Header, heat exchanger assembly, and nuclear reactor
By using a manifold design and a vertically operated mechanical connection interface, the maintenance difficulties caused by traditional connection methods are solved, enabling convenient installation and disassembly of heat exchanger units and simplifying the maintenance process of nuclear reactors.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- STABLE ENERGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-28
AI Technical Summary
The maintenance and inspection of traditional nuclear reactors, especially the heat exchangers of small modular reactors, are difficult. Traditional connection methods result in the space being filled with pipes and joints, making it difficult to easily connect the primary and secondary circuits.
The heat exchanger unit is connected to the manifold through a vertically operated mechanical connection interface, providing fluid connection. The heat exchanger unit can be easily installed and disassembled through a single vertical movement of the support block and the connecting block.
It simplifies the maintenance process of nuclear reactors, reduces the number and time spent inspecting welds, improves maintenance convenience, and is suitable for nuclear power plants with a double-shell design.
Smart Images
Figure CN122477522A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to nuclear reactors. Background Technology
[0002] Nuclear power plants are relatively complex systems designed to adhere to fail-safe principles to the greatest extent possible. While conventional nuclear reactor designs have proven to be very safe, they are often difficult to maintain. Maintenance and inspection are particularly challenging for small modular reactors with an integrated design, as the primary heat exchanger is located inside the reactor shell. Using conventional connection methods, available space would be filled with pipes and joints.
[0003] The object of certain aspects of the present invention is to overcome the above-mentioned defects and to provide a practical and convenient alternative for facilitating the connection between the primary and secondary loops of a nuclear power plant (especially a nuclear power plant with a double-shell SMR design). Summary of the Invention
[0004] This invention is defined by the features in the independent claims.
[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, a heat exchanger unit for a nuclear reactor is provided. The heat exchanger unit includes an internal channel for receiving a working fluid flow, which is an independent flow separate from a source fluid flow contacting the heat exchanger unit. The heat exchanger unit also includes a connecting block for providing a mechanical and fluid connection to a manifold of a heat exchanger assembly. The connecting block connects the heat exchanger unit to the manifold via a vertically operating mechanical connection interface. The connecting block includes a port that engages with a corresponding portion on the manifold via a single vertical movement, thereby establishing a fluid connection between the internal channel and the manifold.
[0006] According to a second aspect of the invention, a heat exchanger assembly is provided. The heat exchanger assembly includes at least one of the aforementioned heat exchanger units and a manifold. The manifold includes a housing defining a central cavity for receiving at least one heat exchanger unit. The manifold also includes a working fluid flow passage, at least partially formed in the housing, for communication with a secondary loop. The manifold further includes a support block formed adjacent to the central cavity for connection to a corresponding connection block of the at least one heat exchanger unit via a single vertical movement. The manifold also has ports for connection to corresponding ports on the heat exchanger unit via a single vertical movement to establish a fluid connection between the internal passage and the working fluid flow passage.
[0007] According to a third aspect of the invention, a nuclear reactor is provided, comprising a containment vessel, a reactor shell housed within the containment vessel, and a primary loop housed within the reactor shell. The nuclear reactor further includes a heat exchanger assembly according to a second aspect, the outer shell of which is integrally coupled between the containment vessel and the reactor shell.
[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for maintaining a heat exchanger unit of a nuclear reactor according to a third aspect is provided. The method includes: Remove the top cover of the containment building; Disassemble the top cover of the reactor shell; Remove at least one fastener from the connecting block and the supporting block from above; Lift at least one heat exchanger unit from the support block; Perform maintenance or inspection on at least one heat exchanger unit; By lowering the heat exchanger unit onto the support block, at least one heat exchanger unit that has been inspected or maintained, or a replaced heat exchanger unit, is installed. The heat exchanger unit is secured to the support block from above by at least one fastener. Close the top cover of the reactor vessel; and Close the top cover of the containment vessel.
[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a manifold for a nuclear reactor heat exchanger assembly is provided. The manifold includes an annular outer shell that at least partially defines a central cavity for receiving at least one heat exchanger unit. The outer shell includes at least one port communicating with the central cavity. The manifold also includes a working fluid flow passage at least partially formed within the outer shell. The working fluid flow passage includes a collecting channel section extending along the outer shell and at least one inlet channel section connecting a corresponding at least one port to the collecting channel section. The manifold also includes a channel for connecting the collecting channel section to a secondary loop.
[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a nuclear reactor is provided, comprising a containment vessel, a reactor shell housed within the containment vessel, a primary loop housed within the reactor shell, and a manifold integrally coupled between the containment vessel and the reactor shell as described in the fifth aspect.
[0011] One or more embodiments of the first aspect may further include one or more features from the following list of items: The heat exchanger unit includes a shell; The shell seals off the internal passageway; The shell is configured to receive the source fluid flow through the shell, so that it contacts the outside of the internal channel; The connecting block extends from the cylindrical shell; The connecting block is located on the side of the cylinder shell; The connecting block is located at the top of the cylindrical shell; The cylindrical shell extends in a vertical direction; The connecting block extends from the shell in a non-perpendicular direction; The internal passageway extends between the entrance and exit ends; The port is an entrance port located at the entrance end of the internal channel; The connection block includes another such port as an exit port; The outlet port is located at the outlet end of the internal channel; The internal passage extends vertically from the port; The connecting block is configured to receive at least one fastener passing through it for connecting the connecting block to the manifold; The port includes a connector; The connector can be a male or female connector; The connector is configured to engage with a mating female or male connector on the manifold via a single linear motion. The heat exchanger assembly includes at least one fastener for securing a connecting block of at least one heat exchanger unit to a support block in the vertical direction; At least some maintenance steps are performed by remotely operating the equipment; The outer casing includes an outer convex ring; The convex ring forms the outer edge of the manifold; The convex ring is configured as an integral part of the containment structure of an integral double-shell nuclear reactor. The outer casing includes an inner convex ring; The inner convex ring forms the inner edge that defines the central cavity of the manifold; The inner convex ring is configured to form an integral part of the reactor shell of an integral double-shell nuclear reactor. The outer shell is ring-shaped; The casing contains steam passages; The steam passage extends vertically; Steam passages are arranged along the outer shell; The steam passage is arranged between the inner and outer convex rings; The housing includes one or more circumferential housing elements; The housing is configured to receive multiple such heat exchanger units; The manifold includes a support block; The support block is formed adjacent to the central cavity; The support block includes a support surface for supporting at least one heat exchanger unit; The support surface includes at least one of the aforementioned inlet ports; The support block is configured to receive at least one fastener for securing the heat exchanger unit to the manifold; The entrance passage section extends at least partially in the vertical direction; The converging channel section extends horizontally along the inner or outer periphery of the outer shell; The working fluid flow channel includes connection channel segments for each port; The connecting channel segment connects the corresponding inlet channel segment to the converging channel segment; The working fluid flow channel is a working fluid return channel, and the manifold includes a working fluid outflow channel, which is at least partially formed in the housing; The collecting channel section of the working fluid outflow channel extends along the inner or outer circumference of the housing and is adjacent to the collecting channel section of the working fluid return channel. At least one inlet channel section of the working fluid outlet channel connects the corresponding port that communicates with the central cavity to the collecting channel section; The manifold includes an inlet cover that closes the collecting channel section of the working fluid outflow channel, and includes an inlet connection for connecting the manifold to the secondary circuit. The working fluid flow channel includes multiple loops formed by corresponding multiple converging channel segments; The collection channel section is configured as an open groove extending along the inner or outer periphery of the housing; The manifold includes a cover plate for sealing off the collection channel section; The cover plate includes a connecting portion for forming the channel; The converging channel section is configured as an additional channel formed by a separate conduit connected to the housing; The manifold includes multiple such ports for each heat exchanger unit; One of the multiple ports on the housing is configured as an inlet port for connecting a working fluid flow channel to supply working fluid to the heat exchanger unit; Another port among the multiple ports of the housing is configured as an outlet port for connecting to another working fluid flow channel to receive working fluid from the heat exchanger unit; The ports of multiple heat exchanger units are aligned with the ports of the manifold; The manifold is welded to the containment vessel and reactor shell; The nuclear reactor is a district heating reactor.
[0012] Significant advantages can be obtained through the novel solution of this invention. The manifold of this invention provides a convenient connection point for the secondary loop of a nuclear power plant outside the containment vessel of the nuclear reactor. The manifold can be designed to be integrated integrally with a double-shell design to provide convenient connections to heat exchanger units within the reactor shell, and also to enable internal passageways from outside the containment vessel to these heat exchanger units. This greatly simplifies routine maintenance of the nuclear reactor.
[0013] By integrating the channel connecting the heat exchanger unit to the second loop with the pressure vessel, complexity can be reduced by minimizing the number of fault points and welds that need to be inspected.
[0014] According to one embodiment, the manifold forms part of a double-shell design. This design reduces the number of welds, thereby reducing the time and manpower required to inspect the welds and facilitating maintenance. Attached Figure Description
[0015] Some exemplary embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a nuclear reactor according to at least some embodiments is shown; Figure 2 A perspective view of a heat exchanger assembly according to at least some embodiments is shown, the heat exchanger assembly including a manifold and a heat exchanger unit separated from the manifold; Figure 3 Showing Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the manifold; Figure 4 Showing Figure 2 A partial perspective sectional view of the manifold and heat exchanger unit; Figure 5 Showing Figure 2 A partial top view of the manifold and heat exchanger unit; Figure 6 Showing the section along line AA Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the manifold and heat exchanger unit; Figure 7 Showing Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view of the manifold and heat exchanger unit; Figure 8 Showing Figure 2 A partial perspective sectional view of the manifold and heat exchanger unit, wherein the manifold and heat exchanger unit are connected to each other; Figure 9 Showing Figure 7 Exploded three-dimensional view of the manifold and heat exchanger units; and Figure 10 Showing Figure 2A three-dimensional detailed view of the mating components of the manifold and heat exchanger unit. Detailed Implementation
[0016] Figure 1 A nuclear reactor 1 according to at least some embodiments is shown. The nuclear reactor 1 includes a reactor core 400 surrounded in a reactor casing 200, which includes a top cover 201.
[0017] The fuel and control system is located inside the reactor shell 200. The function of the fuel and control system is to provide fuel for the operation of the reactor core 400 and to provide mechanisms for controlling the nuclear reaction. The number of fuel cells and the configuration of the control rod system can vary depending on the type of reactor. During operation, the fuel cells are located in the lower part of the reactor shell 200, where the fuel cells are assembled together to form the reactor core 400. The control rod system can be installed inside or outside the reactor shell.
[0018] The exemplary nuclear reactor 1 is a district heating reactor, but the principles disclosed herein are also applicable to other reactor types. Nuclear reactor 1 employs a double-shell construction, wherein the reactor shell 200 is housed within a containment vessel 300 enclosed by a top cover 301. However, it should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein can also be applied to other vessel configurations.
[0019] An annular inner wall is provided within the reactor shell 200 to form a riser tube 500. The riser tube 500 extends from the fuel unit outer shell toward the upper chamber 502. Alternatively, the riser tube 500 may surround the fuel unit outer shell, or even surround the reactor core 400. The purpose of the riser tube 500 is to define a fluid circulation path for the primary fluid or coolant contained within the reactor shell 200. The riser tube 500 forms a riser channel 501 above the reactor core 400. The riser channel 501 is an inner cavity defined by the riser tube 500. The space defined between the riser channel 501 (i.e., the upper region of the riser tube 500) and the boundary seam located between the reactor shell and the top cover 201 is the upper chamber.
[0020] An annular space serving as a downcomer channel 504 is formed between the riser tube 500 and the reactor shell 200. A heat exchanger assembly 1000 is disposed between the upper chamber 502 and the downcomer channel 504. The downcomer channel 504 communicates with the lower chamber 505, which is formed between the bottom support plate of the reactor core 400 and the bottom of the reactor shell 200.
[0021] Figure 1The diagram shows a nuclear reactor 1 under normal operating conditions, where primary fluid flows along either a natural fluid circulation path or a forced fluid circulation path. The natural fluid circulation path begins at the reactor core 400, where the primary fluid is heated, rises through riser channel 501, descends at upper chamber 502 to heat exchanger assembly 1000, continues descending along fallr channel 504, and returns to reactor core 400 through lower chamber 505. As the primary fluid flows through heat exchanger assembly 1000, it heats secondary fluid, which can enter heat exchanger assembly 1000 from outside the containment 300.
[0022] Figure 2 It shows that it can be integrated into a dual-shell design (such as Figure 1 A partial view of an exemplary heat exchanger assembly 1000 shown. The heat exchanger assembly 1000 includes a manifold 1100 designed to couple at least one, ideally multiple, heat exchanger units 1200 to the nuclear reactor 1. In the example shown, the manifold 1100 is designed to accommodate 12 heat exchanger units 1200 arranged circumferentially. Specifically, the manifold 1100 positions the heat exchanger units 1200 within an annular space between the reactor shell 200 and the riser tube 500, and between the upper chamber 502 and the descending passage 504, to guide primary fluid flow through the heat exchanger units 1200.
[0023] The manifold 1100 can also be used to introduce working fluid from the outside of the containment 300 and to discharge working fluid to the outside of the containment 300. The manifold 1100 includes a working fluid flow passage 1400. The flow passage 1400 is connected via an inlet connection 1131 formed in the inlet cover 1130. This working fluid flow passage 1400 is intended to serve as an inlet to the manifold 1100. That is, this passage 1400 is a working fluid return passage for drawing working fluid from the secondary loop outside the nuclear reactor 1 back into the nuclear reactor 1. This relatively cool fluid can return to the nuclear reactor 1 from the secondary loop, where the relatively hot fluid has released heat during the exothermic process. The manifold 1100 also includes another flow passage 1500. The flow passage 1500 is connected via an outlet connection 1121 formed in the outlet cover 1120. This working fluid flow passage 1500 is intended to serve as an outlet of the manifold 1100. In other words, channel 1500 is a working fluid discharge channel for the secondary loop used to guide working fluid from the nuclear reactor 1 to the outside of the nuclear reactor 1. The fluid is heated after flowing through heat exchanger unit 1200 and discharged from the nuclear reactor 1 at a relatively high temperature. The secondary loop may include heat-using equipment, such as a turbine or another heat exchanger connecting the secondary loop to a district heating network.
[0024] Figure 3 The overall design of manifold 1100 is shown in detail, with the heat exchanger unit 1200, inlet cover 1120, and outlet cover 1130 omitted for clarity. Manifold 1100 is designed to be integrally integrated into the double-shell design of nuclear reactor 1. Manifold 1100 has an outer shell 1110, thus conforming to the generally cylindrical shape of nuclear reactor 1, thereby enabling a generally annular design defining the central cavity 1300. To facilitate this integral integration, manifold 1100 may include an outwardly projecting ring 1114 extending axially from the outer edge of the outer shell 1110. The outwardly projecting ring 1114 is intended to be integrally integrated with containment 300. Specifically, the outwardly projecting ring 1114 is designed to form part of the structure of containment 300. This means that the material, dimensions, heat treatment, and / or surface treatment of the outwardly projecting ring 1114 are substantially matched to the material, dimensions, heat treatment, and / or surface treatment of containment 300. The outer protruding ring 1114 can be integrally integrated with the containment 300, for example, by welding.
[0025] Alternatively, the outer convex ring 1114 may include a flange to which a corresponding flange on the containment is connected by a fastening mechanism (e.g., bolts, welding, or any other foreseeable technique). This flange may extend in a non-vertical direction, such as horizontally. The above combination may require adaptation of the existing containment 300 by omitting the corresponding portion of the containment to install the outer shell 1110.
[0026] like Figure 6 As shown, the mating surface between the outer convex ring 1114 and the containment 300 preferably has a relief structure (e.g., a chamfer) to facilitate welding.
[0027] The illustrated embodiment includes such convex rings 1113 and 1114 extending from the housing 1110 in two vertical directions (i.e., upward and downward). It is also foreseeable that the convex rings may be provided on only one side, or either convex ring may be replaced with a non-vertical flange.
[0028] This also applies to the integrated connection of manifold 1100 and reactor shell 200. Figure 3To facilitate this integral integration, manifold 1100 may include an inner convex ring 1113 extending axially from the inner edge region of the adjacent central cavity 1300 of the containment 1110. The inner convex ring 1113 is designed to be integrally integrated with the reactor casing 200. Specifically, the inner convex ring 1113 is designed to form part of the structure of the reactor casing 200. This means that the material, dimensions, heat treatment, and surface finish of the inner convex ring 1113 are substantially matched to the material, dimensions, heat treatment, and surface finish of the reactor casing 200. The inner convex ring 1113 may be integrally integrated with the reactor casing 200, for example, by welding. Alternatively, the inner convex ring 1113 may include a flange to which a corresponding flange on the containment is connected by a fastening mechanism (e.g., bolts, welding, or any other foreseeable technique). Such integration may require adaptation of the existing reactor casing 200 by omitting corresponding portions of the reactor casing to install the containment 1110. The mating surface between the inner convex ring 1113 and the reactor shell 200 preferably has a relief structure (e.g., chamfer) to facilitate welding.
[0029] The outer casing 1110 occupies the space between the containment vessel 300 and the reactor vessel 200. To connect the cavities above and below the manifold, for example, to allow steam to pass through this space, the outer casing 1110 may be provided with multiple steam passages 1600. The steam passages 1600 may be axially extending passages along and around the outer casing 1110, positioned between the inner convex ring 1113 and the outer convex ring 1114. In this document, the term "axial" is intended to refer to the direction in which the nuclear reactor 1 extends, typically vertically.
[0030] The outer casing 1110 extends around the central cavity 1300 and includes a support block 1111 for mounting at least one, preferably multiple, heat exchanger units 1200. The support block 1111 serves two purposes. First, it acts as a mechanical connection and support point for the heat exchanger units 1200. Second, it enables a flow connection between the heat exchanger units 1200 and the secondary circuit. These two connections (i.e., mechanical and flow connections) are established through a simple and efficient connection movement in the vertical direction. The support block 1111 extends toward the central cavity 1300.
[0031] The support block 1111 has a mating surface for providing the aforementioned dual functions. In the example shown, the mating surface is horizontal, which can be used to provide vertical connection movement. However, the mating surface can also be inclined, as long as it extends in an inclined direction with a considerable horizontal component. The mating surface 1111 may include a plurality of ports 1116, 1118 for fluid communication with the heat exchanger unit 1200. The port 1116 shown on the right side of each location can be used to supply fluid to the heat exchanger unit 1200, while the port 1118 shown on the left side of each location can be used to receive fluid from the heat exchanger unit 1200. The support block 1111 also includes a plurality of recesses 1112 for receiving the heat exchanger unit 1200 (generally cylindrical in the example shown) in a partially embedded manner, thereby reducing the space occupied by the heat exchanger assembly inside the nuclear reactor 1. The recesses 1112 may be cavities formed radially on the original cylindrical surface toward the central cavity 1300.
[0032] The manifold 1100 includes multiple channels for guiding fluid flow within the nuclear reactor 1 and between the nuclear reactor 1 and the secondary loop outside the containment 300. As described above, the steam passage 1600 can guide steam flow in sections above and below the containment 1100 in the intermediate space between the containment 300 and the reactor shell 200. The purpose of the steam flow between these sections of the intermediate space is to facilitate the passive removal of decay heat from the nuclear reactor by conduction through the shell. This passive decay heat removal process is described in WO 2022106756 A1. The primary fluid flows within the reactor shell 200 along the aforementioned flow path and passes through the heat exchanger unit 1200 in a manner described below. The secondary fluid flows through the manifold 1100 and enters the internal channels of each heat exchanger unit 1200, where it remains separated from the primary fluid. References are made below. Figures 2 to 7 The flow path of the secondary fluid is described in detail.
[0033] For heat exchanger unit 1200, the secondary fluid of nuclear reactor 1 is the working fluid, which transfers heat from nuclear reactor 1 to the secondary loop. Similarly, the primary fluid of nuclear reactor 1 is the source fluid. The working fluid from the secondary loop can flow into the working fluid return channel 1400 of manifold 1100 through inlet connection 1131. The working fluid return channel 1400 has three parts. The first part is a collection channel section 1403, which is shared by multiple heat exchanger units 1200. The collection channel section 1403 can be connected through inlet connection 1131 formed in inlet cover 1130, which can close the collection channel section 1403. According to the example shown, the collection channel section 1403 can be formed as an open groove formed on the outer surface of housing 1110.
[0034] The collecting channel segment 1403 may extend around almost the entire circumference of the housing 1110, or it may occupy only a portion of the circumference. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the manifold 1100 includes two working fluid return channels 1400, forming two distinct flow loops, and two of the aforementioned collecting channel segments 1403, each extending approximately half the circumference of the housing 1110. The collecting channel segment 1403 in... Figure 3 It is displayed as an open configuration in the middle. Figure 2 The configuration is shown as closed, with the inlet cover 1130 enclosing it. Naturally, since there are two such working fluid return channels 1400, the manifold 1100 has two corresponding inlet covers 1130 for enclosing the channels.
[0035] The working fluid return passage 1400 also has a separate internal passage section 1401 for communication with each heat exchanger unit 1200. This passage section 1401 supplies relatively cold working fluid from the secondary loop to the heat exchanger unit 1200. The internal passage section 1401 is located in the inner region of the housing 1110 and extends at least partially vertically. The internal passage section 1401 terminates at port 1116 on the support block 1111 (see...). Figure 3 Connecting channel segment 1402 connects the various internal channel segments 1401 to a common converging channel segment 1403. The illustrated embodiment shows the internal channel segments 1401 as completely vertical and the connecting channel segment 1402 as completely horizontal; this is preferred from a manufacturing perspective because these channel segments can be formed respectively by drilling holes from above and from the side. Inlet connection 1131 surrounds the outer channel segment 1404 of the working fluid return channel 1400, which is the portion of the channel closest to the external system (i.e., the secondary loop of the nuclear power plant).
[0036] A similar flow channel is also provided for the external flow of secondary fluid. The working fluid outflow channel 1500 is configured to operate in parallel with the working fluid return channel 1400. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the working fluid outflow channel 1500 has a common converging channel section 1503 similar to the common converging channel section 1403 of the working fluid return channel 1400. Figure 3 The converging channel segments 1403 and 1503 are shown stacked and separated by the outer peripheral extension of the housing 1110. The working fluid outflow channel 1500 also has multiple independent internal channel segments 1501 and corresponding connecting channel segments 1502, similar to the internal channel segments 1401 and connecting channel segments 1402 of the working fluid return channel 1400.
[0037] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the working fluid flow channel 1400 is formed within the main body of the housing 1110. This means that the housing body at least partially surrounds the working fluid flow channel 1400. Thus, the working fluid flow channel 1400 is integrally formed with the housing 1110, making it an inseparable component of the housing 1110. In the drawings, the working fluid flow channel 1400 is enclosed and is therefore partially surrounded by cover plates 1120 and 1130.
[0038] According to another embodiment, a variation of the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the working fluid flow channel is at least partially formed on the exterior of the housing body. The converging channel segment of the working fluid flow channel may be formed of a pipe or similar conduit that extends outside the housing body and joins multiple connecting channel segments together. Such a pipe may be machined from an elongated profile that may be bent or otherwise shaped to conform to the external shape of the housing and attached to the housing by, for example, welding, soldering, brazing, or any other suitable method (e.g., heat shrinking). The manifold may include one or more such external converging channel segments.
[0039] According to another variant, the integrated embodiment can be coupled with an external embodiment, wherein one or more convergence channel segments are arranged as shown, and one or more other convergence channel segments are formed as an external structure.
[0040] An exemplary structure of the heat exchanger unit 1200 is described below.
[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 1200 has a generally cylindrical shell 1210 for exchanging heat between the source fluid (the primary fluid flow within the reactor shell 200) and the working fluid (the secondary fluid flow between the nuclear reactor 1 and the external secondary loop). The cylindrical shell is preferred for pressure flow applications, as it allows for pressure resistance with minimal wall thickness. However, other shapes (e.g., fan-shaped ring structures) can also be used to optimize space utilization at the expense of wall thickness.
[0042] A shell 1210 surrounds a plurality of tubes extending along the interior of the elongated shell 1210. These tubes may be formed of relatively thin-walled profiles, which may be connected together by an upper tube sheet or a lower tube sheet, or both. These tubes open into a central cavity 1300 for receiving source fluid flowing through it. An internal cavity for conveying working fluid also extends within the shell 1210, which is in thermal contact with the aforementioned tubes and separated from the source fluid flowing through them by the tubes. This exemplary design is similar to a shell-and-tube heat exchanger type, and is well known in itself and other suitable designs.
[0043] A connecting block 1220 extends from the shell 1210 and is a corresponding component on the heat exchanger 1200 relative to the support block 1111 of the manifold 1100. The purpose of the connecting block 1220 is to provide both mechanical and fluid connection with the support block 1111. Figure 4 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 Clearly shown, the connecting block 1220 has a mating surface that matches the mating surface on the carrier block 1111. In the example shown, this mating surface is horizontal; however, an inclined surface is also acceptable, as long as the mating surface extends in a direction having a horizontal component. To provide a mechanical connection, the connecting block 1220 has a through-hole for receiving a fastener 1700 (e.g., a screw) passing through it, for connecting the connecting block 1220 to the carrier block 1111, which also has a corresponding receiving hole for a threaded connection.
[0044] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The diagram also illustrates a method of establishing a fluid connection through a single vertical movement. As described above, the flow path of the working fluid can be connected via port 1116 on the mating surface of the carrier block 1111. A mating port 1222 is provided on the mating surface of the connecting block 1220. When the mating surfaces of the connecting block 1220 and the carrier block 1111 engage, the mating ports 1222 and 1116 can be aligned with each other. As shown, if the mating surfaces are planar, then ports 1222 and 1116 can be sealed using an intermediate gasket 1117 (e.g., a compression O-ring).
[0045] This structure is particularly advantageous because the mechanical connection between the heat exchanger unit 1200 and the containment 300 can be established via a simple threaded connection from one direction (i.e., from above). This means that the heat exchanger unit 1200 can be installed or removed by accessing the containment 300 from above. This simple structure facilitates convenient, even automated, maintenance of the nuclear reactor.
[0046] Figure 8 A heat exchanger unit 1200 connected to a support block 1111 is shown. Exemplary horizontal mating surfaces of the connecting block 1220 and the support block 1111 engage with each other and are secured together by a fastener extending vertically through the connecting block 1220 and into the support block 1111. Alternatively, the support block may have a vertically extending stud that extends through the connecting block 1220 and is secured by a nut tightened from above. Figure 8 An optional baffle 1211 is also shown, which is disposed as a flange in the upper region of the shell 1210 to fill the space between adjacent heat exchanger units 1200 so as to guide all fluids into the interior of the shell 1210.
[0047] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram shows the mating structure between the internal channels of the heat exchanger unit 1200 and the flow channels 1400 and 1500 of the manifold 1100. The internal channels of the heat exchanger 1200 terminate at port 1222 on the mating surface of the connecting block 1220. The internal channels extend substantially vertically from port 1222, at least initially, to match the orientation of the internal channel segments 1401 and 1501. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal channels are configured as tubes extending between the inlet port 1222 and the outlet port, which are adjacent to each other on the connecting block 1220. Although Figure 6 and Figure 7 The internal channels are not displayed separately, but Figure 7 The basic structure of the heat exchanger unit 1200 is shown, which shows the outlet port located on the left side of the heat exchanger unit and the inlet port located at the center of the shell 1210, wherein the tubes extend vertically in the central region of the shell 1210.
[0048] When the manifold 1100 is installed in the double-shell structure of the nuclear reactor 1, the secondary loop is connected to the outer shell 1110 via the inlet connection 1131 and the outlet connection 1121, and the heat exchanger unit 1200 is connected to the outer shell 1110 for both mechanical and fluid connection, the heat exchanger assembly 1000 is assembled. Heat can then be exchanged between the source fluid flowing within the reactor shell 200 and the working fluid flowing between the manifold 1100 and the secondary loop. The source fluid flows along... Figure 1 The flow path shown heats the contact surface of the heat exchanger unit 1200 located between the upper chamber 502 and the descending channel 504. The heated contact surface (a tube in the illustrated embodiment) heats the working fluid flowing near the contact surface. In the illustrated example, the working fluid flows in an internal channel of the heat exchanger unit 1200 formed between the shell 1210 and the tube. The heated working fluid flows to the outer casing 1110 through a pair of aligned ports 1222, 1116 located on the connecting block 1220 and the support block 1111. The heated working fluid can exit the manifold along the working fluid outflow channel 1500 and be discharged into the secondary loop through the outlet connection 1121, where it releases heat to the heat-releasing load. The cooled working fluid returns to the system through the inlet connection 1131. The cooled working fluid flows back to the heat exchanger unit 1200 along the working fluid return channel 1400 and through another pair of aligned ports 1222, 1116 on the connecting block 1220 and the support block 1111.
[0049] The above structure is highly advantageous for remote control maintenance and inspection. The heat exchanger assembly 1000 can be disassembled via a remote control device for easy maintenance and inspection. After removing the top covers 301 and 201 of the containment 300 and reactor shell 200, the heat exchanger unit 1200 can be accessed from above. The fastener 1700 can be removed from above, thereby disconnecting the mechanical and fluid connections between the heat exchanger unit 1200 and the manifold 1100 by simply lifting the heat exchanger unit 1200 from the support block 1111. After inspecting the heat exchanger unit 1200 and, if necessary, cleaning or replacing it, the heat exchanger unit 1200 can be reinstalled by lowering it back into the central cavity 1300 and aligning the connecting block 1220 with the mating surface of the support block 1111. Once the heat exchanger unit 1200 is in place, the mechanical connection can be secured by reinstalling the fastener 1700 from above. Subsequently, top covers 301 and 201 can be closed to restore operation of nuclear reactor 1.
[0050] There are several different methods for providing a housing 1110 for this type of manifold 1100.
[0051] According to the illustrated embodiment, the outer casing 1110 can be machined from an integral annular blank, which itself can be formed into an annular shape by casting or forging. The channels shown in the figure can be specifically designed to be formed by a drilling process. The converging channel segments 1403 and 1504 can be formed by a milling process. The protruding rings 1113 and 1114 can also be formed by machining grooves therebetween (e.g., by turning).
[0052] According to another embodiment, the housing can also be manufactured entirely by welding, or assembled by welding components produced in other ways. For example, the housing can be manufactured by welding two convex rings, used to form the inner convex ring 1113 and the outer convex ring 1114 as shown, together with an intermediate reinforcing plate used to form the steam passage 1600. The support block can be provided by welding an integral component or a hollow housing onto the inner surface of the inner convex ring. The cover plate can be welded as follows... Figures 2 to 10 The embodiment is like the integral ring in the middle.
[0053] Alternatively, the outer casing can be manufactured by welding two forged rings together using connecting pipes and support structures.
[0054] According to another embodiment, the housing can be manufactured using additive manufacturing technology (more specifically, layered manufacturing technology).
[0055] According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing 1110 can be constructed as a single unit, comprising two inlet flow loops (working fluid return channel 1400) and two outlet flow loops (working fluid outflow channel 1500), which are independent of each other. This embodiment can also be modified to manufacture the housing from multiple components, for example, one component comprising a first inlet flow loop and a first outlet flow loop, and another component comprising a second inlet flow loop and a second outlet flow loop. Thus, such components can extend beyond half the entire circular range of the annular housing. Alternatively, the housing can also be formed from more than one such fan-shaped structure. Alternatively, the flow channel can be configured as a single loop extending along the entire circumference of the housing or only a portion of the circumference.
[0056] According to the illustrated embodiment, the collecting channel segment is disposed on the outer periphery of the housing. According to another embodiment, any one or both collecting channel segments may be disposed on the inner periphery of the housing adjacent to the central cavity. In this case, a connecting channel segment connects the collecting channel segment to the outer periphery of the housing, which includes a connection portion leading to the secondary circuit.
[0057] According to another embodiment, the collection channel segment is not configured as an open channel, but rather as a cavity within the housing, and is not enclosed by a separate cover as in the illustrated embodiment. This cavity can be formed by manufacturing the housing using additive manufacturing techniques.
[0058] According to another embodiment, the converging channel segment can be configured as an additional channel formed by a separate conduit connected to the housing. According to a foreseeable variant, a tube covering the entire or part of the circumference of the housing can serve as a converging component, communicating with corresponding external channel segments and connecting channel segments via additional conduits.
[0059] According to the illustrated embodiment, the contact interface between the connecting block of the heat exchanger unit and the carrier block of the housing is planar. According to another embodiment, the contact interface between the connecting block and the carrier block may include an insert-type connector. Specifically, the connector may include a male or female connector located at port 1222 of the connecting block. This connector may be configured to be inserted into or received in a corresponding female or male connector at port 11166 of the housing 1110. The connector may take the form of a cylindrical shoulder extending from the connecting block 1220, which can be inserted into port 1116 of the carrier block 1111 by a single linear movement in the vertical direction to bring the connecting block 1220 and the carrier block 1111 into contact. Alternatively, the connectors may be interchanged by extending such a sealing ring from the mating surface of the carrier block 1111.
[0060] In the example shown, channels 1400 and 1500 provide inlets and outlets for fluid entering and exiting manifold 1100. However, the function of these channels and / or their position and / or orientation on housing 1110 can be interchanged.
[0061] It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the specific structures, processes, or materials disclosed herein, but can be extended to equivalents that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.
[0062] The terms "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" as used in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the terms "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[0063] In this document, for convenience, multiple components, structural elements, constituent elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as each individual item in the list being individually identifiable as a separate and unique entity. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, entities in such lists should not be considered substantially equivalent to any other entity in the same list simply because they appear in a common group. Furthermore, various embodiments and examples of the invention may also have alternatives to the various components mentioned herein. It should be understood that such embodiments, examples, and alternatives should not be construed as being substantially equivalent to each other, but should be regarded as independent and autonomous representations of the invention.
[0064] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. Numerous specific details, such as examples of length, width, shape, etc., are set forth herein to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can also be practiced without one or more specific details, or using other methods, components, materials, etc. Additionally, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail herein to avoid obscuring the key technical points of the invention.
[0065] While the foregoing examples illustrate the principles of the invention in one or more specific applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications in form, usage, and implementation details may be made without inventiveness and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited in any way other than the following claims.
[0066] The terms “comprising” and “including” as used herein are open-ended restrictions, neither excluding nor requiring the presence of any unlisted features. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the features listed in the dependent claims may be freely combined. Furthermore, it should be understood that the use of “a” or “an” (i.e., the singular form) herein does not exclude plural cases.
[0067] List of reference numerals
Claims
1. A manifold (1100) for a heat exchanger assembly (1000) of a nuclear reactor (1), comprising: The housing (1110) at least partially defines a central cavity (1300) for receiving at least one heat exchanger unit (1200) and includes at least one port (1116, 1118) in communication with the central cavity (1300). A working fluid flow channel (1400), which is at least partially formed within the housing (1110), and includes: A collection channel segment (1403) extends along the housing (1110), and At least one inlet channel segment (1401), the at least one inlet channel segment connecting at least one corresponding port (1116, 1118) to the convergence channel segment (1403); and The channel used to connect the collection channel segment (1403) to the secondary circuit.
2. The manifold (1100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (1110) includes an outer convex ring (1114) that forms the outer edge of the manifold (1100) and is configured to form an integral joint portion of the containment vessel (300) of the integrated double-shell nuclear reactor (1).
3. The manifold (1100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The outer shell (1110) includes an inner convex ring (113) that forms the inner edge of the central cavity (1300) of the manifold, and the inner convex ring (1113) is configured to form an integral joint portion of the reactor shell (200) of the integral double-shell nuclear reactor (1).
4. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The outer casing (1110) is annular and optionally consists of one or more circumferential housing elements.
5. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (1110) is configured to receive a plurality of the heat exchanger units (1200).
6. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The manifold (1100) includes a support block (1111) formed adjacent to the central cavity (1300), the support block including a support surface for supporting at least one heat exchanger unit (1200), the support surface including the at least one inlet port (1116, 1118).
7. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support block (1111) is configured to receive at least one fastener (1700) for securing the heat exchanger unit (1200) to the manifold (1100).
8. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The inlet channel segment (1401) extends at least partially in the vertical direction, and the converging channel segments (1403, 1503) extend horizontally along the inner or outer periphery of the housing (1110).
9. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The working fluid flow channel (1400) includes connecting channel segments (1402) for each port (1116, 1118), which connect the corresponding inlet channel segment (1401) to the collection channel segment (1403, 1503).
10. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: The working fluid flow channel (1400) is a working fluid return channel; The manifold (1100) includes a working fluid outlet passage (1500), which is at least partially formed in the housing (1110) and includes: A collecting channel section (1503) extends along the inner or outer periphery of the housing (1110) and is adjacent to the collecting channel section (1403) of the working fluid return channel (1400). At least one inlet channel segment (1501) connects a corresponding port (1118) that communicates with the central cavity (1300) to the collection channel segment (1503). The manifold (1100) includes an inlet cover (1120) that closes the collection channel section (1503) and includes an inlet connection (1121) for connecting the manifold (1100) to the secondary circuit.
11. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The working fluid flow channels (1400, 1500) include multiple loops formed by corresponding multiple converging channel segments (1403, 1503).
12. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The collecting channel segment (1403, 1503) is configured as an open groove extending along the inner or outer periphery of the housing (1110), and the manifold (1100) includes a cover plate (1120, 1130) for closing the collecting channel segment (1403, 1503), the cover plate including a connecting portion (1121, 1131) for forming the channel.
13. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The collection channel segment is configured as an additional channel formed by a separate conduit connected to the housing.
14. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The manifold (1100) includes a plurality of ports (1116, 1118) for each heat exchanger unit (1200).
15. The manifold (1100) according to claim 14, characterized in that, One of the plurality of ports (1116) is configured as an inlet port for connecting to a working fluid flow channel (1400) to supply working fluid to the heat exchanger unit (1200), and another of the plurality of ports (1118) is configured as an outlet port for connecting to another working fluid flow channel (1500) to receive working fluid from the heat exchanger unit (1200).
16. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of ports (1116, 1118) includes a female or male connector configured to engage with a mating female or male connector in a fitting on the heat exchanger unit (1200) by a single linear movement in the vertical direction.
17. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (1110) includes a vertically extending steam passage (1600) arranged along the housing (1110) between an inner convex ring (1113) and an outer convex ring (1114).
18. The manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The working fluid flow channel (1400) is formed in the body of the outer casing (1110).
19. The manifold (1100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The collection channel section (1403) is formed by a tube or similar conduit extending outside the body of the housing (1110).
20. A heat exchanger assembly (1000), comprising: manifold (1100) according to any one of the preceding claims. as well as Multiple heat exchanger units (1200), each heat exchanger unit including: An internal channel for receiving a working fluid flow passing through the internal channel, the working fluid flow being separated from the source fluid flow contacting the heat exchanger unit (1200). A connecting block (1220) for providing a mechanical and fluid connection to the manifold (1100), wherein the connecting block (1220) is configured to connect the heat exchanger unit (1200) to the manifold (1100) via a mechanical connection interface, the connecting block including a port (1222) configured to engage with at least one port (1116, 1118) on the manifold (1100) by a single vertical movement to establish a fluid connection between the internal channel and the manifold (1100).
21. The heat exchanger assembly (1000) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The manifold (1100) includes a support block (1111) formed adjacent to the central cavity (1300), the support block including a support surface for a connecting block (1220) for supporting a plurality of heat exchanger units (1200).
22. The heat exchanger assembly (1000) according to claim 21, characterized in that: Multiple ports (1116, 1118) are disposed on the support surface; The ports (1222) of the plurality of heat exchanger units (1200) are aligned with the ports (1116, 1118) of the manifold (1000).
23. A nuclear reactor (1), comprising: Containment (300) The reactor shell (200) is housed within the containment vessel (300). The primary circuit housed within the pressure housing (200), and The manifold (1100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16 is integrally connected between the containment (300) and the reactor shell (200).
24. The nuclear reactor (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that: The manifold (1100) includes an inner convex ring (1113) that forms the inner edge of a central cavity (1300) of the manifold, and the inner convex ring (1113) is configured to form an integral part of the pressure housing (200). The manifold (1100) includes an outer convex ring (1114) configured to form an integral part of the pressure housing (200).
25. The nuclear reactor (1) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that, The manifold (1100) is welded to the containment vessel (300) and the reactor vessel (200).
26. The nuclear reactor (1) according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that, The nuclear reactor is a district heating reactor.