Heat energy recovery system for reducing flash heat of steam condensate water

Abstract

The utility model discloses a heat energy recovery system capable of reducing flash evaporation heat of steam condensate water, which comprises a condensate water tank used for recovering flash evaporation steam generated in a saccharification workshop for beer production; and the water source heat pump is connected into the first flash evaporation opening of the condensate water tank, flash evaporation steam of the condensate water tank is condensed and cooled into condensate water, and heat absorbed by the water source heat pump is used for heating water in the heat energy center. According to the steam condensate recovery device, the steam condensate recovery efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of beer production, specifically to a heat energy recovery system for reducing the heat of flash evaporation of steam condensate. Background Technology

[0002] In traditional energy use models, the treatment and heat recovery of steam condensate are key areas for improving energy efficiency. Flash evaporation of steam condensate results in significant heat waste, thus requiring efficient technologies to recover this heat.

[0003] Currently, many industrial sectors, especially manufacturing enterprises such as saccharification workshops, suffer from insufficient heat recovery from steam condensate. These workshops typically discharge steam condensate into the environment, resulting in heat waste. In many cases, existing technologies are unable to effectively recover and utilize these low-quality heat sources, which not only affects the energy efficiency of enterprises but also imposes an unnecessary burden on the environment.

[0004] Currently, existing steam condensate recovery systems typically rely on traditional steam condensate treatment methods, failing to fully utilize the heat contained in flash steam, resulting in heat loss and resource waste. In some production processes, especially in saccharification workshops, the condensate temperature is high, the flash evaporation rate is large, and the significant heat waste causes substantial economic losses.

[0005] Therefore, the key to solving the above-mentioned technical problems lies in how to effectively cool down these low-temperature, high-volume condensates and recover their heat to improve the condensate recovery rate. Utility Model Content

[0006] This invention provides a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate, in order to solve the problem of low efficiency in the recovery of flash heat from condensate in saccharification workshops in related technologies.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate is provided, comprising: a condensate tank for recovering flash steam generated in the saccharification workshop of beer production; and a water source heat pump connected to a first flash port of the condensate tank to condense and cool the flash steam in the condensate tank into condensate, wherein the heat absorbed by the water source heat pump is used to heat the water in the heat energy center.

[0008] Preferably, the system further includes: a second flash port, disposed on the condensate tank; the second flash port is equipped with a pressure sensor, and after the pressure of the pressure sensor reaches a predetermined value, a pneumatic valve is opened to discharge the flash steam into the air.

[0009] Preferably, the water source heat pump uses negative pressure to extract the flash steam from the condensate tank.

[0010] Preferably, the heat exchanger of the water source heat pump includes one of the following: a plate heat exchanger, a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, or a plate-and-shell heat exchanger.

[0011] Preferably, the condensate tank includes a stratification device for separating the flash steam and the low-temperature water, wherein the low-temperature water is circulating water with a temperature below a preset value used in beer production.

[0012] Preferably, the water source heat pump uses variable frequency to regulate its operating speed.

[0013] Preferably, the condensate tank is equipped with a circulation pump to promote the flow of condensate inside the condensate tank.

[0014] Preferably, the condensate generated after heat exchange by the water source heat pump is divided into two parts: one part of the condensate flows back to the condensate tank; the other part of the condensate flows into the boiler.

[0015] Preferably, the connecting pipe between the condensate tank and the heat source heat pump is equipped with an antifreeze device.

[0016] Preferably, the water source heat pump has a heating capacity of 40 kilowatts and a total power of 15 kilowatts.

[0017] This utility model provides a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate. By combining a water source heat pump and a condensate tank, it successfully and efficiently recovers and cools the flash heat of steam condensate, thereby reducing energy waste and improving the condensate recovery rate. This technology not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces heat loss during production, saving significant energy costs for the saccharification workshop and enhancing the overall efficiency and economic benefits of the thermal energy system. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description thereof, serve to explain the present invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram based on a heat recovery system in related technologies;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure label:

[0022] Condensate tank 1; water source heat pump 2; thermal energy center 3. Detailed Implementation

[0023] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0024] This embodiment provides a heat energy recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the system includes: a condensate tank 1, used to recover flash steam generated in the saccharification workshop of beer production; and a water source heat pump 2, connected to the first flash port of the condensate tank 1, which condenses and cools the flash steam in the condensate tank 1 into condensate. The heat absorbed by the water source heat pump is used to heat the water in the thermal energy center 3.

[0025] In this embodiment, the condensate tank 1 reduces energy waste by recovering flash steam generated in the saccharification workshop during beer production. The flash steam is effectively utilized and converted into condensate, providing reusable heat energy for the system. The water source heat pump 2, connected to the first flash port of the condensate tank 1, utilizes the condensation and cooling of its flash steam to generate condensate, achieving effective waste heat recovery. The water source heat pump converts the heat absorbed by the condensate tank 1 into usable heat energy, which is used to heat the water in the thermal energy center 3, improving the system's energy efficiency. The thermal energy center 3 utilizes the heat transferred from the water source heat pump to heat the water, effectively utilizing the heat source and improving the efficiency of heat energy use. By setting up the dual function of the water source heat pump and the condensate tank, the flash heat of the steam condensate is successfully recovered and cooled efficiently, thereby reducing energy waste and increasing the condensate recovery rate. This technology not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces heat loss during production, saving the saccharification workshop significant energy costs and improving the overall efficiency and economic benefits of the thermal energy system.

[0026] Preferably, the system further includes: a second flash evaporation port, disposed on the condensate tank; a pressure sensor is installed at the second flash evaporation port, and a pneumatic valve is opened after the pressure sensor reaches a predetermined value to discharge the flash steam into the air. In this preferred embodiment, the placement of the second flash evaporation port, and its coordination with the pressure sensor and pneumatic valve, enables automatic monitoring and regulation of the pressure within the condensate tank 1. When the pressure reaches the predetermined value, the pneumatic valve automatically opens, safely discharging excess flash steam into the air. This preferred embodiment ensures the safe operation of the system, avoids equipment damage or unstable operation caused by excessive pressure, and improves the system's automation level.

[0027] Preferably, the water source heat pump employs negative pressure to extract flash steam from the condensate tank. This embodiment utilizes negative pressure to achieve efficient heat recovery. By using a water source heat pump to extract flash steam from the condensate tank under negative pressure, heat can be efficiently extracted from the condensate tank. The negative pressure helps reduce steam pressure, allowing steam to be extracted at a lower temperature, thereby improving heat recovery efficiency. Secondly, it enhances system energy efficiency. The negative pressure extraction technology effectively utilizes waste heat in the condensate tank, reducing dependence on external energy sources. The water source heat pump absorbs the heat from the flash steam and converts it into usable heat energy, further improving the overall system's energy utilization efficiency, thus achieving energy savings. Thirdly, it improves system operational stability. Using negative pressure extraction allows for stable control of the flash steam flow and temperature, reducing system load fluctuations caused by flash steam pressure fluctuations, ensuring stable equipment operation, and preventing system damage or instability due to excessive pressure. This preferred embodiment improves energy recovery rate, enhances system energy efficiency, and improves operational stability.

[0028] Preferably, the heat exchanger of the water source heat pump includes one of the following: a plate heat exchanger, a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, or a plate-and-shell heat exchanger. This preferred embodiment optimizes heat exchange efficiency. In practice, different types of heat exchangers (plate heat exchangers, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, and plate-and-shell heat exchangers) have their own advantages, and selecting a suitable heat exchanger type can maximize heat exchange efficiency. A detailed description follows:

[0029] Plate heat exchangers: They have a large heat exchange area, a compact structure, and high heat exchange efficiency, making them suitable for small systems that require efficient heat exchange.

[0030] Shell-and-tube heat exchangers: suitable for high flow rates and high pressure environments, with strong pressure resistance, and suitable for heat pump systems that require the handling of large quantities of liquids or gases.

[0031] Plate and shell heat exchangers combine the advantages of plate and shell-and-tube heat exchangers and are suitable for applications requiring multiple fluids or high-flow-rate heat exchange, offering excellent heat exchange performance.

[0032] The technical solution in this preferred embodiment can improve the system's energy efficiency and stability. Selecting different types of heat exchangers according to actual needs can effectively improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat source heat pump system, reduce energy waste, and improve overall energy efficiency. High-efficiency heat exchangers can better transfer heat to the heat energy center, enhancing system stability and avoiding energy loss due to insufficient heat exchange. Secondly, it can adapt to different operating conditions. Different types of heat exchangers are suitable for different working conditions. By flexibly selecting heat exchangers, the system can better adapt to different temperature, pressure, and flow conditions, improving heat recovery and utilization efficiency, thereby meeting the needs of various application scenarios. Furthermore, it can enhance the system's reliability and durability. The differences in structure and materials of different types of heat exchangers result in different corrosion resistance, pressure resistance, and temperature resistance properties. Selecting an appropriate heat exchanger type can enhance the durability of the water source heat pump system, extend its service life, and reduce maintenance costs. In this preferred embodiment, by rationally selecting plate heat exchangers, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, or plate-and-shell heat exchangers, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat pump system can be optimized, energy utilization improved, and system stability and durability enhanced.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the condensate tank includes a stratification device for separating flash steam and cryogenic water, which is circulating water in beer production with a temperature below a preset value. This preferred embodiment achieves the separation of flash steam and cryogenic water. Through the stratification device in the condensate tank, the system can effectively separate flash steam and cryogenic water. The flash steam is collected and used for heat recovery, while the cryogenic water is removed, avoiding the reduction in heat recovery efficiency caused by the mixing of cryogenic water and flash steam. Secondly, it can improve heat recovery efficiency: the use of the stratification device ensures the effective recovery of flash steam. By isolating the cryogenic water, the flash steam can independently enter the heat recovery system, maximizing its heat utilization. As the low-temperature circulating water in beer production, the cryogenic water's heat will not affect the steam's heat recovery process, ensuring the efficient operation of the recovery system. Furthermore, it can ensure system stability and operational safety: the stratification device not only improves heat recovery efficiency but also ensures that the water level and temperature in the condensate tank are within a reasonable range, thereby maintaining system stability. The separation of cryogenic water reduces potential freezing or system damage problems caused by excessively low water temperature, ensuring long-term stable operation of the equipment. Through the technical features of this preferred embodiment, the stratification device in the condensate tank can effectively separate flash steam and low-temperature water, optimize heat recovery efficiency, improve the energy-saving effect and stability of the system, and ensure the efficient utilization of thermal energy during the production process.

[0034] As another preferred implementation, the water source heat pump employs variable frequency drive (VFD) to regulate its operating speed. VFD regulation improves energy efficiency. By using VFD to regulate the operating speed of the water source heat pump, the operating status of the heat pump can be flexibly adjusted according to changes in system load. VFD regulation allows the heat pump to operate at the most suitable speed under different operating conditions, thereby improving energy efficiency and avoiding energy waste that may occur with traditional fixed-speed operation. Furthermore, it optimizes the system's adjustment capabilities. VFD regulation allows the water source heat pump to adjust its operating speed according to real-time demand, achieving optimal operating results whether the load is peak or off. This ensures that the system is always in optimal operating condition during load changes, providing stable heat output and avoiding over-operation or under-load. Secondly, using VFD can also reduce energy consumption and costs. VFD regulation can reduce the heat pump's power consumption at low loads, saving energy and reducing system operating costs. At the same time, VFD technology can also reduce motor load fluctuations, extend equipment lifespan, and further reduce maintenance costs. It should be noted that VFD regulation enhances the system's flexibility, enabling it to better adapt to changes in load demands. Whether it's seasonal load fluctuations or changes in demand during production, variable frequency technology ensures efficient system response, thereby improving overall adaptability and reliability. Through this preferred embodiment, the use of variable frequency to regulate the operating speed of a water source heat pump improves energy efficiency, optimizes regulation capabilities, reduces energy consumption and costs, minimizes noise and vibration, and enhances system flexibility and adaptability, thus achieving more efficient and environmentally friendly thermal energy utilization.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, a circulation pump is installed inside the condensate tank to promote the flow of condensate within the tank. This circulation pump effectively promotes the flow of condensate within the tank, preventing localized overheating or accumulation that can occur when condensate is stagnant. Uniform flow allows for faster cooling and heat transfer, improving heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, the circulation pump enhances heat exchange efficiency. By increasing the fluidity of the condensate, the pump improves the efficiency of the heat exchange process. The flowing condensate has more uniform contact with the heat exchanger, facilitating heat transfer and improving the recovery of heat energy from the condensate, thus contributing to overall system energy efficiency. Secondly, the circulation pump prevents condensate from freezing or accumulating. In low-temperature environments, stagnant condensate can freeze, affecting system operation. The circulation pump ensures continuous water flow, preventing prolonged stagnation in the condensate tank, reducing the risk of freezing, and ensuring safe and stable equipment operation. In practice, the circulation pump improves system stability and adjustability. The circulation pump ensures more uniform water temperature and flow within the condensate tank, improving system stability. Increased condensate flow enhances the system's adaptability to load changes, enabling better response to external heat sources and variations in condensate levels, thus maintaining stable system operation. Furthermore, the circulation pump automatically maintains condensate flow, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing the system's automation level. The improved uniformity of condensate flow and heat exchange efficiency lead to energy-saving and environmental benefits. In this preferred embodiment, the circulation pump inside the condensate tank effectively promotes condensate flow, improves heat exchange efficiency, prevents freezing or water accumulation, enhances system stability and adjustability, and contributes to higher automation levels and overall system performance.

[0036] Preferably, the condensate generated after heat exchange in the water source heat pump is divided into two parts: one part of the condensate flows back to the condensate tank; the other part flows into the boiler. This preferred embodiment efficiently utilizes condensate resources. By processing the condensate generated after heat exchange in the water source heat pump into two parts, the system can utilize condensate resources more efficiently. One part of the condensate flows back to the condensate tank to continue participating in heat recovery and utilization, while the other part enters the boiler for heating or other industrial needs, optimizing resource allocation and use. Furthermore, it can improve the efficiency of heat energy recovery and utilization. The return of condensate to the condensate tank means that the condensate can be reused, providing a second heat source for the heat pump system, thereby improving the system's heat energy recovery efficiency. At the same time, the condensate entering the boiler provides an additional heat source for production or heating, further improving the overall efficiency of heat energy utilization. Secondly, it can enhance the system's energy saving. By rationally allocating the destination of the condensate, the system can flexibly allocate heat between different stages, ensuring that each part of the heat energy is optimally utilized. The linkage between the boiler and the condensate tank ensures efficient conversion and circulation between multiple heat sources, thereby reducing dependence on external energy and lowering energy consumption and costs.

[0037] In practice, the distribution mechanism of condensate flow to the boiler and return condensate tank can flexibly adjust the direction of condensate flow according to different production needs or changes in operating conditions, so that the entire system can automatically optimize operation according to changes in external conditions, adapt to different load demands, and ensure the continuity and stability of heat energy supply.

[0038] This embodiment improves the efficiency of heat recovery and utilization by rationally dividing the condensate generated after heat exchange into two parts, thereby enhancing the energy efficiency, stability and adaptability of the system, and thus improving the overall system operating efficiency and economic benefits.

[0039] Preferably, the connecting pipe between the condensate tank and the heat pump is equipped with an antifreeze device. In this preferred embodiment, the antifreeze device prevents the pipe from freezing and being damaged. The antifreeze device effectively prevents the connecting pipe between the condensate tank and the heat pump from freezing due to low temperatures. Ice formation can obstruct water flow within the pipes and may even cause cracking or damage to the equipment. The antifreeze design ensures the system operates normally in cold environments, avoiding system failures and maintenance costs caused by pipe freezing. Furthermore, the antifreeze device ensures stable system operation. It maintains the internal temperature of the pipes, ensuring that the water flow in the connecting pipes is not affected by external low temperatures, and ensuring unimpeded heat transfer between the condensate tank and the heat pump. Stable system operation avoids poor heat transfer caused by excessively low temperatures, improving the overall system efficiency and reliability. In practice, it enhances the system's reliability and durability. The antifreeze device significantly improves the system's reliability and durability. Pipes and equipment are less prone to damage from freezing or cracking, extending equipment lifespan, reducing costs associated with repair or replacement, and improving the overall system's economic benefits.

[0040] In actual beer production, heat recovery and transfer can be optimized. Freezing of the pipes between the condensate tank and the heat pump will severely impact heat recovery and transfer efficiency. Anti-freeze devices ensure smooth flow of condensate in the pipes, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency, reducing heat loss, and increasing energy utilization.

[0041] In implementation, the heating capacity of the water source heat pump can reach 40 kW, with a total power of 15 kW. In this preferred embodiment, the water source heat pump can achieve a high coefficient of performance (COP), which significantly improves the system's energy utilization efficiency, reduces energy waste, and ensures maximum energy savings and reduced operating costs during system operation. Furthermore, it can reduce operating costs. Due to the high COP of the water source heat pump, the system can provide more heat with less electricity consumption, thereby significantly reducing the system's operating costs. This is particularly important for industrial production or heating systems that operate for extended periods, significantly reducing energy expenses and bringing economic benefits. Secondly, it meets the needs of green development. The high efficiency of the water source heat pump reduces greenhouse gas emissions while reducing energy consumption, resulting in better environmental protection. Compared to traditional heat source systems, the water source heat pump consumes less electricity during heating, indirectly reducing carbon emissions and meeting the needs of energy conservation, emission reduction, and sustainable development.

[0042] This technology improves the energy efficiency ratio of water source heat pumps by providing 40 kW of heating capacity and 15 kW of total power, reduces operating costs, enhances the environmental friendliness of the system, ensures that it can meet the needs of large-scale heat loads, and optimizes the stability, controllability and lifespan of the system.

[0043] This embodiment provides a heat energy recovery system for the flash evaporation heat of steam condensate, which will be described in detail below.

[0044] Currently, the brewery's saccharification workshop has an annual condensate volume of 23,000 tons, with the temperature reduced from 95℃ to 60℃. A water source heat pump with a heating capacity of 40KW and a total power of 15KW has been installed.

[0045] Install a condensate tank in the saccharification workshop, and make the flash evaporation port of the tank into two paths. One path is equipped with a pressure sensor, and the pneumatic valve opens to release the pressure into the air after overpressure. The other flash evaporation port can be connected to a newly installed water source heat pump. Utilize the cooling effect of the water source heat pump to condense and cool the flashed steam into condensate. The heat absorbed by the heat pump is used to heat the low-temperature water in the thermal energy center.

[0046] In related technologies, such as Figure 1 As shown, the open-type steam condensate recovery tank has a large flash evaporation rate at the air discharge port due to the condensate temperature being 95℃, resulting in a waste of heat and water.

[0047] In this embodiment, a 40kW heating capacity, 15kW total power water source heat pump is installed in the saccharification workshop. A condensate tank is installed, and the flash evaporation port of the tank is configured with two outlets. One outlet is equipped with a pressure sensor, and an overpressure event triggers a pneumatic valve to release the vapor into the air. The other outlet is connected to the newly installed water source heat pump unit. Utilizing the cooling effect of the water source heat pump, the flashed steam is condensed and cooled into condensate. The heat absorbed by the heat pump is used to heat the low-temperature water in the thermal energy center.

[0048] Based on the technical solutions provided in the above embodiments, it is estimated that the condensate recovery rate of the condensate system can be increased from approximately 87% to 93%. Furthermore, it can generate significant economic benefits, as shown in the table below.

[0049] Based on the heat generation revenue from the heat pump, the annual savings amount to 485,504.28 yuan.

[0050]

[0051]

[0052] This embodiment and its preferred embodiments provide a heat recovery system for reducing the flash heat of steam condensate. By combining a water source heat pump and a condensate tank, the system successfully and efficiently recovers and cools the flash heat of steam condensate, thereby reducing energy waste and increasing the condensate recovery rate. This technology not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces heat loss during production, saving significant energy costs for the saccharification workshop and enhancing the overall efficiency and economic benefits of the thermal energy system.

[0053] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A heat energy recovery system for reducing steam condensate flash steam heat, characterized by, Comprising: a condensate water tank for recycling flash steam generated in a saccharification plant in beer production; a water source heat pump connected to a first flash port of the condensate water tank to condense the flash steam in the condensate water tank into condensate water, and the heat absorbed by the water source heat pump is used to heat water in a heat energy center.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, Comprising: a second flash port arranged on the condensate water tank; a pressure sensor is installed on the second flash port, and after the pressure of the pressure sensor reaches a predetermined value, a pneumatic valve is opened to discharge the flash steam into the air.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein, Comprising: The water source heat pump uses negative pressure to extract the flash steam in the condensate water tank.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The heat exchanger of the water source heat pump comprises one of the following: a plate heat exchanger, a shell and tube heat exchanger, and a plate and shell heat exchanger.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Comprising: The condensate water tank comprises a layering device for separating the flash steam and low-temperature water, and the low-temperature water is circulating water with a temperature lower than a predetermined value in beer production.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The water source heat pump adjusts the operating speed by frequency conversion.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Comprising: A circulating pump is arranged inside the condensate water tank to promote the flow of condensate water inside the condensate water tank.

8. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Comprising: The condensate water generated after heat exchange of the water source heat pump is divided into two parts: one part of the condensate water flows back to the condensate water tank; The other part of the condensate water flows into the boiler.

9. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Comprising: The connecting pipeline between the condensate water tank and the water source heat pump is provided with an anti-freezing device.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The heating capacity of the water source heat pump is 40 kW, and the total power is 15 kW.

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