boiler

Abstract

Provided is a boiler capable of heating a fluid using a heating mechanism provided with a heating element inside a container, and capable of efficiently using heat generated by the heating element and heating the fluid appropriately according to various conditions. The boiler is provided with a heating element and a container provided with the heating element inside and capable of being filled with a gas having a specific heat capacity higher than that of air inside, and heats a fluid using heat generated by the heating element, wherein the boiler is provided with a controller that controls the amount of heat generated by the heating element in a state where the gas is supplied to the container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to boilers. Background Technology

[0002] Boilers have historically been widely used for various purposes, including industrial and commercial applications. A boiler contains a heating mechanism for heating the supplied fluid, such as water or a heat transfer medium. One example of this heating mechanism is a structure in which a heating element is located inside the container.

[0003] Furthermore, various specific methods of such heating mechanisms can be cited. As one example, Japanese Patent No. 6448074 (Patent Document 1) discloses a heating system in which a heating element (reactant) with multiple metal nanoparticles composed of hydrogen storage metal or hydrogen storage alloy formed on its surface is disposed inside a container. According to Patent Document 1, in this heating system, excess heat is generated by supplying hydrogen-based gas that facilitates heating into the container, causing hydrogen atoms to be absorbed and stored within the metal nanoparticles.

[0004] It should be noted that, as described in Patent Document 1, the following main idea is also presented: a heating element made of palladium is placed inside a container, deuterium gas is supplied to the container, and an exothermic reaction is generated by heating the inside of the container. Furthermore, regarding the exothermic phenomenon of generating excess heat (output enthalpy higher than input enthalpy) using hydrogen storage metals or hydrogen storage alloys, researchers from various countries have discussed in detail the mechanism of generating excess heat and reported the occurrence of exothermic phenomena. It should also be noted that, in addition to Patent Document 1, US Patent No. 9,182,365 (Patent Document 2) can also be cited as relevant literature in this technical field.

[0005] Importantly, in boilers that heat fluids using a heating mechanism with a heating element installed inside the container, the heat generated by the heating element can be utilized efficiently, and the fluid can be heated appropriately according to various conditions. For example, when the amount of steam required by the boiler from the outside (steam load) varies, it is necessary to suppress water heating when the steam load is relatively low, and to promote water heating when the steam load is relatively high. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a boiler that can heat a fluid by means of a heating mechanism in which a heating element is provided inside a container, and can efficiently utilize the heat generated by the heating element and appropriately heat the fluid according to various conditions.

[0007] The boiler heating element of the present invention has the following structure: a heating element; and a container in which the heating element is disposed inside and can be filled with a gas having a higher specific heat capacity than air. The boiler uses the heat generated by the heating element to heat a fluid. The boiler includes a controller that controls the amount of heat generated by the heating element when the gas is supplied to the container. According to this structure, a heating mechanism with a heating element disposed inside the container can heat a fluid, efficiently utilize the heat generated by the heating element, and appropriately heat the fluid according to various conditions. Furthermore, more specifically, the boiler can also be configured such that it has a circulation path serving as a path for gas circulation, a portion of which includes the interior of the container.

[0008] Furthermore, more specifically, the above structure can also be configured such that the gas is a hydrogen-based gas, the heating element is a reactant, and the surface of the reactant is provided with metal nanoparticles composed of hydrogen-storing metals, which absorb and store hydrogen atoms to generate excess heat. It should be noted that the hydrogen-based gas in this application is deuterium, protium, or a mixture thereof. Additionally, the "hydrogen-storing metals" in this application refer to hydrogen-storing metals such as Pd, Ni, Pt, and Ti, or hydrogen-storing alloys containing one or more of these metals.

[0009] More specifically, as described above, the boiler may also be configured such that it includes a heater, and the controller controls the calorific value by adjusting the circulation volume of the gas in the circulation path or the temperature of the heater.

[0010] Furthermore, as described above, more specifically, the boiler may be configured such that it includes a burner, and the controller controls the calorific value by adjusting the circulation volume of the gas in the circulation path or the temperature of the burner. Moreover, as another specific configuration, the boiler may be configured such that it includes a hydrogen burner for igniting hydrogen-based gases, and the hydrogen-based gas supply source for the hydrogen burner is shared with the interior of the container.

[0011] More specifically, as described above, the boiler can be configured such that it heats water, which is the fluid, and supplies the generated steam to the outside, while the controller controls the heat generation based on the pressure of the steam supplied to the outside. According to this configuration, it is easy to control the heat generation of the heating element, thereby approximating the steam pressure. Furthermore, more specifically, the boiler can also be configured such that it heats a heat medium, which is the fluid, and supplies it to the outside, while the controller controls the heat generation based on the temperature of the heated heat medium.

[0012] Furthermore, as described above, more specifically, the boiler can also be configured such that it includes a heat-conducting pipe through which the fluid flows, the heat-conducting pipe being arranged to surround the heating element. According to this configuration, the heat generated by the heating element can be transferred very efficiently to the water being heated.

[0013] More specifically, the above structure can also be configured such that the heat-conducting pipe extends in a spiral shape and is arranged to surround the heating element. Furthermore, more specifically, the above structure can also be configured such that the heat-conducting pipe is multiple water pipes extending vertically and arranged to surround the heating element. Additionally, more specifically, the above structure can also be configured such that the heat-conducting pipe is heated by the heat generated by the heating element through conduction, convection, and radiation.

[0014] More specifically, as described above, the boiler may also include: a heat exchanger disposed outside the container, through which gas heated by the heating element or a fluid serving as a heat exchange medium with the gas passes on the heating side; and a bypass path disposed parallel to the heat exchanger and bypassing the heating side of the heat exchanger. More specifically, the controller may also regulate the flow rate of the fluid flowing in the bypass path based on the pressure of steam supplied from the heat exchanger to the outside. Furthermore, more specifically, the controller may also regulate the flow rate and the calorific value of the heating element based on the pressure of steam supplied from the heat exchanger to the outside.

[0015] More specifically, as described above, the boiler may also include: an air pump disposed in the circulation path; and a gas receiving unit disposed on the primary side of the air pump, receiving the gas from the outside. Furthermore, more specifically, the circulation path may be connected to the upper and lower parts of the container. Furthermore, more specifically, a heat-conducting pipe may be disposed between the side wall of the container and the heating element. More specifically, the boiler may also include a water pipe heated by heat generated by the heating element, through which water, the fluid, passes and is heated, and the water pipe is arranged to surround the heating element. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The above and other objects and features of the present invention will become clearer with reference to the following description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the following.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram of the path of water passing through the heat pipes of boiler 1.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the operation of the controller in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the operation of the controller in the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 3 according to the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 4 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 5 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 6 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 7 according to the seventh embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram of the path of water passing through the heat pipes of boiler 7.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 8 according to the eighth embodiment.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0030] Boilers 1-8

[0031] 11 Containers

[0032] 11a Sidewall

[0033] 11b Top and bottom

[0034] 11c Bottom

[0035] 12 Reacting bodies

[0036] 12a Heating element

[0037] 13 Heaters

[0038] 14 Gas Path

[0039] 14a Bypass Path

[0040] 15 Gas receiving section

[0041] 16 air pumps

[0042] 17 Gas Filter

[0043] 18. Control valve

[0044] 18s hydrogen burner

[0045] 21 Separator

[0046] 22 Fluid Path

[0047] 22a heat pipe

[0048] 22b Bypass Path

[0049] 23 Water Receiving Section

[0050] 24 Water pumps

[0051] 25 Pressure Sensor

[0052] 25a Heat medium outlet

[0053] 25b Hot medium inlet

[0054] 26 Controllers

[0055] 40 Heat transfer path

[0056] 40A heat pipe

[0057] 50 heat exchanger

[0058] CR (Cycle Path) Detailed Implementation

[0059] The following is a reference to each appendix. Figure 1 The boilers of various embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

[0060] 1. First Implementation Method

[0061] First, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the boiler 1 includes a container 11, a reactant 12, a heater 13, a gas path 14, a gas receiving unit 15, a gas pump 16, a gas filter 17, a separator 21, a fluid path 22, a water receiving unit 23, a water pump 24, a pressure sensor 25, and a controller 26.

[0062] It should be noted that, Figure 1 (To be continued) Figure 4The container 11 (and its interior) is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view when it is cut in half with a plane that roughly divides the container 11 into two parts. The vertical and horizontal directions (the vertical direction is the same as the vertical direction) are shown in the figure. Additionally, Figure 1 ( Figure 4 The configuration of the heat pipe 22a is roughly shown by a single-dotted line (the same applies to other heat pipes).

[0063] The container 11, when viewed as a whole, is formed into a cylindrical shape with bottoms at both the upper and lower ends along the vertical axis, and is designed to seal the interior with gas. More specifically, the container 11 has a cylindrical sidewall 11a formed by the heat-conducting pipe 22a (described later), and the upper side of the sidewall 11a is closed by an upper bottom 11b, and the lower side of the sidewall 11a is closed by a lower bottom 11c. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the sidewall 11a of the container 11 is cylindrical as an example, but it can also be formed into other cylindrical shapes. Alternatively, a canister lid may be provided on the outer periphery of the sidewall 11a, and a heat-insulating material may be provided between the sidewall 11a and the canister lid. Alternatively, the sidewall 11a itself may function as a canister lid, and the canister lid may be omitted.

[0064] The reactant 12 is constructed by depositing numerous metal nanoparticles on the surface of a support that is integrally formed into a fine mesh. This support uses a hydrogen storage alloy (hydrogen storage metal or hydrogen storage alloy) as the raw material and is formed into a cylindrical shape with bottoms at both ends along its vertical axis. The upper surface of the reactant 12 is connected to the gas path 14, allowing gas flowing into the reactant 12 through the mesh-like gaps to be discharged into the gas path 14. In this embodiment, three reactants 12 are arranged in a left-right direction inside the container 11.

[0065] The heater 13 is spirally wound around the side of the reaction body 12, which is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape, and is configured to heat up using supplied electricity. For example, a ceramic heater can be used as the heater 13. By heating the reaction body 12 with the heat generated by the heater 13, the temperature of the reaction body 12 can be raised to a predetermined reaction temperature that easily produces the reaction required to generate excess heat as described later. It should be noted that the controller 26 can regulate the temperature of the heater 13 by controlling the power supplied to it.

[0066] The control of the power supplied to the heater 13 by the controller 26 can also be performed in a manner that brings the temperature of the heater 13 closer to the target value. For example, the controller 26 may detect the temperature of the heater 13, and if the detected value is lower than the target value, increase the power supplied to the heater 13, and if the detected value is higher than the target value, decrease the power supplied to the heater 13.

[0067] Gas path 14 is disposed outside container 11 and forms gas circulation path CR. A portion of gas circulation path CR includes the interior of container 11, with one end connected to the upper surface of each reactant 12 and the other end connected to the interior of container 11. In more detail, the portions of gas path 14 connected to the upper surface of each reactant 12 merge within container 11, forming a single path that extends through the upper bottom 11b, and then further extends through the lower bottom 11c via gas receiving section 15, gas pump 16, and gas filter 17, connecting to the interior of container 11.

[0068] The gas receiving unit 15 receives a supply of hydrogen-based gases (deuterium, protium, or a mixture thereof) from an external supply source, allowing the supplied hydrogen-based gases to flow into the gas path 14. For example, when hydrogen-based gases are supplied to the gas receiving unit 15 from a storage tank that has been pre-stored with hydrogen-based gases, the storage tank becomes the supply source of the hydrogen-based gases.

[0069] The air pump 16 controls its rotational speed, for example, via an inverter, and causes gas in the gas path 14 to flow from the upstream side to the downstream side at a flow rate corresponding to that rotational speed (i.e., to the gas in the gas path 14). Figure 1 (The direction is indicated by the dashed arrow in the middle). It should be noted that the controller 26 can adjust the amount of gas circulating in the circulation path CR, including the gas path 14, by controlling the rotation speed of the air pump 16.

[0070] The speed control performed by the controller 26 can be performed in a way that brings the amount of gas circulating in the circulation path CR close to the target value. For example, the controller 26 can detect the amount of gas circulating and, if the detected value is lower than the target value, increase the speed of the air pump 16 to increase the amount of gas circulating, and if the detected value is higher than the target value, decrease the speed of the air pump 16 to decrease the amount of gas circulating.

[0071] Gas filter 17 removes impurities from the gas in gas path 14 (especially impurities that hinder the reaction and cause excess heat in reactant 12). Separator 21 receives steam generated by heating water (an example of a fluid) as it passes through heat pipe 22a, and performs gas-water separation on the steam (separation of condensate contained in the steam). The steam separated by gas-water separation in separator 21 can be supplied to the outside of boiler 1.

[0072] Fluid path 22 is the path for water from water receiving section 23 to separator 21. A portion of fluid path 22 forms heat-conducting pipe 22a, which forms the aforementioned sidewall 11a. Furthermore, a water pump 24 is positioned midway along fluid path 22, closest to the downstream side of water receiving section 23. It should be noted that in the path of fluid path 22 upstream of heat-conducting pipe 22a, liquid water supplied from water receiving section 23 flows, while in the path downstream of heat-conducting pipe 22a (between container 11 and separator 21), water (vaporized) heated by heat-conducting pipe 22a flows.

[0073] The water receiving unit 23 appropriately receives a supply of water from the outside, which serves as a source of steam, causing the supplied water to flow into the fluid path 22. The water pump 24 causes the water in the fluid path 22 to flow from the upstream side to the downstream side (i.e., towards the...). Figure 1 (The direction indicated by the solid arrow in the middle).

[0074] The heat pipe 22a extends spirally from the lower bottom 11c to the upper bottom 11b in a manner that forms the cylindrical sidewall 11a of the container 11. That is, the heat pipe 22a extends spirally in the axial direction (vertical direction) of the cylindrical sidewall 11a, such that there are no gaps between adjacent portions of the heat pipe 22a. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the inner wall of the heat pipe 22a is quadrilateral, but it can also be circular or other shapes.

[0075] Pressure sensor 25 continuously detects the pressure (hereinafter referred to as "steam pressure") of the steam supplied from separator 21 to the outside. It should be noted that for the required steam quantity (steam load) from the outside, when the steam supply from boiler 1 is high, the detected value (steam pressure value) of pressure sensor 25 is high; conversely, when the steam supply from boiler 1 is low, the detected value of pressure sensor 25 is low. The detection value information of pressure sensor 25 is continuously transmitted to controller 26.

[0076] The controller 26 includes a processing unit and controls the heat generation of the reactant 12 based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25. The specific operation of the controller 26 will be described in detail again.

[0077] Next, the operation of boiler 1 will be explained. In boiler 1, hydrogen-based gas is supplied from an external supply source to the gas receiving unit 15, filling the gas circulation path CR, which includes the interior of container 11 and gas path 14, with hydrogen-based gas. The filled hydrogen-based gas, under the action of gas pump 16, is then circulated through the circulation path CR to... Figure 1 The direction indicated by the dashed arrow is cyclical.

[0078] At this time, inside the container 11, hydrogen gas flows into the interior of the reactant 12 through the mesh-like gaps and is then discharged into the gas path 14 connected to the upper part of the reactant 12. Simultaneously, the reactant 12 is heated by the heater 13. Thus, when the reactant 12 is heated by the heater 13 while hydrogen gas is supplied to the interior of the container 11, hydrogen atoms are absorbed and stored in the metal nanoparticles disposed in the reactant 12, generating excess heat above the heating temperature of the heater 13. In this way, the reactant 12 functions as a heat source by performing a reaction that generates excess heat. The principle of the reaction that generates this excess heat is, for example, the same as the principle of the reaction that generates excess heat disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0079] The hydrogen gas within the circulation path CR inside container 11 is purified by passing through gas filter 17. Therefore, high-purity hydrogen gas, free of impurities, is continuously supplied to container 11. Thus, by stably supplying high-purity hydrogen gas to the reactant 12, a state conducive to inducing excess heat output is maintained, effectively heating the reactant 12.

[0080] In addition, in parallel with the action of heating the aforementioned reactant 12, water is supplied from the outside to the water receiving unit 23. This supplied water, under the action of the water pump 24, flows through the fluid path 22 into the water receiving unit 23. Figure 1 The direction of flow is indicated by the solid arrow.

[0081] As water flowing within fluid path 22 passes through heat-conducting pipes 22a forming the sidewall 11a of container 11, it is heated by the heat generated by the reactant 12. That is, the heat generated by the reactant 12 is transferred through convection (heat transfer), heat conduction, and radiation within container 11 via hydrogen-based gas-based convection (heat transfer), heat conduction, and radiation to the heat-conducting pipes 22a, thereby heating the water flowing inside the container through the high-temperature heat-conducting pipes 22a.

[0082] Figure 2 The solid arrows roughly illustrate the path of water through heat pipe 22a. As shown in the figure, water entering heat pipe 22a from inlet α (the lowermost part of heat pipe 22a) travels along the spiral-shaped passage within heat pipe 22a and exits as steam towards separator 21 from outlet β (the uppermost part of heat pipe 22a). At this time, the water passing through heat pipe 22a is heated by the heat generated by reactant 12, causing the heat pipe 22a (side wall 11a of container 11) to heat up, and its temperature rises.

[0083] In this way, the water flowing in the fluid path 22 is heated as it passes through the heat pipe 22a, and its temperature rises, eventually becoming steam. This steam is sent to the separator 21, where its dryness is improved through gas-water separation, and then it is supplied to the outside of the boiler 1.

[0084] The amount of steam supplied from separator 21 to the outside can be adjusted, for example, according to the demand for steam from the outside. In addition, in boiler 1, water is supplied to water receiving unit 23 sequentially in accordance with the amount of steam supplied to the outside, that is, in accordance with the amount of water reduction, so that steam can be continuously generated and supplied to the outside.

[0085] Here, the calorific value of the reactant 12 varies depending on the temperature of the heater 13 and the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas. Specifically, a higher heater 13 temperature promotes the reaction that generates excess heat in the reactant 12, thus increasing the calorific value of the reactant 12. Furthermore, a higher circulation rate of the hydrogen gas means more hydrogen gas in the container 11 acts on the reactant 12, promoting the reaction that generates excess heat, thereby increasing the calorific value of the reactant 12. Additionally, a higher calorific value in the reactant 12 further promotes the heating of the water in the heat pipe 22a, generating more steam and increasing the steam pressure.

[0086] Using this, controller 26 controls the heat generated by reactant 12 to ensure the vapor pressure is appropriate (the pressure sensor 25 detects the value within a pre-set appropriate range). See below for further details. Figure 3 The flowchart shown illustrates specific examples of the actions of controller 26.

[0087] The controller 26 obtains the latest information on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25 and continuously monitors whether the detection value is within an appropriate range (steps S1 to S3). It is desirable that this appropriate range be set in advance according to the specifications of the boiler 1, steam load, etc.

[0088] Then, if the detected value exceeds the appropriate range (as in step S2), the controller 26 adjusts the temperature of the heater 13 by reducing the predetermined value A1 (step S11), adjusts the circulation amount of hydrogen gas by reducing the predetermined value A2 (step S12), and returns to the action in step S1.

[0089] It should be noted that the aforementioned values ​​A1 and A2 are ideally set to allow for a moderate change in the calorific value of the reactant 12. By performing the adjustments in steps S11 to S12, the calorific value of the reactant 12 is reduced, and the vapor pressure decreases to approach an appropriate range.

[0090] On the other hand, if the detected value is below the appropriate range (in step S3), the controller 26 adjusts the temperature of the heater 13 by increasing the predetermined value B1 (in step S21), adjusts the circulation volume of the hydrogen gas by increasing the predetermined value B2 (in step S22), and returns to the operation in step S1.

[0091] It should be noted that the desired values ​​B1 and B2 are set to allow for a moderate change in the calorific value of reactant 12. By performing adjustments in steps S21-S22, the calorific value of reactant 12 is increased, and the vapor pressure rises to approach an appropriate range. By performing... Figure 3 The series of actions shown allows for the control of the heat generated by the reactant 12 to ensure an appropriate vapor pressure.

[0092] The adjustments in steps S11 and S21 (temperature adjustment of heater 13) can be achieved by appropriately changing the power supplied to heater 13. Furthermore, the adjustments in steps S12 and S22 (hydrogen gas circulation rate adjustment) can be achieved by appropriately changing the rotational speed of gas pump 16.

[0093] In addition, Figure 3 In the series of actions shown, the temperature of heater 13 and the circulation rate of hydrogen gas are adjusted based on the detection value of pressure sensor 25. This allows for a balanced change in both parameters to control the heat generation of reactant 12. However, depending on the situation, only one parameter may be adjusted instead of both. Alternatively, it is possible to arbitrarily set which parameter is adjusted.

[0094] Furthermore, by pre-setting allowable ranges for the values ​​of each item, the controller 26 can operate within these allowable ranges. For example, even if the temperature of the heater 13 has reached the upper limit of the allowable range, and the detection value of the pressure sensor 25 is below the appropriate range (as in step S3), the adjustment to increase the temperature of the heater 13 is omitted (step S21), and only the adjustment to increase the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas is performed (step S22). In this way, the drawbacks caused by excessive temperature rise of the heater 13 (such as heater 13 malfunction) can be prevented.

[0095] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0096] Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the second embodiment is essentially the same as the first embodiment, except for the shape of the heating element and related points. In the following description, the focus will be on the differences from the first embodiment, and descriptions of matters common to the first embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0097] Figure 4This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 2 in the second embodiment. In the boiler 1 of the first embodiment, a reactor 12 is used as the heating element, but in the second embodiment, a general heating element 12a is used instead of the reactor 12. It should be noted that the heating element 12a here is, as an example, a halogen heater that heats up by supplying electricity. In addition, for convenience, the shape and size of the heating element 12a are set to be the same as those of the reactor 12. When the heating element 12a is used as the heating element, there is no need to generate excess heat as in the first embodiment, and therefore no device equivalent to the heater 13 is needed, so it is omitted.

[0098] In boiler 2, instead of reactant 12, heat emitted by heating element 12a is used to heat heat pipe 22a. Water passing through heat pipe 22a is heated by heat transferred from heat pipe 22a (side wall 11a of container 11), causing its temperature to rise. Furthermore, in this method, the aforementioned reaction for generating excess heat is unnecessary; the temperature of heating element 12a is directly controlled by electrical control, thereby enabling moderate heating of water to generate steam.

[0099] Furthermore, in boiler 2, controller 26 can control the heat output of heating element 12a (heating body) by adjusting the power supplied to heating element 12a. See below for further details. Figure 5 The process shown Figure 1 A specific example of the operation of the controller 26 in the second embodiment will be described.

[0100] The controller 26 obtains the latest information on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25 and continuously monitors whether the detection value is within an appropriate range (steps S1 to S3). Ideally, this appropriate range should be set in advance according to the specifications of the boiler 2, steam load, etc.

[0101] Then, if the detected value exceeds the appropriate range (as in step S2), the controller 26 adjusts the temperature of the heating element 12a by reducing the predetermined value A4 (step S14) and returns to the operation of step S1. It should be noted that it is desirable that the aforementioned value A4 is set to allow for a moderate change in the heat output of the heating element 12a. By performing the adjustment in step S14, the heat output of the heating element 12a is reduced, and the vapor pressure decreases to approach the appropriate range.

[0102] On the other hand, if the detected value is below the appropriate range (as in step S3), the controller 26 adjusts the temperature of the heating element 12a by increasing the predetermined value B4 (step S24) and returns to the operation in step S1. It should be noted that it is desirable that the aforementioned value B4 is set to allow for a moderate change in the heat output of the heating element 12a. By performing the adjustment in step S24, the heat output of the heating element 12a increases, and the vapor pressure rises to approach the appropriate range. Figure 5 The series of actions shown enables control over the heat output of the heating element 12a to maintain an appropriate vapor pressure.

[0103] The boilers 1 and 2 described above, in their respective embodiments, include a heating element and a container 11 containing the heating element, and are boilers that heat supplied water to generate steam. Furthermore, each boiler 1 and 2 includes a heat-conducting pipe 22a. This heat-conducting pipe 22a is heated by the heat generated by the heating element when the container 11 is filled with a gas whose specific heat capacity is higher than that of air (in this embodiment, hydrogen-based gases). The water passing through the heat-conducting pipe 22a (the water that becomes the source of steam) is heated. It should be noted that, for example, at 200°C and 1 atm, the specific heat capacity of air is approximately 1,026 J / kg°C, while the specific heat capacity of hydrogen is approximately 14,528 J / kg°C, which is significantly higher than that of air. Additionally, boiler 1 uses a reactant 12 as the heating element, and boiler 2 uses a heating element 12a as the heating element.

[0104] According to each of the boilers 1 and 2, water can be heated to generate steam by using a heating mechanism with a heating element installed inside the container 11, and the heat generated by the heating element can be efficiently transferred to the water. As a result, the heat generated by the heating element can be efficiently transferred to the water, which becomes the source of steam.

[0105] Furthermore, since the interior of container 11 is filled with a gas that has a higher specific heat capacity than air, heat transfer is better compared to filling it with ordinary air, allowing the heat generated by the heating element to be efficiently transferred to the water, which becomes the source of steam. In addition, due to the high specific heat capacity, the temperature of the gas is less prone to fluctuation, enabling more stable heat transfer to the water.

[0106] Furthermore, the heat pipe 22a is formed along the entire circumference of the cylindrical sidewall 11a, thus enabling efficient transfer of heat generated by the heating element to the water, which becomes the source of steam. In particular, in this embodiment, the heat pipe 22a is arranged to surround the heating element, thereby encompassing almost the entire circumference of the sidewall 11a and transferring heat generated by the heating element to the water, which becomes the source of steam, with minimal waste. It should be noted that in the above embodiments, the heat pipe extends in a spiral shape and is arranged to surround the heating element, but the method of surrounding the heating element is not limited to this. For example, multiple heat pipes extending in the vertical direction may also be used to surround the heating element.

[0107] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the sidewall 11a used to seal the gas inside the container 11 is formed by a heat-conducting pipe 22a. However, alternatively, the sidewall 11a and the heat-conducting pipe 22a can be provided separately beforehand, with the heat-conducting pipe 22a located inside the sidewall 11a (i.e., inside the container 11). In this case, the heat-conducting pipe 22a can be heated by the heat generated by the heating element in an environment where the container 11 is filled with a gas having a higher specific heat capacity than air. In this case, the heat-conducting pipe 22a does not need to function as a sidewall 11a, but it is preferable that there is a gap between the portions of adjacent heat-conducting pipes 22a, making it easier to receive heat from the heating element.

[0108] Furthermore, in each boiler 1 and 2, the gas is circulated in a circulation path CR that includes a portion of the interior of container 11. This activates the movement of the gas within container 11, thereby expecting more efficient heat transfer from the gas to the side wall 11a. It should be noted that in the boiler 2 of the second embodiment, where a reaction that does not generate excess heat is not required, the mechanism for circulating the gas within container 11 can be omitted; instead, a mechanism for supplying and filling the container 11 with gas can be provided. Additionally, since a reaction that generates excess heat is not required in boiler 2, a gas other than hydrogen-based gases can be used, as it has a higher specific heat capacity than air.

[0109] Furthermore, in each boiler 1 and 2, since a controller 26 is provided to control the heat output of the heating element, the water can be appropriately heated according to various conditions. In particular, in the embodiments described above, since the heat output is controlled based on steam pressure (the pressure at which steam is supplied to the outside), it is easy to control the heat output and make the steam pressure appropriate. However, the control of the heat output of the heating element of the present invention is not limited to control based on steam pressure, and can also be based on control based on various other information.

[0110] It should be noted that in the above embodiments, the water that becomes the source of steam is arranged to flow in the fluid path 22 containing the heat pipe 22a. However, it is also possible to replace this method by having a heat medium (a fluid used for heat medium) flow in the fluid path 22 and using the heat medium to heat the water that becomes the source of steam.

[0111] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0112] Next, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that in the following description, the focus will be on the aspects that differ from the first embodiment, and the description of aspects common to the first embodiment will sometimes be omitted. Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 3 in the third embodiment. The boiler 3 is configured as a heat medium boiler that supplies heat medium Y (an example of a fluid) to the load Z. Instead of the parts 21 to 25 in the first embodiment that involve water supply and steam generation, a heat medium path 40 is provided to allow the heat medium Y to flow. It should be noted that the heat medium path 40 includes a heat pipe 40a with the same structure as the heat pipe 22a in the first embodiment, which allows the heat medium Y to flow. The heat pipe 40a extends spirally from the lower bottom 11c of the container 11 to the upper bottom 11b.

[0113] A heat medium path 40 is provided with a heat medium outlet 25a located downstream of the heat pipe 40a and a heat medium inlet 25b located upstream of the heat pipe 40a, allowing a load Z to be connected between the heat medium outlet 25a and the heat medium inlet 25b. It should be noted that the load Z can be, for example, various devices utilizing the heat of the heat medium Y. The heat medium Y flowing out of the heat medium outlet 25a flows into the heat medium inlet 25b after passing through the load Z. Therefore, in a boiler 3 connected to the load Z, as in... Figure 6 As indicated by the solid arrow, the heat medium Y can circulate in the circulation path containing the heat medium path 40 and the load Z, and the heat generated by the reactant 12 (heating element) can be continuously supplied to the load Z.

[0114] Furthermore, in boiler 3, controller 26 can control the heat generation of reactor 12 based on the detected temperature of heat medium Y obtained by temperature sensors or the like. In this embodiment, the temperature of heat medium Y at heat medium outlet 25a (outlet temperature of heat medium Y) is detected, and controller 26 controls the heat generation of reactor 12 based on this temperature.

[0115] To explain more specifically, controller 26 replaces the actions of steps S1 to S3 in the first embodiment (see reference). Figure 3The system obtains the latest information on the temperature of the heat medium Y and continuously monitors whether the detected value is within an appropriate range. Ideally, this appropriate range should be appropriately set in advance based on, for example, the specifications of the boiler 3 and the load Z. In this embodiment, if the temperature of the heat medium Y exceeds the appropriate range, the temperature of the heater 13 is lowered, and the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas is reduced; conversely, if it is below the appropriate range, the temperature of the heater 13 is raised, and the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas is increased, thereby controlling the heat generation of the reactant 12 and ensuring that the temperature of the heat medium Y is appropriate.

[0116] It should be noted that the specific method of controlling the heat generation of the reactant 12 based on the temperature of the heat medium Y is not limited to the above-described methods. For example, the temperature of the heat medium Y at the heat medium inlet 25b (the return temperature of the heat medium Y) can be detected in advance, and the controller 26 can control the heat generation of the reactant 12 based on this temperature. Alternatively, as another example, the controller 26 can control the heat generation of the reactant 12 based on the temperature difference between the heat medium Y at the heat medium outlet 25a and the heat medium Y at the heat medium inlet 25b.

[0117] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0118] Next, the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the fourth embodiment is essentially the same as the first embodiment, except for the shape of the heating element and related points. In the following description, the focus will be on the aspects that differ from the first embodiment, and descriptions of aspects common to the first embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0119] Figure 7 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 4 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in the figure, the boiler 4 includes a container 11, a reaction body 12, a heater 13, a gas path 14, a gas receiving unit 15, a gas pump 16, a gas filter 17, a controller 26, a heat exchanger 50, and a pressure sensor 25, etc.

[0120] The container 11, when viewed as a whole, is formed into a cylindrical shape with bottoms at both the upper and lower ends along the vertical axis, and is designed to seal the interior with gas. More specifically, the container 11 has cylindrical sidewalls 11a, with the upper side of the sidewalls 11a closed by an upper bottom 11b and the lower side of the sidewalls 11a closed by a lower bottom 11c. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the sidewalls 11a of the container 11 are cylindrical as an example, but other cylindrical shapes are also possible. In addition, a canister cover can be provided on the outer periphery of the sidewalls 11a, and heat-insulating material can be provided between the sidewalls 11a and the canister cover.

[0121] Gas path 14 is disposed outside container 11 and forms a gas circulation path CR. A portion of the gas circulation path CR includes the interior of container 11, with one end connected to the upper surface of each reactant 12 and the other end connected to the interior of container 11. In more detail, the portions of gas path 14 connected to the upper surface of each reactant 12 merge within container 11, forming a single path that passes through the upper bottom 11b, and then sequentially passes through heat exchanger 50, gas receiving section 15, gas pump 16, and gas filter 17 to pass through the lower bottom 11c and connect to the interior of container 11.

[0122] The heat exchanger 50 is configured to include a portion of the gas path 14 (a portion upstream of the gas receiving section 15) and is supplied with water, which serves as the source of steam. Thus, by exchanging heat between the gas in the gas path 14 and the supplied water, the heat exchanger 50 can heat the water to generate steam, which is then supplied to the outside of the boiler 4. It should be noted that the heat exchanger 50 in this embodiment is designed to heat water to generate steam, but alternatively, a heat exchanger designed to heat water to generate warm water can also be used.

[0123] As the heat exchanger 50, for example, a plate type or shell-and-tube type heat exchanger can be used, or a steam generator of various shapes can be used. As an example of this steam generator, a structure can be described as follows: it has a storage space for storing supplied water and a gas path 14 disposed in the storage space, so that the heat of the gas in the gas path 14 is transferred to the stored water.

[0124] Pressure sensor 25 continuously monitors the pressure (steam pressure) of the steam supplied from heat exchanger 50 to the outside. It should be noted that for the amount of steam requested from the outside (steam load), when the amount of steam supplied from heat exchanger 50 is large, the detected value (steam pressure value) of pressure sensor 25 is high, and conversely, when the amount of steam supplied from heat exchanger 50 is small, the detected value of pressure sensor 25 is low.

[0125] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, a bypass path 14a is provided in the gas path 14 of boiler 4 such that it connects the nearest upstream position of heat exchanger 50 to the nearest downstream position of heat exchanger 50. Thus, the bypass path 14a is arranged parallel to heat exchanger 50 and serves to bypass heat exchanger 50 by taking a detour.

[0126] Furthermore, a regulating valve 18 is provided at the branch point of the gas path 14 towards the heat exchanger 50 and the bypass path 14a. The regulating valve 18 can regulate the flow rate of the gas (hydrogen-based gas) flowing in the bypass path 14a. The more the gas flows in the bypass path 14a, the less the gas flows in the heat exchanger 50.

[0127] Next, the operation of boiler 4 will be explained. In boiler 4, hydrogen-based gas is supplied from an external supply source to the gas receiving unit 15, filling the gas circulation path CR, which includes the interior of container 11 and gas path 14, with hydrogen-based gas. The filled hydrogen-based gas, under the action of gas pump 16, is then circulated through this circulation path CR to... Figure 4 The direction indicated by the dashed arrow is cyclical.

[0128] At this time, inside the container 11, hydrogen gas flows into the interior of the reaction body 12 through the mesh-like gaps and is then discharged into the gas path 14 connected to the upper part of the reaction body 12. Simultaneously, the reaction body 12 is heated by the heater 13. Thus, when the reaction body 12 is heated by the heater 13 while hydrogen gas is being supplied into the container 11, hydrogen atoms are absorbed and stored in the metal nanoparticles disposed in the reaction body 12, and the reaction body 12 generates excess heat above the heating temperature of the heater 13.

[0129] Furthermore, as the hydrogen gas passes through the interior of container 11, it is heated to a high temperature by the heat generated by the reactant 12. This heated hydrogen gas is then fed into heat exchanger 50 via gas path 14. Consequently, the water supplied to heat exchanger 50 is heated to steam through heat exchange with the heated hydrogen gas, and this steam is supplied from heat exchanger 50 to the outside.

[0130] The controller 26 adjusts the amount of steam supplied from the heat exchanger 50 to the outside based on the information detected by the pressure sensor 25. This adjustment can be achieved by increasing the amount of steam generated by increasing the heat generated by the reactant 12 when the detected value of the pressure sensor 25 is lower than an appropriate value, and by reducing the amount of steam generated by decreasing the heat generated by the reactant 12 when the detected value of the pressure sensor 25 is higher than an appropriate value.

[0131] It should be noted that the heat generation of the reactant 12 can be controlled by adjusting the temperature of the heater 13 or the aforementioned gas circulation rate through the controller 26. The higher the temperature of the heater 13 or the greater the circulation rate, the greater the heat generation of the reactant 12. Furthermore, in the heat exchanger 50, water is supplied sequentially in accordance with the amount of steam supplied to the outside, that is, in accordance with the amount of water reduction, enabling the continuous generation and supply of steam to the outside.

[0132] As described above, the boiler 4 includes: a reaction body 12; a container 11, which houses the heating element 12 and is capable of being filled with a gas (hydrogen-based gas) with a higher specific heat capacity than air; a circulation path CR, which includes the container 11 and a gas path 14 as a path for circulating the hydrogen-based gas; and a heat exchanger 50, which heats water to generate steam through heat exchange with the hydrogen-based gas in the gas path 14. Therefore, according to the boiler 4, the heat of the circulating gas can be efficiently used for heating water, and the heat can be utilized more effectively.

[0133] Furthermore, since the temperature of the gas in the gas path 14 decreases as it passes through the heat exchanger 50, the temperature of the gas passing through the devices located downstream of the heat exchanger 50 (in this embodiment, the air pump 16 and the gas filter 17) can be correspondingly reduced. Therefore, the required heat resistance temperature of these devices can also be reduced.

[0134] Furthermore, by adjusting the flow rate at regulating valve 18, reducing the flow rate of the gas flowing in heat exchanger 50 results in weaker heating of the water in heat exchanger 50, thus reducing steam generation. Conversely, increasing the flow rate of the gas flowing in heat exchanger 50 results in stronger heating of the water in heat exchanger 50, thus increasing steam generation. It should be noted that the gas flowing in bypass path 14a returns to gas path 14 at the closest point downstream of heat exchanger 50. Therefore, the gas flow rate in gas path 14 downstream of this point is unaffected by the gas flow rate in bypass path 14a.

[0135] In this embodiment, by providing the bypass path 14a and the regulating valve 18, the amount of steam supplied from the heat exchanger 50 to the outside can also be adjusted by controlling the regulating valve 18 through the controller 26. This adjustment can be achieved by controlling the regulating valve 18 to increase the flow rate of the gas flowing in the heat exchanger 50 when the pressure sensor 25 detects a value less than an appropriate value, and by controlling the regulating valve 18 to decrease the flow rate of the gas flowing in the heat exchanger 50 when the pressure sensor 25 detects a value greater than an appropriate value.

[0136] It should be noted that the controller 26 can also adjust both the flow rate of the gas flowing in the bypass path 14a and the calorific value of the reactant 12 based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25 (the pressure of the steam supplied from the heat exchanger 50 to the outside). This allows for a balanced variation of these two parameters to regulate the amount of steam supplied from the heat exchanger 50 to the outside. Alternatively, either the flow rate or the calorific value can be arbitrarily set. Regarding the adjustment of the calorific value of the reactant 12, the controller 26 adjusts both the temperature of the heater 13 and the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25. However, depending on various situations, only one of these parameters can be adjusted instead of both. Alternatively, either of these parameters can be arbitrarily set.

[0137] 5. Fifth Implementation Method

[0138] Next, the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the fifth embodiment is essentially the same as the fourth embodiment, except for the shape of the heating element and related points. In the following description, the focus will be on the differences from the fourth embodiment, and descriptions of matters common to the fourth embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0139] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 5 in the fifth embodiment. In the boiler 4 of the fourth embodiment, a reactor 12 is used as the heating element; however, in the fifth embodiment, a general heating element 12a is used instead. It should be noted that the heating element 12a here, as an example, is a halogen heater that generates heat by supplying electricity. Furthermore, for convenience, the shape and size of the heating element 12a are the same as those of the reactor 12.

[0140] When using heating element 12a as the heating body, excess heat is not required as in the fourth embodiment, and a device equivalent to heater 13 is not needed, so the installation is omitted. In addition, in the fifth embodiment, the upstream end of the gas path 14 is connected to the upper bottom 11b instead of heating element 12a and is connected to the space inside the container 11.

[0141] In boiler 5, the gas (hydrogen-based gas) inside container 11 is heated by heat emitted from heating element 12a instead of reactant 12. This heated gas is then fed into heat exchanger 50 via gas path 14. Water supplied to heat exchanger 50 is heated to steam through heat exchange with the heated gas, and this steam is supplied to the outside from heat exchanger 50. Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the aforementioned reaction for generating excess heat is not required, and controller 26 can directly control the temperature of the heating element (heating element 12a) via electrical control.

[0142] 6. Sixth Implementation Method

[0143] Next, the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that in the following description, the focus will be on the aspects that differ from the fourth embodiment, and the description of aspects common to the fourth embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0144] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 6 in the sixth embodiment. As shown in the figure, the boiler 6 is provided with a fluid path 22 as a path for circulating the heat medium X. The heat medium X is pre-supplied to the fluid path 22, and under the action of a pump (not shown), the heat medium X flows from the upstream side to the downstream side within the fluid path 22 (i.e., towards the...). Figure 9 The flow (in the direction indicated by the solid arrow) is cyclical.

[0145] A portion of the fluid path 22 is formed as a heat pipe 22a. The heat pipe 22a extends spirally from the lower bottom 11c to the upper bottom 11b in a manner that forms the cylindrical sidewall 11a of the container 11. The heat pipe 22a extends spirally in a manner that travels axially (vertically) toward the cylindrical sidewall 11a, such that there are no gaps between the portions of the heat pipes 22a that are adjacent vertically.

[0146] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the heat exchanger 50 is configured as part of the fluid path 22 and supplies water as the source of steam. Thus, the heat exchanger 50 heats the water to generate steam by exchanging heat with the supplied water through the heat medium X in the fluid path 22, and supplies the steam to the outside of the boiler 6.

[0147] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, instead of providing a bypass path 14a in the gas path 14, a bypass path 22b is provided in the fluid path 22. More specifically, the bypass path 22b is provided in the fluid path 22 such that it connects the nearest upstream position to the nearest downstream position of the heat exchanger 50. Thus, the bypass path 22b is provided alongside the heat exchanger 50, serving to provide a bypass for the heat exchanger 50.

[0148] It should be noted that the regulating valve 18 in the sixth embodiment is located at the branch point of the path towards the heat exchanger 50 and the bypass path 22b in the fluid path 22, and can regulate the flow rate of the heat medium X flowing in the bypass path 22b. The greater the flow rate of the heat medium X flowing in the bypass path 22b, the less the flow rate of the heat medium X flowing in the heat exchanger 50.

[0149] In this embodiment, the boiler 6 operates in parallel with the action of heating the reactant 12, circulating the heat medium X in the fluid path 22. The heat medium X is heated by the heat generated by the reactant 12 as it passes through the heat-conducting pipe 22a forming the side wall 11a of the container 11. That is, the heat generated by the reactant 12 is transferred to the heat-conducting pipe 22a through convection (heat transfer), conduction, and radiation of the hydrogen-based gas within the container 11, thereby heating the heat medium X flowing inside the heat-conducting pipe 22a, which becomes high-temperature. Thus, the heat medium X is heated at least through heat exchange with the hydrogen-based gas heated by the reactant 12. It should be noted that the heat-conducting pipe 22a in this embodiment has the same structure as the heat-conducting pipe 22a in the first embodiment. The heat medium X, reaching the inlet (lowest part of the heat-conducting pipe 22a) of the heat-conducting pipe 22a, travels along the spirally extending heat-conducting pipe 22a to the outlet (upper part of the heat-conducting pipe 22a). At this time, the heat medium X passing through the heat pipe 22a transfers heat from the heat generated by the reactant 12 to the heat pipe 22a, and the temperature rises.

[0150] In this way, the heat medium X flowing in the fluid path 22 is heated and its temperature rises as it passes through the heat pipe 22a, and then sent into the heat exchanger 50. Consequently, the water supplied to the heat exchanger 50 is heated into steam through heat exchange with the now high-temperature heat medium X, and this steam is supplied from the heat exchanger 50 to the outside. It should be noted that the control of the regulating valve 18, etc., is implemented by the controller 26 in the same order as in the fourth embodiment.

[0151] Furthermore, the heat pipe 22a is formed along the entire circumference of the cylindrical sidewall 11a, thus enabling efficient transfer of heat generated by the reactant 12 to the heat medium X. The heat pipe 22a is arranged to surround the reactant 12, thereby encompassing approximately the entire circumference of the sidewall 11a and transferring heat generated by the reactant 12 to the heat medium X with minimal waste. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the heat pipe 22a extends spirally and is arranged to surround the reactant 12, but the arrangement of surrounding the reactant 12 is not limited to this; for example, multiple heat pipes extending vertically and arranged to surround the reactant 12 may also be used.

[0152] In this embodiment, the sidewall 11a for sealing the gas inside the container 11 is formed by a heat-conducting pipe 22a. However, alternatively, the sidewall 11a and the heat-conducting pipe 22a can be provided separately beforehand, with the heat-conducting pipe 22a located inside the sidewall 11a (i.e., inside the container 11). In this case, the heat-conducting pipe 22a does not need to function as a sidewall 11a, and it is preferable that there is a gap between the portions of the adjacent heat-conducting pipes 22a, making it easier to receive heat from the reactant 12.

[0153] The boilers 4 to 6 described above in the fourth to sixth embodiments include: a heating element; a container 11, in which the heating element is disposed and can be filled with a gas having a higher specific heat capacity than air; and a heat exchanger 50, which heats water by exchanging heat with a fluid heated by the heating element, wherein a bypass path 14a (or 22b) is provided parallel to the heat exchanger 50 along the path of the fluid. Therefore, according to the boilers 4 to 6 of each embodiment, water can be heated using a fluid directly or indirectly heated by the heating element in the container 11, and the heating of the water can be easily adjusted by regulating the flow rate of the fluid flowing in the bypass path.

[0154] It should be noted that boilers 4 to 6 include: a heat exchanger 50, which is disposed outside the container 11 and allows hydrogen-based gas heated by a heating element or a fluid serving as a heat medium X for heat exchange with the hydrogen-based gas to pass through on the heating side; and a bypass path 14a, which is disposed parallel to the heat exchanger 50 and bypasses the heating side of the heat exchanger 50. The heat exchanger 50 has a heating side (a portion through which a higher-temperature fluid passes) and a heated side (a portion through which a lower-temperature fluid passes), and is configured to transfer heat from the fluid on the heating side to the fluid on the heated side for heating.

[0155] Furthermore, a heat sink can be pre-installed in the bypass path of each embodiment to dissipate excess heat from the fluid flowing in the bypass path. It should be noted that a thermoelectric conversion element can also be installed in the bypass path together with the heat sink, or a thermoelectric conversion element can be installed instead of the heat sink, and the electricity obtained by the thermoelectric conversion element can be stored or used as driving power for the heater 13 (heating element 12a in the fifth embodiment).

[0156] Furthermore, in the boilers of the fourth and fifth embodiments, hydrogen-based gases with a higher specific heat capacity than air can be used as the gas for heat exchange with water in the heat exchanger 50. By using such a gas with a high specific heat capacity, the temperature of the gas used in the heat exchange is less prone to fluctuation, enabling more stable heat transfer to the water. It should be noted that in the boilers of the fourth to sixth embodiments, hydrogen-based gases are used as the gas with a higher specific heat capacity than air, but in the boiler 5 of the fifth embodiment, since there is no need for a reaction that generates excess heat, a gas other than hydrogen-based gases can also be used as the gas with a higher specific heat capacity than air.

[0157] 7. Seventh Implementation Method

[0158] Next, the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the seventh embodiment is essentially the same as the first embodiment, except for points related to the shape of the heat pipe. In the following description, the focus will be on the aspects that differ from the first embodiment, and descriptions of aspects common to the first embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0159] Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram of the boiler 7 according to the seventh embodiment. As shown in the figure, in the seventh embodiment, the fluid path 22 includes not only multiple heat-conducting pipes 22a extending vertically, but also a lower manifold 22b1 and an upper manifold 22b2.

[0160] The lower manifold 22b1 extends in a circular pattern on the lower side of the cylindrical sidewall 11a, with its inlet α formed at its lower left position. The upper manifold 22b2 extends in a circular pattern on the upper side of the cylindrical sidewall 11a, with its outlet β formed at its upper left position. The lower manifold 22b1 and the upper manifold 22b2 are set to have approximately the same shape and size and are configured to overlap when viewed from above. A portion of the fluid path 22 extending from the pump 24 is connected to the inlet α of the lower manifold 22b1, and a portion of the fluid path 22 extending from the outlet β of the upper manifold 22b2 is connected to the separator 21.

[0161] Multiple heat pipes 22a extend vertically between the lower manifold 22b1 and the upper manifold 22b2, respectively, and are arranged circumferentially along the cylindrical shape to form a cylindrical sidewall 11a. Each of the multiple heat pipes 22a is integrated in such a way that there are no gaps between adjacent pipes circumferentially.

[0162] The internal spaces of each of the multiple heat-conducting pipes 22a are connected at their lower sides to the internal space of the lower manifold 22b1, and at their upper sides to the internal space of the upper manifold 22b2. That is, the circular lower manifold 22b1 is connected to the lower ends of all the multiple heat-conducting pipes 22a, and the circular upper manifold 22b2 is connected to the upper ends of all the multiple heat-conducting pipes 22a. Thus, water entering the lower manifold 22b1 from the inlet α can reach the outlet β through the heat-conducting pipes 22a.

[0163] Figure 11 The solid arrows roughly illustrate the path of water through the heat pipes 22a and their surroundings. When water enters the lower manifold 22b1 from the inlet α, it flows circumferentially along the lower manifold 22b1, and then flows upward along the multiple heat pipes 22a. Additionally, the water heated in the heat pipes 22a reaches the upper manifold 2262 as steam, flows circumferentially along the upper manifold 22b2, and is discharged from the outlet β to the separator 21.

[0164] As described above, in this embodiment, the fluid path 22 has multiple heat-conducting pipes 22a extending axially (vertically) along the cylindrical sidewall 11a. These heat-conducting pipes 22a are arranged circumferentially around the cylindrical sidewall 11a to surround the heating element. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is easy to arrange the heat-conducting pipes 22a to cover approximately the entire circumference of the sidewall 11a while arranging them in a structure that constitutes a cross-flow boiler or based thereon, thus maximizing the transfer of heat generated by the heating element to the water, which becomes the source of steam, with minimal waste. It should be noted that the heat-conducting pipes in this embodiment are multiple water pipes (pipes through which water is supplied) extending vertically and arranged to surround the heating element. In addition, the boiler in this embodiment is a boiler that has water pipes heated by heat generated by the heating element, and water is heated by passing through these water pipes, which are arranged to surround the heating element.

[0165] 8. Eighth Implementation Method

[0166] Next, the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the eighth embodiment is essentially the same as the first embodiment, except that a hydrogen burner is used instead of a heater as the heating mechanism for the reactant. In the following description, the focus will be on the differences from the first embodiment, and descriptions of matters common to the first embodiment will sometimes be omitted.

[0167] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of boiler 8 according to the eighth embodiment. It should be noted that... Figure 12 In order to facilitate observation, the following has been omitted. Figure 1The solid arrows and dashed lines shown are illustrated in the figure. As shown in the figure, in boiler 8, heater 13 is omitted (see reference). Figure 1 The hydrogen burner is set up for 18s.

[0168] The hydrogen burner 18s is a burner that uses hydrogen gas as fuel and is configured inside the container 11, capable of heating the reaction body 12 while simultaneously heating the sidewall 11a. In this embodiment, considering that a combustion flame is ejected between the reaction body 12 and the sidewall 11a, both can be heated efficiently. It should be noted that, alternatively, the hydrogen burner 18s can be pre-configured outside the container 11, with the hydrogen burner 18s directly heating the sidewall 11a and heating the reaction body 12 through the sidewall 11a.

[0169] In this embodiment, since the hydrogen burner 18s functions to heat the reactor 12, the aforementioned heater 13 can be omitted, and no other external heat source is needed to raise the temperature of the reactor 12. Furthermore, the hydrogen gas supplied as fuel to the hydrogen burner 18s shares the same supply source as the hydrogen gas supplied to the gas receiving unit 15. This allows for efficient utilization of the hydrogen gas supplied from this source, which is also advantageous in terms of simplifying the boiler structure.

[0170] Furthermore, the sidewall 11a can also be heated by the hydrogen burner 18s, thereby heating the water passing through the heat pipe 22a. Thus, in this embodiment, water is heated not only by the heat generated from the reactant 12, but also by the hydrogen burner 18s. Therefore, for example, when the boiler 8 is started, by using the hydrogen burner 18s to heat the water before sufficient heat is generated from the reactant 12, steam can be generated more rapidly. In particular, the reactant 12 has the property of starting the reaction only after its temperature rises to a predetermined reaction temperature and gradually generating excess heat; therefore, by using the hydrogen burner 18s to heat the water at startup, the time required for steam generation can be significantly shortened.

[0171] It should be noted that the operation of the controller 26 in this embodiment is basically the same as that in the first embodiment, except that it adjusts the temperature of the hydrogen burner 18s instead of the heater. Regarding the adjustment of the heat output of the reactant 12, the controller 26 adjusts both the temperature of the hydrogen burner 18s and the circulation rate of the hydrogen gas based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 25. However, depending on the situation, it is also possible to adjust only one of these items instead of both. Alternatively, it is possible to arbitrarily set which of these items to adjust.

[0172] 9. Other

[0173] The boilers described above are boilers that use heat generated by a heating element to heat fluids, and are equipped with a controller 26 that controls the amount of heat generated by the heating element when hydrogen gas is supplied into the container 11. According to the boiler of the present invention, by using a heating mechanism with a heating element disposed inside the container to heat the fluid, the heat generated by the heating element can be utilized efficiently, and the fluid can be heated appropriately according to various conditions.

[0174] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the structure of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. That is, the above embodiments should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, the boiler of the present invention, in addition to steam-generating boilers as described in the above embodiments, can also be applied to hot water boilers, heat medium boilers, etc. The scope of protection of the present invention should be understood not as a description of the above embodiments, but as shown by the technical solution, including all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the technical solution. Furthermore, the present invention can be used in boilers for various purposes.

Claims

1. A boiler, comprising: Heating element; and A container that houses the heating element and is capable of being filled with a gas having a higher specific heat capacity than air. The heat generated by the heating element heats the water via the gas to produce steam, wherein... The boiler has the following features: A circulation path, which serves as a path for the circulation of the gas, a portion of which includes the interior of the container; and The controller controls the heat output of the heating element when the gas is supplied into the container. The controller controls the amount of gas circulating in the circulation path to control the calorific value by adjusting the pressure of the steam supplied to the outside in an appropriate range.

2. The boiler according to claim 1, wherein, The boiler has the following features: A heat exchanger, disposed outside the container, allows the gas heated by the heating element or a heat medium exchanging heat with the gas to pass through on the heating side, enabling the gas or heat medium to exchange heat with water; and A pressure sensor is located in the heat exchanger. The controller adjusts the amount of gas circulating in the circulation path to control the heat generation, based on the pressure sensor's detection value being within an appropriate range.

3. The boiler according to claim 1, wherein, The boiler is equipped with a heater for heating the heating element. The controller controls the heat generation by adjusting the circulation volume of the gas in the circulation path or the temperature of the heater.

4. The boiler according to claim 1, wherein, The boiler includes heat-conducting pipes heated by heat generated by the heating element, through which water is heated. The heat pipe is configured to surround the heating element in a manner that forms the sidewall of the container or to surround the heating element inside the container.

5. The boiler according to claim 4, wherein, The heat pipe extends in a spiral shape and is configured to surround the heating element.

6. The boiler according to claim 4, wherein, The heat pipes are multiple water pipes extending vertically and arranged to surround the heating element.

7. The boiler according to claim 4, wherein, The heat pipe is heated by the heat generated by the heating element through conduction, convection, and radiation.

8. The boiler according to claim 1, wherein, The boiler has the following features: A heat exchanger, disposed outside the container, allows the gas heated by the heating element or a heat medium exchanging heat with the gas to pass through on the heating side, enabling the gas or heat medium to exchange heat with water; and A bypass path is provided parallel to the heat exchanger and bypasses the heating side of the heat exchanger.

9. The boiler according to claim 8, wherein, The controller regulates the flow rate of the fluid flowing in the bypass path based on the pressure of the steam supplied from the heat exchanger to the outside.

10. The boiler according to claim 9, wherein, The controller adjusts the flow rate and the heat output of the heating element based on the pressure of the steam supplied from the heat exchanger to the outside.

11. The boiler according to claim 4, wherein, The heat-conducting pipe is disposed between the side wall of the container and the heating element.

12. The boiler according to claim 2, wherein, The circulation path includes gas paths configured inside and outside the container. The heat exchanger is located outside the gas path of the container.

13. The boiler according to claim 1, 2 or 4, wherein, A gas filter is provided in the circulation path.

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