Cold energy utilization device
By employing a dual-circulation design with intermediate and terminal media, the cold energy from liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen is recovered and stably supplied, solving the problem of underutilization of cold energy, achieving efficient and safe cold energy utilization, and improving energy efficiency and system safety.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CNOOC GAS & POWER GRP
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-12
AI Technical Summary
The cold energy released during the storage, transportation, and use of liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen is not fully utilized, resulting in low energy efficiency and potential safety hazards.
The system employs an intermediate medium circulation system and a terminal medium circulation system. Through the dual circulation design of the intermediate medium and the terminal medium, it recovers and stably supplies cold energy, realizing on-demand distribution and efficient utilization of cold energy, and avoiding the risk of cryogenic medium directly entering the cooling area.
It improves the overall efficiency of energy utilization, reduces operating costs, enhances system safety, and solves the problem of underutilization of cold energy.
Smart Images
Figure CN122015420A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of energy utilization technology, and in particular to a cold energy utilization device. Background Technology
[0002] Liquefied natural gas (LNG), as a high-calorific-value, low-emission, and high-quality clean energy source, has seen its industry scale expand rapidly in recent years, with widespread applications in power generation, industrial use, and urban gasification. However, before LNG is used at the end-user level, it typically undergoes a pressurization and vaporization process, releasing a significant amount of high-grade cold energy. Effectively recovering and utilizing this cold energy would be equivalent to improving its overall energy utilization efficiency by more than 50%, resulting in significant energy savings and economic benefits. However, in reality, the vast majority of LNG cold energy is currently either directly emitted or dissipated through air cooling, water cooling, or other methods, causing not only a serious waste of energy resources but also increasing environmental burden.
[0003] Furthermore, in onshore pipeline systems, natural gas often needs to be depressurized near the user end to meet supply pressure requirements. This depressurization process causes a sharp drop in natural gas temperature, sometimes even reaching -50°C. Currently, additional electricity or fuel is typically required to heat the gas before it can be safely introduced into the pipeline network, further wasting secondary energy. At the same time, the low temperature can easily cause problems such as ice blockage in pipeline valves and material embrittlement, posing significant risks to operational safety.
[0004] A similar situation exists in the field of liquid hydrogen. Although liquid hydrogen is not yet widely used, it has broad development prospects as an important carrier for future transportation energy and chemical feedstock. In practical applications, liquid hydrogen often needs to be vaporized into hydrogen gas before it can be used, such as in natural gas-blended hydrogen power generation and hydrogen fuel cell systems. This phase change process also releases a large amount of cold energy, and in most cases, this cold energy is almost not recovered and utilized by the system. This not only leads to energy loss but may also cause localized low-temperature effects on the surrounding environment, posing potential ecological and safety risks.
[0005] The cold energy generated during the storage, transportation, and use of liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen represents both an underutilized resource and a bottleneck in efficiency and a potential safety hazard in the current energy system. Therefore, how to efficiently, safely, and economically recover and utilize this cold energy has become a pressing issue for the energy industry. Promoting research and application of relevant cold energy utilization technologies will not only help improve overall energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, but will also provide crucial support for the green and low-carbon transformation of the energy system. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This invention provides a cold energy utilization device to solve the problems of low energy utilization and safety hazards caused by the underutilization of cold energy in the storage, transportation, and use of liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen, as well as in gas expansion and work application scenarios.
[0007] This invention provides a cold energy utilization device, comprising: An intermediate medium circulation system includes a first storage tank for storing an intermediate medium; a first inlet of the first storage tank is connected to the hot-side outlet of an upstream heat exchanger. An intermediate heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel; the first outlet of the first storage tank is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel, and the outlet of the first flow channel is used to connect to the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger. A terminal medium circulation system includes a second storage tank and a cooling terminal; the second storage tank is used to store the terminal medium, the second inlet of the second storage tank is connected to the outlet of the second flow channel, and the second outlet of the second storage tank is connected to the inlet of the second flow channel through the cooling terminal.
[0008] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system further includes: At least two first circulation pumps, the inlet of each first circulation pump is connected to the first outlet of the first storage tank, and the outlet of each first circulation pump is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel.
[0009] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system further includes: A first regulating valve, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of each of the first circulating pumps, and the outlet of which is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel.
[0010] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system further includes: The second regulating valve is installed between the inlet of the first flow channel and the outlet of the first regulating valve; A bypass pipe, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the first regulating valve, the outlet of which is connected to the intermediate medium inlet of the lubricating oil cooling system, and the outlet of the intermediate medium of the lubricating oil cooling system is connected to the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger. The third regulating valve is located in the bypass pipe.
[0011] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the cooling terminal is connected to a chilled water air conditioner.
[0012] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the terminal medium circulation system further includes: At least two second circulation pumps, the inlet of each second circulation pump is connected to the second outlet of the second storage tank, and the outlet of each second circulation pump is connected to the inlet of the cooling terminal.
[0013] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the temperature of the terminal medium stored in the second storage tank is 5°C to 7°C.
[0014] According to the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention, the temperature of the intermediate medium stored in the first storage tank is -10°C to -5°C.
[0015] The skid is mounted on which the intermediate medium circulation system, the intermediate heat exchanger, and the terminal medium circulation system are all installed.
[0016] The cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention further includes: The support assembly includes a first bracket and a second bracket; the first storage tank is mounted on the skid via the first bracket, and the second storage tank is mounted on the skid via the second bracket.
[0017] The cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention can buffer and store the cold energy recovered from upstream by setting up a first storage tank, thereby decoupling the real-time correspondence between cold energy recovery and utilization. Even if the supply of upstream cold source (such as LNG or liquid hydrogen) or the downstream cooling load fluctuates, the stability and continuity of cold energy supply can be guaranteed, improving the operational flexibility and reliability of the entire system.
[0018] The intermediate medium exchanges heat with liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquid hydrogen in the upstream heat exchanger to absorb the cold energy of LNG or liquid hydrogen, thus achieving cooling. It then flows out from the hot side outlet of the heat exchanger. This process recovers the cold energy that would otherwise be wasted, avoiding direct emissions into the environment, thereby improving the overall energy utilization efficiency of LNG or liquid hydrogen and reducing safety hazards such as pipeline material embrittlement and ice blockage that may result from low-temperature emissions. The cooled intermediate medium (i.e., the intermediate medium discharged from the hot side outlet of the heat exchanger) flows into the first storage tank for storage. The low-temperature intermediate medium flowing out from the first outlet of the first storage tank flows into the first flow channel, where it exchanges heat with the terminal medium in the second flow channel. After heat exchange, the intermediate medium, now at a higher temperature, flows out from the outlet of the first flow channel and returns to the hot side of the upstream heat exchanger to exchange heat again with the LNG and other substances on the cold side of the heat exchanger, thus achieving a circulating flow of the intermediate medium. This closed-loop design reduces the consumption of intermediate media, lowering operating costs. Furthermore, by using the intermediate media as a cold energy transporter, it achieves safe isolation between the cryogenic source (such as LNG) and the cooling terminal, avoiding the risks associated with the direct entry of cryogenic media into the cooling area and enhancing system safety. The intermediate media also allows for a reduction in the explosion-proof rating of the entire system.
[0019] The second storage tank is used to store the low-temperature terminal medium. The terminal medium flowing out of the second outlet of the second storage tank enters the cooling terminal, where heat exchange occurs, and the terminal medium's temperature rises. The terminal medium discharged from the cooling terminal enters the second flow channel, where it exchanges heat with the low-temperature intermediate medium in the first flow channel, causing the terminal medium's temperature to drop. The cooled terminal medium then returns to the second storage tank, thus forming a terminal medium circulation. Through the independent circulation of the terminal medium, the recovered cold energy can be stably delivered to one or more cooling terminals (such as air conditioners, cold storage, industrial cooling, etc.), realizing on-demand distribution and efficient utilization of cold energy, and converting waste cold energy into an economically valuable cold source.
[0020] The terminal medium and the intermediate medium exchange heat in the intermediate heat exchanger. The cold energy of the intermediate medium is transported to the cooling terminal through the terminal medium. Through this dual-cycle, indirect heat exchange method, the full utilization of energy is achieved. This solves the problem of low energy utilization and safety hazards caused by the underutilization of cold energy in the storage, transportation and use of liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen. Attached Figure Description
[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0022] Figure 1 This is one of the system schematic diagrams of the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention.
[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows an enlarged schematic of the intermediate medium circulation system.
[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows an enlarged schematic of the terminal media circulation system.
[0025] Figure 4 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention.
[0026] Figure 5 This is the third schematic diagram of the cold energy utilization device provided by the present invention.
[0027] Figure label: 100. Intermediate medium circulation system; 110. First storage tank; 120. First circulation pump; 130. First regulating valve; 140. Second regulating valve; 150. Third regulating valve; 160. Bypass pipe; 200, Intermediate heat exchanger; 210, First flow channel; 220, Second flow channel; 300. Terminal medium circulation system; 310. Second storage tank; 320. Cooling terminal; 330. Second circulation pump; 340. Temperature detection unit; 400. Sled; 500, Support component; 510, First bracket; 520, Second bracket. Detailed Implementation
[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.
[0029] In the description of this specification, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are used only for the convenience of describing this specification. They do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this specification. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0030] In the description of this specification, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0031] In this specification, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0032] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this specification. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.
[0033] In the embodiments of this specification, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.
[0034] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a specific embodiment of the present invention provides a cold energy utilization device. The cold energy utilization device includes an intermediate medium circulation system 100, an intermediate heat exchanger 200, and a terminal medium circulation system 300.
[0035] The intermediate medium circulation system 100 includes a first storage tank 110 for storing intermediate medium; a first inlet of the first storage tank 110 is connected to the hot-side outlet of an upstream cooling heat exchanger. The intermediate heat exchanger 200 has a first flow channel 210 and a second flow channel 220; the first outlet of the first storage tank 110 is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel 210, and the outlet of the first flow channel 210 is connected to the hot-side inlet of the cooling heat exchanger. The terminal medium circulation system 300 includes a second storage tank 310 and a cooling terminal 320; the second storage tank 310 is used to store terminal medium, a second inlet of the second storage tank 310 is connected to the outlet of the second flow channel 220, and the second outlet of the second storage tank 310 is connected to the inlet of the second flow channel 220 via the cooling terminal 320.
[0036] In this embodiment, by setting up the first storage tank 110, the cold energy recovered from upstream can be buffered and stored, thereby decoupling the real-time correspondence between cold energy recovery and utilization. Even if the supply of upstream cold source (such as LNG or liquid hydrogen) or the downstream cold load fluctuates, the stability and continuity of cold energy supply can be guaranteed, improving the operational flexibility and reliability of the entire system.
[0037] The intermediate medium exchanges heat with liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquid hydrogen in the upstream heat exchanger to absorb the cold energy of LNG or liquid hydrogen, thus achieving cooling, and flows out from the hot side outlet of the heat exchanger. This process recovers the cold energy that would otherwise be wasted, avoiding its direct emission into the environment, thereby improving the overall energy utilization efficiency of LNG or liquid hydrogen and reducing safety hazards such as pipeline material embrittlement and ice blockage that may be caused by low-temperature emissions. The cooled intermediate medium (i.e., the intermediate medium discharged from the hot side outlet of the heat exchanger) flows into the first storage tank 110 for storage; the low-temperature intermediate medium flowing out from the first outlet of the first storage tank 110 flows into the first flow channel 210 and exchanges heat with the terminal medium in the second flow channel 220; the intermediate medium, whose temperature has increased after heat exchange, flows out from the outlet of the first flow channel 210 and returns to the hot side of the upstream heat exchanger to exchange heat again with LNG and other substances on the cold side of the heat exchanger, thus realizing the circulation of the intermediate medium. This closed-loop design reduces the consumption of intermediate media, lowering operating costs. Furthermore, by using the intermediate media as a cold energy transporter, it achieves safe isolation between the cryogenic source (such as LNG) and the cooling terminal 320, avoiding the risks that could arise from the direct entry of cryogenic media into the cooling area and enhancing system safety. The intermediate media also allows for a reduction in the explosion-proof rating of the entire system.
[0038] The second storage tank 310 is used to store the low-temperature terminal medium. The terminal medium flowing out of the second outlet of the second storage tank 310 enters the cooling terminal 320, where heat exchange occurs and the temperature of the terminal medium rises. The terminal medium discharged from the cooling terminal 320 enters the second flow channel 220, where it exchanges heat with the low-temperature intermediate medium in the first flow channel 210, causing the temperature of the terminal medium to drop. The cooled terminal medium then returns to the second storage tank 310, thus forming a terminal medium circulation. Through the independent circulation of the terminal medium, the recovered cold energy can be stably delivered to one or more cooling terminals 320, realizing the on-demand distribution and efficient utilization of cold energy, and converting waste cold energy into an economically valuable cold source.
[0039] The terminal medium and the intermediate medium exchange heat in the intermediate heat exchanger 200. The terminal medium transports the cold energy of the intermediate medium to the cooling terminal 320. Through this dual-cycle, indirect heat exchange method, the full utilization of energy is achieved, which solves the problem of low energy utilization and safety hazards caused by the underutilization of cold energy in the storage, transportation and use of existing liquefied natural gas and liquid hydrogen.
[0040] Optionally, both the first storage tank 110 and the second storage tank 310 are made of stainless steel and have external glass fiber insulation to ensure the temperature of the medium inside the tank is stable and to reduce heat loss.
[0041] Optionally, the first storage tank 110 also has a first vent, at which a first vent regulating valve is installed. When it is necessary to vent the intermediate medium stored in the first storage tank 110, the first vent regulating valve can be opened. When venting is not required, the first vent regulating valve can be closed.
[0042] Optionally, the second storage tank 310 also has a second vent, at which a second vent regulating valve is installed. When it is necessary to vent the terminal medium stored in the second storage tank 310, the second vent regulating valve can be opened. When venting is not required, the second vent regulating valve can be closed.
[0043] Preferably, the volume of both the first storage tank 110 and the second storage tank 310 is 5m³. 3 This large-capacity dual-tank design improves the system's cold storage capacity, stabilizes the system temperature, and enhances the system's ability to resist changes in cooling capacity caused by fluctuations in LNG or natural gas flow, thereby preventing sudden temperature changes at the 320 cooling terminal.
[0044] Optionally, the temperature of the intermediate medium stored in the first storage tank 110 is between -10°C and -5°C. In other words, the temperature of the intermediate medium stored in the first storage tank 110 can be -10°C, -5°C, or -8°C. This ensures that cooling capacity is still supplied to the cooling terminal 320 in the event of a malfunction.
[0045] Optionally, the temperature of the terminal medium stored in the second storage tank 310 is 5°C to 7°C. In other words, the temperature of the terminal medium stored in the second storage tank 310 can be 5°C, 7°C, or 6°C. This ensures that cooling capacity can still be supplied to the cooling terminal 320 in the event of a malfunction.
[0046] Optionally, the intermediate medium may include ethylene glycol or glycerol.
[0047] Optionally, the terminal medium includes water. Preferably, the terminal medium is deionized water.
[0048] For example, the volume of both the first storage tank 110 and the second storage tank 310 is 5m³. 3 The first storage tank 110 stores ethylene glycol at -10°C to -5°C, and the second storage tank 310 stores cold water at 5°C to 7°C. With this design, even if there is a system failure or an interruption in the flow of LNG, the cooling terminal 320 will not stop and can continue to provide cooling for 3 to 4 hours.
[0049] Optionally, the intermediate heat exchanger 200 adopts a welded plate heat exchanger structure design, with stainless steel as the heat exchange partition wall inside and out, to ensure that no metal oxide impurities are formed on the hot side (i.e., the first flow channel 210) and the cold side (i.e., the second flow channel 220) to block the air conditioning system.
[0050] In some embodiments of the present invention, the number of cooling terminals 320 is one. In other words, the terminal medium circulation system 300 includes a second storage tank 310 and a cooling terminal 320.
[0051] In other embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple cooling terminals 320. In other words, the terminal medium circulation system 300 includes a second storage tank 310 and multiple cooling terminals 320. The inlet of each cooling terminal 320 is connected to the second outlet of the second storage tank 310, and the outlet of each cooling terminal 320 is connected to the inlet of the second flow channel 220. That is, multiple cooling terminals 320 are arranged in parallel. The low-temperature terminal medium flowing out of the second outlet of the second storage tank 310 is divided into multiple paths, each corresponding to one of the multiple cooling terminals 320. The terminal medium flows into the corresponding cooling terminal 320 to provide cooling for domestic or industrial use. The terminal medium flowing out of the cooling terminals 320 merges and flows into the second flow channel 220, where it exchanges heat with the intermediate medium in the first flow channel 210, thereby lowering the temperature of the terminal medium in the second flow channel 220.
[0052] It should be noted that the specific embodiments of the present invention do not limit the type of cooling terminal 320, nor do they limit the application scenarios of the cooling terminal 320. For example, the cooling terminal 320 can be used for chilled water air conditioning, cold storage, and data center cooling. The type of cooling terminal 320 can be selected adaptively according to the application scenario.
[0053] Optionally, the cooling terminal 320 can be connected to a chilled water air conditioner. In this way, the terminal medium flowing through the cooling terminal 320 can cool the chilled water inside the chilled water air conditioner.
[0054] For example, a cold terminal 320 is used as a heat exchanger, and the cold terminal 320 has a terminal medium flow channel and a cold water flow channel. The two ends of the terminal medium flow channel are respectively connected to the second circulation pump 330 and the second flow channel 220, and the cold water flow channel is connected to the cold water circuit of the chilled water air conditioner. The chilled water of the chilled water air conditioner exchanges heat with the terminal medium in the terminal medium flow channel in the cold water flow channel, thereby cooling the chilled water of the chilled water air conditioner.
[0055] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system 100 further includes at least two first circulation pumps 120. The inlet of each first circulation pump 120 is connected to the first outlet of the first storage tank 110, and the outlet of each first circulation pump 120 is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel 210. That is, at least two first circulation pumps 120 are connected in parallel at the first outlet of the first storage tank 110.
[0056] In this embodiment, at least two first circulation pumps 120 are connected in parallel to achieve pump redundancy. When one of the first circulation pumps 120 fails or needs maintenance, the standby pump can be put into operation immediately, thereby ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the intermediate medium circulation system 100 and improving the operational reliability and fault tolerance of the entire cold energy utilization device. In addition, this configuration also allows for graded adjustment of the flow rate according to the actual load changes of the downstream cooling terminal 320. When the cooling load is low, only one pump can be turned on to operate with low energy consumption, while multiple pumps can be turned on simultaneously during peak periods to meet the maximum flow demand. This operation mode not only ensures the supply of cooling capacity but also optimizes the overall operating efficiency of the pump group and effectively reduces the system's operating power consumption.
[0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system 100 further includes a first regulating valve 130; the inlet of the first regulating valve 130 is connected to the outlet of each first circulation pump 120, and the outlet of the first regulating valve 130 is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel 210. By adding the first regulating valve 130, the total flow rate of the intermediate medium flowing out of the first circulation pump 120 can be adjusted, enabling the system to control the flow rate of the intermediate medium entering the first flow channel 210 of the intermediate heat exchanger 200 according to the actual cooling load changes of the downstream cooling terminal 320, thereby achieving regulation of heat exchange. For example, when the cooling demand decreases, the valve opening of the first regulating valve 130 can be reduced to decrease the cooling exchange, and vice versa. This not only ensures the constant and stable temperature on the end-user side and avoids excessive or insufficient cooling supply, but also improves the system's response speed and control accuracy to load changes, further optimizes the on-demand allocation of energy, and improves the overall energy utilization efficiency.
[0058] Optionally, the first regulating valve 130 is a temperature control valve (TV).
[0059] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intermediate medium circulation system 100 further includes a second regulating valve 140, a third regulating valve 150, and a bypass pipe 160; the second regulating valve 140 is installed between the inlet of the first flow channel 210 and the outlet of the first regulating valve 130. The inlet of the bypass pipe 160 is connected to the outlet of the first regulating valve 130, and the outlet of the bypass pipe 160 is used to connect to the intermediate medium inlet of the lubricating oil cooling system; the intermediate medium outlet of the lubricating oil cooling system is used to connect to the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger, thus realizing the circulation of the intermediate medium; the third regulating valve 150 is installed on the bypass pipe 160.
[0060] When the second regulating valve 140 is open, the intermediate medium in the first storage tank 110 can flow into the first flow channel 210. When the second regulating valve 140 is closed, the intermediate medium in the first storage tank 110 cannot flow into the first flow channel 210. When the third regulating valve 150 is open, the intermediate medium in the first storage tank 110 can flow into the lubricating oil cooling system to cool the lubricating oil; finally, the intermediate medium flows from the intermediate medium outlet of the lubricating oil cooling system into the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger. When the third regulating valve 150 is closed, the intermediate medium in the first storage tank 110 cannot flow into the lubricating oil cooling system. The path of the intermediate medium flowing out of the first storage tank 110 can be changed by adjusting the opening and closing of the second regulating valve 140 and the third regulating valve 150.
[0061] Considering that cold energy resources can be continuously output throughout the year, while the terminal medium circulation system 300 is likely to be mainly used in the summer, a bypass pipe 160, a second regulating valve 140, and a third regulating valve 150 can be added to improve equipment utilization and ensure year-round cold energy output. For example, when the terminal medium circulation system 300 is not needed, the second regulating valve 140 can be closed and the third regulating valve 150 opened to introduce the intermediate medium into the lubricating oil cooling system to cool the lubricating oil.
[0062] It should be noted that the lubricating oil cooling system is existing technology and will not be described in detail in the specific embodiments of this invention.
[0063] In some embodiments of the present invention, the terminal medium circulation system 300 further includes at least two second circulation pumps 330; the inlet of each second circulation pump 330 is connected to the second outlet of the second storage tank 310, and the outlet of each second circulation pump 330 is connected to the inlet of the cooling terminal 320. That is, at least two second circulation pumps 330 are connected in parallel at the second outlet of the second storage tank 310.
[0064] In this embodiment, by configuring at least two second circulation pumps 330 in parallel, redundancy and backup functions can be achieved. When one second circulation pump 330 fails or needs to be shut down for maintenance, the other or remaining second circulation pumps 330 can seamlessly take over, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of the terminal medium to the cooling terminal 320. This greatly improves the reliability and continuity of cooling energy supply and avoids the risk of the entire cooling system being interrupted due to a single pump failure. Furthermore, this configuration can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual load of the cooling terminal 320. When cooling demand is low, only one second circulation pump 330 can be operated, while during peak cooling periods, multiple second circulation pumps 330 can be operated simultaneously to increase the flow rate and meet higher cooling demand. This tiered adjustment operation mode achieves precise control of cooling output, avoiding efficiency losses from a single high-power pump operating under low load conditions, thereby effectively reducing the overall energy consumption of the pump set and saving operating costs.
[0065] Optionally, the terminal medium circulation system 300 also includes a temperature detection unit 340; the temperature detection unit 340 is located at the inlet end of the cooling terminal 320. By directly installing the temperature detection unit 340 at the inlet end of the cooling terminal 320, the temperature of the terminal medium about to enter the cooling terminal 320 can be monitored in real time. This temperature detection value is a direct indicator of whether the cooling supply meets the demand, providing an adjustment basis for the automated control system of the entire cooling energy utilization device. For example, when the inlet temperature is detected to be higher than the set value, the controller of the control system can adjust the circulation pump or regulating valve in the intermediate medium circulation system 100 or the terminal medium circulation system 300 accordingly to enhance heat exchange, thereby quickly adjusting the temperature to the target range. This closed-loop control method based on real-time temperature feedback ensures that the temperature of the cooling supplied to the cooling terminal 320 is constant, meeting the cooling terminal 320's requirement for stable operating conditions and avoiding the problem of temperature fluctuations affecting the cooling effect. This not only improves the working efficiency and stability of the 320 cooling terminal, but also enables refined management and on-demand allocation of recovered cold energy, further improving the energy utilization efficiency and automation level of the entire system.
[0066] Optionally, the temperature detection unit 340 includes a temperature sensor.
[0067] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cold energy utilization device further includes a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the first circulating pump 120, the first regulating valve 130, the second circulating pump 330, and the temperature detection unit 340. The controller is used to receive the actual temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 340; when the actual temperature is not within the target temperature range, the controller outputs a control command to control the first regulating valve 130 to adjust its opening.
[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cold energy utilization device further includes a display unit. The display unit is electrically connected to the controller and is used to display system parameters; wherein, the system parameters include the first flow rate of the first circulating pump 120, the second flow rate of the second circulating pump 330, the actual temperature of the terminal medium at the inlet of the cold terminal 320, etc.
[0069] Specifically, the controller obtains a first flow rate from the first circulating pump 120, a second flow rate from the second circulating pump 330, and an actual temperature from the temperature detection unit 340. The controller outputs a display command, and the display unit displays the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the actual temperature after receiving the display command.
[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, the cold energy utilization device further includes a skid 400. The intermediate medium circulation system 100, the intermediate heat exchanger 200, and the terminal medium circulation system 300 are all mounted on the skid 400.
[0071] In this embodiment, by integrating the main components of the device (such as the intermediate medium circulation system 100, intermediate heat exchanger 200, and terminal medium circulation system 300) onto a unified skid 400, a skid-mounted modular design is formed. This makes the entire device structure more compact and reduces the floor space required. Simultaneously, this design facilitates most of the assembly, piping connections, and testing work in the factory, effectively ensuring the manufacturing quality of the equipment and the overall reliability of the system. Furthermore, the skid-mounted structure simplifies transportation and on-site installation processes; only overall hoisting and external pipeline connections are required for commissioning, thereby shortening the project construction cycle, reducing the difficulty and cost of on-site construction, and facilitating rapid deployment and potential future relocation of the device.
[0072] Specifically, the first storage tank 110, the second storage tank 310, the intermediate heat exchanger 200, the first circulating pump 120 and the second circulating pump 330 are all installed on the skid 400.
[0073] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, the cold energy utilization device further includes a support assembly 500. The support assembly 500 includes a first bracket 510 and a second bracket 520; the first storage tank 110 is mounted on the skid 400 via the first bracket 510, and the second storage tank 310 is mounted on the skid 400 via the second bracket 520. By setting dedicated first and second brackets 510 and 520, the two core devices, the first storage tank 110 and the second storage tank 310, can be reliably fixed on the skid 400. This not only ensures the structural stability and safety of the entire device during transportation and operation, but also prevents equipment displacement or damage caused by vibration or external forces. Simultaneously, this support method can evenly distribute the weight of the storage tanks onto the frame of the skid 400, ensuring the overall structural mechanical performance and load-bearing capacity. Furthermore, elevating the storage tanks with brackets also facilitates optimized pipeline layout and provides sufficient maintenance space at the bottom of the equipment, providing convenience for daily inspection, maintenance, and upkeep, thereby improving the maintainability of the device and reducing the overall life-cycle maintenance costs.
[0074] Specifically, the first bracket 510 and the second bracket 520 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the skid 400 along the length of the skid 400, thus leaving space between the two tanks to provide sufficient space for the installation of the first circulating pump 120, the second circulating pump 330 and the intermediate heat exchanger 200.
[0075] Optionally, the first circulation pump 120 and the second circulation pump 330 are arranged along the width direction of the skid 400, and the first circulation pump 120 and the second circulation pump 330 are located between the first bracket 510 and the second bracket 520. In this way, the utilization rate of the installation space of the skid 400 can be improved.
[0076] 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 the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.
Claims
1. A cold energy utilization device, characterized in that, include: The intermediate medium circulation system (100) includes a first storage tank (110) for storing intermediate medium; the first inlet of the first storage tank (110) is connected to the hot side outlet of an upstream heat exchanger. An intermediate heat exchanger (200) has a first flow channel (210) and a second flow channel (220); the first outlet of the first storage tank (110) is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel (210), and the outlet of the first flow channel (210) is used to connect to the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger. The terminal medium circulation system (300) includes a second storage tank (310) and a cooling terminal (320); the second storage tank (310) is used to store the terminal medium, the second inlet of the second storage tank (310) is connected to the outlet of the second flow channel (220), and the second outlet of the second storage tank (310) is connected to the inlet of the second flow channel (220) through the cooling terminal (320).
2. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intermediate medium circulation system (100) further includes: At least two first circulation pumps (120), the inlet of each first circulation pump (120) is connected to the first outlet of the first storage tank (110), and the outlet of each first circulation pump (120) is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel (210).
3. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The intermediate medium circulation system (100) further includes: The first regulating valve (130) has its inlet connected to the outlet of each of the first circulating pumps (120), and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the first flow channel (210).
4. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The intermediate medium circulation system (100) further includes: The second regulating valve (140) is installed between the inlet of the first flow channel (210) and the outlet of the first regulating valve (130); A bypass pipe (160) is provided, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the first regulating valve (130), the outlet of which is connected to the intermediate medium inlet of the lubricating oil cooling system, and the outlet of the intermediate medium of the lubricating oil cooling system is connected to the hot side inlet of the heat exchanger. The third regulating valve (150) is located in the bypass pipe (160).
5. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling terminal (320) is connected to a chilled water air conditioner.
6. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The terminal media circulation system (300) also includes: At least two second circulation pumps (330), the inlet of each second circulation pump (330) is connected to the second outlet of the second storage tank (310), and the outlet of each second circulation pump (330) is connected to the inlet of the cooling terminal (320).
7. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature of the terminal medium stored in the second storage tank (310) is 5°C to 7°C.
8. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature of the intermediate medium stored in the first storage tank (110) is -10℃ to -5℃.
9. The cold energy utilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Also includes: The skid (400), the intermediate medium circulation system (100), the intermediate heat exchanger (200) and the terminal medium circulation system (300) are all installed on the skid (400).
10. The cold energy utilization device according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The support assembly (500) includes a first bracket (510) and a second bracket (520); the first storage tank (110) is mounted on the skid (400) via the first bracket (510), and the second storage tank (310) is mounted on the skid (400) via the second bracket (520).