A wind turbine central cooling system pipe connection structure and method

Abstract

The application discloses a wind turbine central cooling system pipe connecting structure and method, which comprises a first ring arranged at the end of a first pipe, a second ring arranged at the end of a second pipe, and a sealing ring arranged between the first ring and the second ring. The second ring is hinged with a plurality of circumferentially distributed hooking elements, the distal end hooking part of the hooking elements is hooked with the first ring, and the hooking elements are locked by a threaded annular locking sleeve arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the second ring. Through reasonable structural design and operation steps, reliable sealing connection of the wind turbine central cooling system pipes is realized, and the technical effects of stable pipe connection and good sealing effect are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cooling system installation, and in particular to a connection structure and method for pipe fittings in a central cooling system of a wind turbine. Background Technology

[0002] The central cooling system of a wind turbine plays a crucial role in the operation of the turbine, serving as a key component to ensure its safe and efficient operation. With the continuous development of the wind power industry, the performance and efficiency of wind turbines are constantly improving, placing increasingly higher demands on the central cooling system. The central cooling system effectively controls the temperature of various components within the turbine, preventing equipment damage and performance degradation caused by overheating, thereby ensuring stable operation of the wind turbine, improving power generation efficiency, and reducing maintenance costs. Its working principle involves the cooling medium being driven by a circulating pump, flowing through the nacelle radiator, converter, and other components being cooled. After absorbing heat, it enters the external air radiator to exchange heat with natural air, and finally re-enters the circulation loop after cooling, forming a closed-loop system that ensures all components of the turbine operate within a suitable temperature environment.

[0003] In existing technologies, flange bolt locking is commonly used to connect various devices in a wind turbine central cooling system. Specifically, flanges are installed at the ends of pipe fittings, sealing rings are placed between the flanges, and bolts are used to tightly connect the two flanges to ensure a tight seal. This method meets the system's connection requirements to a certain extent and is the standard method for connecting pipe fittings in a wind turbine central cooling system. However, as wind turbines develop towards higher power density, the internal space of the nacelle is becoming increasingly compact, and the equipment layout needs to be highly integrated to save space. This results in narrow gaps between adjacent devices, causing significant inconvenience for flange bolt installation. Installers must align the bolt holes one by one within a limited space and then use tools to tighten the threads. This process is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also prone to errors due to obstructed vision and difficult tool operation.

[0004] The existing flange bolt locking method has significant drawbacks. In the compact space of a wind turbine nacelle with narrow gaps between adjacent equipment, using flange bolts for pipe connections requires installers to perform precise operations within this confined space. This not only increases installation difficulty and time costs but also easily affects connection quality and sealing reliability due to obstructed visibility and difficulty in tool handling. Furthermore, in harsh environments such as offshore wind turbines, the drawbacks of this installation method are even more pronounced, necessitating a pipe connection solution that improves installation efficiency while maintaining structural compactness. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to improve the installation efficiency of pipe fittings while maintaining equipment compactness, this application provides a pipe fitting connection structure and method for a central cooling system of a wind turbine.

[0006] The technical solution provided in this application for a connection structure and method of pipe fittings for a central cooling system of a wind turbine generator adopts the following: A central cooling system pipe connection structure for a wind turbine includes a first collar disposed at the end of a pipe fitting for pre-installed equipment, a second collar disposed at the end of a pipe fitting for post-installed equipment, and a sealing ring disposed between the first and second collars. The second collar is hinged with a plurality of hook-locking members, which are circumferentially distributed around the second collar. Each hook-locking member includes a distal hook portion for engaging with the side of the first collar opposite to the sealing ring. When the hook-locking member engages with the first collar, the distal hook portion of the hook-locking member presses against the first collar towards the second collar, causing the sealing ring to elastically deform. An annular locking sleeve is threaded onto the outer circumferential surface of the second collar. By screwing the annular locking sleeve towards the first collar, the hook-locking member is locked between the annular locking sleeve and the first collar.

[0007] By adopting the above technical solutions, the circumferential distribution design of the hook and lock parts enables rapid centering and hooking, replacing the multi-point alignment operation of traditional bolt flanges and significantly reducing installation time. The screwing action of the ring lock sleeve uses the mechanical lever principle to generate a uniform clamping force on the far end of the hook and lock parts against the first ring, so that the sealing ring forms a reliable seal after elastic deformation. This not only adapts to the slight deformation of the nacelle cover under wind load, but also overcomes the problem of inconvenient tool operation in narrow spaces, improving installation efficiency while ensuring connection stability.

[0008] Preferably, the second ring includes an inner ring seat and an outer ring seat arranged side by side. The annular locking sleeve includes a threaded sleeve and a push ring. The outer ring seat has an external thread on its outer circumferential surface for threaded connection with the inner circumferential side of the threaded sleeve. The outer diameter of the inner ring seat is smaller than that of the outer ring seat. The inner circumferential surface of the push ring abuts against the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring seat. The inner ring seat has several receiving grooves on its circumferential side. Several hook locking parts correspond one-to-one with several receiving grooves. The hinge point of the hook locking part is set in the corresponding receiving groove. When the threaded sleeve is screwed toward the first ring, it drives the push ring to move. The push ring pushes the hook locking parts to force the hook locking parts to hook tightly with the first ring.

[0009] By adopting the above technical solution, the separate structure of the inner ring seat and the outer ring seat provides a stable swing space for the hook and lock parts. The linkage design of the push ring and the threaded sleeve transforms the tightening operation into the radial clamping force of the hook and lock parts, avoiding the drawback of needing to apply force in multiple directions in traditional installation. The limiting effect of the receiving groove on the hook and lock parts ensures that its swing trajectory is controllable, thereby achieving precise hooking in a compact layout and reducing the risk of installation failure due to misalignment.

[0010] Preferably, the outer ring seat has a plurality of movable cavities, and the plurality of movable cavities of the outer ring seat are connected to the plurality of receiving grooves of the inner ring seat. The hook lock also includes a proximal hook portion, and the proximal hook portion and the distal hook portion are located on both sides of the hinge point of the hook lock. When the distal hook portion of the hook lock is hooked with the first ring, the proximal hook portion of the hook lock swings into the movable cavity of the outer ring seat and hooks and fixes itself to the inner wall of the movable cavity.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, the hook connection between the proximal hook and the movable cavity forms a double locking mechanism. After the annular locking sleeve is tightened, the cooperation between the proximal hook and the inner wall of the movable cavity further resists the vibration or stress loosening that may occur at the connection. It is particularly suitable for scenarios in which periodic loads are generated due to fluid pressure fluctuations and temperature changes during the operation of wind turbine units, thereby enhancing the fatigue resistance of the structure.

[0012] Preferably, the edge of the hook-fitting surface between the first collar and the distal hook is chamfered. When the hook lock swings toward the hook-fitting surface of the first collar under the pushing action of the annular lock sleeve, the distal hook of the hook lock slides down to the hook-fitting surface of the distal hook through the guiding action of the chamfer at the first collar.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, the chamfer design plays a guiding role, enabling the hook and lock parts to automatically correct their position by sliding even when they are not fully aligned, reducing the need for manual fine-tuning during installation, and improving the ease of operation, especially in high-altitude or low-light cabin environments.

[0014] Preferably, it further includes an operating component for driving the threaded sleeve to rotate, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the threaded sleeve is provided with a groove for engaging with the operating component.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, the operating component can be quickly engaged with the threaded sleeve through the slot, allowing for tightening operations using lightweight tools. This solves the problem of difficulty in direct hand operation in confined spaces, while the standardized interface facilitates the use of tools by on-site personnel.

[0016] Preferably, the operating component includes a locking block that engages with the locking slot and an operating rod that is fixedly connected to the locking block.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, the rigid connection between the locking block and the operating lever transmits torque more directly, avoiding slippage. The adjustable length of the operating lever adapts to the installation requirements of different depth spaces, improving ergonomic performance.

[0018] Preferably, there are several slots, which are circumferentially distributed on the outer circumferential surface of the threaded sleeve, and elastic ropes are provided between the locking blocks at adjacent slots.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, the multiple slot layout allows the operating components to be engaged from any angle, and the elastic rope generates a pre-tightening force on the locking block to prevent the tool from accidentally falling off in a vibrating environment, ensuring the safety of high-altitude operations, and reducing the risk of losing installation tools.

[0020] A method for connecting pipe fittings in a central cooling system of a wind turbine generator includes the following steps: S1: Align the second collar at the end of the pipe fitting for the later-installed equipment with the first collar at the end of the pipe fitting for the earlier-installed equipment, and place a sealing ring between the first collar and the second collar.

[0021] S2: Swing the several hooks hinged on the second ring so that the far end of each hook passes over the edge of the first ring and forms a preliminary hook with the side of the first ring away from the sealing ring.

[0022] S3: Screw the annular locking sleeve onto the outer circumference of the second ring and screw it toward the first ring. During the screwing process, the annular locking sleeve pushes the hook locking part to swing toward the first ring, so that the distal hook part generates a continuous axial clamping force on the first ring, thereby compressing the sealing ring and causing it to elastically deform.

[0023] S4: Continue to tighten the annular locking sleeve until the hook lock is securely locked between the annular locking sleeve and the first ring, and the sealing ring reaches the preset compression deformation amount to achieve a reliable sealing connection. Confirm the locking status by observing the screw-in position of the annular locking sleeve or by using a preset torque tool.

[0024] By adopting the above technical solution, the swinging engagement of the hook-lock component replaces the traditional bolt insertion, eliminating the tedious step of precise hole alignment. The single linear operation of tightening the annular locking sleeve replaces the sequential tightening of multiple bolts, making it particularly suitable for the compact layout and limited operating space within the wind turbine nacelle. This significantly shortens installation time and reduces labor intensity. In step S3, the hook-lock component is systematically pushed by screwing in the annular locking sleeve, thereby applying a uniform axial clamping force to the first ring. This mechanism helps ensure isotropic compression of the sealing ring, forming a uniform and stable sealing interface. This effectively reduces the risk of poor sealing or premature wear due to uneven stress, improving the sealing reliability of the entire cooling system piping during long-term operation.

[0025] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects: 1. The hook-lock components are distributed circumferentially, allowing for quick centering and hooking, replacing the multi-point alignment operation of traditional bolts and flanges, and reducing installation time; 2. The screwing in of the annular locking sleeve causes the hook at the far end of the hook lock to exert a uniform clamping force on the first ring, which causes the sealing ring to deform elastically to form a reliable seal. This adapts to the slight deformation of the engine hood, overcomes the problem of inconvenient tool operation in narrow spaces, improves installation efficiency, and ensures connection stability. 3. The use of pipe fittings to replace the traditional method of inserting bolts into holes and tightening multiple bolts in sequence is suitable for compact layouts and narrow operating spaces in the engine room, shortening installation time, reducing labor intensity, ensuring uniform pressure on the sealing ring, and improving sealing reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a central cooling system pipe connection structure for a wind turbine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the hook-locking state between the hook and the first ring in a pipe connection structure of a central cooling system of a wind turbine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the hook-lock component and the first ring in the unhooked state of a central cooling system pipe connection structure for a wind turbine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the state after the annular locking sleeve is hidden in the pipe connection structure of the central cooling system of a wind turbine in an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the annular locking sleeve and the operating component cooperating in a pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the operating component in the pipe connection structure of a central cooling system of a wind turbine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Fittings installed first; 2. Fittings installed later; 3. First collar; 31. Chamfer; 4. Second collar; 41. Outer ring seat; 411. Movable cavity; 42. Inner ring seat; 421. Receiving groove; 5. Annular locking sleeve; 51. Threaded sleeve; 511. Slot; 52. Push ring; 6. Hook lock; 61. Distal hook; 62. Proximal hook; 7. Sealing ring; 8. Operating component; 81. Locking block; 82. Operating lever; 83. Elastic rope; 84. Hook; 85. Pull ring. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-6 This application will be described in further detail.

[0034] This application discloses a pipe connection structure for a central cooling system of a wind turbine, referring to... Figure 1 and Figure 2The system includes a first collar 3, a second collar 4, a sealing ring 7, hook locking components 6, and an annular locking sleeve 5. The first collar 3 is located at the end of the first-installed equipment fitting 1, the second collar 4 is located at the end of the subsequent-installed equipment fitting 2, the sealing ring 7 is located between the first collar 3 and the second collar 4, and multiple hook locking components 6 are circumferentially distributed and hinged to the circumference of the second collar 4. The annular locking sleeve 5 is threaded onto the outer circumferential surface of the second collar 4. By screwing the annular locking sleeve 5 toward the first collar 3, the hook locking components 6 are locked between the annular locking sleeve 5 and the first collar 3. This utilizes the circumferential distribution design of the hook locking components 6 to achieve rapid centering and hooking, replacing the multi-point alignment operation of traditional bolt flanges, which can significantly reduce installation time. In this embodiment, the hook locking component 6 includes a distal hook portion 61 and a proximal hook portion 62, which are located on both sides of the hinge point of the hook locking component 6. The screwing action of the ring lock sleeve 5 uses the mechanical lever principle to generate a uniform pressing force on the first ring 3 by the far end hook 61 of the hook lock part 6, so that the sealing ring 7 forms a reliable seal after elastic deformation. This not only adapts to the slight deformation of the nacelle cover under wind load, but also overcomes the problem of inconvenient tool operation in narrow spaces, improving installation efficiency while ensuring connection stability.

[0035] Reference Figures 2 to 4 Specifically, the first ring 3 is generally made of metal, such as stainless steel or carbon steel, and is ring-shaped. Its inner diameter matches the outer diameter of the pre-installed equipment fitting 1. It is connected to the pre-installed equipment fitting 1 by welding or integral molding. Of course, other detachable connection methods such as clamps can also be used. The outer diameter of the first ring 3 is larger than that of the pre-installed equipment fitting 1 to provide suitable hooking support for the hook lock 6. The edge of the hooking mating surface between the first ring 3 and the distal hook 61 is provided with a chamfer 31. With this chamfer 31 design, when the hook lock 6 swings towards the hooking mating surface of the first ring 3 under the pushing action of the annular locking sleeve 5, the distal hook 61 of the hook lock 6 can slide down to the hooking mating surface of the distal hook 61 through the guiding action of the chamfer 31 at the first ring 3, just like a slide, guiding the hook lock 6 to accurately position, reducing the need for manual fine-tuning during installation, and is particularly suitable for operation in high-altitude or low-light cabin environments.

[0036] Specifically, the second ring 4 includes an inner ring seat 42 and an outer ring seat 41 arranged side by side. The annular lock sleeve 5 includes a threaded sleeve 51 and a push ring 52. The outer ring seat 41 has external threads on its outer circumferential surface for connection with the inner circumferential thread of the threaded sleeve 51 in the annular lock sleeve 5. The inner ring seat 42 and the outer ring seat 41 are generally made of metal. They can be integrally formed or connected by welding or other methods. The outer diameter of the inner ring seat 42 is smaller than that of the outer ring seat 41. This design provides smooth movement space for the push ring 52 in the annular lock sleeve 5, allowing the inner circumferential surface of the push ring 52 to abut well with the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring seat 42. Several receiving grooves 421 are formed on the circumference of the inner ring seat 42. These receiving grooves 421 correspond one-to-one with the hook lock 6, and the hinge point of the hook lock 6 is set in the corresponding receiving groove 421. In addition, a number of movable cavities 411 are provided in the outer ring seat 41. The movable cavities 411 of the outer ring seat 41 are connected to the number of receiving grooves 421 of the inner ring seat 42. When the distal hook 61 of the hook-lock member 6 hooks with the first ring 3, the proximal hook 62 of the hook-lock member 6 swings into the movable cavity 411 of the outer ring seat 41 and hooks and fixes with the inner wall of the movable cavity 411.

[0037] The receiving groove 421 and the movable cavity 411 provide a stable swing space for the hook and lock part 6 and limit the hook and lock part 6 to ensure that its swing trajectory is controllable, thereby achieving precise hooking in a compact layout and reducing the risk of installation failure due to misalignment.

[0038] Specifically, the hook-locking component 6 is generally made of metal, specifically durable and high-strength alloy steel, to withstand significant pressure and tension. The distal hook 61 of the hook-locking component 6 is curved, and the arc and size of the hook must be adapted to the first ring 3 to smoothly engage with the side of the first ring 3 opposite to the sealing ring 7. When the hook-locking component 6 engages with the first ring 3, the distal hook 61 presses against the first ring 3 towards the second ring 4, causing the sealing ring 7 to elastically deform. The proximal hook 62 is also curved. When the distal hook 61 of the hook-locking component 6 engages with the first ring 3, the proximal hook 62 swings into the movable cavity 411 of the outer ring seat 41 and hooks and fixes itself to the inner wall of the movable cavity 411, forming a double locking mechanism. This further resists possible vibration or stress loosening at the connection point, making it particularly suitable for scenarios where periodic loads arise due to fluid pressure fluctuations and temperature changes during wind turbine operation, enhancing the structure's fatigue resistance. The hook-lock component 6 is hinged in the receiving groove 421 by means of a pin or other means, and can swing flexibly. Of course, other structures that can achieve the hinge function can also be used.

[0039] Specifically, the threaded sleeve 51 and the push ring 52 can be integrally formed or connected by welding or other methods. The inner circumference of the threaded sleeve 51 has an internal thread that matches the external thread of the outer ring seat 41. By rotating the threaded sleeve 51, it can be screwed along the external thread of the outer ring seat 41 towards the first ring 3. The inner circumferential surface of the push ring 52 abuts against the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring seat 42. When the threaded sleeve 51 is screwed towards the first ring 3, it will drive the push ring 52 to move. The push ring 52 will push the hook locking member 6, forcing the hook locking member 6 to tightly hook with the first ring 3. The tightening operation of the hook locking member 6 is converted into radial clamping force, avoiding the disadvantage of multi-directional force application in traditional installation. At the same time, it enables radial force transmission between the annular locking sleeve 5, the hook locking member 6, and the first ring 3, further improving the connection stability of the pipe fitting.

[0040] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 Specifically, it also includes an operating component 8 for driving the threaded sleeve 51 to rotate. The outer circumferential surface of the threaded sleeve 51 has a groove 511 for engaging with the operating component 8. The operating component 8 includes a locking block 81 that engages with the groove 511 and an operating rod 82 fixedly connected to the locking block 81. The locking block 81 and the operating rod 82 are generally made of metal and are rigidly connected, allowing for more direct torque transmission and preventing slippage. The length of the operating rod 82 is adjustable to accommodate installation requirements at different depths; for example, a telescopic rod structure can be used to improve ergonomics. Several slots 511 are provided and are circumferentially distributed on the outer circumference of the threaded sleeve 51, so that the operating component 8 can be engaged from any angle. An elastic rope 83 is provided between the locking blocks 81 at adjacent slots 511. The elastic rope 83 can generate a pre-tightening force on the locking blocks 81 to prevent the tool from accidentally falling off in a vibrating environment, ensuring the safety of high-altitude operations. At the same time, it can adapt to threaded sleeves 51 with different outer diameters, reducing the risk of tool loss and improving the applicability of the tool. It should be emphasized that one section of the elastic rope 83 is hooked with a hook 84 and a pull ring 85 to facilitate the disassembly and assembly of the operating component 8.

[0041] The implementation principle of this embodiment is as follows: This pipe fitting connection structure cleverly solves the problem of pipe fitting connection in the compact space of the wind turbine nacelle through reasonable component design and coordination. The first set of rings 3 and the second set of rings 4 are respectively installed at the ends of the pipe fittings 2 of the first and last installed equipment, with a sealing ring 7 placed in the middle to lay the foundation for sealing. The hook locking parts 6 are circumferentially distributed on the second set of rings 4. Through the screwing and pushing of the annular locking sleeve 5, a tight hooking with the first set of rings 3 is achieved. The lever principle is used to generate a uniform clamping force to deform and seal the sealing ring 7. Compared with the traditional flange bolt connection, the installation time and operation difficulty are greatly reduced. The second set of rings 4 adopts a split structure of inner ring seat 42 and outer ring seat 41 and a special design of annular locking sleeve 5, which provides stable moving space and reliable driving force for the hook locking parts 6, ensuring installation accuracy and connection stability. The double locking mechanism of the near-end hook 62 and the moving cavity 411 and the chamfer 31 design of the first set of rings 3 further enhance the fatigue resistance and installation convenience of the structure. The cooperation between the operating component 8, the slot 511, and the elastic rope 83 facilitates operation in confined spaces, prevents tools from falling out, and improves the safety and efficiency of high-altitude operations. In summary, this structure significantly improves the installation efficiency and sealing reliability of pipe fittings while maintaining structural compactness, representing a major improvement over existing technologies.

[0042] This application provides a method for connecting pipe fittings in a central cooling system of a wind turbine, comprising the following steps: S1: Initially align the second collar 4 at the end of the downstream equipment fitting 2 with the first collar 3 at the end of the upstream equipment fitting 1, and place a sealing ring 7 between the first collar 3 and the second collar 4. During installation, the operator should first observe the position and orientation of the first collar 3 and the second collar 4, and manually align them roughly, making their central axes coincide as much as possible. The sealing ring 7 used here can be made of rubber, which has good elasticity and sealing performance. Place it flat between the first collar 3 and the second collar 4 to prepare for subsequent sealing work.

[0043] S2: Swing the several hook-locking pieces 6 hinged on the second ring 4, so that the distal hook portion 61 of each hook-locking piece 6 crosses the edge of the first ring 3 and forms a preliminary hook with the side of the first ring 3 away from the sealing ring 7. The operator can use their hand or a simple tool to swing the hook-locking pieces 6 one by one, allowing them to rotate around the hinge point, so that the distal hook portion 61 crosses the edge of the first ring 3 and then rests on the side of the first ring 3 away from the sealing ring 7, thus achieving a preliminary hook. This step is the basis for subsequent locking; once the preliminary hook is completed, it creates favorable conditions for the subsequent tightening of the annular locking sleeve 5.

[0044] S3: The threaded sleeve 51 of the annular locking sleeve 5 is screwed in towards the first ring 3. As the annular locking sleeve 5 is screwed in, the push ring 52 will gradually approach and push the hook locking member 6. After being pushed, the hook locking member 6 will swing further towards the first ring 3, and its distal hook 61 will generate a continuous axial clamping force on the first ring 3. This pressure will be transmitted to the sealing ring 7, causing the sealing ring 7 to undergo elastic deformation, filling the gap between the first ring 3 and the second ring 4, laying the foundation for a reliable seal.

[0045] S4: Continue to tighten the annular locking sleeve 5 until the hook locking member 6 is securely locked between the annular locking sleeve 5 and the first ring 3, and the sealing ring 7 reaches the preset compression deformation amount, achieving a reliable sealing connection. Confirm the locking state by observing the screw-in position of the annular locking sleeve 5 or using a preset torque tool. The operator then rotates the annular locking sleeve 5 until it reaches the predetermined screw-in position, or uses a torque tool with a preset torque value. When the set torque value is reached, it indicates that the hook locking member 6 has been securely locked between the annular locking sleeve 5 and the first ring 3, and the sealing ring 7 has reached the preset compression deformation amount, thus forming a reliable sealing connection.

[0046] This connection method, through a series of orderly steps, utilizes the cooperation of the hook-locking component 6 and the annular locking sleeve 5 to achieve rapid connection and reliable sealing of the central cooling system pipes of wind turbine units. It replaces the traditional method of inserting bolts into holes and tightening them sequentially, avoiding the hassle of precise hole alignment and multiple bolt operations in a compact space. The single linear screwing operation of the annular locking sleeve 5 is simpler and faster. By gradually pushing the hook-locking component 6, a continuous axial clamping force is applied to the first ring 3, ensuring that the sealing ring 7 is uniformly deformed under pressure, forming a stable and reliable sealing interface. The locking state is confirmed by observing the screwing position of the annular locking sleeve 5 or by using a torque tool, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the connection. This method significantly shortens installation time, reduces labor intensity, and improves connection quality and sealing reliability. It is particularly suitable for the compact equipment layout and narrow operating space within the wind turbine nacelle, representing an effective improvement over existing pipe connection methods.

[0047] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A pipe connection structure for a central cooling system of a wind turbine generator, characterized in that: The system includes a first collar (3) disposed at the end of the pre-installed equipment fitting (1), a second collar (4) disposed at the end of the post-installed equipment fitting (2), and a sealing ring (7) disposed between the first collar (3) and the second collar (4); the second collar (4) is hinged with a plurality of hook locking members (6), which are circumferentially distributed around the second collar (4), and each hook locking member (6) includes a distal hook portion (61) for disengaging from the first collar (3) away from the sealing ring (7). The hook lock (6) engages with the first ring (3) on one side; when the hook lock (6) engages with the first ring (3), the hook part (61) at the far end of the hook lock (6) presses the first ring (3) towards the second ring (4) and causes the sealing ring (7) to deform elastically; the outer circumferential surface of the second ring (4) is threaded with an annular locking sleeve (5), and the hook lock (6) is locked between the annular locking sleeve (5) and the first ring (3) by the annular locking sleeve (5) being screwed towards the first ring (3).

2. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second ring (4) includes an inner ring seat (42) and an outer ring seat (41) arranged side by side. The annular locking sleeve (5) includes a threaded sleeve (51) and a push ring (52). The outer ring seat (41) has an external thread on its outer circumferential surface for threaded connection with the inner circumferential side of the threaded sleeve (51). The outer diameter of the inner ring seat (42) is smaller than the outer diameter of the outer ring seat (41). The inner circumferential surface of the push ring (52) abuts against the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring seat (42). The inner ring seat (42) has several receiving grooves (421) on its periphery. Several hook locking parts (6) correspond one-to-one with several receiving grooves (421). The hinge point of the hook locking part (6) is set in the corresponding receiving groove (421). While the threaded sleeve (51) is screwed in the direction of the first ring (3), it drives the push ring (52) to move. The push ring (52) pushes the hook locking part (6) to force the hook locking part (6) to be tightly hooked with the first ring (3).

3. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer ring seat (41) has several movable cavities (411) inside. The several movable cavities (411) of the outer ring seat (41) are connected to the several receiving grooves (421) of the inner ring seat (42). The hook lock (6) also includes a proximal hook (62). The proximal hook (62) and the distal hook (61) are respectively placed on both sides of the hinge point of the hook lock (6). When the distal hook (61) of the hook lock (6) hooks with the first ring (3), the proximal hook (62) of the hook lock (6) swings into the movable cavity (411) of the outer ring seat (41) and hooks and fixes with the inner wall of the movable cavity (411).

4. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first ring (3) and the hook engagement surface of the distal hook (61) are provided with a chamfer (31). When the hook lock (6) swings towards the hook engagement surface of the first ring (3) under the pushing action of the annular lock sleeve (5), the distal hook (61) of the hook lock (6) slides down to the hook engagement surface of the distal hook (61) through the guiding action of the chamfer (31) at the first ring (3).

5. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: It also includes an operating member (8) for driving the threaded sleeve (51) to rotate, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the threaded sleeve (51) is provided with a groove (511) for engaging with the operating member (8).

6. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The operating component (8) includes a locking block (81) that engages with the locking slot (511) and an operating rod (82) that is fixedly connected to the locking block (81).

7. The pipe connection structure of a central cooling system for a wind turbine generator according to claim 6, characterized in that: The slots (511) are provided in a plurality of them and are distributed circumferentially on the outer circumferential surface of the threaded sleeve (51). Elastic ropes (83) are provided between the locking blocks (81) at adjacent slots (511).

8. A method for connecting pipe fittings in a central cooling system of a wind turbine generator, applied to the pipe fitting connection structure of a central cooling system of a wind turbine generator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Align the second collar (4) at the end of the post-installed equipment fitting (2) with the first collar (3) at the end of the pre-installed equipment fitting (1), and place a sealing ring (7) between the first collar (3) and the second collar (4); S2: Swing the several hook locks (6) hinged on the second ring (4) so ​​that the far end hook (61) of each hook lock (6) passes over the edge of the first ring (3) and forms a preliminary hook with the side of the first ring (3) away from the sealing ring (7). S3: The annular locking sleeve (5) is threaded onto the outer circumferential surface of the second ring (4) and screwed in toward the first ring (3). During the screwing process, the annular locking sleeve (5) pushes the hook locking part (6) to swing toward the first ring (3), so that the distal hook part (61) generates a continuous axial clamping force on the first ring (3), thereby compressing the sealing ring (7) and causing it to elastically deform. S4: Continue to tighten the annular locking sleeve (5) until the hook lock (6) is securely locked between the annular locking sleeve (5) and the first ring (3), and the sealing ring (7) reaches the preset compression deformation amount to achieve a reliable sealing connection. The locking state is confirmed by observing the screw-in position of the annular locking sleeve (5).

Images