Low-pressure degassing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a degassing device for degassing a gas-containing liquid and a method for degassing, the degassing device comprising:-a manifold through which a main flow of the liquid flows,-at least one flow channel extending between the manifold and a degassing zone,-a degassing housing defining an internal volume, wherein the internal volume substantially corresponds to the degassing zone,-at least one valve,-a decompression device connected to the degassing housing,-a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure in the degassing zone,-a gas outlet in the degassing housing, the gas outlet comprising an outlet tube and an outlet closing body wherein the outlet tube is closable by the outlet closing body, the method for degassing comprises the steps of: a) entering a main flow of liquid, b) diverting a portion of the main flow through at least one flow channel, c) closing a valve, d) closing a gas outlet, e) operating a decompression device, f) opening the at least one valve and the gas outlet, in which the degassing cycle comprises a decompression step comprising steps c), d) and e), and the degassing cycle comprises a gas evacuation step, said gas evacuation step comprising step f) in which-during the pressure reduction step, the outlet closing body closes the outlet tube,-during the gas evacuation step, the separated gas passes through the outlet tube and the gas outlet opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of degassing gas-containing liquid in cooling or heating equipment, and in particular to a device and method for degassing liquid. Background Art

[0002] In the field of degassing liquids, various devices and methods exist.

[0003] EP3036025A1 discloses a device configured to degas liquid in a fluid system. A portion of the liquid in a main flow channel is diverted and subsequently passes through a filter, an actuating valve, a check valve, a reservoir, a pump, and another check valve before returning to the main flow channel. When the reservoir is filled to the desired level, the actuating valve closes and the pump operates to reduce the pressure in the reservoir, thereby releasing gas from the liquid.

[0004] The disadvantage of this device is that the pump must be operated in conjunction with the actuating valve. This requires a relatively complex control mechanism. Furthermore, since the pump is often loud and inefficient, the device is considered less suitable for home use.

[0005] US2011214571A1 discloses a degassing device that utilizes a vacuum chamber to locally reduce pressure to separate gas from liquid. The device includes a channel through which liquid flows, wherein the liquid also passes through the vacuum chamber. Within the vacuum chamber, the main flow channel is defined by a permeable region through which gas can pass but liquid cannot.

[0006] Outside this permeable area, there is an enclosure connected to a vacuum pump. This vacuum pump is configured to create a constant vacuum level in the enclosure to facilitate degassing of the liquid. Additionally, a vent is connected to the enclosure to allow ventilation flow into the vacuum chamber, thereby reducing condensation within the enclosure.

[0007] In the present invention, it has been recognized that this device has several disadvantages. The use of a permeable region allows a certain amount of liquid to migrate into the housing, leading to contamination of the housing and, in turn, the vacuum pump, and potentially reducing the amount of liquid in the main flow path over time. Furthermore, the permeable region can degrade over time due to the accumulation of contaminants. This accumulation can impede gas flow, ultimately rendering degassing impossible.

[0008] Furthermore, since a constant vacuum is required to operate the device, the device can consume a significant amount of energy. Furthermore, supplying gas externally to the vents of the enclosure simply causes the vacuum pump to work harder to maintain the required vacuum level and consumes more energy.

[0009] Additionally, vacuum pumps can be quite noisy, especially if they run continuously, making them less suitable for home use.

[0010] EP3764001A1 discloses a device in which a portion of the main flow is diverted through a bypass, flows through a venturi device and enters a degassing chamber. On the other side of the degassing chamber, the diverted portion is returned to the main flow.

[0011] In addition, a degassing conduit leads from the suction area to a bypass, where it is connected to the bypass in a Venturi device. Due to the Venturi device, the pressure in this degassing conduit is lower than that in the rest of the circuit. The lower pressure causes dissolved gases to separate, allowing them to be exhausted through a ventilator in the degassing chamber.

[0012] A disadvantage of this device is that the liquid in the circuit must always move at a certain speed to create a pressure differential between the return flow and the branch flow for the Venturi device to operate. If the speed is insufficient, an additional pump is required to generate the pressure differential. This either results in suboptimal device operation or makes the device expensive due to the need for an additional pump. Such a pump also increases the device's energy consumption.

[0013] Additionally, because the system relies on the velocity of the liquid in the circuit, it can be difficult to control the pressure in the system, and therefore the degassing process.

[0014] US Pat. No. 4,602,923 A discloses a device for degassing a liquid medium. The device includes a check valve 41, which prevents the inflow of air while allowing the separated gas to flow out (column 5, lines 44-49). Here, the check valve 41, the exhaust valve 40, and the float that isolates the device from the outside are located above the potential liquid level. D1 has a disadvantage in this respect: the air inside the degassing zone hinders decompression, resulting in very low degassing efficiency. During decompression in the degassing zone, the air in the degassing zone expands, reducing the pressure drop in the degassing zone and, consequently, the degassing efficiency.

[0015] Purpose of the Invention

[0016] The object of the present invention is to provide a device and a method for degassing liquids and in doing so overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0017] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a degassing device for degassing gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device, the degassing device comprising:

[0018] a header extending between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein in operation the liquid flow passes through the header from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection and vice versa,

[0019] at least one flow channel extending from the header to the degassing zone, said flow channel being configured to allow fluid communication between the header and the degassing zone,

[0020] - a degassing housing defining an inner volume, wherein said inner volume substantially corresponds to said degassing zone,

[0021] - A pressure reducing device connected to the degassing housing, wherein during operation the pressure reducing device is configured to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure of the flow in the header.

[0022] in:

[0023] o the pressure relief device comprises a piston, a cylinder, and a piston actuator, wherein the piston is movable between an extended, idle pressure position and a retracted, low pressure position, wherein a front cylinder volume at a front portion of the cylinder is in fluid communication with an interior volume, and the degassing zone comprises the front cylinder volume,

[0024] o in the low-pressure position of the piston, the degassing zone extends into the cylinder and is larger than the degassing zone in the idle pressure position of the piston,

[0025] o The degassing zone is defined by the degassing housing, at least a portion of the outer surface of the piston and / or at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder.

[0026] at least one valve movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the valve blocks the flow passage, isolating the degassing zone from the flow in the manifold, and wherein in the open position the at least one valve does not block the flow passage,

[0027] - a gas outlet in the degassing housing, said gas outlet comprising:

[0028] o an outlet pipe and an outlet closing body, wherein the outlet pipe can be closed by the outlet closing body,

[0029] an overflow valve defining a gas outlet opening, wherein the overflow valve is configured to close the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degassing device is above an overflow threshold level, wherein the overflow threshold level is above the outlet closure body,

[0030] - a control unit for controlling the movement of at least the piston to perform a degassing cycle,

[0031] The control unit is configured to perform a degassing cycle by executing the following steps:

[0032] a decompression step during which the gas outlet and the at least one valve are closed, wherein the decompression device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein at the start of the decompression step the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, the outlet closing body closing the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe,

[0033] - a gas discharge step, during which the pressure in the degassing zone is increased and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening.

[0034] The present invention leads to effective degassing. Since the outlet closing body is arranged below the overflow threshold level and closes the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe, the outlet closing body is always immersed (below the liquid level) during degassing. Therefore, there is no or almost no air (gas) in the degassing zone because there is no or almost no air below the outlet closing body when the outlet closing body closes the outlet. Therefore, the compressibility (or possibly negative compressibility) of the medium in the degassing zone is low, so that for a given stroke length of the piston, a larger pressure reduction is achieved in the degassing zone. This leads to an effective decompression step, which in turn leads to effective degassing. The control unit may include mechanical, electronic and / or digital devices. The control unit can communicate with other devices and / or users via a wired or wireless connection, for example, for sending data or other data about the degassing device, or for receiving commands or inputs. The control unit can perform a degassing cycle at set time intervals or time points. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can perform a degassing cycle based on input (such as user input or measurement data).

[0035] The piston actuator can be one of a mechanical actuator, an electric actuator, a magnetic actuator, a hydraulic actuator and a pneumatic actuator. By moving the piston from the idle pressure position to the low pressure position, the degassing zone is pulled into the cylinder barrel and becomes larger than the idle pressure position of the housing. The cylinder barrel can be a part of the housing. Since the volume of the degassing zone increases, and the contents of the degassing zone (i.e., the amount of liquid in the degassing zone) remain essentially unchanged, the pressure on the liquid in the degassing zone is reduced. The reduced pressure degasses the liquid. In an embodiment, the overflow valve is configured to open the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degassing device is below the overflow threshold level. In this way, gas can escape from the degassing device.

[0036] In an embodiment, the outlet closing body comprises a gas outlet valve, wherein the gas outlet valve allows gas and / or liquid to flow between the outside and the degassing zone in an open state and seals the degassing zone in a closed state. In particular, the gas outlet valve is a ball valve or a check valve. In this way, the entire degassing zone can be filled with liquid, and degassing of the liquid can be performed more efficiently than in a case where more liquid and / or more gas is initially present, because pressure reduction can be achieved more easily and quickly.

[0037] In the implementation:

[0038] the outlet closing body comprises an outlet closing non-return valve, said outlet closing non-return valve preferably being actuated by an actuator,

[0039] - the piston comprises an actuator end,

[0040] - the outlet shut-off check valve is actuated by the actuator end of the piston, wherein when the piston moves to the idle pressure position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to the open position, wherein when the piston moves to the retracted position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to the closed position.

[0041] In an embodiment, gas is allowed to escape from the degassing zone when the pressure inside the degassing zone becomes too high (e.g., due to overheating or overfilling of the heating system). At the same time, gas is not allowed to enter the degassing zone due to the action of the check valve. In a preferred embodiment, the outlet shutoff check valve is actuated so that it can be forced open, for example, to vent gas released from the liquid during degassing. This provides good control over the degassing operation.

[0042] In an embodiment, the gas outlet further comprises a float chamber and a float movable between a floating position and a lowered position, wherein the lower part of the float forms at least a part of the outlet closing body, in particular the upper part of the float above the liquid level does not form a part of the outlet closing body, and when the liquid level drops below a predetermined liquid level, the outlet closing body engages with one end of the outlet pipe in the lower position, thereby closing the outlet pipe.

[0043] In an embodiment, the normally submerged portion of the float forms at least a portion of the outlet closure. When the piston is retracted for degassing, the volume in the degassing zone increases. This draws liquid from the float chamber, thereby lowering the liquid level in the float chamber. When the liquid level in the float chamber drops below a predetermined level (e.g., an overflow threshold level), the portion of the float that is normally submerged when the float is in a floating state (the lower portion of the float, as a reference) engages with one end of the outlet pipe in a lower position, thereby closing the outlet pipe and, therefore, the degassing zone. The float not only replaces the need for an actively operated gas outlet valve, but also reduces the amount of free gas inside the degassing zone by closing the outlet pipe as soon as liquid flows out of the outlet pipe, or even before the liquid flows out of the outlet pipe. This, in turn, helps to reduce pressure and can increase the amount of gas that can be separated from the gas-containing liquid.

[0044] In an embodiment, the float chamber includes a relief valve that defines a gas outlet opening, wherein when the liquid level is above the overflow threshold level, the outlet closing body (i.e., the submerged portion of the float) moves to an upper position, thereby closing the relief valve. The float includes the outlet closing body and therefore moves together with the outlet closing body. The float operates the relief valve by either directly closing the relief valve with the float body or indirectly closing the relief valve via a connector to the relief valve. In this way, when the amount of liquid flowing into the degassing housing risks overflowing the degassing housing, the gas outlet opening is closed by the float to prevent the liquid from overflowing the degassing device. Thereafter, the liquid will stop flowing in through the branch flow channel, or will enter through the branch flow channel and will flow out through the return flow channel. The relief valve may also be referred to as a float valve.

[0045] In an embodiment, the outlet closure includes a protrusion extending from the float, the protrusion being configured to close the outlet tube and being located on the underside of the float, wherein the outer dimensions of the protrusion substantially match the inner dimensions of the outlet tube. Such a protrusion can enhance the sealing capability of the float, thereby improving the sealing of the degassing zone during degassing.

[0046] In an embodiment, the float comprises a second protrusion extending therefrom, the second protrusion having outer dimensions substantially matching inner dimensions of the gas outlet opening, wherein the protrusion is forced into the gas outlet opening when the liquid level is at a second predetermined level.

[0047] In an embodiment, the outlet closing member includes an O-ring or double-lip seal for closing the outlet pipe in the lower position and / or an O-ring for closing the gas outlet in the upper position. In the lower position, the O-ring defines the closed position. This can improve the sealing of the degassing zone during degassing.

[0048] In an embodiment, at least one valve includes a first valve movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position, the first valve blocks at least one flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the manifold, and in the open position, the first valve does not block at least one flow channel, wherein the first valve is integrated into a piston, the piston includes a component that blocks the flow channel when in a low-pressure position, and wherein movement of the piston from an idle pressure position toward the low-pressure position causes the first valve to move from the open position to an idle closed position. Since the first valve is integrated into the piston, relatively few powered moving parts are required while achieving good control of the functional (i.e., moving) parts. This contributes to a reliable and relatively simple system.

[0049] In an embodiment, the piston is configured to block the flow path in at least one position between an idle pressure position and a low pressure position. In this way, degassing can be effectively performed in the portion of the piston stroke where the first valve is closed (i.e., the portion of the piston stroke between the piston position where the first valve reaches the idle closed position and the fully retracted position of the piston).

[0050] In an embodiment, the device includes two flow channels, the first flow channel is a branch flow channel, which is configured to divert a branch flow from the flow in the collecting pipe, and the second flow channel is a return flow channel extending between the degassing zone and the collecting pipe, and the return flow channel is configured to return the return flow to the collecting pipe.

[0051] By diverting a portion of the flow in the cooling or heating equipment and blocking the branch flow channel and / or the return flow channel, the pressure reduction device can reduce the pressure experienced by the diverted portion (i.e., the branch flow). When the pressure drops below the pressure level within the flow in the manifold, the gas dissolved in the liquid becomes less soluble and separates from the liquid. The gas separated from the liquid can then be removed from the degassing device before the liquid rejoins the flow in the manifold. This reduces the amount of dissolved gas in the liquid in the cooling or heating equipment.

[0052] In an embodiment, the branch flow channel is arranged at the same branch flow path length from the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, and the return flow channel is arranged at the same return flow path length from the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection.

[0053] Because the branch channel and the return channel are arranged with the same path length between the first and second fluid connections, the direction of fluid flow between the first and second fluid connections does not affect the pressure difference between the branch channel and the return channel. Therefore, the degasser can be used for fluid flowing from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, and vice versa, with similar performance in both flow directions. Thus, the degasser is bidirectional.

[0054] In an embodiment, the degassing device comprises a flow member arranged in a manifold, wherein the flow member is configured to cause liquid flowing along the flow member to enter the degassing zone via a branch flow channel, preferably regardless of the flow direction of the liquid from the first fluid connection part to the second fluid connection part, and vice versa.

[0055] The flow member forces the liquid to enter the branch flow channel without being restricted in the flow direction. Thus, the degassing device can be used for the fluid to flow from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, and vice versa.

[0056] In an embodiment, the flow member includes a branch flow separator, which, when in operation, extends into the liquid flow from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa, and the flow separator is configured to divert a portion of the liquid flow into the degassing zone, and / or the manifold includes a main flow valve, which is configured to divert a portion of the flow into the degassing zone.

[0057] In an embodiment, the flow member comprises an inclined guide surface configured to deflect liquid flowing through the flow member in the direction of flow out of the header, in particular in an upward direction, more particularly in a vertically upward direction.

[0058] In an embodiment, the flow member includes a first inclined guide surface and a second inclined guide surface to divert a branch flow from the flow within the manifold regardless of the direction of the flow through the manifold, wherein the first inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing out of the first fluid connection and the second inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing out of the second fluid connection.

[0059] Since the first inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing from the first fluid connection and the second inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing from the second fluid connection, the degassing device can be used for liquid flowing from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection and vice versa.

[0060] In an embodiment, the flow member comprises a first inclined guide surface and a second inclined guide surface that are curved in a direction away from the header, in particular in an upward direction.

[0061] In an embodiment, the first inclined guide surface is configured to divert branch flows when the flow flows through the header in a first direction, and the second inclined guide surface is configured to divert branch flows when the flow flows through the header in a second direction, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

[0062] Advantageously, the branch flow is diverted when the flow passes through the manifold in either a first direction or an opposite second direction. Thus, the degasser is bidirectional and can be used for flow from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, and vice versa. Regardless of the direction of the fluid flowing in the main channel, the branch flow is always diverted. This makes installation easier.

[0063] In an embodiment, the first guide surface and the second guide surface meet at a merging point.

[0064] In an embodiment, the manifold includes a main flow channel and a bypass channel, wherein the main flow channel and the bypass channel diverge and merge between a first fluid connection and a second fluid connection. The branch flow channel diverts flow from the bypass channel, and the return flow channel returns to the main flow channel. Advantageously, this reduces the chance that recently degassed fluid will subsequently be directly drawn into the degasser.

[0065] In an embodiment, the flow member is arranged in the bypass channel.

[0066] Since the flow member is arranged in the bypass channel, the main flow through the main flow channel is not disturbed by the flow member, which reduces the flow resistance of the degassing device when it is not in operation.

[0067] In an embodiment, when the first valve is in a closed position, the first valve blocks the branch flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the main flow channel, and the degassing device includes a second valve movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein, in the closed position, the second valve blocks the return flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the main flow channel, and in the open position, the second valve does not block the return flow channel.

[0068] By using two separate valves to be able to close the branch flow channel and the return flow channel, the two valves can be placed at a distance from each other along the main flow. In this way, the renewal of the liquid in the degassing housing can be advantageously increased.

[0069] In an embodiment, the second valve is a check valve, or wherein the second valve is an actuated valve controlled by a control unit.

[0070] In an embodiment, the cylinder extends through the space between the main flow channel and the bypass channel.

[0071] Since the cylinder barrel extends through the space between the main flow channel and the bypass channel, a compact structure can be achieved.

[0072] In an embodiment, the branch flow channel enters the cylinder at a cylinder inlet position located above or below the main flow channel, wherein the main flow channel is arranged horizontally.

[0073] In an embodiment, the piston actuator is fixed to the degassing housing via one or more resilient members, wherein the piston actuator is resiliently movable between a first actuator position and a second actuator position.

[0074] The piston actuator may be fixed to the degassing housing via one or more elastic members in order to be able to absorb mechanical vibrations.

[0075] In an embodiment, the degassing housing includes a first abutment and a second abutment. Here, the piston extends against the first abutment to move the piston actuator to the first actuator position, and the piston retracts against the second abutment to move the piston to the second actuator position.

[0076] In an embodiment, the degassing device includes a directional switch configured to operate the piston actuator in a first direction when in a first switch position and to operate the piston actuator in a second direction when in a second switch position. Here, movement from the first actuator position to the second actuator position moves the directional switch from the first switch position to the second switch position, and vice versa.

[0077] In this way, a system is obtained which can operate continuously without the need for a complex control system.When the piston has reached an abutment, the direction of the piston actuator is automatically changed so that the piston moves to another abutment, and so on.

[0078] In an embodiment, the directional switch includes a delay component configured to delay operation of the piston actuator after a switch position change.

[0079] This creates idle periods where the piston is not moving and the liquid can flow into the degassing zone, or the liquid in the degassing zone is at rest. This can improve the performance of the system.

[0080] In an embodiment, the piston is at least partially movable within the cylinder.

[0081] In an embodiment, the piston is movable in a direction substantially parallel to the main flow channel, preferably when the main flow channel is oriented substantially horizontally and the direction is substantially horizontal, or preferably when the main flow channel is oriented substantially vertically and the direction is substantially vertical. By positioning the pressure relief device in an orientation that allows the piston to move in a direction substantially parallel to the main flow channel, efficient use of space can be achieved. Since the direction is substantially parallel to the main flow channel, the space occupied by the degassing device in a direction away from the main flow channel can be reduced.

[0082] In an embodiment, the piston is movable in a direction substantially orthogonal to the main flow channel, preferably wherein the main flow channel is oriented substantially horizontally and the direction is substantially vertically oriented. By positioning the pressure relief device in an orientation such that the piston moves in a direction substantially orthogonal to the main flow channel, another efficient use of space can be achieved. Because the direction is substantially orthogonal to the main flow channel, the space occupied by the degassing device along the main flow channel can be reduced.

[0083] In an embodiment, the piston is in direct contact with the liquid, and preferably, no diaphragm is present between the piston and the degassing zone. The absence of a diaphragm makes the device more robust and potentially requires less maintenance. The lack of a diaphragm means one less component that could fail, and there is no diaphragm that could become clogged, inhibiting device operation. Because the piston can act directly on the liquid without first deforming a resilient member such as a diaphragm, decompression can be achieved more quickly.

[0084] In an embodiment, the piston comprises at least one seal, in particular two seals spaced apart from each other, in particular the seals are O-rings, more in particular the seals are double-lip seals. Such seals can be used to improve the performance of the pressure relief device by increasing the sealing capacity and thus the pressure difference loss.

[0085] In an embodiment, the pressure reduction device is located in a lower portion of the degassing housing, and the pressure reduction device is configured to operate below the liquid level in the degassing housing.

[0086] By placing the pressure relief device in the lower portion of the degassing housing and configuring the pressure relief device to operate below the liquid level, the pressure relief device can be positioned close to the main flow channel. This can reduce the amount of space occupied by the degassing device.

[0087] In an embodiment, the branch flow channel extends through the cylinder between the main flow channel and the degassing zone, wherein the piston movement is configured to move the first valve to a closed state. Thus, a single operation of the piston can be used to both seal the branch flow channel and reduce the pressure within the degassing zone. Thus, no additional actuator is required to move the first valve to a closed state.

[0088] In an embodiment, a cavity is located in the cylinder and between the main flow channel and the piston, and the branch flow path extends through the cavity, particularly behind the piston and around the piston drive shaft.

[0089] In an embodiment, the cylinder defines a branch flow bore, wherein the branch flow path extends through the branch flow passage, through the cavity, and into the interior volume through the branch flow bore.

[0090] In an embodiment, the branch flow passage is defined by the cylinder, the branch flow hole, and the piston.

[0091] In an embodiment, the second valve is a check valve. In an embodiment, when the pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing device, the relatively high pressure in the main flow channel forces the second check valve to be in a closed state. In this way, an actuator may not be required to close the valve.

[0092] In an embodiment, the relief valve includes a backflow preventer configured to allow gas to escape but not to enter the gas outlet. In particular, the backflow preventer is a check valve. When the pressure relief device is operated, the backflow preventer prevents further particles from being drawn into the degassing zone. In this way, the volume is increased more efficiently and the pressure is effectively reduced because no particles can be added to the volume.

[0093] In an embodiment, the degassing device further includes a vacuum pump connected to the gas outlet and a porous chamber located within the interior volume of the degassing housing, wherein the branch flow channel diverts a portion of the main flow into the porous chamber, and the return flow channel extends between the porous chamber and the main flow channel. The porous chamber may include a porous element that is permeable to gas but impermeable to liquid.

[0094] By using a combination of a vacuum pump and a porous chamber, the gas outlet does not need to be closed by a float, as the vacuum pump acts as a check valve for the separated gas. Also, since the porous element is impermeable to liquids, the risk of liquid reaching the vacuum pump (which would be detrimental to its operation) is minimal.

[0095] In embodiments, the degassing device further comprises a biasing switch configured to interrupt operation of the pressure reducing device, wherein in the first actuator position the piston actuator engages the biasing switch and in the second actuator position the switch is open.

[0096] When operating the piston actuator to move the piston to the low-pressure position, there is a risk of exceeding the maximum negative pressure. When this occurs, the low pressure pulls the piston, and therefore the piston actuator, away from the switch toward the second actuator position, causing the switch to open. Opening the switch disables the piston actuator, thereby inhibiting further pressure reduction.

[0097] In an embodiment, the degassing device further comprises at least one sensor, and the control unit is configured to read the at least one sensor and / or control the pressure reducing device. In this way, the pressure inside the degassing housing can be monitored and controlled when necessary.

[0098] In one embodiment, a first pressure sensor is located in the manifold or main flow channel, while a second pressure sensor is located in the degassing zone. The control unit can then be configured to operate the pressure reducing device based on the output of the first pressure sensor and / or the second pressure sensor. By measuring the pressure in the manifold or main flow channel and the degassing zone, the pressure differential between the two can be determined.

[0099] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor is a current measuring device configured to determine the current required to move the piston. By determining the current required to move the piston, the pressure inside the degassing housing can also be determined based on the force required by the piston.

[0100] In embodiments, the pressure reducing device comprises a sensor configured to measure the pressure in the degassing zone.

[0101] In an embodiment, at least one sensor is a strain gauge or a strain gauge, and the at least one sensor is configured to measure a strain value or a stress value so that the control unit can determine the pressure in the degassing zone. By connecting the strain gauge or the strain gauge to the piston or piston actuator, the force acting on the piston or piston actuator can be determined, and can be used to determine the pressure in the degassing housing. Thus, the control unit can determine the pressure in the degassing zone.

[0102] In an embodiment, the degassing device further includes a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be located in the manifold or in the main flow channel. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of the liquid in the manifold or the main flow channel, and the control unit reads the temperature sensor and controls the decompression device.

[0103] In an embodiment, the control unit is further configured to operate at least one of the first valve, the second valve and the main flow valve.

[0104] In embodiments, the degassing device further comprises a flow switch, wherein the flow switch prevents the pressure reducing device from operating when there is no flow in the manifold or the main flow channel.

[0105] In an embodiment, the pressure reducing device is at least partially positioned on the upstream side of the degassing housing, in particular, the piston actuator is located on the upstream side of the degassing housing.

[0106] In an embodiment, the degassing device comprises at least one pressure sensor, and the control unit comprises:

[0107] - a first test module configured to determine the presence of a leak, said first test module being configured to:

[0108] oClose at least one valve,

[0109] oThe pressure relief device is then operated to reduce or increase the pressure, and

[0110] oThen read at least one pressure sensor,

[0111] oAfter a period of time, a second reading of at least one pressure sensor and

[0112] o comparing the second measured pressure to the first measured pressure to determine a difference, wherein a difference signal is generated,

[0113] and / or

[0114] - a second test module configured to determine the presence of flow in the main flow channel, said second test module being configured to:

[0115] oRead at least one pressure sensor,

[0116] o then close at least one valve,

[0117] oAfter a period of time, read at least one pressure sensor a second time, and

[0118] o Comparing the second measured pressure to the first measured pressure to determine a difference, wherein when the difference is less than a threshold, generating a difference signal indicative of lack of flow.

[0119] By using such a first test module and / or second test module, the degassing device can be tested to keep it in good working order and to enable timely maintenance.

[0120] In an embodiment, the first test module is configured to maintain the pressure in the degassing zone constant or substantially constant over a test period by measuring the pressure in the degassing zone, comparing the measured pressure to a target pressure, and operating the pressure reducing device to maintain the pressure in the degassing zone at the target pressure. The first test module measures an operating parameter of the pressure reducing device in real time and is configured to generate a difference signal indicating a leak when the measured operating parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold. The operating parameter may be, in particular, the position of the piston and / or the power consumption of the pressure reducing device.

[0121] Alternatively or additionally, the first test module is configured to maintain a constant or substantially constant piston position during a test period. Here, the first test module measures the pressure in the degassing zone during the test period and is configured to generate a differential signal indicative of a leak when a measured pressure difference exceeds a predetermined threshold over time.

[0122] In an embodiment, the first test module and / or the second test module determines a difference and:

[0123] - when the difference is greater than a threshold, the control unit periodically performs a degassing cycle,

[0124] - When the difference is smaller than a threshold value, the control unit does not perform any degassing cycle.

[0125] By being able to determine whether flow is present in the main flow channel, the degasser can be operated only when it is useful. This reduces potential wear and tear and reduces energy consumption.

[0126] In one embodiment, the manifold or main flow channel is defined by a cup-shaped member including an inlet and an outlet, and a cover, with a plate projecting downwardly from the cover. The plate divides the cup-shaped member into an inlet side and an outlet side, and allows fluid communication from the inlet side to the outlet side only through a constriction. The cover also isolates the main flow channel from the degassing zone and includes at least one valve located in at least one flow channel. The degassing housing includes a hood placed on top of the cover.

[0127] In an embodiment, the degassing zone is connected to the pressure reducing device via a pipe, and / or the degassing zone and / or the pressure reducing device are connected to the main flow channel via a pipe. In this way, various geometric configurations can be obtained to fit the degassing device in various spaces.

[0128] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device by using a degassing device, the degassing device comprising:

[0129] a header extending between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein in operation the liquid flow passes through the header from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection and vice versa,

[0130] at least one flow channel extending from the header to the degassing zone, said flow channel being configured to allow fluid communication between the header and the degassing zone,

[0131] - a degassing housing defining an inner volume, wherein said inner volume substantially corresponds to said degassing zone,

[0132] - A pressure reducing device connected to the degassing housing, wherein during operation the pressure reducing device is configured to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure of the flow in the header.

[0133] in:

[0134] o the pressure relief device comprises a piston, a cylinder, and a piston actuator, wherein the piston is movable between an extended, idle pressure position and a retracted, low pressure position, wherein a front cylinder volume at a front portion of the cylinder is in fluid communication with an interior volume, and the degassing zone comprises the front cylinder volume,

[0135] o in the low-pressure position of the piston, the degassing zone extends into the cylinder and is larger than the degassing zone in the idle pressure position of the piston,

[0136] o the degassing zone is defined by the degassing housing, at least a portion of the outer surface of the piston and / or at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder,

[0137] at least one valve movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the valve blocks the flow passage, isolating the degassing zone from the flow in the manifold, and wherein in the open position the at least one valve does not block the flow passage,

[0138] - a gas outlet in the degassing housing, said gas outlet comprising:

[0139] o an outlet pipe and an outlet closing body, wherein the outlet pipe can be closed by the outlet closing body,

[0140] an overflow valve defining a gas outlet opening, wherein the overflow valve is configured to close the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degassing device is above an overflow threshold level, wherein the overflow threshold level is above the outlet closure body,

[0141] Wherein, the degassing device is configured to perform a degassing cycle, the degassing cycle comprising:

[0142] a depressurization step, during which the gas outlet and the at least one valve are closed, wherein the depressurization device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein, at the start of the depressurization step, the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, and the outlet closing body closes the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe,

[0143] o a gas discharge step, during which the pressure in the degassing zone is increased and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening,

[0144] The method comprises the following steps:

[0145] a) allowing the main flow of the liquid to enter the manifold via the first fluid connection or the second fluid connection, preferably allowing the main flow to flow through the manifold from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa,

[0146] b) diverting a portion of the main flow through at least one flow channel,

[0147] c) moving at least one valve to a corresponding closed position, thereby blocking at least one flow channel and isolating the degassing zone from the header,

[0148] d) Close the gas outlet,

[0149] e) operating the pressure reducing device by moving the piston from an extended idle pressure position to a retracted low-pressure position to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure in the manifold, wherein the degassing zone is delimited by the degassing housing and the piston,

[0150] f) opening at least one valve and gas outlet,

[0151] The degassing cycle comprises a decompression step comprising steps c), d) and e), and the degassing cycle comprises a gas discharge step comprising step f), wherein:

[0152] - during the depressurization step, the gas outlet and the at least one valve are closed, wherein the depressurization device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein at the start of the depressurization step the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, and the outlet closing body closes the outlet before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe,

[0153] - During the gas discharge step, the pressure in the degassing zone increases and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening.

[0154] This method has the same advantages as the device according to the invention. In step f), the outlet closing body no longer closes the outlet pipe. The separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and is discharged.

[0155] In the retracted position of the piston, the degassing zone extends into the cylinder and is larger than the degassing zone in the extended position of the piston. Here, the degassing zone is defined by the degassing housing, at least a portion of the outer surface of the piston and / or at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder.

[0156] By moving the piston from the extended to the retracted position, the degassing zone is drawn into the cylinder and becomes larger than when the housing is in its idle pressure position. Because the volume of the degassing zone increases, while the contents of the zone, i.e., the amount of liquid within the zone, remain essentially unchanged, the pressure experienced by the liquid in the degassing zone decreases. This decompression degasses the liquid. Degassing cycles can be executed at set intervals or time points. Alternatively or additionally, degassing cycles can be executed based on, for example, user input or measured data.

[0157] In an embodiment, the overflow valve opens the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degassing device is below an overflow threshold level. In this way, gas can escape from the degassing device.

[0158] In an embodiment, at least a portion of the outlet closing body is formed by a lower portion of the float, wherein the outlet closing body closes the gas outlet pipe when the liquid level is below a predetermined level.

[0159] In an embodiment, the outlet closure body comprises a protrusion extending from the float, the outer dimensions of the protrusion substantially matching the inner dimensions of the outlet tube, wherein during step e), the protrusion is forced into the outlet tube.

[0160] In an embodiment, the float comprises a second protrusion extending therefrom, the second protrusion having outer dimensions substantially matching inner dimensions of the gas outlet opening, wherein the protrusion is forced into the gas outlet opening when the liquid level is at a second predetermined level.

[0161] In the implementation:

[0162] - the outlet closing body comprises an outlet closing non-return valve, which is preferably actuated by an actuator,

[0163] - the piston comprises an actuator end,

[0164] - the outlet shut-off check valve is preferably actuated by the actuator end of the piston, wherein when the piston moves to the idle pressure position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to the open position, wherein when the piston moves to the retracted position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to the closed position.

[0165] In an embodiment, the outlet closing body closes the outlet pipe in a closed position, and the predetermined liquid level is located above the closed position. This reduces the compressibility of the medium in the degassing zone and improves the degassing of the liquid.

[0166] In an embodiment, the degassing device includes two flow channels, the first flow channel is a branch flow channel, and the second flow channel is a return flow channel.

[0167] In an embodiment, when the piston moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the deaeration zone expands into the cylinder, and the deaeration zone is larger in the retracted position than in the extended position.The piston actuator will pull the piston to move the piston to the low pressure position.

[0168] In an embodiment, the branch flow channel extends through the cylinder between the main flow channel and the degassing zone, wherein steps d) and e) occur substantially simultaneously, and movement of the piston moves at least one of the first valve and the second valve to a closed position and / or closes the gas outlet.

[0169] In an embodiment, the gas outlet further comprises a gas outlet opening, wherein when the liquid level is at a second predetermined level, the outlet closing body moves to an upper position, thereby closing the gas outlet opening.

[0170] In an embodiment, the gas outlet further comprises a relief valve, and when the liquid level is at a second predetermined level, the relief valve closes the gas outlet opening.

[0171] In an embodiment, the overflow valve comprises a backflow preventer. When the external pressure is greater than the pressure inside the degassing housing, the backflow preventer prevents gas from flowing into the degassing zone. In particular, during step e), the backflow preventer prevents gas from flowing into the degassing zone.

[0172] In an embodiment, the main flow channel is constricted between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, and the constriction increases the pressure near the branch flow channel and forces a portion of the main flow into the degassing housing. The main flow channel may also include a branch flow separator that diverts at least a portion of the main flow into the degassing zone. The main flow channel may also include a main flow valve configured to divert a portion of the main flow into the degassing zone. In this way, the renewal of the liquid in the degassing zone can be increased.

[0173] In an embodiment, the constriction comprises a check valve.

[0174] In an embodiment, prior to step f), the pressure in the degassing zone is increased substantially to the pressure existing during step b). This reduces the pressure differential between the main flow channel and the degassing housing, and / or the pressure differential between the exterior and the degassing housing. This facilitates operation of the gas outlet, the valve configured to close the branch flow channel, and the valve configured to close the return flow channel.

[0175] In an embodiment, the degassing device further includes a biasing switch, and the piston actuator is secured to the degassing housing via one or more resilient members, and the piston actuator is resiliently movable between a first actuator position and a second actuator position. When the force required to move the piston to the retracted position exceeds a predetermined value corresponding to a minimum pressure within the degassing housing, the force causes the actuator to move from the first actuator position, which engages the biasing switch, to the second actuator position, which disconnects the switch. Disconnection of the switch interrupts operation of the pressure differential device. In this way, for example, a predetermined minimum pressure or maximum negative pressure can be maintained above the vapor line of the liquid, thereby preventing the liquid from boiling.

[0176] In an embodiment, the degassing housing further includes a first abutment and a second abutment, and the piston actuator is fixed to the degassing housing via one or more elastic members, and the piston actuator is elastically movable between a first actuator position and a second actuator position. Here, when the piston is extended and abuts the first abutment, the piston actuator moves to the first actuator position, and when the piston is retracted and abuts the second abutment, the piston moves to the second actuator position.

[0177] In an embodiment, the degassing device includes a directional switch, wherein in a first switch position, the directional switch operates the piston actuator in a first direction, and in a second switch position, the directional switch operates the piston actuator in a second direction. Here, movement from the first actuator position to the second actuator position moves the directional switch from the first switch position to the second switch position, and vice versa.

[0178] In this way, a system is obtained which can operate continuously without the need for a complex control system.When the piston has reached an abutment, the direction of the piston actuator is automatically changed so that the piston moves to another abutment, and so on.

[0179] In an embodiment, the direction switch includes a delay component. Here, the delay component delays the operation of the piston actuator when the switch position changes.

[0180] This creates idle periods during which the piston does not move and the liquid can flow into the degassing zone, or the liquid in the degassing zone remains stationary. This can improve the performance of the system.

[0181] In an embodiment, the degassing device further comprises at least one sensor, and the control unit reads the at least one sensor and / or controls the pressure reducing device. In this way, the pressure inside the degassing housing can be monitored and controlled when necessary.

[0182] In an embodiment, the sensor is a force sensor connected to the piston actuator and the degassing housing, the sensor measuring the force acting on the piston actuator in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the cylinder. By connecting the force sensor to the piston actuator, the force acting on the piston actuator can be determined and can be used to determine the pressure in the degassing housing.

[0183] In an embodiment, the first pressure sensor is located in the manifold or main flow channel, wherein the second pressure sensor is located in the degassing zone. Here, the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor measure the first pressure and the second pressure, respectively.

[0184] In an embodiment, the degassing device further includes a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be located in the manifold or in the main flow channel. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of the liquid in the manifold or the main flow channel, and the control unit reads the temperature sensor and controls the decompression device.

[0185] In an embodiment, the control unit further operates at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the main flow valve and the gas outlet valve.

[0186] In an embodiment, the device further comprises a flow switch, wherein the flow switch prevents the pressure reducing device from operating when there is no flow in the manifold or main flow channel. This prevents the device from operating when the liquid in the degassing zone is not refreshed between cycles.

[0187] In an embodiment, the first valve is integrated in a piston, wherein the piston includes a component that blocks the flow path when in a low-pressure position, and movement of the piston from an idle pressure position toward a low-pressure position causes the first valve to move from an open position to an idle closed position, and the step of moving at least one valve to a corresponding closed position includes moving the piston from an idle pressure position toward a low-pressure position.

[0188] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for testing a degassing device for degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device, the degassing device comprising:

[0189] a header extending between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein in operation the liquid flow passes through the header from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection and vice versa,

[0190] at least one flow channel extending from the header to the degassing zone, said flow channel being configured to allow fluid communication between the header and the degassing zone,

[0191] - a degassing housing defining an inner volume, wherein said inner volume substantially corresponds to said degassing zone,

[0192] a pressure reducing device connected to the degassing housing, wherein during operation the pressure reducing device is configured to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure of the flow in the header, wherein:

[0193] o the pressure relief device comprises a piston, a cylinder, and a piston actuator, wherein the piston is movable between an extended, idle pressure position and a retracted, low pressure position, wherein a front cylinder volume at a front portion of the cylinder is in fluid communication with an interior volume, and the degassing zone comprises the front cylinder volume,

[0194] o in the low-pressure position of the piston, the degassing zone extends into the cylinder and is larger than the degassing zone in the idle pressure position of the piston,

[0195] o the degassing zone is defined by the degassing housing, at least a portion of the outer surface of the piston and / or at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder,

[0196] at least one valve movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the at least one valve blocks the flow passage, isolating the degassing zone from the flow in the manifold, and wherein in the open position the at least one valve does not block the flow passage,

[0197] - a gas outlet in the degassing housing, said gas outlet comprising:

[0198] o an outlet pipe and an outlet closing body, wherein the outlet pipe can be closed by the outlet closing body,

[0199] an overflow valve defining a gas outlet opening, wherein the overflow valve is configured to close the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degassing device is above an overflow threshold level, wherein the overflow threshold level is above the outlet closure body,

[0200] - a control unit for controlling the movement of at least the piston to perform a degassing cycle,

[0201] The control unit is configured to perform a degassing cycle by executing the following steps:

[0202] a depressurization step, during which the gas outlet and the at least one valve are closed, wherein the depressurization device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein, at the start of the depressurization step, the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, and the outlet closing body closes the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe,

[0203] - a gas discharge step, during which the pressure in the degassing zone is increased and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening.

[0204] The control unit includes a first test module and / or a second test module connected to the pressure sensor and configured to receive a pressure difference signal from the pressure sensor,

[0205] The method comprises the following steps:

[0206] a) closing at least one valve and measuring a first pressure in the degassing housing with a pressure sensor,

[0207] b) measuring a second pressure in the degassing housing with a pressure sensor after a period of time,

[0208] c) comparing, by the control unit, the second pressure to the first pressure to determine a difference,

[0209] When there is a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, a difference signal is generated by the control unit.

[0210] By using such a first test module and / or second test module, the degassing device can be tested to keep it in good working order and to enable timely maintenance.

[0211] In an embodiment, step a) comprises the following sequential steps:

[0212] a1) closing at least one valve,

[0213] a2) operate the pressure reducing device to reduce or increase the pressure inside the degassing housing,

[0214] a3) Measuring a first pressure.

[0215] Here, when there is a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, a difference signal is generated by the control unit that indicates a leak in the degassing housing, the leak in the degassing housing causing liquid and / or gas to escape from the degassing housing.

[0216] A very small difference signal would indicate a very small, possibly insignificant leak, while a larger difference signal would indicate a larger, more significant leak. If such a test procedure is performed during maintenance, the operator can interpret the difference signal to determine whether action should be taken. This can also be done autonomously by the control unit.

[0217] In an embodiment, in step a2) the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure and if the second pressure is higher than the first pressure and lower than or equal to atmospheric pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage of air from outside into the degassing housing.

[0218] In an embodiment, in step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmospheric pressure but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel and if the second pressure is lower than the first pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage from the inside to the outside of the degassing housing.

[0219] In an embodiment, in step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmospheric pressure but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel and if the second pressure is higher than the first pressure a differential signal is generated indicative of leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

[0220] In an embodiment, the control unit controls the pressure reducing device to maintain the second pressure substantially equal to the first pressure and generates a difference signal indicative of a leak if the pressure reducing device is operated after measuring the first measured pressure.

[0221] Leaks can also be tested by measuring the pressure in the degassing zone, comparing the measured pressure to a target pressure, and operating the pressure relief device to maintain the pressure in the degassing zone at the target pressure, thereby maintaining a constant or substantially constant pressure in the degassing zone over a test period. The test module timely measures an operating parameter of the pressure relief device, particularly a movement of the cylinder and / or power consumption of the pressure relief device, and is configured to generate a difference signal indicative of a leak when the measured operating parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0222] Alternatively or additionally, the first test module is configured to maintain a constant or substantially constant position of the piston during a test period. Here, the first test module measures the pressure in the degassing zone during the test period and is configured to generate a differential signal indicative of a leak when a pressure difference measured over time exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0223] In an embodiment, in step a2), the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure and, if the pressure reducing device is operated to reduce the pressure, a differential signal is generated, which indicates leakage of air from the outside into the degassing housing or leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing zone.

[0224] In an embodiment, in step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmosphere but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel and if the pressure reducing device is operated to increase the pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage from the inside of the degassing housing to the outside.

[0225] In an embodiment, in step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmosphere but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel and if the pressure reducing device is operated to reduce the pressure a differential signal is generated indicative of leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

[0226] In an embodiment, the degassing device includes at least two flow channels, one flow channel being a branch flow channel and the other flow channel being a return flow channel, and at least one valve is located in at least one of the at least two flow channels. Here, during step a), the at least one valve is closed after measuring the first pressure, wherein a difference signal indicating lack of flow is generated when the difference is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0227] By determining whether flow is present in the manifold or main flow channel, the control unit can determine whether degassing the liquid is necessary and / or useful.

[0228] In an embodiment, when the difference is greater than a predetermined threshold, the control unit periodically performs a degassing cycle, and when the difference is less than the predetermined threshold, the control unit does not perform any degassing cycle.

[0229] In embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a second valve located in another of the at least two flow paths, and the method of any one of claims 63 to 70 is performed after the method of claim 71 has been performed.

[0230] In an embodiment, the method is performed before or during the performance of the method according to any one of claims 53 to 70.

[0231] In an embodiment, the method is performed periodically. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0232] Figure 1 An embodiment of the degasser is depicted in an idle state.

[0233] Figure 2 The embodiment of the degassing device is depicted in a state where the pressure reducing device has just started operating.

[0234] Figure 3 An embodiment of the degasser is depicted in a low pressure regime.

[0235] Figure 4 An embodiment of the degasser is depicted after dissolved gas has been separated from the liquid and exhausted outside the degasser.

[0236] Figure 5 An embodiment including a float chamber, a sensor, and a control unit is depicted in an idle state.

[0237] Figure 6 An embodiment including a float chamber, a sensor, and a control unit is depicted in a low pressure state.

[0238] Figure 7 An embodiment including a float chamber, a sensor, and a control unit is depicted in an overpressure condition.

[0239] Figure 8An embodiment of the degassing device is depicted, wherein the control unit controls the valve to an idle state.

[0240] Figure 9A An embodiment of the degassing device is depicted, wherein the control unit controls the valve to be in a low-pressure state.

[0241] Figure 9B Depicts the Figure 9A Different degassing device implementations, their status and Figure 9A The depicted embodiments are the same.

[0242] Figure 10 An embodiment of the degassing device is depicted, wherein the control unit controls the valve to an idle state.

[0243] Figure 11 An embodiment of the degassing device is depicted, wherein the control unit controls the valve to be in a low-pressure state.

[0244] Figure 12 An embodiment is depicted in which the piston motion is oriented orthogonal to the main flow channel and is in an idle state.

[0245] Figure 13 An embodiment is depicted in which the piston motion is oriented orthogonal to the main flow channel and is at low pressure.

[0246] Figure 14A and Figure 14B Depicting an embodiment of a piston actuator

[0247] Figure 15 An embodiment of a degassing device not according to the invention is depicted, which comprises a porous chamber and a vacuum pump.

[0248] Figure 16 An embodiment with one flow channel is depicted, wherein the degasser is in an idle pressure position.

[0249] Figure 17 An embodiment with one flow path is depicted wherein the degasser is in a low pressure position.

[0250] Figure 18 An embodiment including a test module and an open valve is depicted.

[0251] Figure 19 An embodiment including a test module and a closed valve is depicted.

[0252] Figure 20 An embodiment comprising a test module and two closed valves is depicted.

[0253] Figure 21 An embodiment is depicted where no flow is present.

[0254] Figure 22A 、 Figure 22B 、 Figure 22C and Figure 22D The pressure variations with pressure relief device operation and time are depicted.

[0255] Figure 23A and Figure 23B The pressure changes with pressure relief device operation and time are depicted respectively.

[0256] Figure 24A and Figure 24B The pressure changes with pressure relief device operation and time are depicted respectively.

[0257] Figure 25A and Figure 25B An embodiment of a degassing device comprising a cup and a cover is depicted.

[0258] Figure 26A and Figure 26B An embodiment of a degassing device comprising a cup and a cover is depicted.

[0259] Figure 27A and Figure 27B An embodiment including a directional switch and a conduit is depicted.

[0260] Figure 28A and Figure 28B A close-up of the pressure relief device depicting two positions.

[0261] Figure 29A and Figure 29B Embodiments including flow switches located in various positions are depicted.

[0262] Figure 30A and Figure 30B Embodiments including an actuator end are depicted.

[0263] Figure 31A 、 Figure 31B 、 Figure 31C 、 Figure 31D and Figure 31E An embodiment of a degasser is depicted which is bidirectional and can operate with main flows in two mutually opposite directions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0264] Go to Figures 1-4, depicts a cross-section of an embodiment of the degassing device 10. These figures depict a degassing cycle, in which a certain amount of liquid is separated from the main flow channel, the liquid is degassed via reduced pressure, the gas is discharged, and the liquid is communicated with the main flow channel. After this cycle is completed, a new cycle begins. The degassing device 10 is connected to a liquid circuit of a cooling or heating device (not depicted), wherein the liquid of the cooling or heating device enters the degassing device 10 via a first fluid connection 22 and flows out of the degassing device via a second fluid connection 24. In operation, the main part of the liquid flow passes through the main flow channel 20, while the branch flow is diverted by the branch flow channel 30. After being diverted, the fluid enters the degassing zone 42 through the branch flow channel, where the liquid will be degassed. The degassing zone 42 corresponds substantially to the internal volume of the degassing housing 40. In the idle state of the degassing device, the liquid first passes through the branch flow channel 30 and the degassing zone 42, and then the liquid joins the mainstream via the return flow channel 50 extending between the degassing zone and the main flow channel. The main flow channel, branch flow channel and return flow channel (if any) are also collectively referred to as a header 405. In the header, the flow is divided into a main flow and a branch flow. The branch flow enters the degassing zone 42, while the main flow does not enter.

[0265] The pressure reducing device 70 is connected to the degassing housing 40 and is configured to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone 42 relative to the pressure in the main flow channel. The pressure can be measured with a sensor 92, in particular with a pressure gauge.

[0266] To degas the liquid in the degassing zone, the degassing housing must be isolated from the outside, that is, from the atmosphere outside the degassing device and from the main flow channel. To this end, a valve 60B is provided that is movable between a closed position 62B and an open position 64B. In the closed position, the valve blocks the return flow channel 50 and isolates the degassing zone from the main flow channel. Another valve 60A is provided and is configured to move between a closed position 62B and an open position 64B. In the closed position, the valve blocks the branch flow channel, thereby isolating the degassing zone 42 from the main flow channel 20.

[0267] After the liquid degassing has taken place, the separated gas must be discharged from the device. To this end, a gas outlet 80 is present in the degassing housing and comprises an outlet pipe 82 and an outlet closure body 84.

[0268] In the depicted embodiment, the pressure reducing device 70 includes a piston 72, a cylinder 74, and a piston actuator 76. The piston actuator 76 is configured to move the piston 72 between an extended idle pressure position 722 and a retracted low pressure position 724. Since the cylinder is in open communication with the degassing zone 42, and the degassing zone 42 extends into the cylinder and is larger in the retracted position 725 than in the extended position 723 of the piston, the movement of the piston from the extended position 722 to the retracted position 724 reduces the pressure inside the degassing zone 42; the size of the isolated degassing zone increases while the amount of material inside it remains essentially unchanged. The degassing zone 42 is defined by the degassing housing 40, a portion of the outer surface of the piston 72, and a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder 74. It will be understood that if the piston actuator is located on the opposite side of the piston 72 along the direction of the piston's movement, the low pressure position will correspond to the extended position, while the idle pressure position will correspond to the retracted position because the piston actuator will push rather than pull. The piston actuator 76 may be one of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, and a hydraulic actuator. The piston motion depicted is a linear motion.

[0269] To increase the volume of the degassing zone, the piston 72 includes two seals 726 in the form of O-rings that enable the piston to move within the cylinder and maintain a substantially fluid-tight connection between the piston and the cylinder 74 .

[0270] exist Figures 1-4 In the embodiment, the pressure reducing device is located in the lower part of the degassing housing and is configured to operate below the liquid level in the degassing housing. This, together with the substantially parallel direction 1 of the piston movement, enables the degassing device to be compact and not take up a lot of space away from the main flow channel.

[0271] It can also be seen that the branch flow channel 30 extends through the cylinder 74 between the main flow channel 20 and the degassing zone 42. Figure 1 , a branch flow path 32 is depicted which extends from the main flow channel via the cylinder inlet position 96 through a cavity 742 in the cylinder and into the interior volume of the degassing housing 40 through a branch flow aperture 744 defined by the cylinder. The branch flow path 32 extends around the piston drive shaft 727 and is located behind the piston 72. In addition, the valve 60A is integrated into the pressure reducing device; the piston 72 is a component that can be moved into a low pressure position and blocks the branch flow channel there because it includes a component 729 that blocks the branch flow channel when the piston 72 is in the low pressure position. In this way, the piston movement is configured to cause the valve 60A to move to a closed state when the piston moves from the idle pressure position to the low pressure position. The piston 72 is configured to block the flow channel at at least one position between the idle pressure position 722 and the low pressure position 724. This is in Figure 2 , wherein the valve 60A is closed, thereby blocking the branch flow channel 30, and the piston 72 is in Figure 1 Idle pressure position 722 and Figure 3 between the fully retracted and low pressure positions 724.

[0272] From the upper region of the degassing device 10 , the gas outlet 80 is depicted, which comprises a float chamber 86 and an outlet closing body 84 , which is formed by the lower part of a float 841 . Figure 1 In the embodiment, the float 841 floats on the liquid at the upper position 846. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the float 841 floats on the liquid at the floating position 842. The float is connected to the overflow valve 85, wherein when the liquid level rises to a certain level (called the overflow threshold level 89), the float closes the overflow valve 85, thereby preventing the liquid level from continuing to rise (such as Figure 1 Alternatively, when the liquid level is low, the float does not close the overflow valve, allowing gas to escape from the degasser (as shown in Figure 2 (as shown). When the pressure relief device is activated and the outlet closure body 84 has not yet sealed the outlet pipe, the liquid level decreases. In this case, since the float chamber is at ambient pressure, no gas can escape. After degassing, the pressure inside the degassing volume rises, and since the outlet closure body 84 no longer seals the outlet pipe, gas from the degassing volume enters the float chamber 86. This gas can escape from the degassing device 10 via the overflow valve 85. Because gas is lighter than liquid, it will first rise into the float chamber 86. Therefore, the overflow valve 85 will remain open until substantially all of the gas has left the degassing volume. Only then will liquid from the degassing volume enter the float chamber 86. The liquid entering the float chamber 86 from the degassing volume will cause the float 841, including the outlet closure body 84, to rise to the overflow threshold level 89, thereby closing the overflow valve 85. Therefore, after degassing is completed, substantially no gas remains in the degassing zone, and the liquid level in the float chamber is at or near the overflow threshold level 89.

[0273] When the pressure relief device is operating, the liquid level is at the overflow threshold level 89, which can be approximately halfway up the float chamber. This is the highest level allowed by the float. If the liquid level rises above this level, the float will close the overflow valve 85. When the pressure relief device begins to operate, the liquid level drops due to the increase in the volume of the degassing zone. The float 841 then moves to the lower position 844 (as shown in FIG. Figure 3 82, which occurs when the liquid level falls below a first predetermined level 88. Here, outlet closure 84, formed by the lower portion of float 841, closes the outlet tube. A closed position 881 is then formed at the point of engagement. This engagement disconnects air pockets in the gas outlet located above the closed position from the degassing zone. Because closed position 881 is below the liquid level and is achieved before the liquid level drops below outlet tube 82, there is little or no air in the degassing zone. Consequently, the overall compressibility of the liquid in the degassing zone is reduced, resulting in better performance of the degassing process.

[0274] In order to seal the gas outlet, there is a backflow preventer 852. When the external pressure is greater than the pressure inside the degassing housing, the backflow preventer prevents the gas from the outside from flowing into the degassing housing. Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, when the pressure inside the housing increases, the backflow preventer 852 opens and the free gas released from the liquid can be discharged via the gas outlet. In addition, during the decompression step of the degassing method, the backflow preventer 852 prevents gas from flowing into the degassing zone.

[0275] To generate liquid flow into the degassing zone 42, the main flow comprises a constriction 26 between the first and second fluid connections 22, 24. By the constriction, the pressure in the main flow increases near the branch flow channel, forcing a portion of the main flow into the degassing housing.

[0276] In operation, the method of degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device by using the degassing device 10 comprises the following steps:

[0277] a) allowing the main flow of the liquid to enter the manifold via the first fluid connection or the second fluid connection, preferably allowing the main flow to flow through the manifold from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa,

[0278] b) diverting part of the main flow through the branch channel 30,

[0279] c) moving valves 60A, 60B to their respective closed positions 62A, 62B, blocking the branch flow channel and the return flow channel, respectively, isolating the degassing zone from the main flow channel,

[0280] d) closing the gas outlet 80,

[0281] e) operating the pressure reducing device to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure in the main flow channel,

[0282] f) opening the first valve, the second valve and the gas outlet,

[0283] During step e), the gas dissolved in the liquid is separated from the liquid, and during and / or after step f), the liquid in the degassing housing is returned to the main flow channel through the return flow channel, and the separated gas is discharged through the gas outlet.

[0284] The above step d) can be performed by operating the decompression device in the depicted embodiment. Figure 2 and Figure 380, the movement 721 of the piston 72 toward the low-pressure position causes the check valve 60B and the valve 60A for the branch flow passage 30 to close, and the liquid level drops below the first predetermined level 88, causing the outlet closing body 84 of the float 841 to close the gas outlet pipe 82. When the valves 60A, 60B and the gas outlet 80 are closed, the operation of the pressure reducing device 70 reduces the pressure in the degassing zone 42. Figure 3 7 shows the end of the movement of piston 72 in cylinder 74 from extended position 722 to retracted position 724 by piston actuator 76. Here, free gas 3 has formed above the liquid in degassing zone 42 by separating from the liquid. With the valve and gas outlet open, free gas 3 can exit the degassing device through the gas outlet, and the liquid in degassing zone 42 can return to the main flow through return channel 50. As a result, the liquid level will rise again to overflow threshold level 89.

[0285] In the embodiment depicted, before step f), the pressure in the degassing zone is increased substantially to the pressure existing during step b). This facilitates the disengagement of the outlet closing body 84 of the float 841 from the outlet pipe 82, thereby reopening the outlet pipe 82 and opening the valve.

[0286] Go to Figure 5-Figure 7 , the float chamber 86 of the gas outlet 80 defines a gas outlet opening 862, through which free gas can be discharged. In this embodiment, the outlet closing body 84 of the float 841 includes a protrusion 83 located solely on the underside 832 of the float 841. The protrusion 83 located on the underside 832 of the float 841 has external dimensions that substantially match the internal dimensions of the outlet pipe 82. This allows for a better sealing of the degassing zone from the outside, as during operation during step d), the protrusion 83 is forced into the outlet pipe 82. By directly sealing the outlet pipe 82 when the liquid level has dropped sufficiently, the amount of free gas in the degassing zone is reduced, thereby enabling faster decompression. Since the protrusion seals the outlet pipe 82, a backflow preventer is not required. However, the protrusion and backflow preventer can also be combined.

[0287] Float 841 is configured to actuate overflow valve 85. When the liquid level reaches the overflow threshold level (also a second predetermined level) 89, float 841 moves to an upper position 846, where it closes the overflow valve and seals the gas outlet opening. This situation occurs when excessive liquid begins to accumulate within the degassing zone, posing a risk of overflowing the device. Float 841, along with float chamber 86, prevents overflowing. Here, the pressure inside the degassing housing is at an overpressure relative to the outside. This pressure can be equal to the system pressure, i.e., the pressure in the main flow channel 20.

[0288] To improve the closure, the protrusion comprises an O-ring or a double-lip seal to better seal the gas outlet opening 862 and the gas outlet tube 82. The O-ring or double-lip seal defines the closed position.

[0289] Furthermore, the cylinder 74 includes a flared end 741 , wherein a branch flow path extends between the piston 72 and the cylinder 74 when the piston is in the idle pressure position 722 .

[0290] The degassing device also includes three sensors 92A, 92B, and 92C and a control unit 90 configured to read the sensors and control the piston actuator 76. By measuring the pressure in the degassing zone using sensor 92A and the pressure in the manifold 405 or main flow channel 20 using sensor 92B, the control unit 90 can determine the pressure difference, and the piston actuator 76 can be operated based on these measurements. In addition, the temperature of the liquid can be determined using temperature sensor 92C. By determining the temperature of the liquid, the pressure at which the liquid begins to boil can be determined and avoided. The temperature sensor can also measure the temperature of the liquid in the manifold 405 or main flow channel 20, and the control unit reads the temperature sensor and can then control the pressure reducing device.

[0291] In addition to using separate sensors 92A, 92B, 92C to determine the state of the degassing device, more specifically the pressure in the degassing zone 42, the control unit 90 can also be configured to measure the current required to move the piston 72. Based on this current, the force acting on the piston can be determined, which gives a measure of the pressure in the degassing zone 42.

[0292] exist Figure 7 , an embodiment of the present invention is depicted in which the main flow channel does not comprise a constriction, but rather comprises a branch flow separator 28 extending into the main flow channel. The branch flow separator is configured to divert a portion of the main flow into the degassing zone.

[0293] Move to Figure 8 and Figure 9A , shows an embodiment in which the pressure reducing device 70 is not integrated with the valve 60A that closes the branch flow channel 30. Instead, the branch flow channel can be closed by the actuated valve 60A, which can be moved from the open position 64A to the closed position 62A by the control unit 90. Similarly, the control unit 90 can also control the main flow valve 27, which is configured to temporarily close the main flow channel 20 to divert the liquid into the degassing housing. Figure 9B In the figure, it is shown that Figure 9A A similar embodiment, except that the second valve 60B is an actuated valve controlled by the control unit 90 rather than a check valve.

[0294] Figure 10 and Figure 11The embodiments described in Figure 8 and Figure 9A is largely similar to the embodiment depicted in . The main difference is that the outlet closing body 84 comprises a gas outlet valve 87 (in particular a ball valve) which can be controlled by a control unit 90, instead of the outlet closing body 84 being formed by the lower part of the float 841. The gas outlet valve 87 allows gas and / or liquid to flow between the outside and the degassing zone when in the open position and seals off the degassing zone when in the closed position. Shortly after the degassing cycle and operation of the decompression device 70 have started, the gas outlet valve is closed. At this point, the liquid level is at the overflow threshold level and the outlet valve 87 is immersed. Since the outlet valve 87 is immersed at the beginning of the decompression step, the entire degassing zone 42 is filled with liquid and degassing of the liquid can be carried out more effectively than if there were initially more liquid and / or more gas in the internal volume.

[0295] Go to Figure 12 and Figure 13 , depicts an embodiment in which the piston is movable in a direction 2 substantially orthogonal to the main flow channel. By orienting the pressure relief device 70 in this manner, the degasser takes up less lateral space and can be used in confined spaces. Here, the cylinder 74 includes a flared end 741, wherein a branch flow channel extends between the piston 72 and the cylinder 74 when the piston is in the idle pressure position 722.

[0296] Furthermore, the piston actuator 76 is fixed to the housing via two elastic members 762. In addition to damping vibrations, the elastic members also allow the piston actuator 76 to elastically move between a first actuator position 764 and a second actuator position 766. Figure 10 , the piston actuator is shown in a first actuator position 764, in which it engages a bias switch 75 located above the piston actuator. When the pressure relief device operates and the pressure inside the degassing zone 42 decreases, the piston, along with the piston actuator 76, is pulled away from the switch. When a predetermined minimum pressure is reached, such as just above the pressure of the liquid vapor line, the piston actuator moves to a second actuator position 766, opening the bias switch 75. Thus, in operation, when the force required to move the piston to the retracted position 724 exceeds a predetermined value corresponding to the internal pressure of the degassing housing, the force moves the piston actuator 76 away from the switch 75, wherein the opening of the switch interrupts operation of the pressure differential device. In addition to the mechanical method of using a switch, it should be understood that a strain gauge or strain gauge in combination with the control unit 90 can also achieve the same effect; the control unit can then use the measured stress or strain value to determine the pressure in the degassing zone.

[0297] Go to Figure 14A and Figure 14B, depicts an embodiment of a piston actuator 76, wherein the piston actuator includes an electromagnet 71 configured to attract and / or repel a piston 72. By attracting the piston 72 in an idle pressure position 722, the piston 72 moves to a low-pressure position 724. In the depicted embodiment, the piston actuator further includes a spring 77 configured to move the piston back to the idle pressure position 722. This action can also be achieved by the repulsive force of the magnet 71.

[0298] Go to Figure 15 , shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment not according to the present invention. The pressure reduction device here is a vacuum pump 78 connected to a gas outlet 80 , wherein the outlet closure comprises a gas outlet valve 87 and a gas outlet pipe 82 . Furthermore, the degassing device comprises a porous chamber 44 located within the volume of the degassing housing 40 .

[0299] When first valve 60A is opened, a portion of the main flow is diverted by branch flow channel 30 and flows into porous chamber 44. When first valve 60A and second valve 60B are closed, the vacuum pump operates, and the pressure inside the degassing housing decreases. This causes dissolved gases in the liquid to separate from the liquid. The gases are then absorbed by porous element 442 of the porous chamber and expelled by the vacuum pump. Because porous chamber 42 is only permeable to gas and not liquid, the liquid remains in the circuit. After the separated gas has been expelled, valves 60A and 60B are opened, and the liquid returns to the main flow channel via the return flow channel.

[0300] Go to Figure 16 and Figure 17 , depicting the Figure 8 An embodiment similar to that of Figure 9. The main difference is that there is only one flow channel 15 that allows communication between the degassing zone 42 and the main flow channel 20. In the depicted embodiment, the degassing zone 42 is filled with liquid from the main flow channel 20 by partially retracting the piston from the extended position. Subsequently, at least one valve 60 is moved from the open position 64 to the closed position 62, and the pressure relief device is operated, further retracting the piston. Thereafter, when the liquid has been degassed, the valve is moved to the open position 64 and, by fully extending the piston, the liquid is returned to the main flow channel 20 through the flow channel 15. This occurs at the end of the degassing cycle. By using a single valve 60, the device can be kept smaller and easier to operate than a device using multiple valves.

[0301] exist Figure 18 、 Figure 19 、 Figure 20 and Figure 21 In the Figure 12 and Figure 13Here, in the main flow channel 20, the constriction 26 includes a check valve 60C. The first valve 60A and the second valve 60B are also check valves. To allow liquid to flow through the first valve 60A, the piston 72 includes an actuator end 728 that is configured to move the first valve to the open position 64 when the piston is in the extended state 722.

[0302] The piston includes an actuator end 728, and the first valve is a check valve. Here, the actuator end engages the first valve in an open position, wherein movement of the piston from the retracted state to the extended state causes the first valve to move from an idle closed position to an open position via the actuator end. Movement of the piston from the extended state to the retracted state causes the first valve to move from the open position to the idle closed position via the actuator end.

[0303] Here, the control unit 90 includes first and / or second test modules 91, which may include digital or analog components. The test modules are configured to determine whether there is flow in the manifold or main flow channel so that the degassing operation is not performed in vain.

[0304] exist Figure 18 In the test module, the pressure sensor 92A is read to determine the pressure inside the degassing zone. This pressure is similar to the pressure in the manifold 405 or the main flow channel because the first, second and third valves 60A, 60B and 60C are all open. Figure 19 After the actuator end 728 in closes the first valve 60A, the flow in the manifold 405 or main flow channel causes a pressure drop in the degassing zone because there is still flow out of the second valve 60B.

[0305] Due to the lower pressure in the degassing zone, and the fact that the second valve is a check valve, the second valve 60B moves to the closed state 62B. This is shown in FIG. Figure 20 After a period of time, the test module 91 reads the pressure sensor 90A for the second time.

[0306] The test module 91 then compares the second measured pressure with the first measured pressure to determine a difference. The difference is compared to a threshold. Since there is flow, the difference is greater than the threshold, and the test module does not generate a difference signal.

[0307] Go to Figure 21 , the same test module executes the Figure 18 and Figure 19 The same sequence is repeated in Figure 2. However, since there is no flow in the manifold or main flow channel, no pressure drop occurs after first valve 60A closes. When the test module compares the second measured pressure to the first measured pressure, the difference is very small. Because the difference is less than the threshold, the test module generates a difference signal indicating insufficient flow.

[0308] Here, when the difference is greater than a threshold, the control unit periodically performs a degassing cycle, and when the difference is less than the threshold, the control unit does not perform any degassing cycle. Thus, when there is no flow in the manifold or main flow channel, no degassing cycle is performed.

[0309] Go to Figures 22A-24B , depicts the results of another test module under different circumstances. Here, test module 91 closes at least one valve and then operates a pressure-reducing device to reduce pressure. It then reads at least one pressure sensor and, after a period of time, reads at least one pressure sensor a second time. The second measured pressure 9 is then compared to the first measured pressure 7 to determine the difference, and the test module generates a difference signal. It should be understood that the pressure-reducing device can also increase pressure for the test procedure.

[0310] exist Figure 22A 、 Figure 23A and Figure 24A In the embodiment of the present invention, the test module performs an additional step. Here, the test module is configured to maintain a constant or substantially constant pressure in the degassing zone over a test period by measuring the pressure in the degassing zone, comparing the measured pressure to a target pressure, and operating the pressure reducing device to maintain the pressure in the degassing zone at the target pressure.

[0311] The test module then measures operating parameters of the pressure relief device in real time and is configured to generate a difference signal indicating leakage when the measured operating parameters exceed a predetermined threshold, wherein the operating parameters are particularly the movement of the cylinder and / or the power consumption of the pressure relief device.

[0312] exist Figure 22A and Figure 22B In both figures, air leakage into the degassing housing is shown. Figure 22A During the degassing process, the pressure drops below atmospheric pressure 8, and a first pressure is measured 7. Thereafter, the piston moves to a retracted state over time 2. This means that the pressure relief device is actuated to reduce the pressure, but the pressure remains constant. This is only possible if a leak enters from outside the degassing housing. Based on the presence of a leak, a differential signal is generated.

[0313] exist Figure 22C Here, the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure 8 and a first pressure is measured 7. Subsequently, the piston does not need to move to maintain the first pressure and the piston remains in a constant position.

[0314] exist Figure 22BIn the degassing process, the pressure reducing device is operated to reduce the pressure to below atmospheric pressure and then stops operating. If there is no leak, the pressure will remain constant over time. However, if there is a leak, the pressure will rise. If the pressure rises to atmospheric pressure and does not rise further, there is a leak from the outside into the degassing zone. Based on the presence of a leak, a differential signal is generated, indicating a leak of air from the outside into the degassing housing. If the pressure rises further to above atmospheric pressure, there is a leak between the degassing zone and the manifold or main flow channel. This is also Figure 23B Described in .

[0315] exist Figure 22D Here, the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure 8, and a first pressure is measured 7. Subsequently, time passes and a second pressure is measured 9. Since the first and second pressures are essentially the same, it can be concluded that there is no leak.

[0316] exist Figure 23A and Figure 23B In both figures, leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing zone is shown. Figure 23A In the case of a degassing chamber, the pressure drops to above atmospheric pressure but below the pressure in the manifold 405 or the main flow channel 20. If the pressure relief device must be operated to reduce the pressure (as is the case), the manifold or main flow channel is leaking into the degassing area. Accordingly, a differential signal is generated indicating a leak from the manifold or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

[0317] exist Figure 23B In the example, the same leak is present. First, the pressure is reduced by operating the pressure reducing device, and then the pressure reducing device is stopped. If there is no leak, the pressure will remain constant. However, the pressure rises towards the pressure in the manifold or main flow channel 20. This indicates a leak from the manifold or main flow channel into the degassing area. Accordingly, a differential signal is generated, indicating a leak from the manifold or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

[0318] Go to Figure 24A and Figure 24B , both figures show leakage from the degassing zone to the outside. Figure 24A In the degassing chamber, the pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing device. If there were no leakage, the pressure would remain constant and the piston would not move. However, since liquid is leaking to the outside and the pressure in the degassing zone 6 is above atmospheric pressure, the pressure reducing device is operated to increase the pressure, thereby maintaining the pressure constant. This indicates a leakage from the degassing zone to the outside. Accordingly, a differential signal is generated, indicating a leakage from the inside of the degassing housing to the outside.

[0319] exist Figure 24BIn the degassing zone, the pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing device, which is then stopped. If there were no leaks, the pressure would remain constant. However, due to the leakage of liquid from the degassing zone to the outside, the pressure in the degassing zone 6 decreases towards atmospheric pressure over time.

[0320] It will be appreciated that each test module may be used sequentially and that testing may also be performed prior to performing the degassing method. Additionally, it will be appreciated that these methods may be performed periodically to maintain the degassing device.

[0321] Go to Figure 25A 、 Figure 25B 、 Figure 26A and Figure 26B , the manifold or main flow channel 20 is defined by a cup 100 and a cover 110, the cup 100 including an inlet 102 and an outlet 104, with a plate 112 protruding downward from the cover 110, wherein the plate divides the cup into an inlet side 106 and an outlet side 108 and allows fluid communication from the inlet side to the outlet side only through the constriction 26. The cover 110 separates the main flow channel 20 from the degassing zone 42 and includes two valves 60A and 60B located in the branch flow channel and the return flow channel, respectively. The degassing housing includes a cover 120 placed on top of the cover. In order to prevent leakage between the cover, cover and cup, there is a seal 122. In addition, there is a mounting bracket 124, to which the cup 100, cover 120 and pressure relief device 70 are connected. Such a mounting bracket can be used to mount the degasser to a wall or other structure.

[0322] exist Figure 27A 、 Figure 27B 、 Figure 28A and Figure 28B In the figure, the degassing device includes a first abutment 731 and a second abutment 732. These abutments can be used for the piston 72 to abut. In addition, the piston actuator 76 is fixed to the degassing housing via two elastic members 762, one elastic member is located near the direction switch 733, and the other elastic member is located around the cylinder 74. These elastic members 762 allow the piston actuator to move, and when the piston 72 abuts the first or second abutment 731, 732, the piston actuator itself moves to the first actuator position 764 or the second actuator position 766 relative to the degassing housing. In the figure, the extension of the piston against the first abutment 731 moves the piston actuator to the first actuator position 764, while the retraction against the second abutment 732 moves the piston actuator to the second actuator position 766.

[0323] When the direction switch 733 is in the first switch position 734, the direction switch 733 operates the piston actuator in a first direction, and when the direction switch 733 is in the second switch position 735, the direction switch 733 operates the piston actuator in a second direction. Figure 28A and Figure 28B As depicted, movement from the first actuator position 764 to the second actuator position 766 causes the directional switch to move from the first switch position 734 to the second switch position 735, and vice versa. Upon reaching the abutment, the switch rod 736 of the directional switch engages the switch bracket 737. The movement of the piston actuator then pushes or pulls the switch rod 736 against the switch bracket 737, thereby switching direction. This causes the piston to move back and forth automatically when the piston actuator 76 is operated, allowing the degasser to automatically begin a new degassing cycle upon completion of the previous cycle. The directional switch can include a delay element that delays the operation of the piston actuator for a predetermined period of time when the switch position changes. This allows the piston to remain idle at its extreme position for a predetermined period of time before beginning to move in the opposite direction.

[0324] In order to be able to change the shape of the space occupied by the degasser, the various components can be connected by pipes. Figure 27A In the embodiment, the pressure reducing device is connected to the main flow channel via the pipe 206. And, the degassing zone 42 is connected to the main flow channel via the pipe 204. Figure 27B In FIG. 2 , the pressure reducing device is connected to the degassing zone via pipe 202. In this way, one component is subdivided into two smaller components. This embodiment has found use in floor heating systems, which typically have limited space available for relatively large components. The two smaller components are easier to install in a floor heating system.

[0325] exist Figure 29A and Figure 29B In the Figure 7 Similar implementation scheme. Figure 29A In the embodiment, the flow switch 79 is located in the manifold or main flow channel. This flow switch 79 can also serve as a constriction. When there is no flow in the manifold or main flow channel, the flow switch will prevent the pressure reducing device from operating. This prevents the degassing device from operating when the liquid in the degassing zone has not been renewed after circulation. Alternatively, the flow switch 79 can also be located in another part of the degassing device. An example of this is Figure 29B As shown, the flow switch is located in the branch flow channel 30.

[0326] exist Figure 30A and Figure 30B In the embodiment of the present invention, the actuator end 728 is configured to move the outlet closing body 84, which serves as the outlet closing check valve 843, into and out of the open state. To this end, when the piston 72 moves to its extended state 722, the actuator end 728 pushes the check valve 843 open, thereby allowing communication between the deaeration zone 42 and the outside. When the piston 72 moves to the retracted state 724, the actuator end 728 disengages from the check valve 843, and the check valve closes, thereby preventing the deaeration zone 42 from communicating with the outside.

[0327] Figures 31A-31E Another embodiment is shown which is bi-directional and works regardless of the direction of the main flow through the degasser. The advantage is that the person installing the device does not have to consider the direction of the main flow and the way the degasser should be installed. Figure 31A and Figure 31B A cross-sectional view of the degassing device is shown. Figure 31A In the extended idle pressure position 722, the piston is in the extended idle pressure position 722. Figure 31B , the piston is in a retracted, low-pressure position 724.

[0328] As with the embodiments discussed in the previous figures, after liquid degassing has occurred, the separated gas must be exhausted from the device. To this end, a gas outlet 80 is present in the degassing housing and includes an outlet pipe 82 and an outlet closure 84. This part can have the same configuration as shown in the previous embodiment and is therefore not shown again.

[0329] The first valve 60A is integrated into the piston 72, as shown in the previous figures (eg Figures 1-4 The second valve 60B is also similar to the second valve 60B of those embodiments.

[0330] This embodiment includes a header 405. In the header, a main flow channel 20 for a main flow 400 and a bypass flow channel 305 for a bypass flow 401 are defined.

[0331] exist Figure 31A In the embodiment of the present invention, the actuator end 728 of the piston 72 opens the outlet closure body 84 including the outlet closure check valve 843. Fluid can flow from the bypass passage 305 through the cylinder inlet location 96 and past the piston 72 into the degassing zone 42, similar to, for example, Figure 5 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 28A 、 Figure 29B and Figure 30A As shown. Figure 31B In the embodiment of the present invention, the piston 72 is in the low-pressure position 724. When the piston 72 is in the low-pressure position 724, the fluid cannot flow from the bypass channel 305 into the degassing zone 42.

[0332] As with the embodiments discussed with respect to the previous figures, the degassing device 10 includes a relief valve 85 defining a gas outlet opening 862. The relief valve 85 is configured to close the gas outlet opening 862 when the liquid level in the degassing device 10 is above a threshold overflow level 89. The threshold overflow level 89 is above the outlet closure body 84. The relief valve 85 is configured to open the gas outlet opening 862 when the liquid level in the degassing device 10 is below the threshold overflow level 89. In this way, gas can escape from the degassing device 10.

[0333] Figure 31C Shown Figure 31A and Figure 31B A perspective view of a cross section of a header of a degasser of the illustrated embodiment with some components removed to aid understanding and with flow lines drawn. Figure 31C A situation is shown where there is no flow through the degassing zone due to the first valve 60A being closed and / or due to the second check valve 60B being closed. Figure 31D A portion of the main flow is shown through the degassing zone. Figure 31E Shown with Figure 31C A cross-sectional perspective view of the same component, but along a vertical plane.

[0334] The main flow channel 20 and the bypass channel 305 diverge and merge between the first fluid connection 22 and the second fluid connection 24. The cylinder 74 extends through the space 95 between the main flow channel 20 and the bypass channel 305. The flow entering the degassing zone through the first fluid connection 22 is divided into a first main flow 400 and a second bypass flow 401. The main flow 400 flows from the first fluid connection 22 through the main channel 20 to the second fluid connection 24 (and vice versa), and the bypass flow 401 flows from the first fluid connection 22 through the bypass channel 305 to the second fluid connection 24 (and vice versa).

[0335] The flow member 281 is arranged in the bypass channel 305. The flow member is arranged at an equal flow distance from the first fluid connection 22 and the second fluid connection 24, and the same is true for the return flow channel 50. The branch flow channel 30 starts from the upper side of the flow member 281. The return flow channel 50 returns to the main flow channel 20, while the branch flow channel 30 branches off from the bypass channel 305. The return flow channel 50 is arranged Figure 31C is above the plane of the graph, so Figure 31C The branch flow path enters the cylinder 74 at a cylinder inlet location 96 , which is located above the horizontal main flow channel 20 .

[0336] The flow member 281 includes a first inclined guide surface 282 and a second inclined guide surface 283. If the main flow flows in the first direction 93, that is, from the first fluid connection 22 to the second fluid connection 24, the bypass flow flows through the bypass flow channel section 301, and the first inclined guide surface 282 forces a portion of the bypass flow upward into the branch flow channel 30. If the main flow flows in the second direction 94, that is, from the second fluid connection 24 to the first fluid connection 22, the bypass flow flows through the bypass flow channel section 302, and the second inclined guide surface 283 forces the liquid upward into the branch flow channel 30. At the upper end of the flow member 281, the first guide surface 282 and the second guide surface 283 converge. Thus, the degassing device is bidirectional and suitable for both main flow directions.

[0337] exist Figure 31C In the closed position shown, the entire bypass flow 401 flows from the first fluid connection 22 through the bypass channel 305 to the second fluid connection 24, with no branched flows branching off from the bypass flow within the bypass channel. The entire bypass flow 401 flows through the flow member 281 to the fluid connections 22, 24, which serve as outlets. There is some hydraulic resistance at the flow member 281, but this is acceptable. The main flow 400 is greater than the bypass flow 401.

[0338] Go to Figure 31D , shows a situation where at least one valve is opened and a portion of the bypass flow (branch flow 402) flows through the degassing zone for degassing. The branch flow 402 is diverted from the bypass flow 401. In this case, there may still be a bypass flow 401 flowing to the fluid connection portion used as an outlet, but this bypass flow 401 will be less than the bypass flow when the degassing zone is closed. The branch flow 402 enters the degassing zone and returns to the main flow 400 via the return flow channel 50. In another embodiment, when the valve is opened, the entire bypass flow can be supplied through the degassing zone. This also falls within the scope of the present invention.

[0339] Without intending to be limiting, it is contemplated that approximately 20%-35%, and particularly 25%-30%, of the total flow through the manifold or main flow channel may be diverted. This allows the liquid in the degassing zone to be refreshed relatively quickly for the next cycle. The refreshment step may occur within a time period of 30 seconds to 2 minutes, for example, within approximately one minute.

[0340] As used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are defined as one or more than one. As used herein, the term "plurality" is defined as two or more. As used herein, the term "another" is defined as at least a second or more. As used herein, the terms "including" and / or "having" are defined as including, i.e., open language that does not exclude other elements or steps.

[0341] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention. It should be recognized that the specific embodiments claimed may not achieve all stated objectives.

[0342] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0343] The white lines between text paragraphs in the above text indicate that the technical features present in that paragraph can be considered independent of the technical features discussed in the previous or following paragraphs.

Claims

1. A degassing device (10) for degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device, the degassing device comprising: a header (405) extending between the first fluid connection (22) and the second fluid connection (24), wherein in operation the liquid flow passes through the header from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection and vice versa, at least one flow channel (15) extending from the header to the degassing zone (42), said flow channel being configured to allow fluid communication between the header and the degassing zone, - a degassing housing (40) defining an inner volume, wherein said inner volume substantially corresponds to said degassing zone, a pressure reducing device (70) connected to the degassing housing, wherein during operation the pressure reducing device is configured to reduce the pressure in the degassing zone relative to the pressure of the flow in the header, wherein: o the pressure relief device comprises a piston (72), a cylinder (74) and a piston actuator (76), wherein the piston is movable between an extended idle pressure position (722) and a retracted low pressure position (724), wherein a front cylinder volume (743) at the front of the cylinder is in fluid communication with the interior volume, the degassing zone comprising the front cylinder volume, o in the low-pressure position of the piston, the degassing zone extends into the cylinder and is larger than the degassing zone in the idle pressure position of the piston, o the degassing zone is defined by the degassing housing, at least a portion of the outer surface of the piston and / or at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylinder, at least one valve (60; 60A, 60B) movable between a closed position (62) and an open position (64), wherein in the closed position the at least one valve blocks the flow passage, isolating the degassing zone from the flow in the manifold, and wherein in the open position the at least one valve does not block the flow passage, - a gas outlet (80) in the degassing housing, said gas outlet comprising: o an outlet pipe (82) and an outlet closing body (84, 87, 841, 843), wherein the outlet pipe can be closed by the outlet closing body, o an overflow valve (85) defining a gas outlet opening (862), wherein the overflow valve is configured to close the gas outlet opening when the liquid level in the degasser is above an overflow threshold level (89), wherein the overflow threshold level (89) is above an outlet closing body, - a control unit (90) which controls at least the movement of the piston to perform a degassing cycle, Wherein, the control unit is configured to perform a degassing cycle by performing the following steps: a depressurization step, during which the gas outlet and the at least one valve are closed, wherein the depressurization device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein at the beginning of the depressurization step the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, and the outlet closing body closes the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe, A gas discharge step, during which the pressure in the degassing zone is increased and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening.

2. The degassing device according to claim 1, wherein: The outlet closing body comprises a gas outlet valve (87), wherein the gas outlet valve allows gas and / or liquid to flow between the outside and the degassing zone in an open state, and closes the degassing zone in a closed state. In particular, the gas outlet valve is a ball valve or a check valve.

3. The degassing device according to claim 1, wherein: a. The outlet closing body comprises an outlet closing check valve (843), which is preferably actuated by an actuator, b. the piston comprises an actuator end (728), c. The outlet shut-off check valve is actuated by an actuator end (728) of the piston, wherein when the piston moves to an idle pressure position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to an open position, wherein when the piston moves to a retracted position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to a closed position.

4. The degassing device according to claim 1, wherein: The gas outlet further comprises a float chamber (86) and a float movable between a floating position (842) and a lower position (844), wherein the lower part of the float forms at least a part of the outlet closing body, in particular the upper part of the float above the liquid level does not form a part of the outlet closing body, wherein when the liquid level drops below a predetermined liquid level (88), the outlet closing body engages with one end of the outlet pipe in the lower position, thereby closing the outlet pipe.

5. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The float chamber comprises an overflow valve (85) defining a gas outlet opening (862), wherein when the liquid level is above an overflow threshold level (89), the outlet closing body moves to an upper position (846) thereby closing the overflow valve.

6. The degassing device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The outlet closing body includes a protrusion (83) extending from the float, the protrusion being configured to close the outlet pipe and being located on the underside (832) of the float, wherein the outer dimension of the protrusion substantially matches the inner dimension of the outlet pipe.

7. The degassing device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The outlet closing body comprises an O-ring or a double lip seal to close the outlet pipe in the lower position.

8. Degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one valve includes a first valve (60A) movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position, the first valve blocks the at least one flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the manifold, and in the open position, the first valve does not block the at least one flow channel, the first valve being integrated in a piston, wherein the piston includes a component (729) for blocking the flow channel in a low-pressure position, and movement of the piston from an idle pressure position toward a low-pressure position causes the first valve to move from an open position to an idle closed position.

9. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The piston is configured to block the flow passage in at least one position between an idle pressure position and a low pressure position.

10. Degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The degassing device comprises two flow channels, the first flow channel is a branch flow channel (30), the branch flow channel is configured to divert the branch flow from the flow in the header, and the second flow channel is a return flow channel (50) extending between the degassing zone and the header, and the return flow channel is configured to return the return flow to the header.

11. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The branch flow passage is arranged at the same branch flow path length from the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein the return flow passage is arranged at the same return flow path length from the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection.

12. The degassing device according to claim 10 or 11 comprises a flow member (281) arranged in a manifold (405), wherein the flow member is configured to cause the liquid flowing along the flow member to enter the degassing zone via a branch flow channel, preferably regardless of the flow direction of the liquid from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa.

13. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The flow member comprises a branch flow separator (28), which, when in operation, extends into the liquid flow from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa, wherein the branch flow separator is configured to divert a portion of the liquid flow into the degassing zone, and / or the manifold comprises a main flow valve (27), which is configured to divert a portion of the flow into the degassing zone.

14. The degassing device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The flow member comprises an inclined guide surface (282, 283) configured to deflect liquid flowing through the flow member in the direction of flow out of the header, particularly in an upward direction, more particularly in a vertically upward direction.

15. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The flow member comprises a first inclined guide surface (282) and a second inclined guide surface (283) so as to divert a branch flow from the flow in the header regardless of the direction of the flow through the header, wherein the first inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing out of the first fluid connection and the second inclined guide surface deflects liquid flowing out of the second fluid connection.

16. The degassing device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The flow member comprises a first inclined guide surface and a second inclined guide surface that are bent in a direction away from the header, in particular in an upward direction.

17. The degassing device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The first inclined guide surface is configured to split the branch flow when the flow flows through the header in a first direction (93), and the second inclined guide surface is configured to split the branch flow when the flow flows through the header in a second direction (94), wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

18. The degassing device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The first guide surface and the second guide surface meet at a merging point (304).

19. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The manifold (405) comprises a main flow channel (20) and a bypass channel (401), wherein the main flow channel and the bypass channel diverge and merge between a first fluid connection portion and a second fluid connection portion, the branch flow channel diverges from the bypass channel, and the return flow channel returns to the main flow channel.

20. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The piston is movable in a direction (1) substantially parallel to the main flow channel, preferably the main flow channel is oriented substantially horizontally and the direction is oriented substantially horizontally, or preferably the main flow channel is oriented substantially vertically and the direction is oriented substantially vertically.

21. The degassing device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein: The piston is movable in a direction (2) substantially orthogonal to the main flow channel, preferably the main flow channel is oriented substantially horizontally and the direction is oriented substantially vertically.

22. Degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims 19 to 21, wherein The branch flow passage extends through the cylinder between the main flow passage and the degassing zone, wherein movement of the piston is configured to move the first valve to a closed state.

23. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein A cavity (742) is located in the cylinder barrel between the main flow passage and the piston, and a branch flow path (32) extends through the cavity, particularly behind the piston and around the piston drive shaft (727).

24. The degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein: The degassing zone is connected to a pressure reducing device via a conduit (202), and / or wherein the degassing zone and / or the pressure reducing device are connected to the main flow channel via conduits (204, 206).

25. The degassing device according to any one of claims 12 to 24, further comprising the features of claim 19, wherein the flow member is arranged in a bypass channel.

26. The degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein: When the first valve is in the closed position, the first valve blocks the branch flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the main flow channel, and when it is in the open position, the first valve does not block the branch flow channel, wherein the degassing device includes a second valve (60B) movable between a closed position and an open position, in the closed position, the second valve blocks the return flow channel and isolates the degassing zone from the main flow channel, and in the open position, the second valve does not block the return flow channel.

27. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The second valve is a check valve, or the second valve is an actuated valve controlled by a control unit (90).

28. The degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 27, wherein: The cylinder extends through a space (95) between the main flow passage and the bypass passage.

29. The degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 28, wherein: The branch flow channel enters the cylinder at a cylinder inlet position (96) located above or below the main flow channel, and the main flow channel is arranged horizontally.

30. The degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein: The main flow channel is constricted between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein the constriction (26) is configured to increase the pressure near the branch flow channel, thereby forcing a portion of the main flow into the degassing housing.

31. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The constriction includes a check valve (60C).

32. A degassing device according to any one of claims 19 to 31, wherein: The manifold or main flow channel is defined by a cup (100) including an inlet (102) and an outlet (104) and a cover (110), wherein a plate (112) protrudes downwardly from the cover (110), the plate dividing the cup into an inlet side (106) and an outlet side (108) and allowing fluid communication from the inlet side to the outlet side only through a constriction, the cover isolating the main flow channel from the degassing zone and includes at least one valve located in at least one flow channel, and the degassing housing includes a cover (120) placed on top of the cover.

33. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The piston actuator is fixed to the degassing housing via one or more resilient members (762), wherein the piston actuator is resiliently movable between a first actuator position (764) and a second actuator position (766).

34. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The degassing housing comprises a first abutment (731) and a second abutment (732), the piston extending against the first abutment to move the piston actuator to a first actuator position, and the piston retracting against the second abutment to move the piston to a second actuator position.

35. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The degassing device includes a directional switch (733), which is configured to operate the piston actuator in a first direction when in a first switch position (734) and to operate the piston actuator in a second direction when in a second switch position (735), wherein movement from the first actuator position to the second actuator position causes the directional switch to move from the first switch position to the second switch position and vice versa.

36. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The directional switch includes a delay component configured to delay operation of the piston actuator after a switch position is changed.

37. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The piston is in direct contact with the liquid and preferably no membrane is present between the piston and the degassing zone.

38. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The piston comprises at least one seal (726), in particular two seals at a distance from each other, in particular the seals are O-rings, more particularly the seals are double-lip seals, and the seals are configured to minimize the amount of liquid that can or may flow between the piston and the cylinder.

39. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The pressure relief device is located at a lower portion of the degassing housing, wherein the pressure relief device is configured to operate below a liquid level in the degassing housing.

40. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The cylinder defines a branch flow hole (744), the branch flow path extending through the branch flow passage, through the cavity and into the interior volume through the branch flow hole.

41. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The overflow valve comprises a backflow preventer (852) configured to allow gas to escape but not to allow gas to enter the gas outlet, in particular the backflow preventer is a check valve.

42. The degassing device of any preceding claim, further comprising a biasing switch (75) configured to interrupt operation of the pressure reducing device, wherein in a first actuator position, the piston actuator engages the biasing switch and in a second actuator position, the switch is open.

43. The degassing device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one sensor (92), wherein the control unit (90) is configured to read the at least one sensor and / or to control the pressure reduction device.

44. Degassing device according to the preceding claim, wherein The first pressure sensor (92A) is located in the manifold or main flow channel, the second pressure sensor (92B) is located in the degassing zone, and the control unit is configured to operate the pressure reducing device according to the output of the first pressure sensor and / or the second pressure sensor.

45. A degassing device according to claim 43 or 44, wherein The at least one sensor is a current measuring device configured to determine the current required to move the piston.

46. ​​A degassing device according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein The pressure reducing device includes a sensor configured to measure the pressure in the degassing zone.

47. A degassing device according to any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein The at least one sensor is a strain gauge or a stress gauge, and the at least one sensor is used to measure a strain value or a stress value so that the control unit determines the pressure in the degassing zone.

48. The degassing device according to any one of claims 43 to 47 further comprises a temperature sensor (92C), in particular the temperature sensor is located in the manifold or in the main flow channel, wherein the temperature sensor measures the temperature of the liquid in the manifold or the main flow channel, and the control unit reads the temperature sensor and controls the pressure reducing device.

49. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The control unit is further configured to operate at least one of the first valve, the second valve, and the main flow valve.

50. A degassing device according to any one of claims 43 to 49, wherein The degasser further comprises a flow switch (79) which prevents the pressure reducing device from operating when there is no flow in the manifold or the main flow channel.

51. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The pressure reducing device is at least partially positioned on the upstream side of the degassing housing. In particular, the piston actuator is located on the upstream side of the degassing housing.

52. The degassing device according to any one of claims 43 to 48, comprising at least one pressure sensor (92), wherein the control unit comprises: - a first test module (91) configured to determine the presence of a leak, the first test module being configured to: oClose at least one valve, oThe pressure relief device is then operated to reduce or increase the pressure, and oThen read at least one pressure sensor, oAfter a certain period of time, at least one pressure sensor is read a second time, and o comparing the second measured pressure to the first measured pressure to determine a difference, wherein a difference signal is generated, and / or - a second test module (91) configured to determine the presence of flow in the main flow channel, the second test module being configured to: oRead at least one pressure sensor, o then closes at least one valve, oAfter a certain period of time, at least one pressure sensor is read a second time, and o Comparing the second measured pressure to the first measured pressure to determine a difference, wherein when the difference is less than a threshold, generating a difference signal indicative of lack of flow.

53. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first test module is configured to keep the pressure in the degassing zone constant or substantially constant during the test period by measuring the pressure in the degassing zone, comparing the measured pressure with a target pressure, and operating the pressure reducing device to keep the pressure in the degassing zone at the target pressure, wherein the first test module timely measures an operating parameter of the pressure reducing device, and is configured to generate a difference signal indicating a leak when the measured operating parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold, the operating parameter being in particular the position of the piston and / or the power consumption of the pressure reducing device, and / or The first test module is configured to maintain a constant or substantially constant piston position during a test period, wherein the first test module measures the pressure in the degassing zone during the test period and is configured to generate a differential signal indicating a leak when a pressure difference measured over time exceeds a predetermined threshold.

54. A degassing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first test module and / or the second test module determines a difference, and: - when the difference is greater than a threshold value, the control unit periodically performs a degassing cycle, - When the difference is smaller than a threshold value, the control unit does not perform any degassing cycle.

55. A method for degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device using a degassing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) allowing the main flow of the liquid to enter the manifold via the first fluid connection or the second fluid connection, preferably allowing the main flow to flow through the manifold from the first fluid connection to the second fluid connection, or vice versa, b) diverting a portion of the main flow through at least one flow channel, c) moving at least one valve to a corresponding closed position, thereby blocking at least one flow channel and isolating the degassing zone from the header, d) Close the gas outlet, e) operating the pressure reducing device by moving the piston from an extended idle pressure position to a retracted low pressure position to reduce the pressure in a degassing zone relative to the pressure in the manifold, wherein the degassing zone is delimited by the degassing housing and the piston, f) opening at least one valve and a gas outlet, wherein the degassing cycle comprises a decompression step, the decompression step comprises steps c), d) and e), and the degassing cycle comprises a gas exhaust step, the gas exhaust step comprises step f), wherein, - during the depressurization step, the gas outlet and at least one valve are closed, wherein the depressurization device is configured to degas the gas-containing liquid by reducing the pressure, wherein at the beginning of the depressurization step, the liquid level in the degassing device is at an overflow threshold level, and the outlet closing body closes the outlet pipe before the liquid level drops below the outlet pipe, - During the gas discharge step, the pressure in the degassing zone increases and the separated gas passes through the outlet pipe and the gas outlet opening.

56. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: At least a portion of the outlet closing body is formed by a lower portion of the float, wherein the outlet closing body closes the gas outlet pipe (82) when the liquid level is below a predetermined level (88).

57. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: The outlet closing body comprises a protrusion (83) extending from the float, the outer dimensions of the protrusion substantially matching the inner dimensions of the outlet pipe, wherein during step e), the protrusion is forced into the outlet pipe.

58. The method of claim 55, wherein: a. The outlet closing body comprises an outlet closing check valve (843), which is preferably actuated by an actuator, b. the piston comprises an actuator end (728), c. The outlet shut-off check valve is preferably actuated by an actuator end (728) of the piston, wherein when the piston moves to an idle pressure position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to an open position, wherein when the piston moves to a retracted position, the actuator end moves the outlet shut-off check valve to a closed position.

59. A method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The degassing device comprises two flow channels, the first flow channel is a branch flow channel (30), and the second flow channel is a return flow channel (50).

60. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: When the piston moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the degassing zone expands into the cylinder, the degassing zone being larger in the retracted position than in the extended position.

61. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The branch flow channel extends through the cylinder between the main flow channel and the degassing zone, wherein steps d) and e) occur substantially simultaneously, movement of the piston causing at least one valve to move to a closed position and / or closing the gas outlet.

62. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: The gas outlet further comprises an overflow valve (85) which closes the gas outlet opening when the liquid level is at a second predetermined level (89).

63. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The overflow valve comprises a backflow preventer (852), which prevents gas from flowing into the degassing zone when the external pressure is greater than the pressure inside the degassing housing, in particular, during step e), the backflow preventer prevents gas from flowing into the degassing zone.

64. A method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The collecting pipe (405) includes a main flow channel (20) and a bypass channel (401), wherein the main flow channel and the bypass channel diverge and merge between a first fluid connection and a second fluid connection, wherein the branch flow channel diverges from the bypass channel, wherein the return flow channel returns to the main flow channel, wherein the main flow channel contracts between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection, wherein the contraction portion (26) increases the pressure near the branch flow channel and forces a portion of the mainstream to enter the degassing shell, and / or wherein the main flow channel includes a branch flow separator (28), wherein the branch flow separator (28) diverts at least a portion of the mainstream to the degassing zone, and / or wherein the main flow channel includes a mainstream valve (27), wherein the mainstream valve (27) is configured to divert a portion of the mainstream to the degassing zone.

65. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein Prior to step f), the pressure in the degassing zone is increased substantially to the pressure existing during step b).

66. A method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The degassing device further comprises a bias switch (75), the piston actuator being fixed to the degassing housing via one or more resilient members, wherein the piston actuator is resiliently movable between a first actuator position (764) and a second actuator position (766), When the force required to move the piston to the retracted position exceeds a predetermined value corresponding to a minimum pressure inside the degassing housing, the force causes the actuator to move from a first actuator position engaging the biasing switch to a second actuator position disconnecting the switch, the disconnection of the switch interrupting the operation of the pressure differential device.

67. A method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The degassing housing further comprises a first abutment (731) and a second abutment (732), the piston actuator being fixed to the degassing housing via one or more elastic members, wherein the piston actuator is elastically movable between a first actuator position (764) and a second actuator position (766), Wherein, when the piston is extended to abut against the first abutment, the piston actuator moves to the first actuator position, and when the piston is retracted to abut against the second abutment, the piston moves to the second actuator position.

68. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein The degassing device includes a directional switch (733), which operates the piston actuator in a first direction when in a first switch position (764) and operates the piston actuator in a second direction when in a second switch position (766), and movement from the first actuator position to the second actuator position causes the directional switch to move from the first switch position to the second switch position, and vice versa.

69. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein The directional switch includes a delay component that delays operation of the piston actuator when the switch position changes.

70. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The degassing device further comprises at least one sensor (92), and the control unit reads the at least one sensor and / or controls the pressure reducing device.

71. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein The sensor is a force sensor connected to the piston actuator and the degassing housing, the sensor measuring a force acting on the piston actuator in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the cylinder.

72. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: A first pressure sensor (92A) is located in the manifold or main flow channel, and a second pressure sensor (92B) is located in the degassing zone, the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor respectively measuring a first pressure and a second pressure.

73. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 72, wherein: The degassing device further comprises a temperature sensor (90C), in particular the temperature sensor is located in the header or in the main flow channel, wherein the temperature sensor measures the temperature of the liquid in the header or the main flow channel, wherein the control unit reads the temperature sensor and controls the pressure reducing device.

74. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The control unit further operates at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the main flow valve, and the gas outlet valve.

75. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The degasser further includes a flow switch, wherein the flow switch prevents the pressure reducing device from operating when there is no flow in the manifold or the main flow channel.

76. The method according to any one of the preceding method claims, wherein: The first valve is integrated in a piston, the piston includes a component (729) for blocking the flow path when in a low-pressure position, and the movement of the piston from an idle pressure position toward a low-pressure position causes the first valve to move from an open position to an idle closed position, wherein the step of moving at least one valve to a corresponding closed position includes moving the piston from an idle pressure position toward a low-pressure position.

77. A method for testing a degassing device (10) for degassing a gas-containing liquid in a cooling or heating device, the degassing device comprising the features of claim 1, the control unit (90) comprising a first test module and / or a second test module connected to a pressure sensor and configured to receive a pressure difference signal from the pressure sensor, in, The method comprises the following steps: a) closing at least one valve and measuring a first pressure in the degassing housing with a pressure sensor, b) measuring a second pressure in the degassing housing with a pressure sensor after a certain period of time, c) comparing, by the control unit, the second pressure with the first pressure to determine a difference, When there is a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, a difference signal is generated by the control unit.

78. Method for testing a degasser according to the preceding claim, wherein: Step a) comprises the following sequential steps: a) 1) close at least one valve, a)2) Operate the pressure reducing device to reduce or increase the pressure inside the degassing housing, a) 3) measuring a first pressure, wherein when there is a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, a difference signal is generated by the control unit indicating a leak in the degassing housing, the leak in the degassing housing causing liquid and / or gas to escape from the degassing housing.

79. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein In step a2), the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure, wherein if the second pressure is higher than the first pressure and lower than or equal to atmospheric pressure, a differential signal is generated which indicates a leakage of air from the outside into the degassing housing.

80. The method of claim 78, wherein: In step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmospheric pressure but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel, wherein if the second pressure is lower than the first pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage from the inside to the outside of the degassing housing.

81. The method of claim 78, wherein: In step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmospheric pressure but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel, wherein if the second pressure is higher than the first pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

82. The method of claim 78, wherein: The control unit controls the pressure reducing device to maintain the second pressure substantially equal to the first pressure, wherein a difference signal indicating a leak is generated if the pressure reducing device is operated after measuring the first measured pressure.

83. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: In step a2), the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure, wherein if the pressure reducing device is operated to reduce the pressure, a differential signal is generated which indicates leakage of air from the outside into the degassing housing or leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing zone.

84. The method of claim 78, wherein: In step a2), the pressure is reduced to above atmosphere but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel, wherein if the pressure reducing device is operated to increase the pressure, a differential signal is generated indicating a leakage from the inside of the degassing housing to the outside.

85. The method of claim 78, wherein: In step a2) the pressure is reduced to above atmosphere but below the pressure in the header or main flow channel, wherein if the pressure reducing device is operated to reduce the pressure a differential signal is generated indicating leakage from the header or main flow channel into the degassing housing.

86. A method for testing a degasser according to any one of claims 77 to 85, wherein: The degassing device comprises at least two flow channels, one of which is a branch flow channel and the other is a return flow channel, and the at least one valve is located in at least one of the at least two flow channels. Wherein, during step a), the at least one valve is closed after measuring the first pressure, wherein when the difference is less than a predetermined threshold, a difference signal indicative of lack of flow is generated.

87. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein: a. When the difference is greater than a predetermined threshold, the control unit periodically performs a degassing cycle, b. When the difference is less than a predetermined threshold, the control unit does not perform any degassing cycle.

88. A method for testing a degasser according to claim 86 or 87, wherein: The degassing device further comprises a second valve located in another one of the at least two flow paths, wherein any one of the methods of claims 55 to 76 is performed after the method steps of claim 86 or 87 have been performed.

89. A method for testing a degasser according to any one of claims 77 to 88, wherein: The method is performed before or during the performance of a method according to any one of claims 55 to 76.

90. A method for testing a degasser according to any one of claims 77 to 89, wherein the method is performed periodically.

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