Liquid metal level probe

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application discloses a liquid metal liquid level probe. The liquid metal liquid level probe comprises a probe tube arranged to indicate the liquid level of the liquid metal when the bottom of the probe tube is in contact with the liquid metal; an insulating tube sleeved outside the probe tube, the bottom of the insulating tube being sealingly connected to the outer wall of the probe tube, and both ends of the probe tube extending out of the insulating tube; and a bellows sleeved outside the probe tube and arranged at the top of the insulating tube. One end of the bellows is sealingly connected to the probe tube, and the other end is sealingly connected to the top of the insulating tube. The bellows is used to compensate for the axial expansion difference between the probe tube and the insulating tube caused by temperature change, so that a liquid level probe with a relatively long insulating tube can be manufactured, and the long insulating tube is beneficial to improve the vibration resistance of the probe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of liquid metal detection instrument technology, specifically to a liquid metal level probe. Background Technology

[0002] The liquid level of liquid metals is a crucial parameter related to their operation and safety. Due to the high operating temperatures of liquid metals, especially those working fluids such as sodium, sodium-potassium alloys, lithium, and lead-bismuth alloys, which are chemically reactive, direct contact with air is generally not allowed. This necessitates a high degree of equipment sealing, making liquid level measurement in liquid metal containers quite challenging.

[0003] Currently, when using a liquid level probe to measure the level of high-temperature liquid metal, the metal probe tube is insulated by a ceramic tube, and both ends of the ceramic tube are sealed to the metal probe tube by welding. At high temperatures, the different expansion coefficients of the two materials may cause the ceramic tube to crack, thus affecting the liquid level measurement. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a liquid metal level probe is provided. The liquid metal level probe includes: a probe tube configured to indicate the level of liquid metal when its bottom contacts liquid metal; an insulating tube sleeved over the probe tube, the bottom of the insulating tube being sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube, and both ends of the probe tube extending out of the insulating tube; and a corrugated tube sleeved over the probe tube and disposed at the top of the insulating tube. One end of the corrugated tube is sealed to the probe tube, and the other end is sealed to the top of the insulating tube. The corrugated tube is used to compensate for the axial expansion difference between the probe tube and the insulating tube due to temperature changes. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will help to provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention.

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a probe assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the probe assembly.

[0008] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of the probe sealing assembly and bellows section in the probe assembly.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A partial structural diagram of the intermediate connecting component in the probe assembly.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of the bottom of the probe assembly.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid metal level probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of a liquid metal level probe.

[0013] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a wave-damping pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a container connection assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a liquid level measurement system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but are shown only in a schematic manner without affecting the reader's understanding.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0018] 1. Top end cap of liquid metal container;

[0019] 100. Probe assembly;

[0020] 10. Probe tube; 11. Cover; 111. Mounting slot;

[0021] 20. Insulating tube; 21. First transition piece; 22. Fourth transition piece;

[0022] 30. Bellows; 31. Second transition piece; 32. Third transition piece;

[0023] 40. Probe sealing assembly; 41. Probe connector; 411. Mounting hole; 42. Sealing pipe; 421. Positioning protrusion; 43. Probe sealing gasket; 44. Probe sealing clamping component;

[0024] 50. Intermediate connecting assembly; 51. Connecting sleeve; 511. Positioning part; 52. Intermediate connecting pipe; 521. Positioning mating part; 53. Intermediate sealing gasket; 54. Intermediate sealing clamping part;

[0025] 200. Radiator;

[0026] 300, wave deflector; 310, through hole; 320, base plate; 330, wave deflector connector;

[0027] 400, Container connection assembly; 410, First connector; 420, Second connector; 430, Connecting pipe; 440, Sealing gasket. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only one embodiment of this application, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0029] It should be noted that, unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application should have the ordinary meaning understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. Where the terms "first," "second," etc., are used throughout the text, they are used only to distinguish similar objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance, order of precedence, or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. It should be understood that the data described by "first," "second," etc., can be interchanged where appropriate. Where "and / or" appears throughout the text, it means including three parallel solutions. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes solution A, or solution B, or a solution that satisfies both A and B. Furthermore, for ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "below," "top," "bottom," etc., may be used here, only to describe the spatial positional relationship between one device or feature as shown in the figure and other devices or features. It should be understood that this also includes different orientations in use or operation besides those shown in the figure.

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention provides a liquid metal level probe. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the liquid metal level probe in this embodiment includes a probe tube 10, an insulating tube 20, and a bellows tube 30. The probe tube 10 is configured to indicate the liquid metal level when its bottom contacts the liquid metal. The insulating tube 20 is sleeved outside the probe tube 10, with both ends connected to the outer wall of the probe tube 10, and both ends of the probe tube 10 extending out of the insulating tube 20. The bellows tube 30 is sleeved outside the probe tube 10 and is located at the top of the insulating tube 20. One end of the bellows tube 30 is sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube 10, the other end is sealed to the top of the insulating tube 20, and the bottom of the insulating tube 20 is sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube 10. The bellows tube 30 is used to compensate for the axial expansion difference between the probe tube 10 and the insulating tube 20 due to temperature changes.

[0031] In this embodiment, the working principle of the liquid level probe is to electrically connect the probe tube 10 to the surface of the liquid metal container. When the liquid metal surface in the container contacts the bottom of the probe tube, a closed circuit is formed between the probe tube 10 and the liquid metal container, thereby outputting a corresponding electrical signal. This enables the detection of the liquid level of alkali metals, lead, and their alloys at a specified position within the container. The insulating tube 20 prevents short circuits caused by the deposition and adhesion of liquid metal vapor between the probe tube 10 and the container body, thus avoiding false alarms.

[0032] In embodiments of the present invention, the probe tube 10 and the bellows 30 of the liquid metal level probe can be made of a metal material compatible with the liquid metal container, such as stainless steel, or the same metal material as the liquid metal container.

[0033] The probe tube 10 is made of metal, for example, it can be a precision seamless stainless steel tube, and its length can be cut according to the application requirements. The insulating tube 20 is made of ceramic, for example, it can be a precision alumina tube, and its length can be designed according to the required dimensions. Different numbers or lengths of alumina tubes are sintered to form insulating tubes 20 of different lengths. Furthermore, the corrugated tube 30 is made of metal, for example, it can be a formed stainless steel corrugated tube, and its dimensions and other parameters can be selected according to the pressure and expansion requirements of the liquid metal container.

[0034] A bellows 30 is installed at the upper sealed connection between the probe tube 10 and the insulating tube 20. This compensates for the difference in axial length caused by the difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion between the metal probe tube 10 and the ceramic insulating tube 20 during temperature changes, reducing the stress difference between them. This is beneficial for the manufacture and use of relatively long level probes. Furthermore, due to the expansion difference compensation design, level probes with longer insulating tubes can be manufactured. The longer ceramic insulating tube has a positive effect on the vibration resistance of the level probe.

[0035] In this embodiment, the probe tube 10, the insulating tube 20, and the bellows tube 30 together form the probe assembly 100, which can be directly installed on the liquid metal container to measure the liquid level of the liquid metal, or it can be selectively assembled with the radiator 200, the anti-surge tube 300, and the container connection assembly 400 before use.

[0036] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the probe assembly 100 in this embodiment also includes a probe sealing assembly 40, which is disposed at the top of the probe tube 10 and used to seal the probe tube 10. The probe sealing assembly 40 is detachably connected to the top of the probe tube 10 and is heat-resistant. When the probe tube 10 ruptures, it will not cause direct leakage of liquid metal or covering gas from the liquid metal container.

[0037] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the probe sealing assembly 40 includes a probe connector 41, a sealing tube 42, a probe sealing gasket 43, and a probe sealing clamping member 44. The probe connector 41 is sleeved on the top of the probe tube 10. The sealing tube 42 is disposed between the probe tube 10 and the probe connector 41, and is sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube 10. The probe sealing gasket 43 is disposed on the top of the sealing tube 42. The probe sealing clamping member 44 is detachably connected to the outside of the probe connector 41, and is used to press the probe sealing gasket 43 onto the sealing tube 42, thereby achieving a seal on the probe tube 10.

[0038] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the probe connector 41 is provided with an external thread, and the inner wall of the probe sealing clamp 44 is provided with a matching internal thread, so that the probe sealing clamp 44 and the probe connector 41 can be detachably connected.

[0039] like Figure 3 As shown, a positioning protrusion 421 is provided on the top of the sealing tube 42 along the circumferential direction. The positioning protrusion 421 cooperates with the top of the probe connector 41 to position the probe connector 41 and the sealing tube 42. In this embodiment, the bottom of the sealing tube 42 is sealed to the probe tube 10, and its top is positioned on the probe connector 41. Then, the probe sealing gasket 43 is pressed against the top of the sealing tube 42 by the probe sealing clamping member 44, thereby achieving the sealing of the top opening of the probe tube 10.

[0040] like Figure 5 As shown, the bottom of the probe tube 10 is sealed with a cover 11, which is conical. That is, the bottom of the probe tube 10 is pointed to facilitate the drop of liquid metal.

[0041] The probe assembly 100 in this embodiment also includes a thermocouple disposed within the probe tube 10. The thermocouple is used to measure the temperature of the liquid metal. The blind tube probe in this embodiment can also be used as a thermocouple trap, which can accommodate multiple thermocouples, for example, more than three thermocouples, thereby obtaining a relatively accurate temperature measurement of the liquid metal.

[0042] In addition, the thermocouple in this embodiment is an armored insulated thermocouple. When installed in the probe tube 10, it is necessary to ensure that the thermocouple at each height position is in full contact with the wall or top cover of the probe tube 10, so as to obtain a more accurate temperature measurement value and at the same time ensure a faster test response.

[0043] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the probe connector 41 at the top of the probe tube 10 is provided with a mounting hole 411. The top of the thermocouple passes through the mounting hole 411 and is sealed to the probe connector 41. Specifically, the sealed connection can be achieved by brazing, preferably vertical vacuum brazing, which can better ensure the seal at the top of the probe tube 10.

[0044] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, a mounting groove 111 is provided in the cover 11 at the bottom of the probe tube 10. The bottom of the thermocouple can be placed in the mounting groove 111 to reduce the thermal resistance and thus improve the accuracy and response speed of the bottom thermocouple temperature measurement.

[0045] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the probe assembly 100 in this embodiment also includes an intermediate connecting assembly 50, which is sleeved on the insulating tube 20 and is configured to detachably connect the insulating tube 20 and the liquid metal container. A portion of the intermediate connecting assembly 50 is fixedly connected to the insulating tube 20, and another portion is fixedly connected to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container. These two portions are detachable. Since the insulating tube 20 and the probe tube 10 are fixedly connected together, a detachable connection between the probe assembly 100 and the liquid metal container can be achieved, facilitating replacement of the probe assembly 100 if the probe tube 10 is broken or damaged.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the intermediate connecting assembly 50 in this embodiment includes a connecting sleeve 51, an intermediate connecting pipe 52, an intermediate sealing gasket 53, and an intermediate sealing clamping member 54. The connecting sleeve 51 is sleeved over the insulating pipe 20, and the intermediate connecting pipe 52 is disposed between the connecting sleeve 51 and the insulating pipe 20, with one end extending out of the connecting sleeve 51. The intermediate sealing gasket 53 is disposed on the intermediate connecting pipe 52. The intermediate sealing clamping member 54 is detachably connected inside the connecting sleeve 51, and its top is sealed to the outer wall of the insulating pipe 20, pressing the intermediate sealing gasket 53 against the intermediate connecting pipe 52.

[0047] In some embodiments, a positioning part 511 is provided on the inner side of the connecting sleeve 51, and a positioning mating part 521 is provided on the outer side of the intermediate pipe 52. The positioning part 511 and the positioning mating part 521 cooperate to position the intermediate pipe 52 and the connecting sleeve 51, so that the top of the intermediate pipe 52 is positioned in the connecting sleeve 51, and the bottom of the intermediate pipe 52 extends out of the connecting sleeve 51, thereby facilitating a sealed connection with the liquid metal container cap 1, the radiator 200, or the container connecting assembly 400.

[0048] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the connecting sleeve 51 is provided with an internal thread, and the outer wall of the intermediate sealing clamping member 54 is provided with a matching external thread, so that the connecting sleeve 51 and the intermediate sealing clamping member 54 can be detachably connected.

[0049] In this embodiment, when the radiator 200 and container connection assembly 400 are not provided, the bottom of the intermediate pipe 52 is directly sealed to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container, and its top is positioned inside the connecting sleeve 51. Then, the intermediate sealing gasket 53 is pressed onto the top of the intermediate pipe 52 by the intermediate sealing clamping member 54, thereby achieving the sealing of the top opening of the intermediate pipe 52, and thus achieving the sealing of the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container, preventing liquid metal or covering gas from leaking directly from the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container.

[0050] Furthermore, when the radiator 200 is provided, the intermediate pipe 52 can be sealed to the radiator 200; when the radiator 200 is not provided and the container connection assembly 400 is provided, the intermediate pipe 52 can be sealed to the container connection assembly 400, thereby indirectly achieving a seal between the intermediate pipe 52 and the liquid metal container.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sealing connection between the parts of the probe assembly 100 is achieved by welding. Specifically, a first transition member 21 is provided at the connection between the insulating tube 20 and the probe tube 10, with both sides of the first transition member 21 sealingly connected to the insulating tube 20 and the probe tube 10, respectively. A second transition member 31 is provided at the connection between the corrugated tube 30 and the insulating tube 20, with both sides of the second transition member 31 sealingly connected to the corrugated tube 30 and the insulating tube 20, respectively. A third transition member 32 is provided at the connection between the corrugated tube 30 and the probe tube 10, with both sides of the third transition member 32 sealingly connected to the corrugated tube 30 and the probe tube 10, respectively. A fourth transition member 22 is provided at the connection between the insulating tube 20 and the intermediate sealing clamping member 54, with both sides of the fourth transition member 22 sealingly connected to the insulating tube 20 and the intermediate sealing clamping member 54, thereby achieving welding between different materials, metal and ceramic.

[0052] The sealing connection between the probe tube 10 and the cover 11, the first transition piece 21, the third transition piece 32, and the sealing pipe 42 is achieved by tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. The sealing connection between the insulating tube 20 and the first transition piece 21, the fourth transition piece 22, and the second transition piece 31 is achieved by brazing, preferably vertical vacuum brazing. Specifically, the first transition piece, the fourth transition piece 22, and the third transition piece 32 can be made of Kovar alloy. After brazing with the insulating tube 20, the probe tube 10 is inserted into the insulating tube 20 to complete the TIG welding between the probe tube 10 and each part.

[0053] Furthermore, the sealing connection between the bellows 30 and the second transition member 31 can be achieved using laser or electron beam welding. The sealing connection between the fourth transition member 22 and the intermediate sealing clamping member 54 can be achieved using tungsten inert gas welding.

[0054] In embodiments of the present invention, a high-temperature resistant secondary sealing structure is formed by sealing and welding the upper and lower ends of the probe tube 10 and the insulating tube 20. Specifically, the lower end of the plug (i.e., the cap 11) of the probe tube 10 forms a primary sealing structure, while the upper end of the probe tube 10 forms a secondary sealing structure through a probe sealing assembly. When the probe tube 10 ruptures inside the container, the secondary sealing structure can prevent leakage of liquid metal. The insulating tube 20 is disposed outside the probe tube and is sealed and welded at both ends. When the probe tube 10 ruptures or the insulating tube 20 ruptures inside or on one side of the liquid metal container, direct leakage of liquid metal or covering gas from the liquid metal container will not occur.

[0055] This embodiment employs a secondary sealing design at both the top and bottom ends, which enables safe measurement of the liquid level of high-temperature alkali metal working fluids, preventing alkali metal leakage and subsequent combustion. Compared to traditional liquid level probes, this significantly improves the safety of long-term operation of the liquid level probe.

[0056] In some embodiments, a leak detector is installed in the probe tube 10 and the gap between the probe tube 10 and the insulating tube 20, which can detect leaks of liquid metal breaking through the first sealing structure, so as to replace the probe assembly 100 immediately when a leak occurs.

[0057] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the liquid metal level probe includes a probe assembly 100 and a heat sink 200. The heat sink 200 is disposed outside the insulating tube 20, with one end sealed to the intermediate connecting tube 52 and the other end connected to the liquid metal container. When operating in an atmospheric environment, the heat sink 200 can dissipate heat conducted towards the liquid metal container through both convection and thermal radiation, effectively reducing the temperature at each sealing structure on the level probe, mitigating oxidation of metal components at threaded sealing structures (e.g., probe sealing assembly 40 and intermediate connecting assembly 50), reducing adverse effects on the sealing structure, and thereby improving the long-term reliability of the level probe.

[0058] Specifically, the radiator 200 can be a stainless steel tube with annular heat sink fins, the upper end of which is sealed to the intermediate tube 52 of the probe assembly 100, for example, by tungsten inert gas welding.

[0059] When the liquid metal level probe does not have a container connection assembly 400, the lower end of the radiator 200 can be directly and sealed to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container. When the liquid metal level probe has a container connection assembly 400, the lower end of the radiator can be sealed to the first connector 410 in the container connection assembly 400, for example, by using tungsten inert gas welding for sealing.

[0060] In this embodiment, the heat sink 200 is fixed to the liquid metal container using the above method. Therefore, when the probe tube 10 or the insulating tube 20 needs to be broken or damaged, the intermediate connecting assembly can be disassembled, that is, the intermediate sealing clamping member 54 can be removed from the connecting sleeve 51, so that the whole formed by the intermediate sealing clamping member 54, the probe tube 10 and the insulating tube 20 can be taken out from the liquid metal container, thereby realizing the replacement of the probe assembly.

[0061] In some embodiments, the length of the radiator 200 can be designed according to the actual operating conditions. Of course, when the temperature of the liquid metal container is low, the radiator 200 can be omitted, and the intermediate connecting pipe 52 of the intermediate connecting assembly 50 can be directly and sealed to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container or the first connecting member 410 of the container connecting assembly 400.

[0062] In this embodiment, a heat dissipation design is provided below the intermediate connecting component 50, which can significantly reduce the temperature at the intermediate connecting component 50, thereby effectively reducing the temperature of the sealing structure between the probe component 100 and the liquid metal container, and thus improving the reliability of long-term sealing.

[0063] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the liquid metal level probe further includes a wave-damping tube 300. The wave-damping tube 300 is connected to the insulating tube 20, and the probe tube 10 is located inside the wave-damping tube 300. Multiple through holes 310 are staggered on the wave-damping tube 300 to prevent surface fluctuations of the liquid metal within the measurement area of ​​the level probe, thereby improving measurement accuracy. The liquid metal level probe in this embodiment employs a surface wave-damping design, which can make the liquid metal surface in the liquid metal container relatively smooth, thereby improving the accuracy of level measurement.

[0064] like Figure 8 As shown, the through hole 310 on the waveguide 300 is an elongated oval hole arranged radially. If a circular hole is used, a large hole size would reduce the structural strength of the waveguide, which is not conducive to long-term use; if the hole size is small, the fluidity of the liquid metal would decrease under the influence of surface tension, resulting in a crescent-shaped liquid surface and unevenness, which would be detrimental to liquid level measurement. Compared to using a circular hole, the waveguide 300 in this embodiment uses an elongated oval hole arranged radially, which can ensure the structural strength of the waveguide 300 and prevent the surface tension of the liquid metal from being affected, thus ensuring a relatively stable liquid surface.

[0065] In some embodiments, a base plate 320 is sealed to the bottom of the waveguide 300. The base plate 320 has holes to allow all liquid metal entering the waveguide 300 to flow out, preventing residue. The base plate 320 can be sealed to the waveguide 300 using tungsten inert gas welding.

[0066] Optionally, the baffle tube 300 can be detachably connected to the probe assembly, especially for level measurement of specific liquid metals, such as lead alloys and lead-bismuth alloys.

[0067] For liquid metals such as lead alloys and lead-bismuth alloys, contaminants are present in the liquid metal during operation, and these contaminants tend to float on the surface. When the liquid level rises, the floating contaminants easily adhere to the bottom plate 320 of the wave deflector 300. In this embodiment, the wave deflector 300 is designed to be detachable, allowing it to be removed when contaminants accumulate inside, thus enabling timely cleaning and reassembly after thorough cleaning.

[0068] Furthermore, the wave deflector 300 can be made of seamless stainless steel tubing, and its length can be designed according to the length of the probe tube 10. In this embodiment, there is a predetermined distance between the base plate 320 of the wave deflector 300 and the bottom of the probe tube 10. The predetermined distance can be set according to actual needs. In this embodiment, the distance between the base plate 320 and the bottom of the probe tube 10 (i.e., the tip of the cover 11) can be controlled to be around 100mm.

[0069] In this embodiment, the predetermined distance between the base plate 320 and the bottom of the probe tube 10 provides sufficient space for contaminant accumulation. For liquid metals such as lead alloys and lead-bismuth alloys, the contaminants floating on the surface are generally liquid metals doped with oxides and are conductive. In this embodiment, the base plate 320 of the wave deflector 300 is positioned at a suitable height from the bottom of the probe tube 10. This prevents conductive contaminants from contacting the bottom of the probe tube 10 and forming a conductive circuit when contaminants accumulate on the base plate 320 of the wave deflector 300, thus avoiding false responses and preventing discrepancies between the measurement results and the actual liquid level.

[0070] Optionally, for liquid metals such as alkali metals that do not contain contaminants during operation, since it is not necessary to clean the contaminants accumulated inside the baffle pipe 300, the baffle pipe 300 can also be fixedly installed on the liquid metal container. For example, the top of the baffle pipe 300 can be welded to the end cap 1 of the liquid metal container, making it a non-removable structure. This improves the overall sealing reliability of the liquid metal container. Compared with detachable connection structures (such as flanges), the sealing structure is prone to aging after long-term operation, which can easily lead to alkali metal leakage. In this embodiment, the baffle pipe 300 is welded to the liquid metal container, making the seal more reliable and safe, so as to avoid direct leakage of alkali metal and contact with air, which could cause combustion.

[0071] In some embodiments, the liquid metal level probe is used to measure the liquid metal level in a small liquid metal container where the liquid level rises and falls steadily. For such liquid metal containers where the liquid level does not fluctuate significantly, the anti-wave tube 300 may not be installed.

[0072] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the liquid metal level probe in this embodiment also includes a container connection assembly 400. The container connection assembly 400 is disposed outside the insulating tube 20 and is used to connect the liquid metal container and the liquid metal level probe, thereby realizing the disassembly and installation of the liquid metal level probe on the liquid metal container.

[0073] like Figure 9 As shown, the container connection assembly 400 includes a first connector 410, a second connector 420, and a connecting pipe 430. The first connector 410 is sealed to the intermediate connecting pipe 52 or the radiator 200, the second connector 420 is detachably connected to the first connector 410, and one end of the connecting pipe 430 is sealed to the second connector 420, while the other end is sealed to the liquid metal container.

[0074] In this embodiment, when the liquid metal container has an insulation structure, a connecting pipe 430 is provided in the container connecting assembly 400, so that one end of the pipe is sealed to the end cap of the liquid metal container and the other end is connected to the radiator 200 or the intermediate connecting pipe 52. This allows the first connecting piece 410 and the second connecting piece 420 to break through the insulation structure on the container and be exposed to the atmospheric environment. This reduces the temperature at the sealing surface between the first connecting piece 410 and the second connecting piece 420, and to a certain extent avoids the impact of the high temperature environment on the sealing performance of the container connecting assembly 400 during use.

[0075] In some embodiments, when the temperature of the liquid metal inside the container is relatively low, the radiator 200 may not be required. In this case, the first connector 410 can be sealed to the intermediate connecting pipe 52 of the intermediate connecting assembly 50. When the radiator 200 is installed on the liquid level probe, the lower end of the radiator 200 is sealed to the first connector 410. In this embodiment, by sealing the intermediate connecting pipe 52 or the radiator 200 to the first connector 410, the liquid metal container is indirectly sealed, preventing direct leakage of the liquid metal.

[0076] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the waveguide 300 can be detachably installed between the liquid metal container and the probe assembly 100 via the container connection assembly 400. Specifically, one end of the waveguide 300 is provided with a waveguide connector 330, which is detachably connected between the first connector 410 and the second connector 420.

[0077] Furthermore, a sealing gasket 440 is provided between the first connector 410 and the waveguide connector 330, and a sealing gasket 440 is also provided between the second connector 420 and the waveguide connector 330, thereby forming a sealing surface between the first connector 410, the waveguide connector 330 and the second connector 420, thereby achieving the sealing of the liquid metal container.

[0078] In some embodiments, the waveguide connector 330 is a double-sided flange, which is sealed to the waveguide 300. The first connector 410 and the second connector 420 are both connecting flanges. In this embodiment, all flanges (i.e., the waveguide connector 330, the first connector 410, and the second connector 420) are stainless steel flanges, and their pressure resistance rating can be designed according to actual operating conditions. Preferably, a vacuum flange can be used, which has excellent sealing performance, thereby minimizing the leakage of liquid metals such as alkali metals and preventing alkali metals from contacting air and causing combustion or even explosion.

[0079] Furthermore, the sealing connection between the first connector 410 and the radiator 200 or the intermediate pipe 52 is tungsten inert gas welding. Similarly, the sealing connection between the second connector 420 and the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container is also tungsten inert gas welding.

[0080] Furthermore, the selection of gasket materials in the embodiments of the present invention must consider compatibility with liquid metals, and the various forms of corrosion during long-term high-temperature operation cannot be ignored. Specifically, the probe sealing gasket 43, the intermediate sealing gasket 53, and the sealing gasket 440 can be made of relatively soft metals such as copper, nickel, pure iron, annealed stainless steel, and niobium, and the specific selection can be based on the requirements of their operating conditions.

[0081] It should be noted that the structure of the radiator 200, the anti-surge pipe 300, and the container connection assembly 400 can be selected according to the operating conditions of the liquid metal level probe.

[0082] When used to measure the liquid level in a small liquid metal container, the baffle 300 can be omitted, and the radiator 200 can be welded to the first connector 410 of the container connecting assembly 400. Alternatively, the container connecting assembly 400 can also be omitted, and the radiator 200 can be welded to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container. Furthermore, when the temperature of the small liquid metal container is low, the radiator 200 can also be omitted, and the intermediate connecting pipe 52 can be welded to the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container.

[0083] When the temperature of the liquid metal container is low and the liquid level fluctuates greatly, the radiator 200 can be omitted, and the intermediate pipe 52 can be welded to the first connector 410 of the container connection assembly 400.

[0084] When used for level measurement of liquid metals such as alkali metals, the wave shield 300 can be directly welded to the end cap 1 of the liquid metal container to fix it to the container. In this way, the container connecting assembly 400 can be omitted, and the radiator 200 can be welded to the end cap 1 of the liquid metal container.

[0085] In some embodiments, the liquid metal probe is a measuring device that requires precise manufacturing, particularly in terms of axial straightness. Furthermore, a relatively long insulating tube is incorporated into the structural design to prevent probe vibration during operation.

[0086] In addition, liquid level measurement systems using liquid metal probes, such as Figure 10As shown, the measurement system includes a DC power supply 2, a test switch 3, a buzzer 4, an indicator light 5, a remote relay 6, and a controller 7. The buzzer 4, indicator light 5, and remote relay 6 are connected in parallel and in series with the DC power supply 2. The liquid metal probe and test switch 3 are connected in parallel between the remote relay 6 and the DC power supply 2, respectively. The dry contacts of the remote relay 6 are connected to the controller 7. The thermocouple of the liquid metal probe is connected to the controller 7 via a thermocouple signal line 8, and the leak detector in the liquid metal probe is connected to the controller 7 via a leak signal line 9.

[0087] When using the liquid metal probe of this embodiment to measure the liquid level, it is installed on the upper end cap 1 of the liquid metal container. The positive terminal of the DC power supply 2 is connected to the probe sealing assembly 40 at the upper end of the probe tube 10, and the negative terminal of the DC power supply 2 is connected to the wall of the liquid metal container 500. When the liquid surface contacts the cover 11 of the probe tube 10, the circuit is activated, the normally open dry contact of the remote relay 6 closes, the controller 7 receives the liquid level signal, the field indicator light 5 illuminates, and the buzzer 4 emits an audible alert. Furthermore, during the debugging process of the liquid metal probe, the basic circuit function can be checked using the test switch 3.

[0088] Regarding the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, without conflict, the embodiments of the present invention and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other to obtain new embodiments.

[0089] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. The scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A liquid metal level probe, characterized in that, include: A probe tube is configured to indicate the level of liquid metal when its bottom is in contact with the liquid metal; An insulating tube is fitted over the probe tube, with its bottom sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube, and both ends of the probe tube extending out of the insulating tube. A corrugated tube is fitted over the probe tube and positioned at the top of the insulating tube; One end of the bellows is sealed to the probe tube, and the other end is sealed to the top of the insulating tube. The bellows is used to compensate for the difference in axial expansion between the probe tube and the insulating tube due to temperature changes. A wave-blocking tube is connected to the insulating tube, and the probe tube is located inside the wave-blocking tube. The wave-blocking tube has multiple through holes arranged in a staggered manner to prevent the liquid metal from fluctuating. The through hole is an elongated hole arranged radially.

2. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first transition member is provided at the connection between the insulating tube and the probe tube, and the two sides of the first transition member are respectively sealed to the insulating tube and the probe tube.

3. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second transition member is provided at the connection between the corrugated pipe and the insulating pipe, and the two sides of the second transition member are respectively sealed to the corrugated pipe and the insulating pipe; and / or A third transition member is provided at the connection between the corrugated pipe and the probe tube, and the two sides of the third transition member are respectively sealed to the corrugated pipe and the probe tube.

4. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A probe sealing assembly is disposed at the top of the probe tube and is used to seal the probe tube.

5. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 4, characterized in that, The probe sealing assembly includes: A probe connector is fitted onto the top of the probe tube; A sealing connector is disposed between the probe tube and the probe connector, and is sealed to the outer wall of the probe tube; A probe sealing gasket is disposed on top of the sealing connector; A probe sealing clamping component is connected to the probe connector and is used to press the probe sealing gasket onto the sealing connector.

6. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The top of the sealing connector is provided with a positioning protrusion along the circumferential direction. The positioning protrusion cooperates with the top of the probe connector to position the probe connector and the sealing connector.

7. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: A thermocouple is disposed inside the probe tube, and the thermocouple is used to measure the temperature of the liquid metal.

8. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 7, characterized in that, The probe connector is provided with a mounting hole, through which the top of the thermocouple passes and is sealed to the probe connector.

9. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom of the probe tube is sealed with a cap, which is conical in shape.

10. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cover body is provided with an installation groove, and the bottom of the thermocouple is disposed in the installation groove.

11. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An intermediate connecting component, sleeved outside the insulating tube, is configured to detachably connect the insulating tube to a liquid metal container or radiator.

12. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 11, characterized in that, The intermediate connection component includes: A connecting sleeve is fitted over the insulating tube; An intermediate connecting pipe is disposed between the connecting sleeve and the insulating pipe, with one end extending out of the connecting sleeve; An intermediate sealing gasket is disposed on the intermediate connecting pipe; An intermediate sealing clamping member is detachably connected inside the connecting sleeve, and its top is sealed to the outer wall of the insulating tube. The intermediate sealing clamping member presses the intermediate sealing gasket onto the intermediate connecting pipe.

13. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 12, characterized in that, A fourth transition piece is provided at the connection between the insulating tube and the intermediate sealing clamping member, and the two sides of the fourth transition piece are respectively sealed to the insulating tube and the intermediate sealing clamping member.

14. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 12, characterized in that, The inner side of the connecting sleeve is provided with a positioning part, and the outer side of the intermediate pipe is provided with a positioning mating part. The positioning part and the positioning mating part cooperate to position the intermediate pipe and the connecting sleeve.

15. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 12, characterized in that, Also includes: A radiator is installed outside the insulating tube, with one end sealed to the intermediate connecting pipe and the other end connected to the liquid metal container.

16. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the wave-damping pipe is sealed with a base plate, and the base plate has holes.

17. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 16, characterized in that, The bottom plate of the wave-damping tube is at a predetermined distance from the bottom of the probe tube.

18. The liquid metal level probe according to any one of claims 12-15, characterized in that, Also includes: A container connection assembly is disposed outside the insulating tube and is used to connect the liquid metal container and the liquid metal level probe.

19. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 18, characterized in that, The container connection component includes: The first connector is sealed to the intermediate pipe or radiator. The second connector is detachably connected to the first connector; The connecting pipe has one end sealed to the second connector and the other end sealed to the liquid metal container.

20. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 19, characterized in that, One end of the wave-damping pipe is provided with a wave-damping pipe connector, which is detachably connected between the first connector and the second connector.

21. The liquid metal level probe according to claim 20, characterized in that, A sealing gasket is provided between the first connector and the waveguide connector; and / or, A sealing gasket is provided between the second connector and the wave-damping pipe connector.

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