Steam preheating energy-saving device and steam preheating energy-saving method for commercial dishwasher

Abstract

This invention discloses a steam preheating energy-saving device and method for commercial dishwashers, belonging to the field of preheating energy-saving technology. The steam preheating energy-saving device for commercial dishwashers includes a preheating device and a heating device. The preheating device is located above the washing cavity of the dishwasher, and the heating device is located in the electrical cavity at the bottom of the dishwasher. The preheating device includes a housing with an air inlet on its lower surface and an exhaust outlet on its upper surface. A condenser plate is located inside the housing, with a water flow channel inside. A water inlet and an exhaust outlet are located on the lower surface of the condenser plate, with the water inlet and exhaust outlet located at the same end of the condenser plate, and the water outlet and air inlet located at the other end of the condenser plate. Both the water inlet and outlet are connected to the water flow channel. The water outlet is connected to the heating device via a connecting pipe. Using the steam preheating energy-saving device and method for commercial dishwashers described in this invention can solve the problems of low steam heat exchange efficiency and poor water temperature uniformity in existing methods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of preheating and energy-saving technology, and in particular to a steam preheating and energy-saving device and method for a commercial dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of living standards and the development of smart kitchen appliances, dishwashers have become common equipment in homes and commercial catering settings. Their working principle is based on high-temperature, high-pressure water jets to clean dishes. Typically, the incoming water needs to be heated to 50-70℃ (household models) or 80-95℃ (commercial models). This process accounts for 60%-80% of the dishwasher's total energy consumption, making it a core factor limiting its energy efficiency. During the washing and rinsing stages, the high-temperature water jets come into contact with air, generating a large amount of saturated water vapor. This vapor is generally discharged directly into the kitchen environment through the exhaust vent on the top of the machine. While the structure is simple, this presents two major problems: first, the latent and sensible heat carried by the steam is completely wasted, exacerbating heating energy consumption; second, the high humidity of the steam increases air humidity, easily causing cabinets to become damp, electrical appliances to short-circuit, and even condensation to form in low-temperature environments, affecting the user experience. Furthermore, the escaping steam can easily cause burns to staff. Some models are equipped with air-cooled or water-cooled condensation devices to condense the steam into water before direct discharge. While such solutions address the humidity issue, the heat released during condensation remains unrecovered, resulting in energy waste. Existing dishwashers also attempt to recover and utilize the heat energy from water vapor, but this involves only a simple heat exchange between water vapor and water, leading to low heat exchange efficiency and poor water temperature uniformity. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a steam preheating energy-saving device and method for commercial dishwashers, solving the problems of low steam heat exchange efficiency and poor water temperature uniformity in existing products.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher, comprising a preheating device and a heating device. The preheating device is disposed above the washing cavity of the dishwasher, and the heating device is disposed in the electrical cavity at the bottom of the dishwasher. The preheating device includes a housing, with an air inlet on the lower surface of the housing and an exhaust outlet on the upper surface of the housing. A condenser plate is disposed inside the housing, and a water flow channel is disposed inside the condenser plate. A water inlet and an exhaust outlet are disposed on the lower surface of the condenser plate. The water inlet and the exhaust outlet are disposed at the same end of the condenser plate, and the water outlet and the air inlet are disposed at the other end of the condenser plate. Both the water inlet and the water outlet are connected to the water flow channel. The water outlet is connected to the heating device via a connecting pipe.

[0005] Preferably, the condenser plate includes an upper condenser plate and a lower condenser plate that are sealed and fixedly connected. The water flow channel includes an upper water channel and a lower water channel. The lower surface of the upper condenser plate is provided with an L-shaped upper water inlet chamber and an upper water outlet chamber facing each other, and the upper water inlet chamber and the upper water outlet chamber are connected by a plurality of upper water channels. The upper surface of the lower condenser plate is provided with an L-shaped lower water inlet chamber and a lower water outlet chamber facing each other, and the lower water inlet chamber and the lower water outlet chamber are connected by a plurality of lower water channels. The upper water channels and the lower water channels are arranged perpendicularly and connected at their intersection. The water inlet is located in the middle of the lower water inlet chamber, and the water outlet is located in the middle of the lower water outlet chamber.

[0006] Preferably, the housing includes an upper housing and a lower housing that are sealed and fixedly connected. A heat exchange mechanism is provided on the lower surface of the upper housing and the upper surface of the lower housing. The heat exchange mechanism includes two first baffles that form a gas distribution chamber for water vapor passage. A first partition is provided at one end of the first baffle of the upper housing, and a second partition is provided at one end of the first baffle of the lower housing. The first and second partitions are sealed and fixedly connected. The first and second partitions, together with the upper and lower housings, form an air inlet chamber for water vapor, which communicates with the gas distribution chamber. An exhaust chamber is formed between the housing and the condenser plate, which communicates with the gas distribution chamber. An air inlet is provided in the air inlet chamber, an exhaust outlet is provided in the exhaust chamber, and a condensate outlet is provided in the exhaust chamber. The upper and lower housings are provided with heat exchange structures that communicate with the gas distribution chamber.

[0007] Preferably, the two first baffles are arranged along the diagonal of the upper and lower covers, the air inlet is located at one corner of the cover, the air inlet is located on the lower cover, the exhaust port is located on the upper cover, and a fan is provided at the exhaust port to allow water vapor in the dishwasher to enter the interior of the cover through the air inlet; the water inlet is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the exhaust port, and the drain outlet is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the air inlet.

[0008] Preferably, the heat exchange structure includes several heat exchange units symmetrically distributed on both sides of the gas distribution chamber, and the heat exchange units are arranged in a linear array on the first baffle. The heat exchange unit includes a second baffle, and the two second baffles form a gas flow channel. One end of the gas channel is connected to the gas distribution chamber, and the other end of the gas channel is connected to the exhaust chamber. The gas channel is arranged parallel or perpendicular to the sewer. Several turbulence structures are arranged in a linear array along the length of the gas channel inside the gas channel.

[0009] Preferably, the turbulence structure includes symmetrically arranged flow dividers on both sides of the air passage, the flow dividers being fixedly inclined on the upper and lower condensing plates, and an airflow channel being provided between the flow dividers and the second baffle; symmetrically arranged fixed plates on both sides of the air passage, the fixed plates being fixedly inclined on the upper and lower condensing plates, and one end of the fixed plates being fixedly connected to the second baffle; the flow dividers and fixed plates are spaced apart, forming an airflow channel between the flow dividers and fixed plates, and airflow channels are provided between the flow dividers and fixed plates on both sides of the air passage.

[0010] Preferably, the heating device includes a water tank, inside which a heater and a heat exchanger are installed. The heat exchanger is located at the top of the water tank, above the heater. One end of the heat exchanger is provided with a water inlet pipe, which is connected to a connecting pipe. The other end of the heat exchanger is provided with a water outlet pipe, the outlet end of which is located at the bottom of the water tank. A drain pipe is provided in the middle of the side of the water tank away from the water outlet pipe, and the drain pipe is connected to the spray device of the dishwasher.

[0011] Preferably, the heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange plate and a second heat exchange plate that are sealed and fixedly connected; the lower surface edge of the first heat exchange plate is provided with an L-shaped first water inlet groove and a first water outlet groove, which are connected by a plurality of parallel first water passage grooves, and the water inlet pipe is located at the corner of the first water inlet groove; the upper surface edge of the second heat exchange plate is provided with an L-shaped second water inlet groove and a second water outlet groove, which are connected by a plurality of parallel second water passage grooves, which are perpendicular to the first water passage grooves and connected at the intersection, and the water outlet pipe is located at the corner of the second water outlet groove.

[0012] Preferably, the heater includes an annular first heating section, and a second heating section is provided inside the end of the first heating section near the outlet pipe. The first heating section and the second heating section are connected. The interior of the water tank is provided with a first flow limiting plate and a second flow limiting plate. Both ends of the first flow limiting plate and the second flow limiting plate are fixedly and sealed to the side wall of the water tank. The first flow limiting plate is located between the second flow limiting plate and the outlet pipe. A water flow channel is provided at the top of the first flow limiting plate. The bottom of the first flow limiting plate is sealed and fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the water tank. A water flow channel is provided at the bottom of the second flow limiting plate. The top of the second flow limiting plate is higher than the liquid level inside the water tank.

[0013] The steam preheating energy-saving method based on the above-mentioned commercial dishwasher steam preheating energy-saving device includes the following steps:

[0014] S1. Turn on the water pump. Water enters the lower and upper inlet chambers through the inlet. The water flows into the upper and lower drain chambers through the upper and lower water channels. The water mixes at the junction of the upper and lower water channels to improve the uniformity of water temperature. The preheated water in the upper and lower drain chambers flows into the heat exchanger through the drain outlet and connecting pipe.

[0015] S2. Turn on the fan. Water vapor in the dishwasher enters the air intake chamber through the air inlet under the action of the fan, flows into the air duct through the air distribution chamber, and the water vapor in the air duct is split by the splitter plate. The airflow after being split from the main flow passes through the airflow channel between the splitter plate and the second baffle, and then returns to the main flow under the guidance of the fixed plate. The airflow direction is opposite to the main flow, which hinders the flow of the main flow, so that the water vapor can fully exchange heat with the water through the condenser plate.

[0016] S3. Water in the connecting pipe flows into the first and second inlet tanks of the heat exchanger through the inlet pipe, and then flows into the first and second outlet tanks through the first and second overflow tanks. The water exchanges heat with the water vapor at the top of the water tank in the heat exchanger, and the water after heat exchange flows into the bottom of the water tank through the drain pipe.

[0017] S4. The water in the tank is heated by the second heating section and the first heating section under the obstruction of the first flow limiting plate; it flows over the first flow limiting plate and flows out under the second flow limiting plate under the action of the second flow limiting plate. After being heated by the first heating section, it is discharged through the drain pipe and supplied to the spray device to clean the tableware.

[0018] The advantages and positive effects of the steam preheating energy-saving device and steam preheating energy-saving method for a commercial dishwasher described in this invention are as follows:

[0019] 1. The preheating device of the present invention is provided with a condenser plate inside the casing. Water vapor inside the casing heats water through the condenser plate. The water vapor is sent into the air distribution chamber above and below the condenser plate through the air inlet chamber, and heat exchange is performed on the water flowing inside the condenser plate above and below the condenser plate, thereby improving the heat exchange effect.

[0020] 2. In this invention, the water inlet of the condenser plate is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the exhaust port, and the drain outlet is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the air inlet. The high-temperature water vapor entering the air distribution chamber through the air inlet first exchanges heat with the water at the water outlet, and then exchanges heat with the water that has just entered the condenser plate at the air outlet, which is beneficial to the full heat exchange of the water vapor.

[0021] 3. This invention includes a first flow-limiting plate and a second flow-limiting plate inside the water tank. The first flow-limiting plate and the inner wall of the water tank form a preliminary heating chamber, which has a small volume, enabling rapid heating of the water entering the tank. The second flow-limiting plate restricts the direction of water flow, and the second flow-limiting plate and the inner wall of the water tank form a heating chamber for further heating of the water, which helps to improve the uniformity of water heating.

[0022] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the preheating device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the preheating device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a perspective structural diagram of the preheating device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the upper cover in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the lower cover in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the longitudinal section structure of the lower cover in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the lower cover in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 9 For the appendix Figure 8 Enlarged view of A in the middle;

[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchanger structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchanger cross-sectional structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the first heat exchange plate structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the second heat exchange plate structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 15 This is a top view of the heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the heater structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure Labels

[0040] 1. Preheating device; 11. Upper cover; 12. Lower cover; 13. Air inlet; 14. Exhaust outlet; 15. Water inlet; 16. Drain outlet; 17. Condensate outlet; 18. Upper condenser plate; 19. Upper water inlet chamber; 110. Upper drain chamber; 111. Upper water channel; 112. First partition plate; 113. Air inlet chamber; 114. Exhaust chamber; 115. Lower condenser plate; 116. Lower water inlet chamber; 117. Lower drain chamber; 118. Drain channel; 119. Second partition plate; 120. First baffle; 121. Gas distribution chamber; 122. Second baffle; 123. Air passage; 124. Diverter plate; 125. Fixing plate; 126. Connecting pipe;

[0041] 2. Heating device; 21. Water tank; 22. Heat exchanger; 23. Inlet pipe; 24. Outlet pipe; 25. Drain pipe; 26. First heat exchange plate; 27. Second heat exchange plate; 28. First inlet tank; 29. ​​First outlet tank; 210. First water passage tank; 211. Second inlet tank; 212. Second outlet tank; 213. Second water passage tank; 214. First heating section; 215. Second heating section; 216. First flow limiting plate; 217. Second flow limiting plate. Detailed Implementation

[0042] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0043] In this application, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. In case of any inconsistency, the meaning set forth in this specification or derived from the content described herein shall prevail. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0044] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, a steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher includes a preheating device 1 and a heating device 2. The preheating device 1 is located above the dishwasher's washing cavity to facilitate the recovery and reuse of water vapor within the washing cavity. The preheating device 1 preheats the water using the recovered water vapor, utilizing the heat energy within the water vapor to reduce energy consumption during heating. The preheating device 1 can be located inside or outside the washing cavity as needed. The heating device 2 is located in the electrical cavity at the bottom of the dishwasher and is used to rapidly heat the water, providing high-temperature hot water for the dishwasher.

[0046] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, the preheating device 1 includes a housing. An air inlet 13 with a flared design is provided on the lower surface of the housing to facilitate the entry of water vapor into the housing. An exhaust port 14 is provided on the upper surface of the housing, and a fan is installed at the exhaust port 14 to provide power for the flow of water vapor. A condenser plate is installed inside the housing, possessing good thermal conductivity to condense the water vapor and recover its heat. A water flow channel is provided inside the condenser plate. A water inlet 15 and an outlet are provided on the lower surface of the condenser plate. The water inlet 15 and the exhaust port 14 are located at the same end of the condenser plate, while the outlet and the air inlet 13 are located at the other end. Both the water inlet 15 and the outlet are connected to the water flow channel. The outlet is connected to the heating device 2 via a connecting pipe 126.

[0047] The condenser plate includes an upper condenser plate 18 and a lower condenser plate 115, which are fixedly connected by welding. The water flow channel includes an upper water channel 111 and a lower water channel 118. An L-shaped upper water inlet chamber 19 and an upper water outlet chamber 110 are arranged opposite each other on the lower surface of the upper condenser plate 18, and the upper water inlet chamber 19 and the upper water outlet chamber 110 are connected by several upper water channels 111. An L-shaped lower water inlet chamber 116 and a lower water outlet chamber 117 are arranged opposite each other on the upper surface of the lower condenser plate 115, and the lower water inlet chamber 116 and the lower water outlet chamber 117 are connected by several lower water channels 118. The upper water channels 111 and the lower water channels 118 are arranged perpendicularly and connected at their intersection. The water inlet 15 is located in the middle of the lower water inlet chamber 116, and the water outlet 16 is located in the middle of the lower water outlet chamber 117.

[0048] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8As shown, the housing includes an upper housing 11 and a lower housing 12, which are fixedly connected by welding. Heat exchange mechanisms are provided on the lower surface of the upper housing 11 and the upper surface of the lower housing 12. Each heat exchange mechanism includes two first baffles 120, which form a gas distribution chamber 121 through which water vapor passes. One end of each first baffle 120 is fixed to either the upper housing 11 or the lower housing 12, and the other end of each first baffle 120 is in close contact with a condenser plate, forming a closed gas distribution chamber 121. A first partition 112 is fixedly provided at one end of the first baffle 120 of the upper housing 11, and a second partition 119 is fixedly provided at one end of the first baffle 120 of the lower housing 12. The first partition 112 and the second partition 119 are sealed and fixedly connected. The first partition 112, the second partition 119, the upper housing 11, and the lower housing 12 form a closed water vapor inlet chamber 113, which communicates with the gas distribution chamber 121. Water vapor is introduced into the air distribution chambers 121 above and below the condenser plate through the air inlet chamber 113, where it exchanges heat with the water flowing inside the condenser plate, improving the heat exchange efficiency. An exhaust chamber 114 is formed between the casing and the condenser plate, and the exhaust chamber 114 communicates with the air distribution chamber 121. An air inlet 13 is provided in the air inlet chamber 113, and an exhaust outlet 14 is provided in the exhaust chamber 114. A condensate drain outlet 17 is provided in the exhaust chamber 114 to facilitate the discharge of condensed water.

[0049] The upper cover 11 and lower cover 12 are equipped with heat exchange structures communicating with the air distribution chamber 121. Two first baffles 120 are fixedly arranged along the diagonal of the upper cover 11 and lower cover 12. The air inlet chamber 113 is located at one corner of the cover. The air inlet 13 is located on the lower cover 12, and the exhaust port 14 is located on the upper cover 11. A fan is provided at the exhaust port 14 to allow water vapor from the dishwasher to enter the interior of the cover through the air inlet 13. The water inlet 15 is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the exhaust port 14, and the drain port 16 is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the air inlet 13. The high-temperature water vapor entering the air distribution chamber 121 through the air inlet 13 first exchanges heat with the water at the water outlet, and then exchanges heat with the water that has just entered the condenser plate at the air outlet, which is beneficial for the full heat exchange of the water vapor.

[0050] The heat exchange structure includes several heat exchange units symmetrically distributed on both sides of the gas distribution chamber 121, arranged in a linear array on the first baffle 120. Each heat exchange unit includes a second baffle 122, with two second baffles 122 forming a gas passage 123. One end of the second baffle 122 is fixed to the upper cover 11 or the lower cover 12, and the other end is in close contact with the condenser plate, forming a closed gas passage 123. One end of the gas passage 123 communicates with the gas distribution chamber 121, and the other end communicates with the exhaust chamber 114. The gas passage 123 is arranged parallel or perpendicular to the drain 118, allowing for sufficient heat exchange between water vapor and water.

[0051] like Figure 9 As shown, several flow-disrupting structures are linearly arrayed along the length of the air passage 123. The flow-disrupting structures include symmetrically arranged flow dividers 124 on both sides of the air passage 123, which are fixedly inclined on the upper condenser plate 18 and the lower condenser plate 115. An airflow channel is formed between the flow dividers 124 and the second baffle 122. Fixed plates 125 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the air passage 123, and are fixedly inclined on the upper condenser plate 18 and the lower condenser plate 115. One end of the fixed plate 125 is fixedly connected to the second baffle 122. The inclination direction of the flow dividers 124 and the fixed plates 125 is opposite to the airflow direction. The flow dividers 124 and the fixed plates 125 are spaced apart, forming an airflow channel between them. Airflow channels are also formed between the flow dividers 124 and the fixed plates 125 on both sides of the air passage 123, forming the main flow channels.

[0052] like Figure 14 As shown, the heating device 2 includes a water tank 21 with a cover on top. Inside the water tank 21 are a heater and a heat exchanger 22, located at the top of the water tank 21, above the heater. The heat exchanger 22 utilizes the steam above the water tank 21 for heat exchange, while the heater rapidly heats the water inside the water tank 21. One end of the heat exchanger 22 has an inlet pipe 23 connected to a connecting pipe 126. The other end of the heat exchanger 22 has an outlet pipe 24, with its outlet located at the bottom of the water tank 21. A drain pipe 25 is located in the middle of the side of the water tank 21 away from the outlet pipe 24, and this drain pipe 25 is connected to the spray device of the dishwasher.

[0053] like Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 As shown, the heat exchanger 22 includes a first heat exchange plate 26 and a second heat exchange plate 27, which are fixedly connected by welding. The lower surface edge of the first heat exchange plate 26 has an L-shaped first water inlet groove 28 and a first water outlet groove 29 arranged opposite each other, connected by several parallel first water passage grooves 210. A water inlet pipe 23 is located at the corner of the first water inlet groove 28. The upper surface edge of the second heat exchange plate 27 has an L-shaped second water inlet groove 211 and a second water outlet groove 212 arranged opposite each other, connected by several parallel second water passage grooves 213. The second water passage grooves 213 are perpendicular to the first water passage grooves 210 and connect at their intersection. A water outlet pipe 24 is located at the corner of the second water outlet groove 212. When water flows inside the heat exchanger 22, it exchanges heat with the water vapor above the water tank 21, increasing the water temperature.

[0054] like Figure 15 , Figure 16 As shown, the heater includes a ring-shaped first heating section 214, and a second heating section 215 is disposed inside the end of the first heating section 214 near the outlet pipe 24. The first heating section 214 and the second heating section 215 are connected and connected to an external power source or heating medium to realize electric heating or medium heating of water. The water tank 21 is provided with a first flow limiting plate 216 and a second flow limiting plate 217. Both ends of the first flow limiting plate 216 and the second flow limiting plate 217 are fixedly and sealed to the side wall of the water tank 21. The first flow limiting plate 216 is located between the second flow limiting plate 217 and the outlet pipe 24. The top of the first flow limiting plate 216 is provided with a water flow channel, and the bottom of the first flow limiting plate 216 is sealed and fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the water tank 21. The bottom of the second flow limiting plate 217 is provided with a water flow channel, and the top of the second flow limiting plate 217 is higher than the liquid level inside the water tank 21. The first flow-limiting plate 216 and the inner wall of the water tank 21 form a preliminary heating chamber. The preliminary heating chamber has a small volume, which enables rapid heating of the water entering the water tank 21. The second flow-limiting plate 217 restricts the direction of water flow. The second limiting plate and the inner wall of the water tank 21 form a heating chamber to further heat the water, which helps to improve the uniformity of water heating.

[0055] The steam preheating energy-saving method based on the above-mentioned commercial dishwasher steam preheating energy-saving device includes the following steps:

[0056] S1. Turn on the water pump. Municipal water enters the lower inlet chamber 116 and upper inlet chamber 19 through inlet 15. The water flows into the upper drain chamber 110 and lower drain chamber 117 through upper drain channel 111 and lower drain channel 118. The water mixes at the junction of upper drain channel 111 and lower drain channel 118 to improve the uniformity of water temperature. The preheated water in upper drain chamber 110 and lower drain chamber 117 flows into heat exchanger 22 through drain outlet 16 and connecting pipe 126.

[0057] S2. Turn on the fan. Water vapor in the dishwasher enters the air intake chamber 113 through the air inlet 13 under the action of the fan, and flows into the air duct 123 through the air distribution chamber 121. The water vapor in the air duct 123 is diverted by the diverter plate 124. The airflow after being diverted from the mainstream passes through the airflow channel between the diverter plate 124 and the second baffle 122, and then returns to the mainstream under the guidance of the fixed plate 125. The airflow direction is opposite to that of the mainstream, which hinders the flow of the mainstream, so that the water vapor can fully exchange heat with the water through the condenser plate.

[0058] S3. Water in the connecting pipe 126 flows into the first inlet tank 28 and the second inlet tank 211 in the heat exchanger 22 through the inlet pipe 23, and then flows into the first outlet tank 29 and the second outlet tank 212 through the first water passage tank 210 and the second water passage tank 213. The water exchanges heat with the water vapor at the top of the water tank 21 in the heat exchanger 22, and the water after heat exchange flows into the bottom of the water tank 21 through the drain pipe 25.

[0059] S4. Water in water tank 21 is heated by the second heating section 215 and the first heating section 214 under the obstruction of the first flow limiting plate 216. It flows over the first flow limiting plate 216 and flows out under the second flow limiting plate 217 under the action of the second flow limiting plate 217. After being heated by the first heating section 214, it is discharged through the drain pipe 25 and supplied to the spray device to clean the tableware.

[0060] Therefore, the steam preheating energy-saving device and steam preheating energy-saving method for commercial dishwashers described in this invention can solve the problems of low steam heat exchange efficiency and poor water temperature uniformity in existing systems.

[0061] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and not to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can still be made to the technical solutions of the present invention, and these modifications or equivalent substitutions cannot cause the modified technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher, characterized in that: The dishwasher includes a preheating device and a heating device. The preheating device is located above the washing cavity of the dishwasher, and the heating device is located in the electrical cavity at the bottom of the dishwasher. The preheating device includes a housing with an air inlet on its lower surface and an exhaust outlet on its upper surface. A condenser plate is located inside the housing, and a water flow channel is located inside the condenser plate. A water inlet and a drain outlet are located on the lower surface of the condenser plate. The water inlet and the exhaust outlet are located at the same end of the condenser plate, and the drain outlet and the air inlet are located at the other end of the condenser plate. Both the water inlet and the drain outlet are connected to the water flow channel. The drain outlet is connected to the heating device via a connecting pipe. The condenser plate includes an upper condenser plate and a lower condenser plate that are sealed and fixedly connected. The water flow channel includes an upper water channel and a lower water channel. The lower surface of the upper condenser plate has an L-shaped upper water inlet chamber and an upper water outlet chamber that are opposite each other, and the upper water inlet chamber and the upper water outlet chamber are connected by several upper water channels. The upper surface of the lower condenser plate has an L-shaped lower water inlet chamber and a lower water outlet chamber that are opposite each other, and the lower water inlet chamber and the lower water outlet chamber are connected by several lower water channels. The upper water channels and the lower water channels are perpendicular to each other and are connected at their intersection. The water inlet is located in the middle of the lower water inlet chamber, and the water outlet is located in the middle of the lower water outlet chamber. The housing includes an upper housing and a lower housing that are sealed and fixedly connected. A heat exchange mechanism is provided on the lower surface of the upper housing and the upper surface of the lower housing. The heat exchange mechanism includes two first baffles that form a gas distribution chamber for water vapor passage. A first partition is provided at one end of the first baffle of the upper housing, and a second partition is provided at one end of the first baffle of the lower housing. The first and second partitions are sealed and fixedly connected. The first and second partitions, along with the upper and lower housings, form an air inlet chamber for water vapor, which communicates with the gas distribution chamber. An exhaust chamber is formed between the housing and the condenser plate, and it communicates with the gas distribution chamber. An air inlet is provided in the air inlet chamber, and an exhaust outlet is provided in the exhaust chamber. A condensate outlet is provided in the exhaust chamber. The upper and lower housings are equipped with heat exchange structures that communicate with the gas distribution chamber. The heat exchange structure includes several heat exchange units symmetrically distributed on both sides of the gas distribution chamber. The heat exchange units are arranged in a linear array on the first baffle. Each heat exchange unit includes a second baffle. The two second baffles form a gas passage. One end of the gas passage is connected to the gas distribution chamber, and the other end of the gas passage is connected to the exhaust chamber. The gas passage is arranged parallel or perpendicular to the sewer. Several turbulence structures are arranged in a linear array along the length of the gas passage inside the gas passage. The turbulence structure includes symmetrically arranged flow dividers on both sides of the air passage, with the flow dividers fixedly inclined on the upper and lower condenser plates, and an airflow channel between the flow dividers and the second baffle; symmetrically arranged fixed plates on both sides of the air passage, with the fixed plates fixedly inclined on the upper and lower condenser plates, and one end of the fixed plates fixedly connected to the second baffle; the flow dividers and fixed plates are spaced apart, forming an airflow channel between the flow dividers and fixed plates, and airflow channels are provided between the flow dividers and fixed plates on both sides of the air passage.

2. The steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that: The two first baffles are arranged along the diagonal of the upper and lower covers. The air inlet is located at one corner of the cover, the air inlet is located on the lower cover, and the exhaust port is located on the upper cover. A fan is provided at the exhaust port to allow water vapor in the dishwasher to enter the interior of the cover through the air inlet. The water inlet is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the exhaust port, and the drain outlet is located at one corner of the condenser plate near the air inlet.

3. The steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher according to claim 2, characterized in that: The heating device includes a water tank, inside which are installed a heater and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is located at the top of the water tank, above the heater. One end of the heat exchanger is provided with an inlet pipe, which is connected to a connecting pipe. The other end of the heat exchanger is provided with an outlet pipe, the outlet of which is located at the bottom of the water tank. A drain pipe is provided in the middle of the side of the water tank away from the outlet pipe, and the drain pipe is connected to the spray device of the dishwasher.

4. The steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that: The heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange plate and a second heat exchange plate that are sealed and fixedly connected. The lower surface edge of the first heat exchange plate is provided with an L-shaped first water inlet groove and a first water outlet groove, which are connected by a number of parallel first water passage grooves. The water inlet pipe is located at the corner of the first water inlet groove. The upper surface edge of the second heat exchange plate is provided with an L-shaped second water inlet groove and a second water outlet groove, which are connected by a number of parallel second water passage grooves. The second water passage grooves are perpendicular to the first water passage grooves and are connected at their intersection. The water outlet pipe is located at the corner of the second water outlet groove.

5. The steam preheating energy-saving device for a commercial dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that: The heater includes a first annular heating section, and a second heating section is provided inside the first heating section near the end of the outlet pipe. The first heating section and the second heating section are connected. The inside of the water tank is provided with a first flow limiting plate and a second flow limiting plate. Both ends of the first flow limiting plate and the second flow limiting plate are fixedly and sealed to the side wall of the water tank. The first flow limiting plate is located between the second flow limiting plate and the outlet pipe. A water flow channel is provided at the top of the first flow limiting plate. The bottom of the first flow limiting plate is sealed and fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the water tank. A water flow channel is provided at the bottom of the second flow limiting plate. The top of the second flow limiting plate is higher than the liquid level inside the water tank.

6. A steam preheating energy-saving method based on the steam preheating energy-saving device of the commercial dishwasher according to claim 5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Turn on the water pump. Water enters the lower and upper inlet chambers through the inlet. The water flows into the upper and lower drain chambers through the upper and lower water channels. The water mixes at the junction of the upper and lower water channels to improve the uniformity of water temperature. The preheated water in the upper and lower drain chambers flows into the heat exchanger through the drain outlet and connecting pipe. S2. Turn on the fan. Water vapor in the dishwasher enters the air intake chamber through the air inlet under the action of the fan, flows into the air duct through the air distribution chamber, and the water vapor in the air duct is split by the splitter plate. The airflow after being split from the main flow passes through the airflow channel between the splitter plate and the second baffle, and then returns to the main flow under the guidance of the fixed plate. The airflow direction is opposite to the main flow, which hinders the flow of the main flow, so that the water vapor can fully exchange heat with the water through the condenser plate. S3. Water in the connecting pipe flows into the first and second inlet tanks of the heat exchanger through the inlet pipe, and then flows into the first and second outlet tanks through the first and second overflow tanks. The water exchanges heat with the water vapor at the top of the water tank in the heat exchanger, and the water after heat exchange flows into the bottom of the water tank through the drain pipe. S4. The water in the tank is heated by the second heating section and the first heating section under the obstruction of the first flow limiting plate; it flows over the first flow limiting plate and flows out under the second flow limiting plate under the action of the second flow limiting plate. After being heated by the first heating section, it is discharged through the drain pipe and supplied to the spray device to clean the tableware.

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