstream portion 7a of the fluid supply pipe 7 via its rotary transmission axis 2 and the transmission mechanism 8, 9 to which the transmission axis 2 transmits its movement.
  • the transmission axis 2 transmits its movement. for example a rotary or oscillatory movement.
  • the drive motor 1 is a pneumatic motor, electric, gasoline or any other type of engine.
  • the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 comprises a carrier pinion 8 rotatable about an axis of rotation located centrally of said carrier pinion 8, and the downstream portion 7a of the cryogenic fluid supply pipe 7 is located centrally through said pinion-carrier 8.
  • the axis of the channel portion 7a and the axis AA of the pinion-carrier 8 are merged, as visible on the Figure 2 .
  • the downstream portion 7a of the pipe 7 is thus arranged in a passage formed through the body of the pinion-carrier 8, which passage is located within the disk that forms the pinion-carrier 8, in the center of said disk.
  • a pinion drive device 9 such as a motor pinion or a belt, cooperates with the carrier pinion 8 so as to drive said pinion-carrier 8 in oscillation by exerting on it a mechanical torsion action. around its axis.
  • the transmission shaft 2, driven by the motor 1 cooperates with the pinion drive means 9, and the pinion drive means 9 itself engages with said pinion-carrier 8 so as to transmit a given movement, for example oscillation, of the transmission axis 2 to the carrier pinion 8 and thus obtain an oscillatory torsion movement of the downstream pipe portion 7a carrying the fluid distribution nozzles 6 arranged at the downstream end 5 thereof, that is to say arranged on the tool 3 nozzle holder used to distribute the jet of fluid at high pressure.
  • the device also comprises a gearbox 13 forming a protective casing, into which the transmission shaft 2 and which houses the transmission mechanism 8, 9.
  • the pinion 8 is held in place by a set of pads or by bearings of any type, for example with needles or balls, preferably balls (not detailed on the Figure 3 ).
  • the fluid supply pipe 7 cooperates with anchoring means 10, such as a flange, a slotted nut, an elastic cone, a rack and pinion system or any other suitable mechanical device for maintaining the fixed pipe 7 and in position relative to the rest of the jet distribution device.
  • anchoring means 10 such as a flange, a slotted nut, an elastic cone, a rack and pinion system or any other suitable mechanical device for maintaining the fixed pipe 7 and in position relative to the rest of the jet distribution device.
  • the anchoring means 10 are arranged on the pipe 7 upstream of the pinion-carrier 8, that is to say that the pinion-carrier 8 is located between the anchoring means 10 and the free end 5 of the line 7 carrying the nozzle (s) 6.
  • the pipe 7 is, on the one hand, kept fixed or approximately fixed at and because of the anchoring means 10, and, on the other hand, has a downstream end 5 provided with nozzles 6. which is mobile and describes a given movement, preferably oscillatory, when the motor 1 drives the transmission axis 2, the motor pinion 9 connected to the axis 2, and the pinion-carrier 8, which itself causes the tube 7 according to a determined trajectory, in particular of oscillatory torsion or the like.
  • the torsion force applied to the pipe 7 by the transmission mechanism 8, 9 is distributed over the downstream portion 7a between the anchoring point 10 and the pinion-carrier 8.
  • the anchor point 10 is a mechanical element for blocking / preventing or unblocking / allowing the slippage of the pipe 7 through the device.
  • the mechanical element of the anchoring point 10 can be loosened easily by the user, for example by using a suitable tool, so as to adjust or adjust the distance of the portion 7a between including the door tool 5 and the carrier pinion 8.
  • the connector 14 connects the upstream portion 7b to the cryogenic fluid supply line. This connection allows easy disassembly and change if necessary, the tube cleaning system.
  • the pipe 7 is divided into two parts connected by a connector 11, preferably a very high pressure static coupling 11, positioned upstream of the anchoring point 10, as shown in FIGS. Figures 1 , 3 and 4 .
  • a connector 11 preferably a very high pressure static coupling 11 positioned upstream of the anchoring point 10, as shown in FIGS. Figures 1 , 3 and 4 .
  • This makes it possible to easily replace the part of the tube 7 situated between this static connection 11 and the nozzle-holder tool 5, by an extension tube 12 of suitable length without having to move or modify the assembly of the tube 7.
  • the nature of the material constituting the tube 7 and its dimensioning, i.e. inside and outside diameters of said tube 7, are important.
  • a stainless steel tube is preferentially used as pipe 7, and of internal and external diameters as given in the table below.
  • a pickling device is as follows when it comes to pickling the inner surface of a tube, for example a heat exchanger tube, with liquid nitrogen at a pressure of more than 500 bar.
  • the free downstream end 5 of the liquid nitrogen supply line 7 comprising the distribution nozzles 6 of the pickling device of the invention is introduced into the tube to be stripped.
  • downstream portion 7a of the tube 7 is twisted at an angle ⁇ about its longitudinal axis in order to sweep through the jets of liquid nitrogen delivered by the nozzles 6, an area or area sufficient to perform an efficient cleaning of the internal surface of the considered substrate, that is to say the inner wall of the tube, as illustrated on the Figure 6 .
  • the torsion angle ⁇ can be 45 ° without risk of fatigue damage to Line 7.
  • this tube undergoes a maximum stress of about 486 N / mm 2 which remains below the fatigue rupture limit of a 316 stainless steel at the temperature of liquid nitrogen, ie about -155 ° C.
  • This fatigue failure limit for 316 stainless steel at the temperature of the liquid nitrogen under consideration is about 533 N / mm 2 .
  • torsion angle ⁇ equal to 45 °, it is sufficient to have less than 1 m of tube disposed pigtail for example.
  • the pickling device of the invention has been described in relation to a cryogenic fluid distribution, namely liquid nitrogen supplying fluid distribution nozzles. This is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. However, the pickling device of the invention could also be used to dispense other fluids, such as a non-liquefied gas, in particular ambient air or nitrogen, or even treated or untreated liquid water.

Landscapes

  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)

Description

L'invention porte sur un dispositif de décapage par jets de fluide cryogénique, en particulier d'azote liquide sous haute pression, apte à et conçu pour décaper efficacement la surface d'une structure non plane, en particulier l'intérieur d'un tube.The invention relates to a jetting device for jets of cryogenic fluid, in particular high pressure liquid nitrogen, suitable for and designed to effectively strip the surface of a non-planar structure, in particular inside a tube. .

L'utilisation de jets cryogéniques sous très haute pression pour réaliser des traitements de surface de matériaux a été proposée par les documents US-A-7,310,955 et US-A-7,316,363 .The use of cryogenic jets under very high pressure to carry out surface treatments of materials has been proposed by the documents US Patent 7,310,955 and US Patent 7,316,363 .

Ainsi, il est connu de décaper une surface au moyen d'un outil porte-buses animé d'un mouvement rotatif distribuant un ou des jets d'azote liquide à une pression de 500 à 4000 bars et à température cryogénique comprise entre -100 et -200°C, typiquement entre -140 et -160°C. Plus précisément, l'outil porte-buses est fixé à l'extrémité d'une canalisation d'amenée de fluide cryogénique qui alimente l'outil en fluide cryogénique, et un mouvement rotatif autour de l'axe de la canalisation est conféré à la canalisation et à l'outil via un système d'entraînement à pignons ou courroies mus par un moteur. L'étanchéité dynamique du système rotatif est habituellement assurée par un joint cylindre tournant, de forme cylindrique, agencé autour de la canalisation en étant traversé longitudinalement par une pièce en bronze et entouré pour une pièce massive en inox.Thus, it is known to etch a surface by means of a nozzle-holder tool with a rotary movement distributing one or more jets of liquid nitrogen at a pressure of 500 to 4000 bar and at a cryogenic temperature of between -100 and -200 ° C, typically between -140 and -160 ° C. More specifically, the nozzle holder tool is attached to the end of a cryogenic fluid supply line which supplies the tool with cryogenic fluid, and a rotary movement about the axis of the pipe is conferred on the pipe and tool via a drive system with sprockets or belts driven by a motor. The dynamic sealing of the rotary system is usually provided by a cylindrical rotating cylinder seal, arranged around the pipe being traversed longitudinally by a bronze piece and surrounded for a solid piece of stainless steel.

Une alternative a été proposée par le document WO-A-2011/010030 qui propose un dispositif de décapage de surface comprenant un outil porte-buses sans joint tournant, lequel présente une durée de vie supérieure à celle d'un outil avec joint tournant, tel celui susmentionné.An alternative has been proposed by the document WO-2011/010030 which proposes a surface etching device comprising a nozzle-holder tool without rotating joint, which has a longer life than a tool with rotary joint, such as the one mentioned above.

Si ces dispositifs sont adaptés au décapage de surfaces planes ou sensiblement planes, il est apparu en pratique qu'ils ne l'étaient pas toujours ou présentaient une moindre efficacité lorsque les surfaces à décaper présentent des formes plus complexes et/ou qui sont d'accès plus difficile.If these devices are suitable for stripping flat or substantially flat surfaces, it has become apparent in practice that they are not always effective or have a lower efficiency when the surfaces to be stripped have more complex shapes and / or are more difficult access.

En particulier, il est apparu que ces outils présentaient des limites en termes d'efficacité lorsque la surface à décaper est circulaire ou analogue, par exemple lorsqu'elle forme l'intérieur d'une structure tubulaire, tel un tuyau, un tube, un conduit, une canalisation, un pipeline ou analogue, par exemple les tubes d'échangeurs thermiques ou ceux d'extrusion plastique.In particular, it has been found that these tools have limits in terms of efficiency when the surface to be stripped is circular or the like, for example when it forms the inside of a tubular structure, such as a pipe, a tube, a conduit, pipeline, pipeline or the like, for example heat exchanger tubes or plastic extrusion tubes.

Au vu de cela, le problème à résoudre est de proposer un dispositif de distribution de fluide cryogénique, en particulier d'azote liquide, qui permette de nettoyer et/ou décaper efficacement la surface d'une structure non plane, en particulier l'intérieur d'un tube ou analogue, par exemple la surface interne d'un tube d'échangeur thermique ou servant à opérer une extrusion plastique.In view of this, the problem to be solved is to propose a device for distributing cryogenic fluid, in particular liquid nitrogen, which makes it possible to clean and / or strip effectively the surface of a non-planar structure, in particular the interior of a tube or the like, for example the inner surface of a heat exchanger tube or used to perform a plastic extrusion.

Dans le cadre de la présente invention :

  • le terme « décapage » est utilisé dans son sens le plus général pour signifier une élimination de matière de la surface d'un substrat, et englobe donc aussi des opérations de nettoyage, d'écroutage et toute autre opération de traitement de surface comprenant la suppression d'une matière ou d'un matériau fixé sur la surface d'un substrat.
  • les termes « tuyau », « tube », « conduit », « canalisation » et « pipeline » sont considérés comme strictement équivalents et sont regroupés sous l'appellation générique de « tubes ».
In the context of the present invention:
  • the term "etching" is used in its broadest sense to mean a removal of material from the surface of a substrate, and thus also encompasses cleaning, peeling and other surface treatment operations including removal of a material or material fixed on the surface of a substrate.
  • the terms "pipe", "pipe", "conduit", "pipeline" and "pipeline" are considered to be strictly equivalent and are collectively referred to as "tubes".

La solution de l'invention est un dispositif de décapage comprenant une canalisation d'amenée de fluide, en particulier d'un fluide cryogénique, tel l'azote liquide, alimentant une ou plusieurs buses de distribution de fluide agencées à une extrémité aval libre de ladite canalisation d'amenée, et un moteur d'entraînement coopérant avec la canalisation d'amenée de fluide par l'intermédiaire d'un mécanisme de transmission, dans lequel la canalisation d'amenée de fluide comprend une portion fixe située en amont d'un point d'ancrage situé sur ladite canalisation d'amenée ; et une portion aval située en aval du point d'ancrage et comprenant l'extrémité aval libre ; et le mécanisme de transmission agit mécaniquement sur la portion aval de canalisation pour obtenir un mouvement déterminé de l'extrémité aval portant la ou les buses, caractérisé en ce que le mécanisme de transmission agit mécaniquement sur la portion aval de canalisation pour lui conférer une déformation angulaire par torsion autour son axe longitudinal.The solution of the invention is a stripping device comprising a fluid supply pipe, in particular a cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen, supplying one or more fluid distribution nozzles arranged at a free downstream end of said supply duct, and a drive motor cooperating with the fluid supply duct via a transmission mechanism, wherein the fluid supply duct comprises a fixed portion located upstream of the duct; an anchor point located on said supply pipe; and a downstream portion located downstream of the anchor point and comprising the free downstream end; and the transmission mechanism acts mechanically on the downstream portion of the pipe to obtain a determined movement of the downstream end carrying the nozzle or nozzles, characterized in that the transmission mechanism acts mechanically on the downstream portion of the pipe to give it a deformation angular torsion about its longitudinal axis.

Selon le cas, le dispositif de l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • la torsion se produit sur la partie aval de canalisation située entre le point d'ancrage et l'endroit de ladite partie aval où agit le mécanisme de transmission.
  • il comporte plusieurs buses agencées autour de la périphérie de l'extrémité aval de la portion aval de canalisation.
  • il comporte plusieurs buses angulairement répartie autour de la périphérie de l'extrémité aval de la portion aval de canalisation.
  • la déformation angulaire est une torsion d'angle P de la portion aval de canalisation avec β compris entre 1 et 120 °, de préférence encore entre 30 et 90°.
  • la déformation angulaire est une torsion d'angle β de la portion aval de canalisation où β est égal à au moins 5°, de préférence à au moins 10°, de préférence encore à au moins 20°.
  • la déformation angulaire est une torsion d'angle P de la portion aval de canalisation où β est égal à au plus 110°, de préférence au plus 100°, de préférence encore à au plus 95°.
  • au moins une partie de la portion aval de canalisation est en un matériau résistant à la fatigue par torsion angulaire, c'est-à-dire un matériau choisi pour ne pas se rompre malgré la succession de torsions angulaires qui lui sont appliquées. En fait, on choisit le matériau de telle manière que la torsion générée n'induise pas, sur la partie considérée, une contrainte supérieure à la limite de rupture par fatigue du matériau. Par exemple, en utilisant un tube en acier inoxydable 316, cette contrainte va rester inférieure à la limite de rupture par fatigue de l'acier inoxydable 316 à la température de l'azote liquide, soit environ -155°C, soit une limite de rupture par fatigue de 533 N/mm2 environ. D'autres autres matériaux utilisables sont notamment le titane et les aciers à base de nickel, qui ont des propriétés similaires à celle de l'acier inoxydable. Dans tous les cas, la contrainte maximale subie par le matériau devra rester inférieure à 500 N/mm2.
  • au moins une partie de la portion aval de canalisation est en un matériau choisi parmi l'acier inoxydable, l'acier à base de nickel et le titane.
  • la ou les buses ont chacune un axe formant un angle α compris entre 0 et 180° avec l'axe AA de ladite portion aval de canalisation, de préférence entre un angle α compris entre 15 et 105°.
  • il comporte de 2 à 30 buses, de préférence de 2 à 10 buses.
  • le mécanisme de transmission comprend un pignon-porteur porté par la portion aval de canalisation et un dispositif d'entraînement de pignon coopérant avec ledit pignon-porteur.
  • le dispositif d'entraînement de pignon entraîne le pignon-porteur, de préférence en oscillation, de manière engendrer la déformation de la portion aval de canalisation, de préférence une déformation par torsion d'angle β de la portion aval de canalisation.
  • le pignon-porteur est mobile en rotation autour de son axe central, la canalisation étant solidaire du pignon-porteur.
  • ladite canalisation traverse coaxialement ledit pignon-porteur.
  • le dispositif d'entraînement de pignon est entraîné par le moteur d'entraînement.
  • le dispositif d'entraînement de pignon est mis en mouvement par le moteur d'entraînement par l'intermédiaire d'un axe de transmission entraîné par le moteur et agissant sur ledit dispositif d'entraînement de pignon.
  • le moteur d'entraînement confère un mouvement oscillatoire au dispositif d'entraînement de pignon par l'intermédiaire d'un axe de transmission.
  • le dispositif d'entraînement de pignon comprend un pignon-moteur ou une courroie.
  • l'axe de transmission est rotatif ou oscillant.
  • une partie de la portion aval de canalisation comprend des spires ou des courbes, en particulier une forme de queue de cochon, de lyre ou analogue.
  • le mécanisme de transmission est agencé dans une boite de transmission, c'est-à-dire un carter, au sein de laquelle pénètre l'axe de transmission.
  • des éléments de maintien sont prévus pour maintenir le pignon-porteur, de préférence les éléments de maintien sont agencés dans la boite de transmission.
  • les éléments de maintien sont des patins, des roulements radiaux ou des tétons.
  • la canalisation principale est un tube en acier inoxydable, en acier base nickel, en titane.
  • la canalisation principale est un tube.
  • l'extrémité amont du tube est démontable via un raccord de manière à pouvoir être remplacée facilement, notamment en cas d'usure.
  • le raccord situé en aval du pignon-porteur est apte à recevoir un tube d'extension de longueur donnée de manière à pouvoir accroître la longueur de la partie aval portant l'extrémité munie de buses.
  • l'extrémité amont de la portion de tube en amont du pignon-porteur est bloquée en rotation par un point d'ancrage.
As the case may be, the device of the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the torsion occurs on the downstream part of the pipeline located between the anchor point and the place of said downstream part where the transmission mechanism acts.
  • it comprises a plurality of nozzles arranged around the periphery of the downstream end of the downstream pipe portion.
  • it comprises a plurality of nozzles angularly distributed around the periphery of the downstream end of the downstream portion of the pipe.
  • the angular deformation is a torsion of angle P of the downstream pipe portion with β of between 1 and 120 °, more preferably between 30 and 90 °.
  • the angular deformation is a β angle twist of the pipe downstream portion where β is at least 5 °, preferably at least 10 °, more preferably at least 20 °.
  • the angular deformation is a torsion of angle P of the duct downstream portion where β is at most 110 °, preferably at most 100 °, more preferably at most 95 °.
  • at least a portion of the downstream pipe portion is made of a material resistant to angular torsion fatigue, that is to say a material chosen not to break despite the succession of angular torsions applied to it. In fact, the material is chosen in such a way that the generated torsion does not induce, on the considered part, a stress greater than the fatigue rupture limit of the material. For example, using a 316 stainless steel tube, this stress will remain below the fatigue rupture limit of 316 stainless steel at the temperature of liquid nitrogen, ie about -155 ° C., or a limit of fatigue failure of about 533 N / mm 2 . Other other materials that can be used include titanium and nickel-based steels, which have properties similar to those of stainless steel. In all cases, the maximum stress experienced by the material must remain below 500 N / mm 2 .
  • at least a portion of the downstream pipe portion is of a material selected from stainless steel, nickel-based steel, and titanium.
  • the nozzle or nozzles each have an axis forming an angle α between 0 and 180 ° with the axis AA of said downstream pipe portion, preferably between an angle α of between 15 and 105 °.
  • it comprises from 2 to 30 nozzles, preferably from 2 to 10 nozzles.
  • the transmission mechanism comprises a carrier pinion carried by the downstream pipe portion and a pinion drive device cooperating with said pinion-carrier.
  • the pinion drive device drives the carrier pinion, preferably in oscillation, so as to generate the deformation of the downstream pipe portion, preferably a β-angle twist deformation of the downstream portion of the pipe.
  • the carrier pinion is rotatable about its central axis, the pipe being secured to the pinion-carrier.
  • said pipe coaxially crosses said pinion-carrier.
  • the pinion drive is driven by the drive motor.
  • the sprocket drive is set in motion by the drive motor via a motor-driven transmission shaft acting on said sprocket drive.
  • the drive motor imparts oscillatory movement to the sprocket drive via a transmission axis.
  • the sprocket drive comprises a motor sprocket or a belt.
  • the transmission axis is rotary or oscillating.
  • a portion of the downstream pipe portion comprises turns or curves, in particular a pigtail, lyre or the like shape.
  • the transmission mechanism is arranged in a transmission box, that is to say a housing, within which penetrates the transmission axis.
  • holding elements are provided to hold the carrier pinion, preferably the holding elements are arranged in the transmission box.
  • the holding elements are skates, radial bearings or nipples.
  • the main pipeline is a stainless steel, nickel-base steel, titanium tube.
  • the main pipeline is a tube.
  • the upstream end of the tube is removable via a connector so that it can be easily replaced, especially in case of wear.
  • the connection located downstream of the carrier pinion is adapted to receive an extension tube of given length so as to increase the length of the downstream portion carrying the end provided with nozzles.
  • the upstream end of the tube portion upstream of the carrier pinion is locked in rotation by an anchor point.

L'invention porte aussi sur un procédé de décapage de la surface interne d'un tube avec un fluide, dans lequel on met en oeuvre un dispositif selon l'invention pour délivrer un ou plusieurs jets de fluide cryogénique à une pression d'au moins 500 bar, avantageusement d'au moins 1000 bar, le fluide cryogénique étant de l'azote liquide.The invention also relates to a method of stripping the inner surface of a tube with a fluid, in which a device according to the invention is used to deliver one or more jets of cryogenic fluid at a pressure of at least 500 bar, advantageously at least 1000 bar, the cryogenic fluid being liquid nitrogen.

Selon le cas, le procédé de l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques techniques suivantes :

  • on distribue au moyen de plusieurs buses, le fluide cryogénique, en particulier de l'azote liquide, sous forme de jets de fluide à une température inférieure à -140°C et à une pression d'au moins 500 bar, avantageusement entre 2000 et 5000 bar, pour réaliser.
  • les jets de fluide sous pression engendrent un décapage de la surface d'un matériau, en particulier un nettoyage ou un décapage de la surface interne d'un tube.
  • le tube à décaper est un tube d'échangeur thermique ou d'extrusion de matériau plastique.
  • le fluide cryogénique est à une température inférieure à -145°C, de préférence entre environ -150 et -200°C.
  • il est mis en oeuvre de façon manuelle, c'est-à-dire par un opérateur, ou alors de façon automatique ou automatisée, c'est-à-dire par une machine ou un robot.
Depending on the case, the method of the invention may comprise one or more of the following technical characteristics:
  • the cryogenic fluid, in particular liquid nitrogen, is delivered by means of several nozzles in the form of jets of fluid at a temperature below -140 ° C. and at a pressure of at least 500 bar, advantageously between 2000 and 5000 bar, to achieve.
  • the jets of fluid under pressure cause a stripping of the surface of a material, in particular a cleaning or stripping of the inner surface of a tube.
  • the stripping tube is a tube of heat exchanger or extrusion of plastic material.
  • the cryogenic fluid is at a temperature below -145 ° C, preferably between about -150 and -200 ° C.
  • it is implemented manually, that is to say by an operator, or then automatically or automatically, that is to say by a machine or a robot.

L'invention va être mieux comprise grâce aux explications illustratives suivantes, faites en rapport avec les figures annexées parmi lesquelles :

  • la Figure 1 est une vue schématique d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de décapage selon la présente invention,
  • la Figure 2 est une vue schématique (de face) des pignons porteur et moteur d'un dispositif selon la Figure 1,
  • la Figure 3 illustre un dispositif selon la Figure 1 inséré dans un carter de protection,
  • les Figures 4 et 5 représente un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de décapage selon la présente invention, et
  • la Figure 6 représente la trajectoire des jets obtenue avec un dispositif de décapage selon la présente invention.
The invention will be better understood thanks to the following illustrative explanations, made in connection with the appended figures among which:
  • the Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a pickling device according to the present invention,
  • the Figure 2 is a schematic view (front view) of the carrier and motor gears of a device according to the Figure 1 ,
  • the Figure 3 illustrates a device according to the Figure 1 inserted into a protective casing,
  • the Figures 4 and 5 represents a second embodiment of a pickling device according to the present invention, and
  • the Figure 6 represents the trajectory of the jets obtained with a pickling device according to the present invention.

La Figure 1 illustre le principe d'un mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de décapage selon la présente invention mettant en oeuvre des jets de fluide à température cryogénique, tel de l'azote liquide, et à haute pression, c'est-à-dire plus de 500 bar.The Figure 1 illustrates the principle of an embodiment of a pickling device according to the present invention using jets of fluid at cryogenic temperature, such as liquid nitrogen, and at high pressure, that is to say more 500 bar.

Ce dispositif comprend une canalisation principale 7 d'amenée de fluide, tel un tube en acier inoxydable, alimentant une ou plusieurs buses de distribution 6 de fluide agencées à l'extrémité aval 5 libre de ladite canalisation 7. En général, les buses 6 sont portées par un outil porte-buses 3 venant se fixer à ladite extrémité aval 5 ou formé d'une seule pièce avec celle-ci.This device comprises a main pipe 7 for supplying fluid, such as a stainless steel tube, supplying one or more fluid distribution nozzles 6 arranged at the free downstream end 5 of said pipe 7. In general, the nozzles 6 are carried by a nozzle holder tool 3 which is fixed to said downstream end 5 or formed in one piece therewith.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, le fluide à distribuer est un fluide à température cryogénique et à haute pression, en particulier de l'azote liquide à une pression entre 500 et 4000 bar et une température entre -140 et -200°C.According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid to be dispensed is a fluid at cryogenic temperature and at high pressure, in particular liquid nitrogen at a pressure between 500 and 4000 bar and a temperature between -140 and -200 ° C.

Le fluide émane d'une source de fluide (non montrée), tel un compresseur, un réservoir, un échangeur thermique, une ligne d'alimentation, une ou des bouteilles de gaz ou analogue, alimentant l'extrémité amont de la canalisation 7 de fluide.The fluid emanates from a source of fluid (not shown), such as a compressor, a tank, a heat exchanger, a feed line, a gas cylinder or the like, feeding the upstream end of the pipe 7 of fluid.

Comme illustrée en Figures 1 et 3, la canalisation 7 d'amenée de fluide du dispositif de décapage cryogénique selon l'invention coopère avec un moteur d'entraînement 1 par l'intermédiaire d'un axe de transmission 2 rotatif et d'un mécanisme de transmission 8, 9, qui sera détaillé ci-après.As illustrated in Figures 1 and 3 the line 7 for supplying fluid to the cryogenic pickling device according to the invention cooperates with a drive motor 1 via a rotary transmission shaft 2 and a transmission mechanism 8, 9, which will be detailed below.

La canalisation 7 d'amenée de fluide comprend, quant à elle, une portion fixe 7b amont, c'est-à-dire maintenue de manière à ce qu'elle ne soit animée d'aucun mouvement, et une portion aval 7a et qui, elle, n'est pas fixe, c'est-à-dire qu'elle est animée d'un mouvement qui lui est conféré par le moteur 1, via le mécanisme de transmission 2, 8, 9 comme expliqué ci-après.The pipe 7 of supply of fluid comprises, meanwhile, a fixed portion 7b upstream, that is to say, maintained so that it is not animated by any movement, and a downstream portion 7a and which it is not fixed, that is to say that it is driven by a movement which is conferred on it by the motor 1, via the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 as explained below.

La portion aval 7a porte l'extrémité aval 5 de la canalisation 7 où sont agencées la ou les buses 6 de distribution de fluide, par exemple sur un outil porte-buses 3.The downstream portion 7a carries the downstream end 5 of the pipe 7 where the fluid distribution nozzle or nozzles 6 are arranged, for example on a nozzle-carrying tool 3.

Le nombre de buses 6 mises en oeuvre, par exemple de 2 à 12 buses, est lié à l'angle de torsion β de la canalisation aval 7a de telle sorte que toute la surface du substrat à traiter soit balayée par les jets de liquide cryogénique comme schématisé en Figure 6.The number of nozzles 6 used, for example from 2 to 12 nozzles, is related to the twist angle β of the downstream pipe 7a so that the entire surface of the substrate to be treated is swept by the jets of cryogenic liquid as schematized in Figure 6 .

A titre indicatif, l'angle de torsion β de la canalisation aval 7a est préférentiellement compris entre 0 et 120 °, de préférence encore entre 30 et 90°.As an indication, the twist angle β of the downstream pipe 7a is preferably between 0 and 120 °, more preferably between 30 and 90 °.

Plus précisément, la canalisation d'amenée de fluide 7 comprend un point d'ancrage 10 séparant la portion amont fixe 7b et la portion aval 7a et mobile qui est située en aval du point d'ancrage 10.More specifically, the fluid supply pipe 7 comprises an anchoring point 10 separating the fixed upstream portion 7b and the downstream portion 7a and movable which is situated downstream of the anchoring point 10.

Le mécanisme de transmission 2, 8, 9 agit en fait mécaniquement sur la portion aval 7a de manière à lui conférer une déformation, c'est-à-dire une torsion d'angle β, et obtenir ainsi un mouvement déterminé de l'extrémité aval 5 portant les buses 6, par exemple un mouvement alternatif oscillant.The transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 acts in fact mechanically on the downstream portion 7a so as to give it a deformation, that is to say an angle twist β, and thus obtain a determined movement of the end downstream 5 carrying the nozzles 6, for example a reciprocating oscillating movement.

Afin de pouvoir décaper efficacement une surface non plane, en particulier la surface interne d'un tube, les buses 6 ont chacune un axe formant un angle α compris entre 0 et 180° avec l'axe AA de la portion aval 7a de canalisation, ce qui permet d'obtenir des jets de liquide cryogénique, tel de l'azote liquide, distribués latéralement, par exemple radialement, et orientés vers l'extérieur de la canalisation 7, de façon à pouvoir nettoyer l'intérieur d'un tube, par exemple.In order to efficiently strip a non-planar surface, in particular the inner surface of a tube, the nozzles 6 each have an axis forming an angle α between 0 and 180 ° with the axis AA of the downstream pipe portion 7a, which makes it possible to obtain jets of liquid cryogenic, such as liquid nitrogen, distributed laterally, for example radially, and oriented outwardly of the pipe 7, so as to clean the inside of a tube, for example.

La Figure 6 illustre la façon dont les jets de fluide viennent nettoyer l'intérieur d'un tube.The Figure 6 illustrates how the fluid jets clean the inside of a tube.

L'outil porte-buses 3 étant en oscillation autour de son axe, un jet émanant d'une buse 6 est de facto également mis en oscillation et vient balayer une portion d'intérieur de tube.Since the nozzle-carrying tool 3 is oscillating about its axis, a jet emanating from a nozzle 6 is de facto also oscillated and sweeps an inside portion of the tube.

Autrement dit, le jet d'azote liquide délivré par chaque buse a un effet sur une surface perpendiculaire à l'axe du tube nettoyé.In other words, the jet of liquid nitrogen delivered by each nozzle has an effect on a surface perpendicular to the axis of the cleaned tube.

Le but étant de nettoyer le tube sur toute sa circonférence intérieure, les deux paramètres permettant de réaliser ce nettoyage complet sont le nombre de buses 6 et l'angle de torsion P de la canalisation aval 7a.The purpose being to clean the tube over its entire inner circumference, the two parameters to achieve this complete cleaning are the number of nozzles 6 and the torsion angle P of the downstream pipe 7a.

Comme déjà dit, le mécanisme de transmission 2, 8, 9 comprend des moyens de mise en mouvement agissant mécaniquement sur la portion aval 7a de canalisation de manière à lui conférer un mouvement torsion déterminé, en particulier un mouvement de torsion oscillatoire autour de son axe longitudinal.As already mentioned, the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 comprises moving means acting mechanically on the downstream pipe portion 7a so as to give it a determined torsion movement, in particular an oscillatory torsion movement about its axis. longitudinal.

Plus précisément, le moteur 1 coopère avec la portion amont 7a de la canalisation 7 d'amenée de fluide par l'intermédiaire de son axe de transmission 2 rotatif et du mécanisme de transmission 8, 9 auquel l'axe de transmission 2 transmet son mouvement, par exemple un mouvement rotatif ou oscillatoire.More precisely, the engine 1 cooperates with the upstream portion 7a of the fluid supply pipe 7 via its rotary transmission axis 2 and the transmission mechanism 8, 9 to which the transmission axis 2 transmits its movement. for example a rotary or oscillatory movement.

Le moteur d'entraînement 1 est un moteur pneumatique, électrique, à essence ou tout autre type de moteur.The drive motor 1 is a pneumatic motor, electric, gasoline or any other type of engine.

Plus précisément, selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, comme illustré en Figure 2, le mécanisme de transmission 2, 8, 9 comprend un pignon-porteur 8 mobile en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation situé au centre dudit pignon-porteur 8, et la portion aval 7a de la canalisation 7 d'amenée de fluide cryogénique est agencée de manière centrée au travers dudit pignon-porteur 8. En d'autres termes, l'axe de la portion 7a de canalisation et l'axe AA du pignon-porteur 8 sont confondus, comme visible sur la Figure 2.More precisely, according to one embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in Figure 2 , the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9 comprises a carrier pinion 8 rotatable about an axis of rotation located centrally of said carrier pinion 8, and the downstream portion 7a of the cryogenic fluid supply pipe 7 is located centrally through said pinion-carrier 8. In other words, the axis of the channel portion 7a and the axis AA of the pinion-carrier 8 are merged, as visible on the Figure 2 .

La portion aval 7a de la canalisation 7 est donc agencée dans un passage formé au travers du corps du pignon-porteur 8, lequel passage est situé au sein du disque que forme le pignon-porteur 8, au centre dudit disque.The downstream portion 7a of the pipe 7 is thus arranged in a passage formed through the body of the pinion-carrier 8, which passage is located within the disk that forms the pinion-carrier 8, in the center of said disk.

Par ailleurs, un dispositif d'entraînement 9 de pignon, tel un pignon-moteur ou une courroie, coopère avec le pignon-porteur 8 de manière à entraîner ledit pignon-porteur 8 en oscillation en exerçant sur celui-ci une action mécanique de torsion autour de son axe.Furthermore, a pinion drive device 9, such as a motor pinion or a belt, cooperates with the carrier pinion 8 so as to drive said pinion-carrier 8 in oscillation by exerting on it a mechanical torsion action. around its axis.

Plus précisément, l'axe de transmission 2, entraîné par le moteur 1, coopère avec le moyen d'entraînement 9 de pignon, et le moyen d'entraînement 9 de pignon coopère lui-même avec ledit pignon-porteur 8 de manière à lui transmettre un mouvement donné, par exemple d'oscillation, de l'axe de transmission 2 au pignon-porteur 8 et obtenir ainsi un mouvement de torsion oscillatoire de la partie aval 7a de canalisation portant les buses 6 de distribution de fluide agencées à l'extrémité aval 5 de celle-ci, c'est-à-dire agencée sur l'outil 3 porte-buse utilisé pour distribuer les jets de fluide à haute pression.More specifically, the transmission shaft 2, driven by the motor 1, cooperates with the pinion drive means 9, and the pinion drive means 9 itself engages with said pinion-carrier 8 so as to transmit a given movement, for example oscillation, of the transmission axis 2 to the carrier pinion 8 and thus obtain an oscillatory torsion movement of the downstream pipe portion 7a carrying the fluid distribution nozzles 6 arranged at the downstream end 5 thereof, that is to say arranged on the tool 3 nozzle holder used to distribute the jet of fluid at high pressure.

Comme illustré en Figure 3, le dispositif comporte également une boîte de transmission 13 formant carter de protection, dans laquelle pénètre l'axe de transmission 2 et laquelle abrite le mécanisme de transmission 8, 9. Dans cette boite de transmission 13, le pignon 8 est maintenu en place par un jeu de patins ou par des roulements de tout type, par exemple à aiguilles ou billes, de préférence à billes (non détaillé sur la Figure 3).As illustrated in Figure 3 , the device also comprises a gearbox 13 forming a protective casing, into which the transmission shaft 2 and which houses the transmission mechanism 8, 9. In this gearbox 13, the pinion 8 is held in place by a set of pads or by bearings of any type, for example with needles or balls, preferably balls (not detailed on the Figure 3 ).

Par ailleurs, la canalisation 7 d'amenée de fluide coopère avec des moyens d'ancrage 10, tels une bride, une noix fendue, un cône élastique, un système pignon-crémaillère ou tout autre dispositif mécanique adapté permettant de maintenir la canalisation 7 fixe et en position par rapport au reste du dispositif de distribution des jets.Furthermore, the fluid supply pipe 7 cooperates with anchoring means 10, such as a flange, a slotted nut, an elastic cone, a rack and pinion system or any other suitable mechanical device for maintaining the fixed pipe 7 and in position relative to the rest of the jet distribution device.

Les moyens d'ancrage 10 sont agencés sur la canalisation 7 en amont du pignon-porteur 8, c'est-à-dire que le pignon-porteur 8 est situé entre les moyens d'ancrage 10 et l'extrémité libre 5 de la canalisation 7 portant la ou les buses 6.The anchoring means 10 are arranged on the pipe 7 upstream of the pinion-carrier 8, that is to say that the pinion-carrier 8 is located between the anchoring means 10 and the free end 5 of the line 7 carrying the nozzle (s) 6.

En d'autres termes, la canalisation 7 est, d'une part, maintenue fixe ou approximativement fixe au niveau de et du fait des moyens d'ancrage 10, et, d'autre part, comporte une extrémité aval 5 munie de buses 6 qui est mobile et décrit un mouvement donné, de préférence oscillatoire, lorsque le moteur 1 entraîne l'axe de transmission 2, le pignon-moteur 9 relié à l'axe 2, et le pignon-porteur 8, qui lui-même entraîne le tube 7 selon une trajectoire déterminée, en particulier de torsion oscillatoire ou analogue.In other words, the pipe 7 is, on the one hand, kept fixed or approximately fixed at and because of the anchoring means 10, and, on the other hand, has a downstream end 5 provided with nozzles 6. which is mobile and describes a given movement, preferably oscillatory, when the motor 1 drives the transmission axis 2, the motor pinion 9 connected to the axis 2, and the pinion-carrier 8, which itself causes the tube 7 according to a determined trajectory, in particular of oscillatory torsion or the like.

L'effort de torsion appliqué à la canalisation 7 par le mécanisme de transmission 8, 9 est réparti sur la portion aval 7a entre le point d'ancrage 10 et le pignon-porteur 8.The torsion force applied to the pipe 7 by the transmission mechanism 8, 9 is distributed over the downstream portion 7a between the anchoring point 10 and the pinion-carrier 8.

En fait, le point d'ancrage 10 est un élément mécanique permettant de bloquer/empêcher ou débloquer/permettre le glissement de la canalisation 7 au travers du dispositif.In fact, the anchor point 10 is a mechanical element for blocking / preventing or unblocking / allowing the slippage of the pipe 7 through the device.

En particulier, on autorisera un glissement de la canalisation 7 lorsqu'on souhaitera régler la longueur de la portion aval 7a sortant du carter 13 par exemple. Dans ce cas, l'élément mécanique du point d'ancrage 10 peut être desserré aisément par l'utilisateur, par exemple en utilisant un outil adapté, de manière à régler ou à ajuster la distance de la portion 7a entre notamment l'outil porte-buses 5 et le pignon-porteur 8.In particular, it will allow a slippage of the pipe 7 when you want to adjust the length of the downstream portion 7a out of the housing 13 for example. In this case, the mechanical element of the anchoring point 10 can be loosened easily by the user, for example by using a suitable tool, so as to adjust or adjust the distance of the portion 7a between including the door tool 5 and the carrier pinion 8.

Le raccord 14 permet de relier la portion amont 7b à la canalisation d'amenée de fluide cryogénique. Ce raccord permet de démonter aisément et de changer le cas échéant, le système de nettoyage de tube.The connector 14 connects the upstream portion 7b to the cryogenic fluid supply line. This connection allows easy disassembly and change if necessary, the tube cleaning system.

En outre, comme schématisé dans le mode de réalisation présenté en Figure 4, il est possible d'insérer un raccord 11 en aval du pignon-porteur 8 afin de pouvoir raccorder en aval de ce raccord 11, un tube d'extension 12 de longueur choisie de manière à pouvoir accroître la longueur de la partie aval 7a portant l'extrémité 5 munie de buses 6. Ceci permet de travailler dans les tubes de longueur plus importante, par exemple de 1 à 2 mètres de longueur, voire plus.In addition, as schematized in the embodiment presented in Figure 4 , it is possible to insert a connector 11 downstream of the carrier pinion 8 in order to be able to connect downstream of this connection 11, an extension tube 12 of length chosen so as to increase the length of the downstream portion 7a bearing the end 5 provided with nozzles 6. This allows to work in the tubes of greater length, for example 1 to 2 meters in length or more.

De plus, dans le cas où la canalisation 7 est positionnée sur une machine de déplacement ou sur un robot, il peut être difficile ou peu pratique de faire coulisser le tube 7 à l'intérieur du carter 13. Il est donc utile que la canalisation 7 soit scindée en deux parties reliées par un raccord 11, de préférence un raccord 11 statique à très haute pression, positionné en amont du point d'ancrage 10, comme montré sur les Figures 1, 3 et 4. Ceci permet de remplacer aisément la partie du tube 7 située entre ce raccord statique 11 et l'outil porte-buses 5, par un tube d'extension 12 de longueur adaptée sans avoir à déplacer ou modifier l'ensemble du tube 7.In addition, in the case where the pipe 7 is positioned on a displacement machine or a robot, it can be difficult or impractical to slide the tube 7 inside the casing 13. It is therefore useful that the pipe 7 is divided into two parts connected by a connector 11, preferably a very high pressure static coupling 11, positioned upstream of the anchoring point 10, as shown in FIGS. Figures 1 , 3 and 4 . This makes it possible to easily replace the part of the tube 7 situated between this static connection 11 and the nozzle-holder tool 5, by an extension tube 12 of suitable length without having to move or modify the assembly of the tube 7.

Afin d'obtenir une déformation élastique, c'est-à-dire une aptitude à la torsion suffisante de la portion aval 7a de la canalisation 7, on choisit avec soin les caractéristiques de ladite canalisation 7, ou pour le moins de la partie aval 7a de canalisation 7 située entre les moyens d'ancrage 10 et le pignon-porteur 8.In order to obtain an elastic deformation, that is to say a sufficient torsional aptitude of the downstream portion 7a of the pipe 7, the characteristics of said pipe 7, or at least of the downstream part, are carefully chosen. 7a of pipe 7 located between the anchoring means 10 and the pinion-carrier 8.

En particulier, la nature du matériau constituant le tube 7 et son dimensionnement, i.e. diamètres intérieur et extérieur dudit tube 7, sont importants.In particular, the nature of the material constituting the tube 7 and its dimensioning, i.e. inside and outside diameters of said tube 7, are important.

Par exemple, dans le cas d'amenée de fluide cryogénique, tel d'azote liquide, sous haute pression (> 500 bar), on utilise préférentiellement un tube en acier inoxydable en tant que canalisation 7, et de diamètres interne et externe comme donnés dans le Tableau ci-dessous. Tableau Diamètre extérieur du tube 6.4 mm 9.5 mm 14.8 mm Diamètre intérieur du tube 2.1 mm 3.2 mm 4.8 mm For example, in the case of supply of cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen, under high pressure (> 500 bar), a stainless steel tube is preferentially used as pipe 7, and of internal and external diameters as given in the table below. <U> Table </ u> Outside diameter of the tube 6.4 mm 9.5 mm 14.8 mm Inner diameter of the tube 2.1 mm 3.2 mm 4.8 mm

L'utilisation d'un dispositif de décapage selon l'invention se fait de la manière suivante lorsqu'il s'agit de décaper la surface interne d'un tube, par exemple un tube d'échangeur thermique, avec de l'azote liquide à une pression de plus de 500 bar.The use of a pickling device according to the invention is as follows when it comes to pickling the inner surface of a tube, for example a heat exchanger tube, with liquid nitrogen at a pressure of more than 500 bar.

D'abord, on introduit à l'intérieur du tube à décaper l'extrémité aval libre 5 de la canalisation d'amenée 7 d'azote liquide comprenant les buses 6 de distribution du dispositif de décapage de l'invention.First, the free downstream end 5 of the liquid nitrogen supply line 7 comprising the distribution nozzles 6 of the pickling device of the invention is introduced into the tube to be stripped.

Ensuite, on commence alors à alimenter la canalisation d'amenée 7 avec de l'azote liquide à haute pression, par exemple 2000 bars et simultanément on active le moteur d'entraînement 1 qui va alors transmettre un mouvement par exemple oscillant à la portion aval 7a de la canalisation 7, via le mécanisme de transmission 2, 8, 9, lequel agit mécaniquement sur la portion aval 7a de canalisation pour lui conférer la déformation cyclique voulue et obtenir un mouvement cyclique déterminé de l'extrémité aval 5 portant les buses 6.Then, we then begin to feed the supply line 7 with high pressure liquid nitrogen, for example 2000 bar and simultaneously activate the drive motor 1 which will then transmit a movement for example oscillating to the downstream portion 7a of the pipe 7, via the transmission mechanism 2, 8, 9, which acts mechanically on the downstream pipe portion 7a to give it the desired cyclical deformation and obtain a determined cyclical movement of the downstream end 5 carrying the nozzles 6 .

En d'autres termes, on fait travailler la portion aval 7a du tube 7 en torsion d'angle β autour de son axe longitudinal afin de faire balayer par les jets d'azote liquide délivrés par les buses 6, une zone ou superficie suffisante pour opérer un nettoyage efficace de la surface interne du substrat considéré, c'est-à-dire la paroi interne du tube, comme illustré sur la Figure 6.In other words, the downstream portion 7a of the tube 7 is twisted at an angle β about its longitudinal axis in order to sweep through the jets of liquid nitrogen delivered by the nozzles 6, an area or area sufficient to perform an efficient cleaning of the internal surface of the considered substrate, that is to say the inner wall of the tube, as illustrated on the Figure 6 .

Comme on le voit sur la Figure 6, l'extrémité aval libre 5 portant les buses 6 décrit, sous l'effet de la torsion qu'il subit, un balayage latéral semi-circulaire de l'intérieur du tube à décaper car la portion aval 7a est animée d'un mouvement d'oscillation, c'est-à-dire de va-et-vient oscillatoire, et que les buses 6 sont orientées de manière à former un angle d'environ 45° dans ce cas avec l'axe de la portion aval 7a de la canalisation 7.As we see on the Figure 6 , the free downstream end 5 carrying the nozzles 6 described, under the effect of the torsion it undergoes, a semi-circular lateral scan of the inside of the tube to be stripped because the downstream portion 7a is driven by a movement oscillation, that is to say oscillation back and forth, and that the nozzles 6 are oriented to form an angle of about 45 ° in this case with the axis of the downstream portion 7a of Line 7.

Il est à noter que plus l'angle de torsion β est important (mesuré au niveau du point d'ancrage), plus la surface balayée par les jets est importante.It should be noted that the greater the angle of torsion β (measured at the anchor point), the greater the area swept by the jets is important.

Par exemple, pour un tube de 6,4 mm de diamètre externe (cf. Tableau) en acier inoxydable type 316 de longueur 1.3 m entre le point d'ancrage 10 et le pignon 8, l'angle de torsion β peut être de 45° sans risque de dommage par fatigue de la canalisation 7.For example, for a tube of 6.4 mm external diameter (see Table) type 316 stainless steel length 1.3 m between the anchor point 10 and the pinion 8, the torsion angle β can be 45 ° without risk of fatigue damage to Line 7.

En effet, ce tube subit une contrainte maximum d'environ 486 N/mm2 qui reste inférieure à la limite de rupture par fatigue d'un acier inoxydable 316 à la température de l'azote liquide, soit environ -155°C. Cette limite de rupture par fatigue pour l'acier inoxydable 316 à la température de l'azote liquide considérée est d'environ 533 N/mm2.Indeed, this tube undergoes a maximum stress of about 486 N / mm 2 which remains below the fatigue rupture limit of a 316 stainless steel at the temperature of liquid nitrogen, ie about -155 ° C. This fatigue failure limit for 316 stainless steel at the temperature of the liquid nitrogen under consideration is about 533 N / mm 2 .

Afin de flexibiliser davantage le tube et pour un gain de place (<1.3 m), il est possible de conférer à ce tube 7, entre le point d'ancrage 10 et le pignon 8, une forme de lyre, de ressort plat ou de queue de cochon, comme schématisé en Figures 4 et 5, ou d'utiliser un système de soufflet.In order to further flexibilize the tube and to save space (<1.3 m), it is possible to give this tube 7, between the anchoring point 10 and the pinion 8, a form of lyre, flat spring or pig's tail, as schematized in Figures 4 and 5 , or use a bellows system.

Ainsi, pour une torsion d'angle β égale à 45°, il suffit d'avoir moins de 1 m de tube disposé en queue de cochon par exemple.Thus, for a torsion angle β equal to 45 °, it is sufficient to have less than 1 m of tube disposed pigtail for example.

Le dispositif de décapage de l'invention a été décrit en relation avec une distribution de fluide cryogénique, à savoir de l'azote liquide alimentant des buses de distribution de fluide. Ceci constitue un mode de réalisation particulièrement préféré de l'invention. Cependant, le dispositif de décapage de l'invention pourrait aussi servir à distribuer d'autres fluides, tel un gaz non liquéfié, en particulier de l'air ambiant ou de l'azote, voire de l'eau liquide traitée ou non.The pickling device of the invention has been described in relation to a cryogenic fluid distribution, namely liquid nitrogen supplying fluid distribution nozzles. This is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. However, the pickling device of the invention could also be used to dispense other fluids, such as a non-liquefied gas, in particular ambient air or nitrogen, or even treated or untreated liquid water.

Claims (15)

  1. Blasting device comprising a fluid feed duct (7), in particular for cryogenic fluid, which supplies one or more fluid distribution nozzles (6) arranged at a free downstream end (5) of said feed duct (7), and a drive motor (1) which interacts with the fluid feed duct (7) by means of a transmission mechanism (2, 8, 9),
    - the fluid feed duct (7) comprising a fixed portion (7b) upstream of an attachment point (10) which is located on said feed duct (7), and a downstream portion (7a) which is located downstream of the attachment point (10) and comprises the free downstream end (5),
    - and the transmission mechanism (2, 8, 9) acting mechanically on said downstream duct portion (7a) in order to achieve a defined movement of the downstream end (5) which carries the nozzle(s) (6),
    characterised in that the transmission mechanism (2, 8, 9) acts mechanically on the downstream duct portion (7a) in order to give said portion an angular deformation by means of twisting about the longitudinal axis thereof.
  2. Device according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the angular deformation is a twist in the downstream duct portion (7a) by an angle ß, ß being between 1 and 120°, preferably between 30° and 90°.
  3. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one part of the downstream duct portion (7a) is made of a material selected from among stainless steel, nickel steel and titanium.
  4. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a plurality of nozzles (6) arranged around the periphery of the downstream end (5) of the downstream duct portion (7a).
  5. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the transmission mechanism (2, 8, 9) comprises a support gear (8) borne by the downstream duct portion (7a), and a device for driving the gear (9) which interacts with said support gear (8).
  6. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device for driving the gear (9) drives the support gear (8), preferably in oscillation, such as to cause the downstream duct portion (7a) to twist.
  7. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that said duct (7) passes through said support gear (8) coaxially and the device for driving the gear (9) is driven by the drive motor (1).
  8. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device for driving the gear (9) is set into motion by the drive motor (1) by means of a transmission shaft (2) which is driven by the motor (1) and acts on said device for driving the gear (9).
  9. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the drive motor (1) provides the device for driving the gear (9) with an oscillating movement by means of a transmission shaft (2).
  10. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device for driving the gear (9) comprises a gear motor or a belt.
  11. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the transmission shaft (2) is rotary or oscillatory.
  12. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that one part of the downstream duct portion (7a) comprises turns or curves, in particular in the form of a pigtail or flexible bend.
  13. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the support gear (8) is rotatably movable about the central axis thereof, the duct (7a) being rigidly connected to the support gear.
  14. Method for blasting the internal surface of a tube with a cryogenic fluid, wherein use is made of a device according to any of claims 1 to 13 for delivering one or more cryogenic fluid jets at a pressure of at least 500 bar, the cryogenic fluid being liquid nitrogen.
  15. Method according to claim 14, characterised in that the tube to be blasted is a heat exchanger tube or an extruded tube made of plastics material.
EP12750439.7A 2011-08-12 2012-07-20 Device for the cryogenic descaling of non-planar surfaces, particularly the inside of a tube Not-in-force EP2741861B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1157316A FR2978925B1 (en) 2011-08-12 2011-08-12 DEVICE FOR THE CRYOGENIC REMOVAL OF NON-PLANAR SURFACES, IN PARTICULAR FROM THE INTERIOR OF A TUBE
PCT/FR2012/051732 WO2013024221A1 (en) 2011-08-12 2012-07-20 Device for the cryogenic descaling of non-planar surfaces, particularly the inside of a tube

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2741861A1 EP2741861A1 (en) 2014-06-18
EP2741861B1 true EP2741861B1 (en) 2015-09-16

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12750439.7A Not-in-force EP2741861B1 (en) 2011-08-12 2012-07-20 Device for the cryogenic descaling of non-planar surfaces, particularly the inside of a tube

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EP (1) EP2741861B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2978925B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2013024221A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3002863A1 (en) * 2013-03-07 2014-09-12 Air Liquide DEVICE FOR DISPENSING CRYOGENIC FLUID JETS WITH FLEXIBLE PROTECTIVE ENVELOPE
CN105665202A (en) * 2016-01-05 2016-06-15 杨明华 Implementing method for plate spraying process with heat extraction conducted through gas transmission system and adjustable spraying speed
CN108772231A (en) * 2018-08-22 2018-11-09 南通理工学院 A kind of hemi-closure space auxiliary spray robot
CN114472388B (en) * 2022-02-15 2022-11-25 江西晶昊盐化有限公司 Cleaning system and cleaning method for preventing pipeline dry-wet junction from scaling and blocking
CN114753787A (en) * 2022-05-06 2022-07-15 咸宁职业技术学院 A clear hole device in anchor rod hole for construction

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7316363B2 (en) * 2004-09-03 2008-01-08 Nitrocision Llc System and method for delivering cryogenic fluid
US7310955B2 (en) 2004-09-03 2007-12-25 Nitrocision Llc System and method for delivering cryogenic fluid
FR2948301B1 (en) * 2009-07-21 2013-01-11 Air Liquide DEVICE FOR DISPENSING FLUID JETS WITHOUT ROTATING SEALS

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2013024221A1 (en) 2013-02-21
FR2978925B1 (en) 2013-09-27
EP2741861A1 (en) 2014-06-18
FR2978925A1 (en) 2013-02-15

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