Container type methanol fuel generator set
By integrating a cold and hot circulation system and a heat storage preheating system, the difficulties in starting and corrosion of containerized methanol generator sets in low-temperature environments have been solved, achieving efficient and reliable cold start and long-term operation capabilities.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-10
AI Technical Summary
Existing containerized methanol generator sets are difficult to start in low-temperature environments, and controlling unconventional emissions such as formaldehyde during the cold start phase is challenging. The corrosiveness of system materials affects long-term reliability, and thermal management and noise control are difficult to achieve due to space constraints.
The system integrates a hot and cold circulation system, a heat storage and preheating system, and an intelligent liquid replenishment and control structure. It can flexibly switch between internal and external circulation modes by switching components. It utilizes the inorganic hydrated salt in the heat storage tube to recover waste heat from the exhaust gas for preheating. Combined with the adsorbent chamber, it prevents corrosion and achieves autonomous regeneration, thereby improving the system's adaptability and reliability in low-temperature environments.
It significantly improves the adaptability and operational reliability of containerized methanol fuel generator sets in cold regions, solves the problems of low-temperature start-up difficulties and corrosion, and improves energy utilization efficiency and self-sustaining capability.
Smart Images

Figure CN121828040A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of methanol power generation technology, specifically a containerized methanol fuel generator set. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, containerized generator sets are widely used in emergency power supply, off-grid power supply, and microgrids, but mainstream diesel or natural gas generator sets have significant technical limitations. Diesel generator sets emit large amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, making it difficult to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations; natural gas generator sets rely on complex gas supply facilities and have poor deployment flexibility. At the same time, traditional fuels have inherent defects in terms of storage safety and low-temperature starting performance, especially in environments below -20°C, where the starting failure rate increases significantly.
[0003] Methanol fuel is considered an ideal alternative energy source due to its characteristics such as easy storage and transportation in liquid form, clean combustion with oxygen, and a relatively high flash point (11°C). However, existing methanol power generation technology faces three major bottlenecks: first, the high latent heat of vaporization and slow flame propagation speed of methanol make low-temperature start-up difficult; second, controlling unconventional emissions such as formaldehyde during the cold start phase is challenging; and third, the corrosive effect of methanol on system materials affects long-term reliability. Furthermore, integrating a methanol power generation system into a standard shipping container presents engineering challenges related to thermal management, noise control, and system integration within space constraints.
[0004] There is an urgent need in the market for a methanol-fueled generator set that can operate efficiently, cleanly, and reliably within a standard container frame. In particular, it is necessary to overcome the bottlenecks in low-temperature environmental adaptability and emission control technology to meet the urgent needs of the global development of clean distributed energy.
[0005] For example, patent document CN120626333A discloses an energy-saving energy storage and power generation device based on methanol fuel, belonging to the field of methanol fuel power generation technology. It solves the technical problems of existing methanol fuel power generation devices, such as slow ignition, inefficient energy utilization, and low module integration efficiency. The device includes a container, inside which are a heat exchange vaporizer, a heat exchange heater, a methanol reforming fuel cell module, a methanol storage tank, a gasoline storage tank, a methanol fuel generator assembly, two battery modules, and two attenuators. A water tank is located at the top of the methanol storage tank. Metering pumps are installed between the gasoline storage tank and the methanol fuel generator assembly, and between the water tank and the heat exchange vaporizer. A metering pump is also installed between the methanol storage tank and the heat exchange heater. A muffler, engine cooling system, and exhaust gas treatment components are located at the top of the container. This patent document's modular container design facilitates transportation and rapid deployment, is highly efficient and flexible, energy-saving and environmentally friendly, and is equipped with a multi-stage exhaust gas treatment and noise reduction system to ensure environmentally friendly and low-noise operation.
[0006] Although existing containerized methanol generator sets achieve clean emissions and low-noise operation through advanced exhaust gas treatment systems, their application in cold environments suffers from fundamental technical defects. Due to the inherent characteristics of methanol fuel—high latent heat of vaporization and poor combustion stability at low temperatures—the engine system must reach a specific temperature threshold for reliable ignition. Under low-temperature conditions, existing technologies rely on external electric heating devices for manual preheating of fuel lines, intake systems, and combustion chambers, a cumbersome and time-consuming process. This forced manual intervention not only violates the core design principle of containerized power supplies—"plug and play, unattended operation"—but also significantly reduces starting reliability in extremely cold regions. When ambient temperatures drop sharply, operators must frequently perform manual preheating adjustments, increasing maintenance burden and delaying emergency power response, severely weakening the reliability of distributed power sources in critical scenarios. Therefore, this application proposes a containerized methanol fuel generator set. Summary of the Invention
[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a containerized methanol fuel generator set to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a containerized methanol fuel generator set, comprising a generator set and a methanol tank, and further comprising: The hot and cold circulation system includes a replenishing fluid circulation tank and an external circulation radiator. Both the replenishing fluid circulation tank and the external circulation radiator are connected to the coolant passage of the generator set to form a circulation. It also includes a switching component for changing the coolant circulation path, so that the coolant can selectively form an internal circulation between the generator set and the replenishing fluid circulation tank, or form an external circulation between the generator set and the external circulation radiator. A heat storage preheating system includes a heat storage tube, and the heat storage tube is provided with multiple heat exchange tubes through which the exhaust gas of the generator set passes. The internal structure of the heat storage tube includes a first inorganic hydrated salt chamber and a water distribution tank. The outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber is provided with a heat release component that can preheat the coolant. The system also includes a sleeve fitted on the outer surface of the heat storage tube, and the internal structure of the sleeve includes an adsorbent chamber for storing adsorbent. The sleeve is also provided with a filling and discharging component for desorbing the adsorbent.
[0009] Preferably, the switching assembly includes a first return pipe connected to the top of the external circulation radiator and a first inlet pipe connected to the bottom of the external circulation radiator. Both the first inlet pipe and the first return pipe are connected to the coolant passage in the generator set. The top of the replenishment circulation tank is connected to a second return pipe, which is connected to the first return pipe via a first three-way valve. The bottom of the replenishment circulation tank is connected to a second inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the first inlet pipe via a second three-way valve. The first three-way valve is used to switch the passage of the first return pipe and the second return pipe, and the second three-way valve is used to switch the passage of the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe.
[0010] Preferably, the fluid replenishment circulation tank has an internal mixing chamber for connecting the second return pipe and the second inlet pipe, an internal concentrated antifreeze chamber for storing concentrated antifreeze, and an internal pure water chamber for storing pure water. Both the concentrated antifreeze chamber and the pure water chamber are connected to the mixing chamber via valves. A conductivity sensor is fixedly connected inside the second return pipe. The fluid replenishment circulation tank is configured to automatically replenish fluid from the concentrated antifreeze chamber or the pure water chamber to the mixing chamber based on the detection data of the conductivity sensor, so as to maintain the optimal freezing point of the coolant.
[0011] Preferably, the heat release assembly includes multiple preheating tubes connected to the outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber, and the preheating tubes are connected to the second inlet pipe. The interior of the preheating tubes is provided with an extended copper tube communicating with the interior of the second inlet pipe. The interior of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber is provided with an electrode trigger for triggering the heat release of inorganic hydrated salt crystallization. The outer surface of the water distribution tank is connected to a heat recovery tube, which is connected to the second inlet pipe through a valve.
[0012] Preferably, the charging and discharging assembly includes a second inorganic hydrated salt chamber opened inside the sleeve, and a heat insulation ring is fixedly connected between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber and the adsorbent chamber. A distributor connected to multiple heat exchange tubes is rotatably connected inside the sleeve. Inorganic hydrated salt is stored in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber, and multiple copper tubes for heat exchange are arranged inside the heat insulation ring.
[0013] Preferably, a heat insulation sheet for thermal insulation is fixedly connected to the top of the copper tube, and a heat-insulating heat pipe surrounding the outer surface of the heat storage tube is connected to one side of the sleeve. Multiple moisture-absorbing holes are opened on the outer surface of the sleeve.
[0014] Preferably, one end of the distributor is rotatably connected to the sleeve via a rotary joint, multiple fan blades are fixedly connected inside the distributor, multiple cranks are rotatably connected to the outer surface of the distributor, and a pull handle that is rotatably connected to the cranks is connected to the bottom of the copper tube.
[0015] Preferably, the top of the generator set is connected to an exhaust pipe, one end of which is equipped with a purifier and connected to a heat storage pipe, the other end of which is connected to a waste heat recovery device, and the top of the waste heat recovery device is connected to an vent pipe.
[0016] Preferably, it also includes an intake pipe connected to the generator set, a common rail pipe connected to the top of the methanol tank, one end of the common rail pipe being connected to the intake pipe via a split injector, and a methanol pump being fixedly connected inside the common rail pipe.
[0017] Preferably, the generator set has an inspection door on one side.
[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. By integrating a hot and cold circulation system, a heat storage preheating system, and an intelligent liquid replenishment control structure, the adaptability and operational reliability of the entire unit in complex environments, especially in cold regions, are significantly improved. Specifically, the hot and cold circulation system flexibly switches between internal and external circulation modes through a switching component, enabling efficient heat dissipation during normal operation and establishing a closed preheating loop before startup to avoid heat loss. The liquid replenishment circulation tank has a built-in mixing chamber, a concentrated antifreeze chamber, and a pure water chamber, which, together with a conductivity sensor, enables real-time monitoring and automatic adjustment of the coolant freezing point, ensuring that the cooling system does not freeze or degrade in efficiency under low-temperature conditions. The heat storage preheating system utilizes the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber in the heat storage tube to recover waste heat from exhaust gas and store it in the form of latent heat. After shutdown, the heat is actively released through the heat release component and electrode trigger to efficiently preheat the coolant, completely solving the problem of cold start difficulties caused by the high latent heat of vaporization of methanol. At the same time, the water distribution tank and the heat recovery pipe form a short-term waste heat reuse channel, further improving energy utilization efficiency.
[0019] 2. By integrating a sleeve around the heat storage tube and its internal adsorption-desorption synergistic system, the long-term operational reliability and self-sustaining capability of the containerized methanol fuel generator set in complex environments such as high humidity and cold are significantly improved. Specifically, during generator set shutdown, the adsorbent chamber actively adsorbs water vapor from the container through moisture-absorbing holes, effectively preventing moisture corrosion of the electrical system, fuel pipelines, and engine. Simultaneously, the adsorption heat released during water vapor adsorption assists in heat dissipation, accelerating the smooth transition from high operating temperature to ambient temperature. When the generator set starts up and exhaust gas flows through the heat exchange tubes, the airflow drives the distributor to rotate, automatically opening the copper tube heat channel through a linkage mechanism of fan blades, crank, and pull handle. This allows the heat stored in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber to be transferred to the adsorbent chamber, performing in-situ heating and desorption of the adsorbent, achieving autonomous regeneration without external energy and ensuring long-term stable adsorption performance. After shutdown, the reset mechanism automatically closes the heat insulation plate, cutting off the heat exchange path and ensuring the adsorbent focuses on moisture absorption. In addition, the residual heat from the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber can also form an insulated airflow around the heat storage tube through the insulated heat pipe, which can slow down the heat loss of the phase change material in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber, prolong the heat storage time, and provide a more durable heat source support for cold start. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the container body in this invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in this invention where the container body is removed; Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the external circulation radiator in this invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the fluid replenishment and circulation tank in this invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heat storage tube in this invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heat insulation ring in this invention; Figure 8 For the present invention Figure 7 Enlarged structural diagram at point A; Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional structural diagram of the heat storage tube in this invention; Figure 10 For the present invention Figure 9 Enlarged schematic diagram of the structure at point B.
[0021] In the diagram: 100, Generator set; 101, Methanol tank; 102, Container body; 103, Inspection door; 104, Exhaust gas exhaust pipe; 105, Purifier; 106, Waste heat recovery unit; 107, Drain pipe; 200, Liquid replenishment circulation tank; 201, External circulation radiator; 202, First inlet pipe; 203, First return pipe; 204, First three-way valve; 205, Second three-way valve; 206, Second inlet pipe; 207, Second return pipe; 208, Mixing chamber; 209, Concentrated antifreeze chamber; 210, Pure water chamber; 211, Conductivity sensor; 300, Heat storage pipe; 301, Preheating... 302. Heat pipe; 303. First inorganic hydrated salt chamber; 304. Water distribution tank; 305. Heat exchange tube; 306. Electrode trigger; 307. Heat recovery tube; 308. Flow divider; 309. Rotary joint; 310. Fan blade; 311. Sleeve; 312. Moisture absorption hole; 313. Heat insulation ring; 314. Adsorbent chamber; 315. Second inorganic hydrated salt chamber; 316. Insulated heat pipe; 317. Copper tube; 318. Heat insulation sheet; 319. Handle; 320. Crank; 401. Extension copper tube; 402. Inlet pipe; 403. Common rail pipe; 404. Methanol pump; 405. Flow divider injector. Detailed Implementation
[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0023] Example 1: Please refer to Figure 1 - Figure 10 The present invention provides a technical solution: a containerized methanol fuel generator set, comprising a generator set 100 and a methanol tank 101. The generator set 100 is installed in a standard container shell, and has an inspection door 103 on one side to facilitate daily maintenance and repair of the generator set 100 and the methanol tank 101. The methanol tank 101 is used to store liquid methanol fuel to continuously power the generator set 100.
[0024] It also includes a hot and cold circulation system, comprising a coolant circulation tank 200 and an external circulation radiator 201. Both the coolant circulation tank 200 and the external circulation radiator 201 are connected to the coolant passage of the generator set 100 to form a circulation. It also includes a switching component to change the coolant circulation path. By setting the coolant circulation tank 200, an internal circulation can be formed between it and the generator set 100 without cooling the coolant. Conversely, by setting the external circulation radiator 201, an external circulation can be formed between it and the generator set 100 to cool the coolant. The switching component allows for flexible adjustment of the coolant temperature to suit different operating environments, i.e., when adjusting the generator set... During preheating before starting the generator set 100, the coolant can be heated by connecting the replenishing fluid circulation tank 200 to the generator set 100 to utilize the residual heat of the generator set 100. During normal operation of the generator set 100, an external circulation radiator 201 is connected to the generator set 100 to provide coolant for cooling. When the generator set 100 is running normally, the coolant flows through the external circulation radiator 201 for heat dissipation. During the cold start preheating stage, the coolant is made to form an internal circulation only between the generator set 100 and the replenishing fluid circulation tank 200 to avoid heat loss, thereby utilizing residual heat or stored heat to efficiently preheat the engine.
[0025] This system also includes a heat storage and preheating system, comprising a heat storage pipe 300. The heat storage pipe 300 has multiple heat exchange pipes 304 through which the exhaust gas from the generator set 100 passes. The internal structure of the heat storage pipe 300 includes a first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 and a water distribution tank 303. The outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 is provided with a heat release component for preheating the coolant. The top of the generator set 100 is connected to an exhaust gas discharge pipe 104, one end of which is equipped with a purification device. The device 105 is connected to the heat storage pipe 300, and the other end of the heat storage pipe 300 is connected to the waste heat recovery device 106. The top of the waste heat recovery device 106 is connected to the vent pipe 107. By setting the heat storage pipe 300, the waste heat generated by the generator set 100 during operation can be recovered. The recovered waste heat can be stored to facilitate the subsequent preheating of the generator set 100, thereby overcoming the cold start problem of methanol. The heat release component can effectively release the stored latent heat.
[0026] Furthermore, the switching component includes a first return pipe 203 connected to the top of the external circulation radiator 201 and a first inlet pipe 202 connected to the bottom of the external circulation radiator 201. Both the first inlet pipe 202 and the first return pipe 203 are connected to the coolant passage in the generator set 100. The top of the replenishment circulation tank 200 is connected to a second return pipe 207, which is connected to the first return pipe 203 through a first three-way valve 204. The bottom of the replenishment circulation tank 200 is connected to a second inlet pipe 206, one end of which is connected to the first inlet pipe 202 through a second three-way valve 205. By setting the first three-way valve 204 and the second three-way valve 205, the circulation path between the generator set 100 and the external circulation radiator 201 or the replenishment circulation tank 200 can be flexibly switched.
[0027] Furthermore, the coolant circulation tank 200 has a mixing chamber 208 inside, which connects the second return pipe 207 and the second inlet pipe 206. The coolant circulation tank 200 also has a concentrated antifreeze chamber 209 inside, which stores concentrated antifreeze, and a pure water chamber 210 inside, which stores pure water. Both the concentrated antifreeze chamber 209 and the pure water chamber 210 are connected to the mixing chamber 208 through valves. A conductivity sensor 211 is fixedly connected inside the second return pipe 207. The conductivity sensor 211 can detect the freezing point of the coolant. The concentrated antifreeze chamber 209 and the pure water chamber 210 can adjust the freezing point of the coolant in a timely manner. The mixing chamber 208 is used to mix the coolant to make it uniform.
[0028] Furthermore, the heat dissipation component includes multiple preheating pipes 301 connected to the outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302, and the preheating pipes 301 are connected to the second inlet pipe 206. An extension copper pipe 320 communicating with the interior of the second inlet pipe 206 is provided inside the preheating pipes 301. An electrode trigger 305 is fixedly connected inside the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302. A heat recovery pipe 306 is connected to the outer surface of the water distribution tank 303. The heat recovery pipe 306 is connected to the second inlet pipe 206 through a valve. By setting the preheating pipes 301 to be connected to the second inlet pipe 206, but not internally connected, and setting the extension copper pipe 320 to communicate with the second inlet pipe 206, the coolant is filled inside the extension copper pipe 320 and then cooperates with the inorganic hydrated salt in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 to achieve heat exchange. The inorganic hydrated salt will solidify after absorbing heat, and will gradually liquefy and release heat when in contact with the coolant at low temperature, thus raising the temperature of the coolant.
[0029] Specifically, the high-temperature exhaust gas generated during the operation of the generator set 100 is discharged through the exhaust pipe 104 at the top. It first passes through the purifier 105 for pollutant treatment, and then enters the heat storage pipe 300 and flows through the heat exchange pipe 304 to transfer heat to the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 and the water distribution tank 303. After that, the exhaust gas enters the waste heat recovery unit 106 for final heat energy recovery, and finally is discharged into the atmosphere through the vent pipe 107.
[0030] During the cold start phase after a short shutdown, the system opens the valve between the heat recovery pipe 306 and the second inlet pipe 206, allowing the residual heat coolant in the distribution tank 303 to mix into the main circulation loop. Simultaneously, the circulation path is switched to internal circulation between the generator set 100 and the replenishment circulation tank 200 via the first three-way valve 204 and the second three-way valve 205 to prevent heat loss. The conductivity sensor 211 monitors the coolant status in real time and automatically adjusts the antifreeze concentration when necessary.
[0031] During the cold start phase after a medium- to long-term shutdown, the system switches to internal circulation mode and activates electrode trigger 305, prompting the phase change material in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 to actively release its stored latent heat. The heat is efficiently transferred to the coolant through the extended copper pipe 320, causing it to heat up and flow through key parts of the generator set 100, achieving rapid and reliable self-preheating start-up and effectively overcoming the technical challenge of igniting methanol fuel at low temperatures.
[0032] In summary, by integrating a hot and cold circulation system, a heat storage and preheating system, and an intelligent liquid replenishment and control structure, the adaptability and operational reliability of the entire unit in complex environments, especially in cold regions, have been significantly improved. Specifically, the hot and cold circulation system flexibly switches between internal and external circulation modes through switching components, enabling efficient heat dissipation during normal operation and establishing a closed preheating loop before startup to avoid heat loss. The replenishment circulation tank 200 has a built-in mixing chamber 208, a concentrated antifreeze chamber 209, and a pure water chamber 210, which, together with the conductivity sensor 211, enables real-time monitoring and automatic adjustment of the coolant freezing point, ensuring that the cooling system does not freeze or degrade in efficiency under low-temperature conditions. The heat storage preheating system utilizes the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 in the heat storage tube 300 to recover waste heat from the exhaust gas and store it in the form of latent heat. After shutdown, the heat is actively released through the heat release component and electrode trigger 305 to efficiently preheat the coolant, completely solving the problem of cold start difficulty caused by the high latent heat of vaporization of methanol. At the same time, the water distribution tank 303 and the heat recovery pipe 306 form a short-term waste heat reuse channel, further improving energy utilization efficiency.
[0033] Example 2: Please refer to Figure 1 - Figure 10The present invention also provides a technical solution, which differs from the technical solution of Embodiment 1 as follows: a containerized methanol fuel generator set, further comprising a sleeve 310 sleeved on the outer surface of the heat storage tube 300, and the sleeve 310 having an adsorbent chamber 313 for storing adsorbent, and the sleeve 310 having a charging and discharging assembly for desorbing the adsorbent. By setting the adsorbent chamber 313 for storing adsorbent, moisture can be absorbed when the generator set 100 is not running, thereby preventing the generator set 100 from getting damp. At the same time, when the generator set 100 stops running, it begins to absorb moisture and absorb water vapor to assist in heat dissipation, reducing the temperature inside the generator set 100 to normal temperature. The charging and discharging assembly facilitates the desorption of the adsorbent for multiple uses.
[0034] Furthermore, the charging and discharging assembly includes a second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 opened inside the sleeve 310, and a heat insulation ring 312 is fixedly connected between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313. A distributor 307 connected to multiple heat exchange tubes 304 is rotatably connected inside the sleeve 310. The second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 contains inorganic hydrated salt, and multiple copper tubes 316 for heat exchange are arranged inside the heat insulation ring 312. By setting the heat insulation ring 312, the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313 can be separated, and the copper tubes 316 can perform heat exchange to allow the inorganic hydrated salt in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 to release heat to heat the adsorbent and eliminate adsorbed water vapor.
[0035] Furthermore, a heat insulation sheet 317 for thermal insulation is fixedly connected to the top of the copper tube 316, and an insulated heat pipe 315 surrounding the outer surface of the heat storage tube 300 is connected to one side of the sleeve 310. Multiple moisture-absorbing holes 311 are provided on the outer surface of the sleeve 310. One end of the distributor 307 is rotatably connected to the sleeve 310 via a rotary joint 308. Multiple fan blades 309 are fixedly connected inside the distributor 307, and multiple cranks 319 are rotatably connected to the outer surface of the distributor 307. A pull handle 318 rotatably connected to the cranks 319 is connected to the bottom of the copper tube 316. By setting the fan blades 309, the exhaust gas can be... The flow of the waste gas is converted into the rotational power of the diverter 307. When the waste gas flows, it will drive the diverter 307 to rotate, which will drive the crank 319 to pull the handle 318 to move, so that the copper tube 316 rotates and changes the position of the heat insulation plate 317, so that the copper tube 316 is located inside the heat insulation ring 312, thereby forming a heat exchange channel between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313. When the waste gas stops being generated, the copper tube 316 resets and discharges the heat through the heat insulation pipe 315 to the outer surface of the heat storage pipe 300, forming a heat insulation airflow to provide a longer heat storage condition for the inorganic hydrated salt in the heat storage pipe 300.
[0036] Furthermore, when the generator set 100 stops and the exhaust gas stops flowing, the distributor 307 stops rotating due to the lack of airflow. Under the action of a reset mechanism such as a spring or a gravity counterweight, the crank 319 drives the copper tube 316 to rotate in the opposite direction, causing the heat insulation plate 317 to re-close the thermal channel, cutting off the thermal coupling between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313, ensuring that the adsorbent can stably absorb moisture without interference during shutdown.
[0037] Furthermore, the residual heat released from the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 can be guided to the insulated heat pipe 315 through the copper pipe 316. The insulated heat pipe 315 is arranged around the outer surface of the heat storage pipe 300, forming a weak heat-insulating airflow during the shutdown phase, which slows down the heat loss of the phase change material in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302, prolongs its heat storage time, and provides a more durable heat source support for subsequent cold starts.
[0038] For fuel supply, the system also includes an intake pipe 400 connected to the intake end of the generator set 100. A common rail 401 is connected to the top of the methanol tank 101, and a methanol pump 402 is integrated inside the common rail 401 for pressurizing and transporting liquid methanol. The outlet end of the common rail 401 is connected to the intake pipe 400 via a split injector 403. The split injector 403 employs a porous atomizing structure, which can uniformly disperse and atomize methanol, spraying it into the intake pipe 400. After thorough mixing with the intake air, it enters the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and stability.
[0039] Specifically, when the generator set 100 stops running, the adsorbent in the adsorbent chamber 313 adsorbs moisture from inside the container 102. Adsorbing water vapor prevents the container 102 from becoming too damp. When exhaust gas enters, it first passes through the distributor 307. At this time, the exhaust gas blowing fan blades 309 cause the rotary joint 308 to rotate, which in turn pulls the crank 319 to swing and pulls the handle 318 to move, causing the copper tube 316 to rotate and allowing heat exchange between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313. Meanwhile, the inorganic hydrated salt in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 is released... The heat released will heat the adsorbent in the adsorbent chamber 313, causing the adsorbent to release the absorbed water vapor for subsequent use. When the exhaust gas stops being generated, it means that the generator set 100 stops running. At this time, the crank 319 resets and the heat insulation plate 317 resets to seal the adsorbent chamber 313 and the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314, so that the two stop heat exchange and allow the adsorbent chamber 313 to continue its normal moisture absorption work. The inorganic hydrated salt in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 will be transferred to the heat insulation heat pipe 315 through the copper pipe 316 to release heat and provide heat storage for the heat storage pipe 300.
[0040] In summary, by integrating the sleeve 310 around the heat storage tube 300 and its internal adsorption-desorption synergistic system, the long-term operational reliability and self-sustaining capability of the containerized methanol fuel generator set in complex environments such as high humidity and cold are significantly improved. Specifically, during generator set 100 shutdown, the adsorbent chamber 313 actively adsorbs water vapor inside the container body 102 through the moisture absorption hole 311, effectively preventing moisture corrosion of the electrical system, fuel pipelines, and engine; at the same time, the adsorption heat released during the water vapor adsorption process can assist the unit in heat dissipation, accelerating the smooth transition from high operating temperature to normal temperature. When the generator set 100 starts up and the exhaust gas flows through the heat exchange tube 304, the airflow drives the distributor 307 to rotate, automatically opening the copper tube 316 heat channel through the linkage mechanism of fan blades 309, crank 319, and pull handle 318, allowing the heat stored in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 to be transferred to the adsorbent chamber 313, performing in-situ heating and desorption of the adsorbent, achieving autonomous regeneration without external energy, and ensuring long-term stable adsorption performance. After shutdown, the reset mechanism automatically closes the heat insulation plate 317, cutting off the heat exchange path and ensuring that the adsorbent focuses on absorbing moisture. In addition, the residual heat of the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 can also form an insulated airflow around the heat storage tube 300 through the heat pipe 315, which can slow down the heat loss of the phase change material in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302, prolong the heat storage time, and provide a more durable heat source support for cold start.
[0041] Working principle: When in use, the methanol in the methanol tank 101 is dispersed into the intake pipe 400 by the common rail pipe 401 and the split injector 403 through the methanol pump 402. Then, it enters the generator set 100 along with the airflow to provide fuel. During the operation of the generator set 100, exhaust gas is generated and discharged through the exhaust pipe 104. After being purified by the purifier 105, it passes through the heat storage pipe 300. The high-temperature exhaust gas will pass through multiple heat exchange pipes 304 and then be heated by the inorganic hydrated salt in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302. The inorganic hydrated salt will change from liquid to solid and absorb latent heat. After that, the exhaust gas will heat the coolant in the water distribution tank 303 and then pass through the waste heat recovery device 106. The exhaust gas will undergo final waste heat recovery in the waste heat recovery device 106 and then be discharged through the vent pipe 107. During cold start after a short-term shutdown of the generator set 100, the waste heat can be mixed with the coolant in the generator set 100 to increase heat by connecting the heat recovery pipe 306 to the second inlet pipe 206. The second inlet pipe 206 is connected to the first inlet pipe 202, and the first return pipe 203 is connected to the second return pipe 207, allowing the coolant to flow between the generator set 100 and the replenishment circulation tank 200 without dissipating heat. The conductivity sensor 211 detects the freezing point of the coolant. When the freezing point rises, the freezing point can be lowered by adding concentrated antifreeze from the concentrated antifreeze chamber 209. During the cold start of the generator set 100 after a long period of shutdown, the second inlet pipe 206 is still connected to the first inlet pipe 202, and the first return pipe 203 is connected to the second return pipe 207, so that the coolant can flow between the generator set 100 and the replenishment circulation tank 200 without heat dissipation. The operable electrode trigger 305 intervenes in the inorganic hydrated salt in the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber 302 to release its latent heat, thereby transferring the heat to the coolant through the extended copper pipe 320 to achieve efficient preheating. At this time, the coolant will circulate throughout the generator set 100 to fully preheat it. When the generator set 100 stops running, the adsorbent in the adsorbent chamber 313 adsorbs the moisture inside the container 102. By adsorbing water vapor, the container 102 is prevented from becoming too damp. When the exhaust gas enters, it first passes through the distributor 307. At this time, the exhaust gas blowing fan blades 309 cause the rotary joint 308 to rotate, which in turn pulls the crank 319 to swing and pulls the handle 318 to move, causing the copper tube 316 to rotate, so that heat exchange can take place between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 and the adsorbent chamber 313. At this time, the inorganic hydrated salt in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 releases heat. The amount of heat will heat the adsorbent in the adsorbent chamber 313, causing the adsorbent to release the absorbed water vapor for subsequent use. When the exhaust gas stops being generated, it means that the generator set 100 stops running. At this time, the crank 319 resets and the heat insulation plate 317 resets to seal the adsorbent chamber 313 and the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314, so that the two stop heat exchange and allow the adsorbent chamber 313 to continue normal moisture absorption. The inorganic hydrated salt in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber 314 will be transferred to the heat insulation heat pipe 315 through the copper pipe 316 to release heat and provide heat storage for the heat storage pipe 300.
[0042] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.
[0043] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A containerized methanol fuel generator set, comprising a generator set (100) and a methanol tank (101), characterized in that, Also includes: The hot and cold circulation system includes a replenishing circulation tank (200) and an external circulation radiator (201). Both the replenishing circulation tank (200) and the external circulation radiator (201) are connected to the coolant passage of the generator set (100) to form a circulation. The system also includes a switching component for changing the coolant circulation path so that the coolant can selectively form an internal circulation between the generator set (100) and the replenishing circulation tank (200), or form an external circulation between the generator set (100) and the external circulation radiator (201). The heat storage preheating system includes a heat storage tube (300), and the heat storage tube (300) is provided with a plurality of heat exchange tubes (304) through which the exhaust gas of the generator set (100) passes. The heat storage tube (300) has a first inorganic hydrated salt chamber (302) and a water distribution tank (303) inside. The outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber (302) is provided with a heat release component that can preheat the coolant. The system also includes a sleeve (310) sleeved on the outer surface of the heat storage tube (300). The sleeve (310) has an adsorbent chamber (313) inside for storing adsorbent. The sleeve (310) is provided with a charging and discharging component for desorbing the adsorbent inside.
2. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 1, characterized in that: The switching assembly includes a first return pipe (203) connected to the top of the external circulation radiator (201) and a first inlet pipe (202) connected to the bottom of the external circulation radiator (201). Both the first inlet pipe (202) and the first return pipe (203) are connected to the coolant passage in the generator set (100). The top of the replenishment circulation tank (200) is connected to a second return pipe (207). The second return pipe (207) is connected to the first return pipe (203) through a first three-way valve (204). The bottom of the replenishment circulation tank (200) is connected to a second inlet pipe (206). One end of the second inlet pipe (206) is connected to the first inlet pipe (202) through a second three-way valve (205). The first three-way valve (204) is used to switch the passage between the first return pipe (203) and the second return pipe (207). The second three-way valve (205) is used to switch the passage between the first inlet pipe (202) and the second inlet pipe (206).
3. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 2, characterized in that: The liquid replenishment circulation tank (200) has a mixing chamber (208) inside which the second return pipe (207) and the second inlet pipe (206) are connected. The liquid replenishment circulation tank (200) has a concentrated antifreeze chamber (209) inside which concentrated antifreeze is stored. The liquid replenishment circulation tank (200) has a pure water chamber (210) inside which pure water is stored. The concentrated antifreeze chamber (209) and the pure water chamber (210) are both connected to the mixing chamber (208) through valves. A conductivity sensor (211) is fixedly connected inside the second return pipe (207). The liquid replenishment circulation tank (200) is configured to automatically replenish liquid from the concentrated antifreeze chamber (209) or the pure water chamber (210) to the mixing chamber (208) according to the monitoring data of the conductivity sensor (211) in order to maintain the optimal freezing point of the coolant.
4. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 2, characterized in that: The heat release assembly includes multiple preheating pipes (301) connected to the outer surface of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber (302), and the preheating pipes (301) are connected to the second inlet pipe (206). The interior of the preheating pipes (301) is provided with an extended copper pipe (320) that communicates with the interior of the second inlet pipe (206). The interior of the first inorganic hydrated salt chamber (302) is provided with an electrode trigger (305) for triggering the heat release of inorganic hydrated salt crystallization. The outer surface of the water distribution tank (303) is connected to a heat recovery pipe (306), and the heat recovery pipe (306) is connected to the second inlet pipe (206) through a valve.
5. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 1, characterized in that: The charging and discharging assembly includes a second inorganic hydrated salt chamber (314) opened inside the sleeve (310), and a heat insulation ring (312) is fixedly connected between the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber (314) and the adsorbent chamber (313). A distributor (307) communicating with multiple heat exchange tubes (304) is rotatably connected inside the sleeve (310). Inorganic hydrated salt is stored in the second inorganic hydrated salt chamber (314), and multiple copper tubes (316) for heat exchange are arranged inside the heat insulation ring (312).
6. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 5, characterized in that: The top of the copper tube (316) is fixedly connected to a heat insulation sheet (317) for thermal insulation, and a heat insulation heat pipe (315) is connected to one side of the sleeve (310) surrounding the outer surface of the heat storage tube (300). The outer surface of the sleeve (310) is provided with a plurality of moisture absorption holes (311).
7. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 6, characterized in that: One end of the distributor (307) is rotatably connected to the sleeve (310) via a rotary joint (308). Multiple fan blades (309) are fixedly connected inside the distributor (307). Multiple cranks (319) are rotatably connected to the outer surface of the distributor (307). A pull handle (318) that is rotatably connected to the cranks (319) is connected to the bottom of the copper tube (316).
8. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top of the generator set (100) is connected to an exhaust pipe (104), one end of which is equipped with a purifier (105) and the purifier (105) is connected to a heat storage pipe (300). The other end of the heat storage pipe (300) is connected to a waste heat recovery device (106), and the top of the waste heat recovery device (106) is connected to an vent pipe (107).
9. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes an intake pipe (400) connected to the generator set (100), a common rail pipe (401) connected to the top of the methanol tank (101), one end of the common rail pipe (401) being connected to the intake pipe (400) via a split injector (403), and a methanol pump (402) being fixedly connected inside the common rail pipe (401).
10. A containerized methanol fuel generator set according to claim 1, characterized in that: The generator set (100) has an inspection door (103) on one side.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Energy-saving type energy storage power generation device based on methanol fuel
CN120626333A