Multi-support collar, support device and district heating substation comprising them

Abstract

The collar (20) for supporting at least one pipe comprises: - a body (21) formed from a metal plate and having a groove (22), the edges of which comprise a series of circular arcs, the diameters of which decrease towards the bottom of the groove, and - a lateral portion (23) that is folded, along a fold parallel to an axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body, and that has at least one opening (25) for a threaded rod to pass through.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE OF THE INVENTION: MULTI-SUPPORT COLLAR, SUPPORT DEVICE AND DISTRICT HEATING SUBSTATION COMPRISING THEM

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to a multi-support collar, a support device, and a district heating substation incorporating them. It applies to the support of cables and / or pipes, to the fixing of the collar to rails, and / or to assisting in taking measurements in a device incorporating this collar.

[0005] STATE OF THE ART

[0006] A hose clamp is a mechanical device whose primary function is to hold a flexible hose in place on a rigid support. Various models of hose clamps exist, and they are also used in a variety of applications, such as plastic hose clamps for securing cables.

[0007] However, existing clamps are limited to these functions. Engineers designing or building complex systems, such as district heating substations, must therefore increase the number of clamps used on various mechanical supports. Furthermore, attaching these clamps to fixed supports is limited to rigid rods, further complicating the design of complex systems. Technicians must also consider space constraints and the actual required or available piping when constructing a complex system on-site, and require as many clamps as there are pipe diameters. Taking measurements from these clamps is tricky, and adding cable supports further complicates the technician's work.

[0008] These difficulties are particularly significant in the area of ​​district heating substations. The principle of district heating is an underground network that carries heated water under pressure throughout the city. Powered by a production unit, the network distributes heat to the buildings connected to it (hospitals, schools, colleges, apartment buildings, etc.). This heated water is transported through pipes serving the buildings, which are equipped with delivery points called substations.

[0009] Existing substations present numerous drawbacks. First, their high cost, as they are custom-made to meet specific constraints such as size, power, schematic diagram, orientation, etc. Furthermore, there is a risk of damage during transport, which is also expensive. Handling substations is complex because they weigh over 150 kg. Delivery presents challenges in navigating to and within the installation area, requiring passage through corridors, staircases, narrow doorways, etc., and the installation area may be small. Finally, labor shortages of pipefitters / welders and supplier delivery delays, for example, for meters and heat exchangers, significantly lengthen installation times.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks with a collar having, on the one hand, a groove preferably comprising a succession of arcs of circles of decreasing diameters towards the bottom of the groove, corresponding to the standard diameters of the pipes used and, on the other hand, at least one of the following means:

[0012] - insertion openings at one end, one meter long, for taking measurements; preferably centered horizontally or vertically on the center of a circle inscribed within arcs of circles in the throat,

[0013] - a movable clasp for closing the groove around a pipe, mounted on fixing points configured so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles in the groove,

[0014] - a lower secondary collar support of a known type,

[0015] - openings to support the passage of electrical cables, and / or

[0016] - foldable parts for insertion into U-shaped profiled rails.

[0017] The present invention also relates to a mounting device for a system comprising a pipeline and a district heating substation including such a collar.

[0018] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks.

[0020] Accordingly to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a support collar for at least one pipeline, which comprises a body formed from a metal plate and having a groove whose sides have at least one arc of a circle, characterized in that it further comprises a lateral part folded, along a fold parallel to an axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body and having at least one opening for the passage of a threaded rod, this lateral part folded comprising, at at least one of its ends, an extremal part configured to be folded, along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the lateral part folded and having a substantially rectangular face whose dimensions correspond to the internal section of a profiled rail whose cross-section has a "U" shape.

[0021] Thanks to these provisions, the collar that is the subject of the invention can be easily fixed to a vertical support, in particular a profiled rail with a "U" cross-section.

[0022] In some embodiments, the throat has sides comprising a succession of arcs of circles with diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the throat.

[0023] The collar can thus support cylindrical pipes of different diameters. In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises a rigid clasp for closing the groove around a pipe, mounted on fixing points of the body positioned so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove.

[0024] In some embodiments, the clasp has two openings for the passage of a threaded rod and the body has, on one side of the groove, a first opening for the passage of said threaded rod and, on the other side of the groove, as many second openings for the passage of said threaded rod as there are different diameters of the arcs of the groove, the distances between the first opening and each of the second openings being equal to the distance between the two openings of the clasp.

[0025] In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises at least one linear insertion slot for one end of a reel-type meter, a slot of which one linear wall is on a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove.

[0026] In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises a lower part folded along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the body, this part having an opening for the passage of a threaded rod.

[0027] In some embodiments, the body has a plurality of lateral openings leading to the edge of the body, each of these lateral openings having a "C" shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end.

[0028] In some embodiments, the arcs of the circles of the groove are formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove.

[0029] In embodiments, the collar of the invention comprises a seal made of elastic material on at least two arcs of the groove.

[0030] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a device for constructing a mechanical system comprising at least one pipe, which includes:

[0031] - at least one horizontal base,

[0032] - amounts,

[0033] - a plurality of upright fixing brackets in a vertical position on a horizontal base, and

[0034] - on at least one vertical post, a collar which is the subject of the invention.

[0035] In some embodiments, at least one base has through holes corresponding to at least two district heating substation configurations.

[0036] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a district heating substation for thermally connecting a primary network and a secondary network, which comprises:

[0037] - a device that is the subject of the invention,

[0038] - pipes supported and held in position by clamps of the device, and - a heat exchanger (680) supported by the device. The advantages, purposes, and specific characteristics of this device and substation being similar to those of the clamp that is the subject of the invention, they are not repeated here.

[0039] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0040] Other advantages, purposes and special features of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the collar, device and substation that are the subject of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 shows, in front view, a first embodiment of a necklace that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0042] Figure 2 shows, from the same front view, the collar illustrated in [Fig 1], with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a “U” shape and to fix a lower secondary collar,

[0043] Figure 3 represents a partial horizontal section of the collar and vertical rail illustrated in [Fig 2],

[0044] Figure 4 shows, from the same front view as Figures 1 and 2, the collar illustrated in [Fig 1], with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a “U” shape and to fix a lower secondary collar, supporting a passage for electrical cables,

[0045] Figure 5 shows, from the same front view, the collar illustrated in figures 1, 2 and 4, with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a “U” shape and to fix a lower secondary collar, supporting and retaining a first pipe, of small diameter,

[0046] Figure 6 shows, from the same front view, the collar illustrated in figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a “U” shape and to fix a lower secondary collar, supporting and retaining a second pipe, of intermediate diameter,

[0047] Figure 7 shows, from the same front view, the collar illustrated in figures 1, 2 and 4, with three folded parts to fix the collar in a horizontal rail profiled with a cross-section in a "U" shape, supporting and retaining a third, large-diameter pipe.

[0048] Figure 8 shows, in front view, a second embodiment of a necklace that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0049] Figure 9 shows, in front view, a third embodiment of a necklace that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0050] Figure 10 shows, in front view, a fourth embodiment of a necklace that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0051] Figure 11 shows, in front view, a fifth embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before stamping and folding. Figure 12 shows, in partial perspective, a groove of the collar shown in [Fig 11] after stamping.

[0052] Figure 13 shows, in side view, the collar shown in [Fig 11] after stamping and folding,

[0053] Figure 14 shows, in front view, a sixth embodiment of a necklace that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0054] Figure 15 schematically represents a first embodiment of a base for fixing a vertical upright to a plinth,

[0055] Figure 16 schematically represents the positioning of an exchanger between a primary network and a secondary network.

[0056] Figure 17 schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a first configuration of the substation that is the subject of the invention,

[0057] Figure 18 shows, in perspective, the device illustrated in [Fig 17], after the installation of a heat exchanger and piping.

[0058] Figure 19 schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a second configuration of the substation that is the subject of the invention,

[0059] Figure 20 shows, in perspective, the device illustrated in [Fig 19], after the installation of a heat exchanger and piping.

[0060] Figure 21 schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a third configuration of the substation that is the subject of the invention,

[0061] Figure 22 shows, in perspective, a complete substation, the subject of the invention, comprising the device shown in [Fig 21], and

[0062] Figure 23 shows, in perspective, a second embodiment of a fixing base for a vertical upright on a base.

[0063] DESCRIPTION OF IMPLEMENTATION METHODS

[0064] The present description is given by way of non-limiting attribution, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0065] It should be noted from the outset that figures 1 to 15 and 17 to 23 are to scale, even if their scales may be different.

[0066] As can be understood from reading this description, various inventive concepts can be implemented, several examples of which are provided here.

[0067] The expression "and / or," as used in this document, should be understood as meaning 'one or the other or both' of the elements thus joined, that is, elements that are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in others. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same way, that is, "one or more" of the elements thus joined. Other elements may also be present, other than those specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with an open language such as "including", may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to A and B (possibly including other elements); etc.

[0068] As used here in the description, "or" should be understood inclusively.

[0069] As used in this description, the expression "at least one," when referring to a list of one or more items, should be understood as meaning at least one item chosen from one or more items in the list of items, but not necessarily including at least one of each item specifically listed in the list of items and not excluding any combination of items in the list of items. This definition also allows for the optional presence of items other than those specifically identified in the list of items to which the expression "at least one" refers, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified items.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, without B present (and possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, B, without A present (and possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, and at least one, possibly including more than one, B (and possibly including other elements); etc.

[0070] All transitive expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "implying", "holding", "composed of", and others, should be understood as open, that is, as meaning including but not limited to. Only the transitive expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" should be understood as closed or semi-closed transitive expressions, respectively.

[0071] Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10 show examples of the pipe support collars of the invention in their orientation for use, with the pipe support groove open upwards. The term "upper" refers to the area at the top (or higher when referring to the relative positions of two elements) in the figures, and therefore when the collar is installed to support a pipe. The term "lower" refers to the area at the bottom (or lower when referring to the relative positions of two elements) in the figures, and therefore when the collar is installed to support a pipe. The height or width of an element is measured vertically or horizontally, respectively, in the plane of Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10. In Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10, the pipe support collars of the invention are shown in front view, that is, in the plane of their pipe support groove.The thickness of an element is measured perpendicular to the plane of figures 1, 2 and 4 to 10.

[0072] Figure 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a necklace 20, the object of the invention, before some of its parts are folded. The necklace 20 is formed by cutting, stamping, and / or milling a rigid sheet of material, for example, metal. The necklace 20 comprises a first part 21, or body, forming a support, and a second part 30 forming a clasp.

[0073] The body 21 has a groove 22 generally shaped like an upward-opening "V," formed by circular arcs with diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the groove 22. The groove 22 has an axis of symmetry 70. As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, these circular arcs support pipes of three diameters, preferably standard. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, the centers of the circles containing the circular arcs of the groove 22 are aligned on a vertical line (represented by an alternating vertical dashed line 70). In some embodiments, the circular arcs of the groove 22 are formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove 22. This reduces the risk of damaging the outer wall of a pipe supported by these circular arcs, particularly a plastic pipe.

[0074] A lateral part 23 of the body 21 is intended to be bent at 90 degrees to the plane of the [Fig.

[0075] 1], around a vertical fold illustrated by a dashed line. This fold is parallel to the axis of symmetry 70 of the groove 22. The part 23 continues with a lower extremity part 24 which can be folded at 90 degrees to the plane of the part 23, around a horizontal fold, perpendicular to the axis of symmetry 70, represented by a dashed line passing through openings 29 reducing the rigidity of the part 23. By the combination of these two folds, the part 24 extends in a direction opposite to the groove 22 to be inserted into a vertical rail 54 profiled with a horizontal U-shaped cross-section, as illustrated in Figures 2 to 6. When the lower part 24 is not folded, it extends downwards and can be inserted into a horizontal rail 75 profiled with a cross-section of a U-shaped cross-section, as illustrated in [Fig. 7], Alternatively (not shown), the extremity part 24 is located at the upper end of the lateral part 23.In an alternative (not shown), the lateral part 23 has extremal parts 24 at each of its upper and lower extremities.

[0076] Part 23 has two openings 25 for threaded rods for fixing to a support, in particular to the vertical rail 54 mentioned above. The rail 54 is, for example, a standard rail distributed by the company Müpro ®.

[0077] A lower part 26 of the body 21 is intended to be bent at 90 degrees to the plane of [Fig. 1], along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry 70, to form a support for a secondary collar, as illustrated in [Fig. 4] or to be fixed to the horizontal rail 75 mentioned above, as illustrated in [Fig. 7]. The lower part 26 has a circular opening 27 for the passage of threaded rods for fixing the secondary collar or for fixing to a support, in particular to the horizontal rail 75 mentioned above.

[0078] Preferably, parts 23 and 26 are bent at the factory at 90 degrees to the body 21, while the end part 24 is bent by the operator installing the collar. Indeed, the rigidity of the body 21 is such that bending parts 23 and 26 is difficult, if not impossible, without a machine. Conversely, bending the end part 24 with hand tools is facilitated by the presence of the openings 29. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 7, depending on the desired configuration (fixing on a vertical or horizontal rail), the end part 24 must be bent or not.

[0079] At least two openings (or notches) 28 in the shape of a "T" inclined at 90 degrees, the foot of which emerges, after a curvature on the lower side of the body 21, allow to support a support for the passage of electrical cables, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. This curved "T" shape has a "C" shape whose closed end (on the right in the figures) is closer to the lower edge of the body 21 than an intermediate part between the open end (on the left in the figures) and the closed end of this opening 28.

[0080] The body 21 has a circular opening 33, on one side of the groove 22 and three circular openings 34, 35 and 36, on the other side of the groove 22.

[0081] The part, or clasp, 30 has a general arc-shaped form. At its ends, it has circular openings 31 and 32. The distance between the openings 31 and 32 is equal to the distance between the opening 33 and each of the openings 34, 35, and 36. As shown opposite Figures 5 to 7, the equality of these distances allows the clasp 30 to be positioned against three cylindrical channels, which themselves rest on arcs of the groove 22, so as to fix these channels in the groove 22.

[0082] Four openings 37, two on each side of the groove 22, allow the fixing of a collar 20 on the side of another, by superimposing these openings and bolting.

[0083] Three horizontal slots 38, 39, and 40 have dimensions allowing the insertion of the free end of a retractable measuring tape 65, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. Each slot 38 to 41 has a linear wall along a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of the groove 22. Preferably, these are horizontal or vertical diameters. As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, the lower walls of the horizontal slots 38, 39, and 40 are respectively at the same height as the centers of the circles containing the arcs of the groove 22. Measuring a vertical dimension from one of these centers, which correspond to the axes of cylindrical pipes that can be supported by the arcs of the groove 22, is thus easy. A vertical slot 41 also has dimensions allowing the free end of a reel meter 65 to be inserted, at least in part.The vertical linear opening is vertically aligned with the centers of the circles containing the arcs of the groove 22, that is, on the axis of symmetry 70 of the groove 22. Measuring a horizontal dimension from one of these centers is thus easy. As can be seen in [Fig. 2], front view, and in [Fig. 3], partial top view, once parts 23 and 24 are folded so that part 24 extends in the opposite direction of the groove 22, this part 24 can bear against the inner walls of a vertical rail 54 with a horizontal U-shaped cross-section. By adding a washer 53 and a bolt 55 to at least one of the openings 25, the collar 20 is fixed to the rail 54.

[0084] Furthermore, once part 26 is folded, a secondary clamp 50 comprising two semicircles connected by fasteners 52 can be fixed, by means of bolts 51, in the opening 27 of part 26. This secondary clamp can fix a pipe.

[0085] As can be seen in [Fig. 4], two successive openings 28 among the four openings 28 can support a cable passage support 60. This support 60 is, in a known manner, made of parallel horizontal metal rods 61 (here three horizontal rods) connected at regular intervals by welding to U-shaped metal arches 62. The upper metal rods 61 are spaced at a distance equal to the distance between two successive openings 28. Positioning a cable passage support 60 is thus easy, since it is sufficient to simultaneously follow the edges of the openings 28 with the two upper rods 61 until these rods 61 rest at the bottom of these openings 28. Alternatively, at least two openings 28 are positioned on the vertical side of the body 21 opposite the part 23.

[0086] Whether on the lower edge of the body 21 or on its vertical edge opposite the part 23, each opening 28 has a "C" shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body 21 than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end of this opening 28. A rod 61 placed at this closed end of the opening 28 is thus retained, by gravity, at this closed end.

[0087] As can also be seen in [Fig. 4], the free end 64 of a reel meter 65, perpendicular to the part of this meter 65 bearing the distance indications, can penetrate, at least partially, into a slot 38, 39, 40 or 41 to take vertical or horizontal measurements from the center of a pipe which will be supported by arcs of circles of the groove 22.

[0088] As can be seen in [Fig. 5], after placing a cylindrical pipe 76 in support on the arc of the circle with the smallest diameter of the groove 22, the part 30 forming a clasp can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 34, on the other hand, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 76 and holds it in position in support on this arc of the circle of the groove 22. It can also be seen, in [Fig. 5], that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 76 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 38 and vertically aligned with the vertical slot 41. The alternating dashed lines 70 and 71 illustrate these relationships.

[0089] As can be seen in [Fig. 6], after placing a cylindrical pipe 77 supported on the intermediate diameter arcs of the groove 22, the clasp 30 can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 35, on the other, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 77 and holds it in position supported on these arcs of the groove 22. It can also be seen in [Fig. 6] that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 77 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 39 and vertically aligned with the vertical slot 41. The alternating dashed lines 70 and 72 illustrate these relationships.

[0090] As can be seen in [Fig. 7], after placing a cylindrical pipe 78 supported on the highest diameter arcs of the groove 22, the clasp 30 can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 36, on the other, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 78 and holds it in position supported on these arcs of the groove 22. It can also be seen in [Fig. 7] that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 78 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 40 and vertically aligned with the vertical slot 41. The alternating dashed lines 70 and 73 illustrate these relationships.

[0091] Returning to [Fig. 6], an optional part 42, bolted into the four circular openings 37, is shown in dashed lines. This optional part 42, positioned on the opposite side of the body 21 from the clasp 30, has a generally rectangular shape and a continuous arc that overlaps the intermediate-diameter arcs of the groove 22. This optional part 42 increases the thickness of these arcs and completes them, thereby increasing the contact area of ​​the pipe on the collar 20 and reducing the risk of damage to the pipe 77 on the edges of these arcs, particularly if it is made of plastic, for example, PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This optional part 42 may itself be made of plastic, for example, PVC. Its thickness may be greater than that of part 21.

[0092] Of course, similar optional parts can be adapted to the other arcs of the 22-groove circle, to achieve the same effect.

[0093] Returning to [Fig. 7], we observe that the body 21 is fixed to a horizontal rail 75 with a U-shaped cross-section, by means of the insertion of the part 24 into this rail 75 and a washer and bolt fixing similar to that described for the vertical rail 54.

[0094] Furthermore, two elastic seals 79, for example made of rubber or silicone, and for example with a U-shaped cross-section, are placed on the arcs of circles supporting the pipe 78, in order to reduce the risk of damage to this pipe 78, especially if it is made of plastic.

[0095] The collar 80 of the second embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 8] shares many elements with the collar 20. However, the absence of the circular openings 37 prevents one collar 80 from being mounted on top of another by superimposing and bolting these openings 37. The absence of the horizontal slot 40 is compensated for by the presence of an upper wall 82 of the body 81 at the same height as the center of the larger diameter arcs. In this [Fig. 8], the clasp 30 is not shown.

[0096] The collar 83 of the third embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 9] shares many elements with the collar 20. However, the groove 85 has seven circular arcs instead of five for the groove 22 of the collar 20. The groove 85 can thus accommodate four pipes of different diameters. A fourth horizontal slot 88 corresponds to the largest additional diameter. The body 84, which corresponds to the body 21 of the collar 20, has, on one side of the groove 85, four openings 87 equidistant from a circular opening 33 and at the same distance as the circular openings of the clasp 89. Pipes with the four diameters corresponding to the circular arcs of the groove 85 can thus be retained in the manner shown opposite Figures 5 to 7. Part 23 of the collar 20 is replaced by part 86 of the collar 83.

[0097] Many elements of necklace 83 can be recognized in the necklace 90 of the fourth embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 10]. The absence of the horizontal slit 88 is compensated for by the presence of an upper edge of the body of the same height as the center of the arcs of the largest diameter. In this [Fig. 10], the clasp 89 is not shown.

[0098] In unclaimed embodiments, the body groove comprises only one arc of a circle corresponding to a single pipe diameter.

[0099] The fifth embodiment of a collar 91 shown in [Fig. 11] is similar to the collar 90 of the fourth embodiment. However, the lower part 26 is replaced by three parts 93, 94 and 95. The parts 93 and 95 are configured to be folded at 90 degrees around a horizontal fold (shown in dashed lines) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove 85 to form a support for at least one secondary clamping collar (not shown), as described opposite [Fig. 2], For this purpose, at least one bolt (not shown) can be fixed in one of the openings 27 and 96 of these different parts 93 and 95. Part 94 is configured to be folded at 90 degrees from these parts 93 and 95, around a horizontal fold (shown as a dashed line) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove 85. The combination of the two folds makes part 94 vertical, parallel to the body of the collar 91, as illustrated in [Fig.13], Part 94 constitutes a mechanical reinforcement of parts 93 and 95.

[0100] Furthermore, the contour of the groove 85 continues towards the axis of symmetry of the groove 85 before stamping, as illustrated in [Fig. 11]. Once stamped, this extension 92 is perpendicular to the body of the collar 91 and forms the arcs of the groove. It also has edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove 85. These edges have cylindrical surfaces for supporting pipes, visible in [Fig. 12]. These cylindrical surfaces of the extension 92 increase the contact area of ​​a pipe with the collar 91 and reduce the risk of damage to the pipe on the groove 85, particularly if it is made of plastic, for example, PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This extension 92 can be supplemented by a seal 79 as described opposite [Fig. 7] or by an optional part 42 as described opposite [Fig. 6].

[0101] It is noted that the collar which is the subject of the invention can be made of stamped, molded or machined metal, plastic, cast iron, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, for example.

[0102] Figure 14 shows, in front view, a sixth embodiment of a collar 97 of the invention, before folding. This collar 97 is similar to the collar 91 illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, but the shape of its groove is circular 98 and has a constant diameter. The clasp 99 has the same internal diameter as the groove 98 and threaded rods with the same spacing as the through openings 27 and 96. Thus, a nut can be used to secure the clasp to the body of the collar 97 around a pipe whose external diameter is equal to the internal diameter of the groove 98 and the clasp 99. In this embodiment, the clasp 99 is therefore a hose clamp bolted to the body of the collar 97. A different hose clamp is then used for each pipe diameter to be retained in the groove 22 or 85 of the collar of the invention.

[0103] In variants (not shown) of the sixth embodiment, the groove has a set of circular arcs, as described opposite figures 1 to 13. In variants (not shown) of the sixth embodiment, the body of the collar has through openings positioned to retain the pipe placed in the groove 98 with a circular arc clasp similar to clasp 30.

[0104] In variations of each of the first five embodiments, shown in Figures 1 to 13, the groove has a circular shape of constant diameter. In variations of each of the first five embodiments, shown in Figures 1 to 13, the clasp is a hose clamp of a known type, for example as shown in Figure 2 or 14.

[0105] In variations of each of the first four embodiments and of the sixth embodiment, each arc of the groove, 22 or 98, is formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove, as described opposite Figures 11 to 13.

[0106] Each of the embodiments of the collar which is the subject of the invention may include a seal made of elastic material on at least one arc of the groove, 22, 85 or 98.

[0107] EXAMPLES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NECKLACE THAT IS THE SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0108] A substation 300, the object of the invention, is located between a primary heating network 105 and a secondary heating network 110. The primary heating network 105 is heated by a boiler room comprising boilers and a fuel source, for example, a gas distribution network. The secondary network 110 is, for example, located in an apartment building. The boiler room heats the water circulating in the primary network 105, which then carries it to the heat exchange substation 300. The water in the secondary network 110 is heated there by exchanging heat with the water in the primary network 105 and circulates between the apartments in the building to provide heating. As illustrated in figures 17, 19 and 21, a substation of the invention comprises a support device of the invention, 400, 500 and 600, which comprises at least one base 405, 505, 605 and 606 provided with through holes 160, preferably tapped.This base 405, 505, 605, and 606 is, for example, formed from a rectangular galvanized steel plate folded on its four edges after its four corners have been removed. As shown alongside three example configurations, the position of the tapped holes 160 on the base 405, 505, and 605 can vary depending on the configuration. However, preferably, the bases 405, 505, and 605 are identical, and their tapped holes 160 are in the same positions. In [Fig. 21], the base 605 is complemented by a complementary base 606.

[0109] The 400, 500, and 600 devices also include feet 175 or 176 for attaching vertical uprights 170 perpendicular to the plane of the base 405, 505, 605, or 606. In the example shown in [Fig. 15], the vertical uprights are square-section profiles made of galvanized steel. In this example, the mounting feet 175 take the form of profiles with a vertical body 190, a horizontal L-shaped cross-section, and two equal sides. The lower ends 180 are bent at right angles to form horizontal tabs once the vertical upright 170 is positioned on the horizontal base 405, 505, 605, or 606 for mounting. The bases 175 are, for example, made by folding a rectangular plate of galvanized steel, then drilling, for example with a punch, oblong openings 185 on the legs 180 and oblong openings 195 on the body 190.Tapped holes 200 on the vertical uprights 170 allow screws to be screwed through the oblong openings 195. The mounting of the feet 175 of the vertical uprights 170 on the base 400, 500, 605 or 606 is done in the same way, by screwing screws through the oblong openings 185 of the legs 180, in the tapped holes 160.

[0110] In the example shown in [Fig. 23], the mounting brackets 176 are L-shaped in cross-section, with both sides equal. The lower end 181 is bent at a right angle to the upper part 191 to form horizontal legs once the vertical upright 170 is positioned on the horizontal base 405, 505, 605, or 606 for mounting. The brackets 176 are, for example, made by folding a galvanized steel plate and then punching oblong openings 186 in the horizontal part 181 and oblong openings 196 in the vertical part 191. Again, the tapped holes 200 in the vertical uprights 170 allow screws to be driven through the oblong openings 196.The mounting of the feet 176 of the vertical uprights 170 on the base 400, 500, 605 or 606 is done in the same way, by screwing screws through the oblong openings 186 of the horizontal parts 181 into the tapped holes 160.

[0111] In [Fig. 16], we observe various components of a substation 300 comprising a heat exchanger 350. A pressure gauge 305 is positioned on the hot water inlet from the primary network 105. A pressure gauge 310 is positioned on the hot water outlet leading to the secondary network 110. Similarly, temperature sensors 315 to 330 are respectively placed on the pipes.

[0112] We also observe, in [Fig. 16], a meter 355, a union or flange fitting 360 from the nominal diameter of 65 mm, a steel sleeve 365 for probe, a filter 370, a two-way valve 375, two screw T fittings 380 and 385, a threaded end 390 for safety valve and a union or flange fitting 395 from the nominal diameter of 50 mm, for filter.

[0113] All the elements illustrated in [Fig. 16] are supported by the vertical uprights 170, except for the heat exchanger 350, which is supported by its manufacturer's chassis, itself supported, for small power ratings, by the vertical uprights 170.

[0114] In the first configuration of a device 400, illustrated in figures 17 and 18, we find: a base 405 with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing vertical uprights 170 and collars 210 for supporting pipes 270. A heat exchanger 480 is connected to pipes 270.

[0115] In the second configuration of a device 500, illustrated in figures 19 and 20, we find the elements constituting the device 400, the numerical references being incremented by 100: a base 505 with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing vertical uprights 170 and collars 210 for supporting pipes 270. A heat exchanger 580 is connected to pipes 270.

[0116] In the third configuration of a device 600, illustrated in Figures 21 and 22, we find the elements constituting the device 400, with the numerical references incremented by 200: a base 605 equipped with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing the vertical uprights, and clamps 210 for supporting pipes 270. A heat exchanger 680 is connected to pipes 270. In this third configuration, an additional base 606 also carries at least one foot 175 for fixing the vertical upright 170, to support at least one pipe 270.

[0117] Figure 22 shows a complete substation 700, the subject of the invention, comprising the device of the invention in this third configuration. In Figure 22, the primary network pipes are on the left and the secondary network pipes are on the right. This substation 700 comprises:

[0118] - a 701 filter module on the primary network,

[0119] - a 702 valve on the secondary network,

[0120] - 703 thermometers, on each of the inputs and outputs of the primary and secondary networks,

[0121] - probes 704, on each of the inlets and outlets of the primary and secondary networks, - a pressure gauge 705 on the outlet of the heat exchanger 680 to the secondary network,

[0122] - a pressure gauge 706 on the inlet of the heat exchanger 680 from the primary network, - valves 707, in particular at each end of the pipes of each of the primary and secondary networks,

[0123] - a two-way valve (“V2V”) 708 on the inlet of the heat exchanger 680 from the primary network, and

[0124] - a meter module 709 on the output of the heat exchanger 680 to the primary network.

[0125] In variants (not shown), the substation of the invention includes vertical posts of greater height than the vertical posts 170 used to support, in addition to pipes, an electrical panel of the district heating substation.

[0126] In variants (not shown), the substation which is the subject of the invention includes horizontal uprights connecting the vertical uprights to support, in addition to pipes, an electrical panel of the district heating substation.

[0127] In variants (not shown), the substation which is the subject of the invention comprises steel plates connecting vertical and / or horizontal uprights.

[0128] As can be seen from Figures 18, 20, and 22, the support device of the invention is configured to support the heat exchanger in a cantilevered position, that is, outside the convex volume defined by the vertical supports. The two-part collar of the invention is configured to accommodate and clamp pipes of various standard diameters.

[0129] It should also be noted that the 405, 505, and 605 bases are identical, both in terms of construction and the positioning of the threaded openings. Thus, during installation, the same base is compatible with each of the three configurations of the substation that is the subject of the invention.

[0130] As can be understood from the preceding description, the present invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art with a support device and substation concept available in several models, all sharing the same basic design. This design allows for the adaptation of a complex system according to the orientation of existing or desired piping. The support device of the invention can accommodate different types of piping and / or different models of heat exchangers.

[0131] The modular design of the substations allows them to be sold and delivered as kits for direct installation in the building's reception area or on a skid, eliminating the need for a pipefitter / welder. This modular design also facilitates component replacement thanks to the interchangeability of the modules (repairs, power upgrades, etc.). Furthermore, this design allows for assembly without the heat exchanger and / or meter, thus reducing installation time. Each substation is designed to be compact once assembled, for example, with a footprint of 0.68 m³. 2 at 1.5 m 2 depending on the configuration. Maintenance is low-cost, simply by changing the modules. The invention also allows for retrofitting thanks to the interchangeability of the modules. For example, the clamps are compatible with nominal diameters ("DN") up to DN100, or 100 mm.

[0132] In this design, vertical supports allow the substation to be adapted to the piping of different types of heat exchangers.

[0133] Further information on the technical characteristics, purposes and advantages of the device and substation which are the subject of the invention is given below.

[0134] Due to its design, the collar and support components of the substation covered by the invention can have a reduced cost, for example, reduced by a factor of three for several of the configurations shown above. Their assembly is quick and easy: the substation is delivered as a kit, and assembly by a fitter or maintenance technician is completed in less than three hours, thanks to the included instructions.

[0135] The modular design allows for:

[0136] - Low-cost maintenance, simply by changing the modules, and

[0137] - Retrofitting thanks to the interchangeability of modules.

[0138] The design is conceived to accommodate various heat exchanger capacities and different orientations. Furthermore, the highly compact design allows the substation to be adapted to any premises.

[0139] The components supported by the kit, including the base, vertical supports, feet, and clamps, include:

[0140] - a heat exchanger,

[0141] - a filter,

[0142] - a pressure gauge on the primary circuit, and

[0143] - a pressure gauge on the secondary circuit.

[0144] Examples of heat exchanger power output are given below, according to the configurations described above:

[0145] Configuration 1: PN = 16, exchanger power = 0 - 200 KW.

[0146] Configuration 2: PN = 16, exchanger power = 200 - 500 KW.

[0147] Configuration 3: PN = 16, Exchanger power = 500 - 1000 KW.

[0148] These mobile substations can have several sets:

[0149] - Piping,

[0150] - Solenoid valve,

[0151] - Counter,

[0152] - Heat exchanger,

[0153] - Electrical box and / or panel, and

[0154] - Chassis.

[0155] This chassis can accommodate various heat exchanger capacities and design configurations. The modular chassis allows for simple assembly in just a few minutes. This optimizes transport costs and enables direct installation of substations in confined spaces.

[0156] The frame is height-adjustable: thanks to the vertical supports and clamps, the pipe positioning can be adjusted. The clamps are configured to accept different pipe diameters. For example, they can accommodate pipes up to DN100.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. A pipe support collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) comprising a body (21) formed from a metal plate and having a groove (22, 85, 98) whose sides have at least one arc of a circle, characterized in that it further comprises a folded lateral portion (23, 86) with a fold parallel to an axis of symmetry (70) of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body and having at least one opening (25) for the passage of a threaded rod, this folded lateral portion having, at at least one of its ends, an end portion (24) configured to be folded with a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (70) of the groove (22, 85), at a right angle to the folded lateral portion and having a substantially rectangular face whose dimensions correspond to the internal cross-section of a profiled rail whose cross-section transversal has a "U" shape.

2. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 1, in which the groove (22, 85) has sides comprising a succession of arcs of circles of diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the groove.

3. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 2, which further comprises a rigid clasp (30) for closing the groove (22, 85) around a pipe, mounted on fixing points of the body positioned so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove.

4. Necklace (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 3, wherein the clasp (30) has two openings (31, 32) for the passage of a threaded rod and the body (21) has, on one side of the groove (22, 85), a first opening (33) for the passage of said threaded rod and, on the other side of the groove, as many second openings (34, 35, 36) for the passage of said threaded rod as there are different diameters of the arcs of the groove, the distances between the first opening and each of the second openings being equal to the distance between the two openings of the clasp.

5. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises at least one linear slot (38, 39, 40, 41) for the insertion of one end of a reel meter (65), a slot of which a linear wall is on a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove (22, 85).

6. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a lower portion (26, 93, 95) folded along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at right angles to the body, this part having an opening (27, 96) for the passage of a threaded rod.

7. Necklace (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the body (21) has a plurality of lateral openings (28) opening onto the edge of the body, each of these lateral openings having a “C” shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end.

8. Collar (91) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which each arc of the groove (85) is formed by stamping to have edges (92) folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove.

9. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which comprises a seal made of elastic material (79) on at least two arcs of the groove (22, 85).

10. Device (400, 410, 500, 600, 610) for constructing a mechanical system comprising at least one pipeline, which includes: - at least one horizontal base (405, 505, 605, 606), - amounts (170, 620), - a plurality of feet (175) for fixing uprights in a vertical position on a horizontal base, and - on at least one vertical post, a collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

11. Device (400, 410, 500, 600, 610) according to claim 10, wherein at least one base (405, 505, 605) has through holes (160) corresponding to at least two district heating substation configurations.

12. District heating substation (700) for thermally connecting a primary network and a secondary network, which comprises: - a device (600) according to one of claims 10 or 11, - pipes supported and held in position by clamps of the device, and - a heat exchanger (680) supported by the device.

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