cooling tower

Abstract

An automatic cleaning device (1) for cleaning components (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) of a cooling tower (100) comprises a fixed base (2) attached to an upper wall (119, 122) of the cooling tower (100, 100'); a body (7) mechanically connected to the fixed base (2) and movable in translation with respect to the fixed base (2) in a first direction (X) substantially perpendicular to the upper surface (119, 122); and a nozzle device (25) in fluid connection with the fixed base (2), comprising at least one nozzle (29, 30, 32, 32) for spraying a cleaning fluid to the components (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) to be cleaned, wherein the body (7) is movable between a storage position and a cleaning position. The nozzle device (25) is rotatable with respect to the body (7) about a first axis (22) and a second axis (27).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an automatic cleaning apparatus, and more specifically to an automatic cleaning apparatus for cleaning components of a cooling tower, a cooling tower, an automatic cleaning method, and a method for cooling fluid in a cooling tower. Background Technology

[0002] Cooling towers are widely used in industry to cool fluids. Some cooling towers are inherently passive, where airflow from the surrounding atmosphere draws air in from the base or foundation of the tower, heating it inside. The heated air rises through the tower and exits from the top. There are "wet" cooling towers, where air comes into direct contact with the fluid being cooled. There are "dry" cooling towers, where air flows through a heat exchanger while the liquid to be cooled flows through it.

[0003] In the field of hydrometallurgy, it is necessary to cool electrolytes or acidic solutions containing slurry, gypsum, or metal. For example, it is known that zinc can be separated from an electrolyte containing zinc ions and sulfuric acid. During the separation process, the temperature of the electrolyte usually rises, thus requiring cooling.

[0004] WO 2007 / 096457 A2 discloses a cooling tower in which cooling air enters the cooling tower near the base of the cooling tower via a fan. The cooling air typically enters the cooling tower horizontally and rotates within the cooling tower. Nozzles are positioned near the upper end of the cooling tower, spraying the liquid to be cooled into the cooling tower, causing the droplets to mix with the air and be cooled by evaporation.

[0005] Eight demisters are installed near the top of the cooling tower, arranged so that the fluid passing through them moves horizontally outward from the top of the tower. The demisters remove water droplets suspended in the air, along with any impurities contained within them. Therefore, the demisters essentially purify the fluid passing through them, thus limiting the overall emission of impurities (which may be toxic in some cases) from the cooling tower. The term "fluid" should be understood according to its general definition, i.e., a substance such as a liquid or gas. The term "fluid" can also refer to a mixture of one or more liquids with one or more gases, such as a gas-fluid mixture. An example of a gas-fluid mixture is a gas and / or air containing moisture and droplets.

[0006] During use, impurities in the liquid can accumulate on the walls of the chamber and in the demister. These impurities may lead to a loss of efficiency in the cooling process.

[0007] The accumulation of impurities on or inside the demister requires relatively frequent cleaning. This makes cooling towers labor-intensive products, with cleaning typically occurring approximately once a month. For this maintenance cleaning, a high-pressure water gun must be used to spray the demister to wash away the accumulated impurities. Simultaneously, the walls and base of the demister must also be sprayed with high-pressure water, which usually requires disassembling the demister to allow maintenance personnel access. Therefore, during cleaning, the equipment needs to be shut down, emptied, and cleaned to facilitate maintenance.

[0008] Furthermore, it is known that a layer of cloth, typically made of PVC, is usually added to the radially inner surface of the perimeter wall, or that the cloth is suspended radially inward from the wall. Because of its smooth surface, the cloth prevents solids from forming on the wall surface. The cloth is usually replaceable and is made of a material more resistant to liquid corrosion than the wall material. While this arrangement offers the overall advantage of better protection of the wall from impurities and further consequences such as corrosion, it requires periodic cloth replacement, for example, at each maintenance cycle. Therefore, the cloth is difficult to install and has high operating costs.

[0009] For maintenance personnel, operations such as dismantling demisters, entering the interior of the chamber, cleaning the spray demister and spray chamber walls, and replacing the cooling cloth are both difficult and dangerous. These operations can also lead to prolonged interruptions in the cooling process. All of these negatively impact the overall efficiency and complexity of the cooling tower's cooling process.

[0010] The cleaning of cooling towers has been a subject of numerous studies in the past. For example, CN 220387257U discloses a cleaning rod equipped with a high-pressure nozzle for cleaning the interior of a cooling tower. The cleaning rod is controlled to move up and down within the cooling tower to achieve a cleaning effect. Although this device makes cleaning easier, it is still not entirely satisfactory, especially since it still requires the operator to operate the cleaning rod at close range to move the nozzle at the correct height, and even with such control, some components of the cooling tower remain difficult to clean. Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to a first aspect, an automatic cleaning device for cleaning components of a cooling tower is provided, comprising: - A mounting base designed to attach to the upper wall of a cooling tower. - A main body mechanically connected to a fixed base and capable of translational movement relative to the fixed base in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface, and - A nozzle device fluidly connected to a fixed base, comprising at least one nozzle for spraying cleaning fluid onto a component to be cleaned, wherein a body is movable between a storage position where the nozzle device is above an upper wall and a cleaning position where the nozzle device is below an upper wall, wherein the nozzle device is rotatable relative to the body about a first axis parallel to a first direction and about a second axis perpendicular to the first direction.

[0012] This device allows for the automatic lowering of the sprayer directly onto the parts to be cleaned, ensuring all components are reached by the sprayed cleaning fluid without requiring maintenance personnel to enter the cooling chamber or disassemble the demister. This makes the cleaning process easier, less dangerous, minimizes labor intensity during maintenance, and reduces equipment downtime. This allows for more frequent cleaning processes. The amount of impurities becomes less critical, leading to significantly shorter cleaning cycles and eliminating the need for cloths.

[0013] It should be understood that the upper wall can be any substantially horizontal wall forming the upper boundary of the cooling chamber. For example, in a cooling tower that does not include a demister or includes a demister located radially outside the outer peripheral wall (as described in WO 2007 / 096457 A2), the upper wall can be the top cover of the cooling tower. In another example, in a cooling tower that includes a demister vertically inserted between the top cover and a platform placed below the top cover, the upper wall can be an outer peripheral ring forming part of the top cover. In this other example, the upper wall can also be a platform placed below the top cover.

[0014] It should be understood that the cleaning fluid can be any fluid that can be sprayed (i.e., dispersed or applied) under pressure. The cleaning fluid can be, in particular, a cleaning liquid, such as a mixture of water and detergent.

[0015] The body may include an elongated rod extending along a first direction, the elongated rod having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. A nozzle device may be located adjacent to the second longitudinal end. The elongated rod may be configured to pass through a hole in the upper wall such that, in the storage position, the second longitudinal end is relatively close to the mounting base, while in the cleaning position, the second longitudinal end is relatively far away below the mounting base.

[0016] This arrangement (equipment) provides a simple mechanism for moving the nozzle equipment between a storage position and a cleaning position. It also utilizes geometries where the demisters are arranged vertically or at an angle, and / or where the demisters are radially located within the outer peripheral wall of the cooling tower.

[0017] The elongated rod can be a telescopic rod. The elongated rod can have a fixed length. This fixed length can be in the range of 500-4000 mm, preferably 1000-2000 mm. For cooling chambers of conventional dimensions, this length is particularly suitable for allowing the cleaning fluid to reach any point on the walls of the cooling chamber, due to the nozzle device that can rotate about a first axis parallel to the first direction and a second axis perpendicular to the first direction.

[0018] The automatic cleaning device may include a first proximity sensor capable of detecting that a first longitudinal end approaches the fixed base. The automatic cleaning device may also include a second proximity sensor capable of detecting that a second longitudinal end approaches the fixed base. These sensors enable more precise control of the automatic cleaning device, thereby further improving the efficiency of the cleaning process.

[0019] The pressure of the cleaning fluid is another factor affecting the efficiency of the cleaning process. The pressure, combined with the typical dimensions of the cooling tower, will affect the speed at which the sprayed cleaning fluid reaches the parts to be cleaned. At least one nozzle can be adjusted to supply the cleaning fluid at a pressure of 2-15 bar, preferably 3-10 bar, more preferably 4-6 bar, or even more preferably 4.5-5.5 bar.

[0020] Flow rate is another important parameter because the higher the flow rate, the more significant the cleaning effect when the cleaning fluid collides with the surface to be cleaned at a certain velocity. However, maintaining a high flow rate with high cleaning fluid pressure without excessively increasing the size of the equipment is more complex. Therefore, it is necessary to achieve a careful balance between high flow rate and high pressure. Considering the typical size of cooling towers, it is particularly preferable to adjust at least one nozzle to supply the cleaning fluid at a total flow rate of 10-175 L / min, preferably 20-120 L / min.

[0021] It should be understood that the total flow rate is the sum of the individual flow rates of each nozzle in at least one nozzle. That is, when only one nozzle is provided, the total flow rate is equal to the individual flow rate of that single nozzle. When two nozzles are provided, namely a first nozzle and a second nozzle, the total flow rate is equal to the sum of the individual flow rates of the first nozzle and the second nozzle.

[0022] The at least one nozzle may include a first nozzle oriented in a second direction perpendicular to the second axis. The at least one nozzle may include a second nozzle oriented in a third direction perpendicular to the second direction and the second axis. The at least one nozzle may include a third nozzle oriented in a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction and opposite to the second direction. The at least one nozzle may include a fourth nozzle oriented in a fifth direction perpendicular to the fourth direction and opposite to the third direction.

[0023] This design, coupled with the fact that the nozzle device can rotate relative to the main body about a first axis parallel to the first direction and a second axis perpendicular to the first direction, makes it particularly suitable for the internal shape of cooling towers. Therefore, it is especially easy to automatically access every part of the components to be cleaned (particularly the outer peripheral wall, bottom, or upper boundary of the cooling chamber, or the surface of the demister).

[0024] The automatic cleaning device may also include an intermediate body mechanically connected to the main body and the nozzle device. The intermediate body is rotatable relative to the main body about a first axis. The nozzle device is rotatable relative to the intermediate body about a second axis.

[0025] Therefore, a particularly simple and uncomplicated method is provided to provide a nozzle device with the above-mentioned functions.

[0026] The body may also include a hose that is fluidly connected to the fixed base and to the nozzle. The hose may be indirectly fluidly connected to the nozzle at least through the body and / or an intermediate body.

[0027] This arrangement provides a convenient way to supply the cleaning fluid to the nozzles.

[0028] According to the second aspect, the cooling tower includes a bottom, an outer peripheral wall, and an upper wall, wherein the bottom, the outer peripheral wall, and the upper wall together define the cooling chamber of the cooling tower; and according to the first aspect, the automatic cleaning device has a fixed base attached to the upper wall, and the main body of the automatic cleaning device is movable between a storage position located outside the cooling chamber and a cleaning position located inside the cooling chamber.

[0029] It should be understood that, as in the first aspect, the upper wall can be any substantially horizontal wall forming the upper boundary of the cooling chamber. According to the above examples, the upper wall can be a cover forming a horizontal plate positioned above the entire cooling chamber; or a cover forming a ring radially located between the demister of the cooling tower and the outer peripheral wall of the cooling tower; or an upper platform positioned below and attached to the cover, radially positioned inside the demister of the cooling tower, and vertically supporting the demister. The demister can also be located radially inside the outer peripheral wall.

[0030] According to a third aspect, an automatic cleaning method is provided for cleaning components of a cooling tower, wherein the components are preferably the walls of the cooling tower or the demister of the cooling tower. The method includes: - The main body of the automatic cleaning device according to the first aspect is moved relative to the fixed base by translation along a first direction substantially perpendicular to the upper wall of the cooling tower, and this movement occurs between a storage position in which the nozzle device of the automatic cleaning device is located above the upper wall and a cleaning position in which the nozzle device is located below the upper wall. - A nozzle device sprays cleaning fluid onto a component to be cleaned through at least one nozzle, and further includes a nozzle device that rotates relative to the body about a first axis and about a second axis during spraying.

[0031] This method allows cooling tower operators to use readily available products that are protected from environmental influences inside the cooling tower. In addition to the ease with which all components can be cleaned with a sprayed cleaning fluid, the step of moving between storage and cleaning locations makes cleaning more efficient and reliable.

[0032] According to the fourth aspect, a method for cooling liquid in a cooling tower includes: Gas (optionally air) is introduced into the cooling chamber through the gas inlet of the cooling tower. The liquid to be cooled is sprayed into the cooling chamber through one or more nozzles, causing gas from the gas inlet to cool the liquid and mix with it, forming a mixed fluid. Passing the mixed fluid through one or more demisters reduces or eliminates liquid in the mixed fluid. The cooling methods include periodically performing automatic cleaning according to the third aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooling tower according to a first embodiment is shown; Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the cooling tower; Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 and 2 A sectional perspective view of the cooling tower; Figure 4 The equipment was displayed in Figures 1 to 3 A three-dimensional view of the elongated rod of the automatic cleaning device in a cooling tower; Figure 5 Showing Figure 4 The front view of the depicted rod; Figure 6 Showing Figure 4 and 5 The side view of the depicted rod; Figure 7 The equipment was displayed in Figures 1 to 3 A perspective view of the lower part of the automatic cleaning device in a cooling tower; Figure 8 It shows the first state of being in the clean position. Figure 7 The lower front view; Figure 9 The second state, which is in a clean position shortly after the first state, is shown. Figure 7 and8 The lower front view; Figure 10 The third state, which is in a clean position shortly after the second state, is shown. Figure 7 and 8 The lower front view; Figure 11 Showing Figures 1 to 3 A front view of the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall of the cooling tower during the cleaning process; Figure 12 A sectional perspective view of the upper part of the cooling tower according to the second embodiment is shown; Figure 13 Showing Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of the upper part, in which the automatic cleaning device is in a storage position; and Figure 14 Showing Figure 12 and 13 A schematic perspective view of the upper part of the device, in which the automatic cleaning device is in the cleaning position. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Figures 1 to 3 A cooling tower 100 is shown. The cooling tower 100 includes a wall 112 defining a chamber 113. The wall 112 typically defines a generally cylindrical chamber 113, for example, a generally cylindrical chamber 113 with a circular base. Other shapes are also contemplated, such as chambers with square, rectangular, hexagonal, or elliptical cross-sections. A conduit 120 is provided (see...). Figure 2 This allows the liquid to be cooled to be delivered to the upper part of the cooling tower 100, and from there to a plurality of nozzles 124 (schematically depicted) located inside the chamber 113. Figure 2 and 3 (The following section describes nozzle 124 in more detail.)

[0035] The top cover 122 of chamber 113 defines the top of cooling tower 100. According to this description, top cover 122 is an example of an upper wall. Top cover 122 may have a flat and substantially horizontal surface. Top cover 122 has an outlet 123 for allowing fluid to flow out of chamber 113. Outlet 123 can be of any shape, including, for example, circular, hexagonal, or square. In the case of the illustrated circular central outlet 123, the shape of top cover 122 resembles a ring radially surrounding outlet 123. The bottom 125 of chamber 113 defines the bottom of chamber 113. The bottom 125 of chamber 113 includes a liquid outlet 126 for allowing liquid to flow out of chamber 113. Bottom 125 may be part of cooling tower 100. Alternatively, the outer peripheral wall 112 and top cover 122 of the cooling tower may be constructed on-site in an existing space (e.g., a concrete platform) such that once constructed, the existing space thereby encloses the bottom side of the cooling tower, thus serving as the bottom of cooling tower 100. During assembly, the cooling tower 100 is arranged vertically such that the centerline X of the cooling tower extending from the bottom 125 to the top cover 122 is vertical, that is, vertical in terms of gravity. According to this specification, the centerline X is an example of a first direction or a first axis.

[0036] The outer peripheral wall 112 can be made of any suitable material. The top cover 122 can be a wall made of any suitable material. Some suitable materials include fiberglass, reinforced fiberglass, aluminum, (stainless) steel, and combinations thereof. The bottom 125 can be a separate material, for example, concrete, on which the outer peripheral wall 112 of the cooling tower 100 is mounted. Alternatively, the bottom 125 can be made of the same material as the outer peripheral wall 112.

[0037] A gas inlet 114 is provided near the bottom 125 of the cooling tower 100, passing through the outer peripheral wall 112, and a fan 115 is provided for drawing gas (typically air) into the chamber 113. As described below, the air is used to cool the liquid to be cooled. Although only one gas inlet 114 is shown, more than one gas inlet may be provided near the bottom of the cooling tower 100.

[0038] An upper platform 119 is provided inside the cooling tower 100, facing the upper end of the cooling tower 100. That is, the platform 119 is located vertically within the outer peripheral wall 112, between the bottom 125 and the top cover 122, and is generally closer to the top cover 122 than closer to the bottom 125. In other words, the platform is located in the upper half of the cooling tower 100. The platform 119 may have a flat and substantially horizontal surface. According to this specification, the platform 119 is an example of an upper wall.

[0039] Platform 119 is spaced apart from outer peripheral wall 112, but can be connected to it, for example, via supports and / or beams. Alternatively or supplementarily, platform 119 can be connected to top cover 122, for example, via supports and / or beams 121. One or more demisters 118 are provided around platform 119, typically extending between platform 119 and top cover 122. In one example, eight demisters 118 are provided circumferentially around platform 119. In one example, each pair of adjacent demisters 118 may be separated by supports 121 extending vertically between platform 119 and top cover 122. In other examples, more than two, preferably two to ten, demisters 118 are provided. The number of demisters 118 can depend particularly on the size of the cooling tower. Preferably, an even number of demisters 118 are provided so that they can be grouped in pairs. It is also conceivable to further couple demisters located within an angular range around the centerline of the cooling tower to a second demister. In this arrangement, fluid passes through two demisters arranged in series. Within the aforementioned scope, "demister" should be understood to potentially encompass a set of demisters arranged in series. These exemplary demisters 118 extend substantially over the entire distance from platform 119 to top cover 122. If supports are present connecting platform 119 to top cover 122, these supports can also provide mounting points for demisters 118. That is, supports / beams generally define a frame for each demister to be installed. Platform 119 is solid, preventing fluid from passing through platform 119 itself. Cooling chamber 113 should be understood as the space downstream of inlet 114 and upstream of demister 118. Therefore, cooling chamber 113 is defined by bottom 125, outer peripheral wall 112, and its upper boundary is defined by top cover 122, demister 118, and platform 119. Therefore, the space vertically located between the plane of top cover 122 and platform 119 does not form part of cooling chamber 113.

[0040] One or more demisters 118 are located radially inward of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the cooling tower 100. The arrangement of the one or more demisters 118 is such that fluid flowing from the outlet 123 must first pass through one or more demisters 118. That is, each demister is arranged within a chamber such that fluid moving from inside the chamber 113 towards the outlet 123 flows substantially radially inward through the demister toward the centerline X of the cooling tower before reaching the outlet 123.

[0041] Demister 118 typically comprises multiple spaced-apart corrugated plates, with the corrugations on adjacent plates aligned with each other. This forces the fluid through the demister to take a meandering path, significantly reducing the fluid velocity. This reduction in velocity causes suspended droplets to separate from the fluid flow and form on the plates. These droplets can then flow out of the demister.

[0042] One or more nozzles 124 are provided within chamber 113. The nozzles 124 are generally oriented downwards at an angle, causing the liquid to be sprayed extensively into the center of chamber 113. The nozzles 124 are positioned at or below the height of platform 119, but their position can also be higher, as long as the sprayed liquid does not directly impinge on one or more demisters 118. The nozzles 124 are configured to spray the liquid to be cooled into chamber 113. There are no particular limitations on the liquid to be cooled; it can be any liquid, including, for example, water, acid, acidic solutions, electrolytes, or neutral solutions. The liquid can be provided at any temperature. Typically, cooling tower 100 can be used to cool liquids with temperatures between 25°C and 95°C. The temperature of the cooling liquid discharged through liquid outlet 123 can be between 15°C and 75°C. The temperature of the gas entering gas inlet 114 can be ambient air temperature, and is therefore typically between -35°C and 45°C. The temperature of the gas leaving outlet 123 can be between 0°C and 65°C.

[0043] During operation, airflow A1 is drawn into chamber 113 through inlet 114 near the bottom 125 of chamber 113. This airflow is typically from the atmosphere surrounding cooling tower 100, but in principle it can be any gas, including, for example, gas from a compressed gas source (such as a compressed gas tank or compressor).

[0044] When the airflow A1 enters chamber 113, it is generally horizontal. The gas inlet 114 can be arranged such that the centerline of its horizontal extension does not intersect the vertical centerline X of the cooling tower. That is, the inlet may not point directly to the centerline of the cooling tower 100. In this way, the gas inlet 114 can inject gas into chamber 113, causing the gas to move circumferentially within chamber 113. The liquid stream B1 to be cooled is pumped through liquid conduit 120 and sprayed into chamber 113 from nozzle 124. The falling liquid stream B1 mixes with the airflow A1, forming a turbulent flow A2 of the mixed fluid within chamber 113. Where the mixed fluid flow becomes turbulent, its velocity in the horizontal direction (i.e., in the plane perpendicular to the centerline X) increases.

[0045] In turbulent flow A2, the liquid to be cooled is cooled by the gas, primarily through evaporation, but also through conduction and convection. The strong airflow and turbulence help break up the water droplets ejected from nozzle 124 into smaller droplets, further enhancing the cooling efficiency of the cooling tower. The cooled liquid eventually drips from the bottom 125 of the cooling tower 100, and the cooled liquid stream B2 exits the cooling tower 100 through liquid outlet 126. Figure 3In this design, liquid outlet 126 is shown as a vertically oriented outlet formed in the bottom 125 of chamber 113. In an alternative design, liquid outlet 126 may be generally horizontally oriented and formed in the outer peripheral wall 112 of cooling tower 100, located near the bottom 125 of cooling tower 100, i.e., arranged as an overflow outlet.

[0046] If necessary, the liquid exiting outlet 126 can be recirculated through cooling tower 100. That is, this portion of liquid can be sent directly to one of nozzles 124 to pass through the cooling tower again, or the liquid can be mixed with the (hotter) liquid stream to be cooled that is normally supplied to nozzle 124.

[0047] Turbulent flow A2 flows upward toward one or more demisters 118. As previously described, the turbulent flow results in an increase in horizontal velocity. The fluid is a mixture of gas (such as air), evaporating liquid, and droplets, forming a fluid flow A3 that flows generally horizontally through the demisters and radially inward toward the centerline X of the cooling tower 100. Therefore, the specific orientation of the demisters 118 allows them to utilize their higher horizontal velocity as the turbulent flow moves away from the cooling tower 100.

[0048] In the case of multiple demisters 118, any given fluid portion will typically only pass through one of the demisters 118 before leaving the cooling tower 100, but the arrangement of the demisters 118 makes it possible for all or almost all fluid leaving the chamber 113 to pass through at least one demister 118.

[0049] The demister 118 includes a plurality of spaced-apart corrugated plates, with the corrugations on adjacent plates aligned with each other. This shape forces the fluid through the demister to take a meandering path, which significantly reduces the fluid velocity. This reduction in velocity causes suspended droplets to separate from the fluid flow and form on the plates. The droplets can then flow out of the demister 118.

[0050] Each demister 118 is arranged such that the fluid flowing through it flows approximately horizontally. In a demister oriented in this manner, as droplets fall from the airflow, they fall approximately perpendicular to the flow direction under the influence of gravity. This helps prevent droplets from slowing down the flow velocity of subsequent fluid entering the demister. In contrast, in a vertically oriented demister, the fluid typically flows vertically upwards through the demister, and droplets falling from the airflow fall in the opposite direction to the airflow under the influence of gravity. This can unduly reduce the flow velocity of fluid entering after the droplets and increase the likelihood of droplets being re-entrained in the airflow. Compared to an equivalent vertically oriented demister, a horizontally oriented demister can be twice as efficient. That is, it can demister twice the volume of the mixed fluid per unit time compared to a vertically oriented demister.

[0051] After passing through one or more demisters 118, the fluid flow A4 changes direction and moves vertically upward, exiting the cooling tower 100 through outlet 123. At this stage, the fluid, after passing through one or more demisters 118, is almost entirely or entirely in gaseous form or a mixture of gas and liquid (heated by contact with the liquid to be cooled). The gas is discharged into the atmosphere.

[0052] Compared to cooling towers where the demister is positioned radially outward relative to the outer peripheral wall of the cooling tower, the method adopted... Figures 1 to 3 The cooling tower 100 avoids the first drawback, namely that the effective floor space of the cooling tower is larger than the floor space measured on the ground around the circumference of its outer perimeter. It also avoids the second drawback, namely that the fluid exits the cooling tower in a generally horizontal direction. Figures 1 to 3 In the cooling tower 100, the fluid leaves the cooling tower 100 in a generally vertical direction, but still passes through the demister 118 in a generally horizontal direction, thus maintaining the higher efficiency of the horizontal demister compared to the vertical demister as described above.

[0053] Regarding the first drawback, the effective floor space of the cooling tower 100 can be entirely defined by the walls (plus a small amount to accommodate the gas inlet). Therefore, multiple cooling towers 100 can be placed closer to each other compared to cooling towers in which the demister is positioned radially outward relative to the outer peripheral wall of the cooling tower.

[0054] As an example, in four cooling towers, the demisters are positioned radially outward relative to the outer perimeter of the square-arranged cooling towers. Each cooling tower has a cylindrical chamber 13 with a diameter of 6 meters. These four cooling towers require a 22m x 22m floor space at the installation site to accommodate the large superstructure, including the demisters, and to provide sufficient spacing between them. In contrast, according to Figures 1 to 3 The four cooling towers 100 arranged in a square, each with a chamber 6 meters in diameter, require only 12 meters x 12 meters of floor space at the installation site. Therefore, for a given cooling capacity, this design significantly saves space, whether for a single cooling tower or a multi-tower installation.

[0055] For the same cooling capacity, the smaller overall size of the cooling tower 100 (due to the absence of the aforementioned large superstructure) can reduce material costs and simplify construction.

[0056] The second drawback mentioned above, namely that the warm air leaving the cooling tower flows out in a generally horizontal direction, may cause air circulation outside the cooling tower, making the air drawn in at the inlet warmer than normal. This reduces the cooling efficiency provided by the cooling tower.

[0057] When fluid flow A4 from Figures 1 to 3When the cooling tower 100 is sprayed vertically, the aforementioned undesirable air circulation outside the cooling tower can be significantly reduced, and therefore the degree of warming of the gas (air) entering the inlet 114 of the cooling tower 100 will also be significantly reduced.

[0058] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, platform 119 includes a central hole 130a. The central hole 130a allows an automatic cleaning device, which will be described below, to pass through. The central hole 130a is a through-hole extending through platform 119. The central hole 130a can be of any shape, such as circular, hexagonal, or square. In the depicted embodiment, the centerline of the central hole 130a coincides with the centerline X of the cooling tower. The central hole 130a is an example of a hole in the upper wall according to this specification. The central hole 130a mates with a cover 130b having a corresponding shape. The cover 130b can be open or closed. In the open state, it does not obstruct the central hole 130a. In the closed state, it obstructs the central hole 130a.

[0059] The top cover 122 includes one or more (preferably multiple) secondary holes 131a. Similar to the central hole 130a, the one or more secondary holes 131a are for the passage of an automatic cleaning device. Each secondary hole 131a is a through-hole extending through the top cover 122. Thus, each secondary hole is radially located outside the outlet 123, the demister 118, and the platform 119. The secondary holes 131a can be of any shape, such as circular, hexagonal, or square. The secondary holes 131a mate with corresponding covers 131b having the corresponding shape. The covers 131b can be open or closed. In the open state, the covers 131b do not obstruct the secondary holes 131a. In the closed state, they obstruct the secondary holes 131a. It is also possible to provide covers capable of obstructing multiple secondary holes, or to provide a single cover for all secondary holes. In the depicted embodiment, multiple secondary holes are provided circumferentially around the centerline X of the cooling tower. Preferably, each demister 118 is provided with a secondary hole 131a. Each secondary hole 131a is an example of a hole on the upper wall according to this specification.

[0060] like Figure 2 and 3 As shown, the cooling tower 100 includes an automatic cleaning device 1. The automatic cleaning device 1 can be provided separately from the cooling tower 100. Specifically, for example, the automatic cleaning device 1 can be provided separately from the cooling tower 100. Figures 1 to 3The automatic cleaning device is removed from the cooling tower 100 shown so that it can be used on another cooling tower 100 or replaced with another (e.g., a new) automatic cleaning device. Furthermore, multiple automatic cleaning devices 1 can be provided on a single cooling tower 100. In this specification, for clarity of the drawings, only one automatic cleaning device 1 is depicted, adjacent to the central hole 130a. However, another automatic cleaning device 1 can be provided adjacent to one of the secondary holes 131a. An automatic cleaning device 1 can also be provided adjacent to each of the central hole 130a and the secondary hole 131a.

[0061] The automatic cleaning device 1 is used to clean components of the cooling tower, such as the inner surfaces defining the cooling chamber. Specifically, the inner surface may be one of the inner surfaces of the outer peripheral wall 112, the bottom 125, the top cover 122, the platform 119, and the demister 118. In practice, the automatic cleaning device 1 positioned adjacent to the central hole 130a is more suitable for cleaning the inner surfaces of the bottom 125, the outer peripheral wall 112, and the platform 119. The automatic cleaning device 1 positioned adjacent to the secondary hole 131a is more suitable for cleaning the inner surface of the top cover 122, the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 in the upper part of the cooling tower 100, and the inner surface of the demister 118 adjacent to the secondary hole 131a.

[0062] The automatic cleaning device 1 includes a mounting base 2. The mounting base is attached to the upper surface of the upper wall, which, in the depicted embodiment, is formed by a platform 119. If the automatic cleaning device 1 is adjacent to a secondary hole 131a, the mounting base 2 may be attached to the upper surface of the upper wall formed by the cover 122. In both cases, attachment of the mounting base 2 to the upper surface is not necessary. The mounting base 2 may be attached to the radially inner surface of the central hole 130a or the secondary hole 131a, or to the lower surface of the platform 119 of the cover 122.

[0063] In this specification, the term "attachment" should be understood as a permanent or temporary attachment, at least for the period required for using the automatic cleaning device 1, i.e., during the cleaning cycle. That is, the mounting base 2 can be permanently attached to and held in place of the platform 119 or cover 122 for the entire service life of the cooling tower 100. In another example, the mounting base 2 can be permanently attached to and held in place of the platform 119 or cover 122, except for certain operations unrelated to the cleaning of the cooling tower 100. Examples of operations unrelated to cleaning may include, for example, maintenance of or cleaning of the automatic cleaning device 1. In another example, the mounting base can be temporarily attached to the platform 119 or cover 122 such that it remains securely attached to the platform or cover 122 during cleaning operations, and then removed to be attached near another hole in the central hole 130a and secondary hole 131a.

[0064] The mounting base 2 can be shaped into any component suitable for permanent or temporary attachment to the upper surface of the platform 119 or the cover 122. For example... Figure 2 and 3 Schematably depicted, the mounting base 2 may consist of a plate 3, a first support 4, a second support 5, and a sleeve 6. The plate 3 is intended to be attached to the platform 119 or the cover 122, for example, by bolts or screws. The first support 4 extends perpendicular to the plate 3, the second support 5 extends perpendicular to the first support 4, and the sleeve 6 extends parallel to the first support 4. In this way, the sleeve 6 is fixedly held above the central hole 130a (or, if fixed to the cover 122, above the secondary hole 131a). In the depicted embodiment, the platform 119 is substantially vertical, the plate 3 and the second support 5 are substantially horizontal, and the first support 4 and the sleeve 6 are substantially vertical. Furthermore, the first support 4 is radially offset from the centerline X, while the sleeve 6 is coaxial with the centerline X. Another example of the shape of the mounting base 2 may be a flange, such as a flange having a cylindrical or rotating cylindrical shape, which may be coaxial with the centerline X or the vertical centerline of the secondary hole 131a.

[0065] The mounting base 2 may include a cleaning fluid circuit. In this regard, the mounting base 2 may include a cleaning fluid supply conduit connected to a cleaning fluid storage tank. The cleaning fluid conduit may extend immediately adjacent to pipe 120. The cleaning fluid circuit may also include a valve. The cleaning fluid circuit is not shown in the first embodiment, but it is the same as the cleaning fluid circuit of the second embodiment, which will be described later. The cleaning fluid may be a cleaning liquid, such as water mixed with a cleaning agent.

[0066] The fixed base 2 may include a pneumatic circuit and a pneumatic actuator. For example, the sleeve 6 may be or include a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder may be supplied with compressed gas or compressed air to drive the component to rotate about the centerline X.

[0067] The automatic cleaning device 1 includes a main body 7. The main body 7 includes an elongated rod 7a and a main housing 7b. The rod 7a and the housing 7b form two mechanical parts that are fixedly attached to each other. The rod 7a and the housing 7b can be fixedly attached by bolts, welding, or formed as a single unit.

[0068] Rod 7a at Figure 2 and 3 The cooling tower is schematically depicted in the view, and in Figures 4 to 6 This is shown in further detail. For example... Figure 2 and 3 As seen, rod 7a passes through sleeve 6. Therefore, elongated rod 7a extends along centerline X.

[0069] With this arrangement, rod 7a is mechanically connected to fixed base 2 (i.e., to sleeve 6). Rod 7a may be a piston (not shown) of a pneumatic cylinder (formed by or contained in sleeve 6), or fixedly connected to such a piston. Rod 7a may translate relative to fixed base 2 in the direction of centerline X (e.g., vertically).

[0070] Rod 7a includes an upper longitudinal end 8 and a lower longitudinal end 9 (e.g. Figures 4 to 6 As shown). Since the rod 7a passes through the sleeve 6 and the fixed body 2 is attached adjacent to the hole 130a (or 131a), the rod 7a can pass through the hole 130a (or 131a), wherein the upper longitudinal end 8 is above the platform 119 (or cover 122) and the lower longitudinal end 9 is below the platform 119 (or cover 122).

[0071] With this arrangement, rod 7a can move between the upper storage position and the lower cleaning position. In the storage position, the lower longitudinal end 9 is relatively close to the fixed base 2. In other words, rod 7a must be raised to reach the storage position. In the storage position, both longitudinal ends 8 and 9 are above the platform 119 (or cover 122). In the storage position, the upper longitudinal end 8 is significantly higher than the fixed base 2. In the cleaning position, the upper longitudinal end 8 is relatively close to the fixed base 2. In other words, rod 7a must be lowered to reach the cleaning position. In the cleaning position, one longitudinal end 8 remains above the platform 119 (or cover 122), while the other longitudinal end 9 is below the platform 119 (or cover 122). In the cleaning position, the lower longitudinal end is significantly lower than the fixed base 2.

[0072] In the depicted embodiment, the rod 7a has a fixed length. This length can be calculated as the distance between the longitudinal ends 8 and 9. The fixed length can be in the range of 500-4000 mm, preferably 1000-2000 mm. The fixed length can also exceed these ranges. In particular, the fixed length depends on the dimensions, such as the height of the cooling tower 100. This structure with such dimensions, combined with other features of the automatic cleaning device 1, enables efficient access to every area of ​​the components to be cleaned in the cooling chamber 113 without complicating the automatic cleaning device 1. In one variant, the rod 7a is telescopic. That is, in this variant, the distance between the longitudinal ends 8 and 9 can be varied.

[0073] Rod 7a includes an upper proximity sensor 10 and a lower proximity sensor 11. Proximity sensors 10 and 11 can be located at longitudinal ends 8 and 9, respectively. Proximity sensors 10 and 11 can include any suitable means for detecting whether they are near a component, which can be a receiver on the fixed base 2. For example, a beam emitter-receiver (not shown) can be provided on the fixed base 2, and sensor 10 can be a light reflector. With this arrangement, proximity sensor 10 can detect that longitudinal end 8 is near the fixed base 2. Another beam emitter-receiver (not shown) can be provided on the fixed base 2, and sensor 11 can be a light reflector similar to sensor 10. With this arrangement, proximity sensor 11 can detect that longitudinal end 9 is near the fixed base 2. Alternatively, both sensors can use the same beam emitter-receiver, and the information can be combined with information about the pneumatic pressure in the cylinder. Another option is that proximity sensor 10 can be a reflector of a different type than proximity sensor 11, and this difference can be detected by the beam emitter-receiver.

[0074] At the lower longitudinal end 9, the rod 7a includes a fixed flange 12. The fixed flange 12 can be attached to the rod 7a via a plate 13 and a cylinder 14. This arrangement allows for a secure connection between the fixed flange 12 and the rod 7a. The fixed flange 12 may include a plurality of circumferentially distributed holes 15 for engaging with bolts attached to the body 7b.

[0075] For example, the length of cylinder 14 in the longitudinal direction of rod 7a is in the range of 100-250 mm. For example, the length of flange 12 in the longitudinal direction of rod 7a does not exceed 20 mm. For example, the length of plate 13 in the longitudinal direction does not exceed 20 mm.

[0076] Rod 7a includes a hose 16. The hose 16 is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid loop of the fixed base 2. The hose 16 can be constructed of rigid or flexible tubing. The hose 16 can be secured by holes 18 in the upper plate 17 and plate 13.

[0077] Main casing 7b in Figure 2 and 3 The cooling tower is schematically depicted in the view, and in Figures 7 to 10 This is shown in further detail.

[0078] The main housing 7b is rotationally symmetrical about the center line X. The main housing 7b includes a central portion 19, an upper portion 20, and a lower portion 21. The central portion 19 may be cylindrical, preferably forming a cylinder of rotation about a first axis 22 parallel to the center line X. The upper portion 20 and the lower portion 21 may be truncated conical, with their larger ends located on one side of the central portion 19.

[0079] The upper part 20 is attached to the lower longitudinal end 9 of the rod 7a. With this arrangement, the rod 7a and the housing 7b together form a mechanical component, namely the body 7. The upper part 20 can be fixed to the flange 12 by bolts (not shown) received in the hole 15.

[0080] The automatic cleaning device 1 also includes an intermediate body 23. Similar to the housing 7b, the intermediate body 23... Figure 2 and 3 The cooling tower is schematically depicted in the view, and in Figures 7 to 10 The details are shown in further detail. The intermediate body 23 is located directly below the main body 7, for example, directly below the housing 7b. The intermediate body 23 is mechanically connected to the main body 7. In this embodiment, the intermediate body 23 can be mechanically connected to the lower portion 21 of the main housing 7b via its upper end. For example, a bearing, particularly a sliding bearing, can be provided between the cylindrical or truncated conical shape of the lower portion 21 and the corresponding shape of the upper end of the intermediate body 23. With this arrangement, the intermediate body 23 can rotate relative to the main body 7 about a first axis 22, such as... Figure 7 and 8 The double arrow 24 is shown in the image.

[0081] The automatic cleaning device 1 also includes a nozzle device 25. Similar to the housing 7b and intermediate body 23, the device 25... Figure 2 and 3 The cooling tower is schematically depicted in the view, and in Figures 7 to 10 The details are shown in further detail. The nozzle device 25 is located at the same position as the intermediate body 23 along the first axis 22. That is, when the automatic cleaning device 1 is positioned and attached to the platform 119 by the fixed base 2, and the platform 119 is horizontal, the nozzle device is at the same vertical height as the intermediate body 23. Then, the nozzle device 25 is arranged below the main body 7, particularly below the main housing 7b, and horizontally offset from the first axis 22.

[0082] With this arrangement, in particular, the nozzle device 25 is relatively closer to the lower longitudinal end 9 of the rod 7a compared to the upper longitudinal end 8. With this arrangement, the nozzle device 25 is lowered or raised together with the main body 7. Therefore, when the main body 7 is raised in the storage position, the nozzle device 25 is located above the platform 119 (or cover 122). Thus, when the main body 7 is in the storage position, the nozzle device 25 is outside the cooling chamber 113. When the main body 7 is lowered in the cleaning position, the nozzle device 25 is located below the platform 119 (or cover 122). Therefore, when the main body 7 is in the cleaning position, the nozzle device 25 is located inside the cooling chamber 113. Figure 2 and 3 The location shown is the cleaning location.

[0083] Regarding the orientation of the first axis 22, the nozzle device 25 is provided on one side of the intermediate body 23. In this regard, the side surface of the intermediate body 23 may include a lateral rotating cylinder 26 (in... Figure 9 and 10 (Partially visible). The rotating cylinder can be formed about a second axis 27 perpendicular to the first axis 22. The nozzle device 25 is mechanically connected to the intermediate body 23. In this embodiment, the nozzle device 25 is mounted on the rotating cylinder 26. For example, the nozzle device 25 and the rotating cylinder 26 form a bearing, particularly a sliding bearing. With this arrangement, the nozzle device 27 can rotate relative to the body 23 about the second axis 27, such as... Figure 7 and 8 The double arrow 28 is shown in the image.

[0084] Since the second axis 27 is defined relative to a portion of the intermediate body 23, and the intermediate body 23 is movable relative to the main body 7, the second axis 27 also moves relative to the main body 7. That is, when the automatic cleaning device 1 is positioned to be attached to the platform 119 with the fixed base 2, and the platform 119 is horizontal, the second axis 27 is a horizontal axis that rotates about the vertical axis 22.

[0085] Through this mechanical connection, the nozzle device 25 can rotate relative to the body 7 about the first axis 22 and the second axis 27. That is, the nozzle device 25 has two rotational degrees of freedom relative to the body 7. Rotation along these two degrees of freedom can be initiated by the pressure of the cleaning fluid provided by the hose 16, or by a pneumatic actuator connected to the pneumatic circuit of the fixed base, or by any other actuator (e.g., but not limited to an electric motor).

[0086] The nozzle device 25 includes one or more nozzles, and in this embodiment, four nozzles. Specifically, the nozzle device includes a first nozzle 29, a second nozzle 30, a third nozzle 31, and a fourth nozzle 32. The nozzles 29 to 32 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the nozzle device 25 relative to the second axis 27. Each of the nozzles 29 to 32 is formed as a rotating cylinder including a port 37. The rotating cylinder and the port 37 may be coaxial about the same direction. That is, as... Figure 8 As shown, the first nozzle 29 is oriented in direction 33, which is perpendicular to axis 27. The second nozzle 30 is oriented in direction 34, which is perpendicular to both direction 33 and axis 27. The third nozzle 31 is oriented in direction 35, which is perpendicular to both direction 34 and axis 27. The fourth nozzle 32 is oriented in direction 36, which is perpendicular to directions 35, 33, and 27. Therefore, direction 35 is opposite to direction 33, and direction 36 is opposite to direction 34.

[0087] Nozzles 29 to 32 are fluidly connected to the fixed base via hose 16. Nozzles 29 to 32 are indirectly connected to hose 16 via body 7 (more precisely, main housing 7b) and intermediate body 23. Hose 16 is in communication with port 37, allowing cleaning fluid supplied by hose 16 to be provided to and sprayed from port 37. Thus, cleaning fluid is sprayed from port 37 substantially in the corresponding directions 33 to 36. Nozzles 29 to 32 can then spray the cleaning fluid onto the components to be cleaned within the cooling tower 100.

[0088] Nozzles 29 to 32 can be adjusted so that the pressure of the sprayed cleaning fluid is in the range of 2-15 bar, preferably 3-10 bar, more preferably 4-6 bar, and even more preferably 4.5-5.5 bar. The pressure can also exceed these ranges, especially the upper limit. The required pressure may vary depending on the fluid used, the type of cooling tower, the environment of the cooling tower, the size of the cooling tower, or the size of the material being cooled.

[0089] Nozzles 29 to 32 can be adjusted such that the sprayed cleaning fluid is injected at an overall flow rate in the range of 10-175 L / min, preferably 20-120 L / min. More specifically, each of nozzles 29 to 32 can be adjusted such that the sprayed cleaning fluid is injected at an individual flow rate in the range of 2.5-44 L / min, preferably 5-30 L / min. In addition to pressure, the flow rate can also exceed these ranges, especially the upper limits. The requirement for a specific flow rate can vary primarily depending on the fluid used, the environment of the cooling tower, the type of cooling tower, or the type of material being cooled.

[0090] As previously described, the nozzle device 25 has two rotational degrees of freedom relative to the main body 7. Therefore, when operating in the cleaning position, directions 33 to 36 rotate about both directions 22 and 27. Figures 8 to 10 The diagram illustrates three exemplary consecutive states of the automatic cleaning device 1 during a cleaning operation. As shown, nozzles 29 to 32 rotate both about direction 22 and about direction 27. This allows the flow of cleaning fluid to cover the entire volume surrounding the nozzle device 25 in three-dimensional space.

[0091] Now for reference Figure 11The figure shows a portion of the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the cooling tower 100. The outer peripheral wall 112 is shown in the process of being cleaned by the automatic cleaning device 1. Therefore, the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 includes a dirty area 133 and five clean areas 134 to 138. As the nozzle device 25 rotates about axes 22 and 27, the clean areas 134 to 138 form curves following the trajectory projected onto the inner surface in directions 33 to 36. In particular, the clean area 138 is captured at the moment when the corresponding directions 33 to 36 are projected onto the inner surface. As the cleaning process continues, the clean areas expand further, and more clean areas extend between areas 134 to 138. The dirty area 133 then gradually disappears, and the inner surface is subsequently cleaned.

[0092] That is, the automatic cleaning device 1 and the cooling tower 100 make it possible to perform the following cooling process.

[0093] In the cooling process according to the invention, gas (preferably air) enters the cooling chamber 113 through the gas inlet 115. Simultaneously, the liquid to be cooled is sprayed into the cooling chamber 113 from the nozzle 124. As a result, the passing gas cools the sprayed liquid and mixes with it to form a mixed fluid. In a subsequent step, the mixed fluid passes through a demister 118 to reduce or eliminate liquid in the mixed fluid.

[0094] The cooling method is stopped at regular intervals. That is, the flow of the liquid to be cooled in pipe 120 is interrupted, and fan 115 is stopped. As a result, flows A1, B1, A2, B2, A3, and A4 are interrupted, and cooling ceases. In other words, this is equivalent to a downtime of cooling tower 100. At this time, covers 130b and 131b are opened, and automatic cleaning device 1 passes through holes 130a and 131a. The cleaning process is then performed by the automatic cleaning device.

[0095] This cleaning can be performed continuously using a single automatic cleaning device 1, or simultaneously using the same number of automatic cleaning devices 1 as the number of holes 130a and 131a. Furthermore, for some holes, this can be performed continuously and simultaneously, wherein the number of automatic cleaning devices 1 is strictly more than one and strictly less than the number of holes 130a and 131a. For example, an automatic cleaning device 1 permanently attached to platform 119 with a fixed base 2 and an automatic cleaning device 1 temporarily attached to cover 122 can be used to clean holes 130a and at least one hole 131a simultaneously, moving sequentially to the vicinity of each corresponding hole 131a.

[0096] Regular intervals can be any time between 1 hour and 10 hours. It should be understood that an interval that differs from the average interval by less than 10% is considered a regular interval.

[0097] Cleaning focuses particularly on the walls of the cooling tower 100, such as the outer peripheral wall 112, bottom 125, cover 122, and platform 119. Cleaning includes moving the main body 7 relative to the fixed base 2. This movement is a translation along the X direction. The movement occurs between a storage position where the nozzle device 25 is located above the upper wall 119 or 122 and a cleaning position where the nozzle device 25 is located below the upper wall 119 or 122. Cleaning also includes spraying cleaning fluid onto the components to be cleaned through nozzles 29 to 32. Furthermore, during spraying, the nozzle device 25 rotates relative to the main body 7 about axes 22 and 27.

[0098] In addition to or as an alternative to covers 130b and 131b, an automatic valve may be provided in the automatic cleaning mechanism 1. In the storage position, this automatic valve is located above or below borehole 130a or 131a. In the storage position, the automatic valve covers the nozzle, preventing fluids (such as cooled liquids, gases, or fluids flowing above platform 119) from entering the nozzle. This automatic valve protects nozzles 29 to 32 from dirt or scale.

[0099] Figure 12 Another design for the upper part of cooling tower 100' is shown, in which demisters 118 are arranged at an angle to the vertical direction. Identical components are indicated by the same reference numerals. In this design, the demisters 118 cumulatively define a frustoconical shape, with the narrower end of the frustoconical cone closer to the bottom 125, and the wider end closer to (or directly adjacent to) the cover 122. In other words, each demister 118 can be said to be "tilted outward" from the platform 119. The fluid flow A3 can still flow substantially horizontally through these demisters. Therefore, this design also utilizes the higher horizontal velocity of the fluid flow in chamber 113.

[0100] like Figures 12 to 14 As can be seen, the cooling tower 100' is equipped with the same automatic cleaning device 1 as the cooling tower 100. That is, Figure 12 sectional perspective and Figure 13 and 14 The schematic cross-sectional view schematically depicts the automatic cleaning device 1 located on platform 119; while Figure 13 and 14 The schematic cross-sectional view shows the automatic cleaning device 1 located on the cover 122.

[0101] from Figure 13 and 14 It can be seen that each automatic cleaning device 1 includes a cleaning fluid circuit 140, a cleaning fluid supply conduit 141, a cleaning fluid storage tank 142, and a shut-off valve 143.

[0102] exist Figure 13The automatic cleaning device 1, connected to platform 119, is shown in its storage position. Therefore, nozzle device 123 is positioned above platform 119. Figure 14 The image shows the automatic cleaning device 1 connected to platform 119 in the cleaning position. Therefore, the nozzle device 123 is located below platform 119. Furthermore, when in the cleaning position, the nozzle can spray cleaning fluid as indicated by arrow 150. Figure 13 and 14 In the diagrams, the automatic cleaning device 1 associated with cover 122 is shown more schematically than the automatic cleaning device 1 associated with platform 119, and is in the cleaning position in both diagrams.

Claims

1. An automatic cleaning device (1) for cleaning components (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) of a cooling tower (100, 100'), comprising: - Fixed base (2), which is intended to be attached to the upper wall (119, 122) of the cooling tower (100, 100'). - A main body (7) mechanically connected to the fixed base (2) and capable of translational movement relative to the fixed base (2) in a first direction (X) substantially perpendicular to the upper surfaces (119, 122); and - Nozzle device (25), which is fluidly connected to the fixed base (2), includes at least one nozzle (29, 30, 32, 32) for spraying cleaning fluid onto the parts (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) to be cleaned. The main body (7) is movable between a storage position where the nozzle device (25) is located above the upper wall (119, 122) and a cleaning position where the nozzle device (25) is located below the upper wall (119, 122). Its features are, The nozzle device (25) is rotatable relative to the body (7) about a first axis (22) parallel to the first direction (X) and about a second axis (27) perpendicular to the first direction (X).

2. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the body (7) includes an elongated rod (7a) extending along the first direction (X) and having a first longitudinal end (8) and a second longitudinal end (9), the nozzle device (25) being adjacent to the second longitudinal end (9), the elongated rod (7a) being configured to pass through holes (130a, 131a) in the upper wall (119, 122) such that, in the storage position, the second longitudinal end (9) is relatively close to the fixed base (2), and in the cleaning position, the second longitudinal end (9) is relatively far away from the fixed base (2) below.

3. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the elongated rod (7a) is a telescopic rod.

4. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the elongated rod (7a) has a fixed length.

5. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the fixed length is in the range of 500-4000 mm, preferably 1000-2000 mm.

6. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-5, comprising a first proximity sensor (10) capable of detecting that the first longitudinal end (8) is close to the fixed base (2).

7. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-6, comprising a second proximity sensor (11) capable of detecting that the second longitudinal end (9) is close to the fixed base (2).

8. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the at least one nozzle (29, 30, 32, 32) is adjusted to supply the cleaning fluid at a pressure of 2-15 bar, preferably 3-10 bar, more preferably 4-6 bar, or even more preferably 4.5-5.5 bar.

9. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the at least one nozzle (29, 30, 32, 32) is adjusted to supply the cleaning fluid at a total flow rate of 10-175 L / min, preferably 20-120 L / min.

10. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the at least one nozzle comprises a first nozzle (29) oriented along a second direction (33) perpendicular to the second axis (27), a second nozzle (30) oriented along a third direction (34) perpendicular to the second direction (33) and the second axis (27), a third nozzle (31) oriented along a fourth direction (35) perpendicular to the third direction (34) and opposite to the second direction (33), and a fourth nozzle (32) oriented along a fifth direction (36) perpendicular to the fourth direction (35) and opposite to the third direction (34).

11. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-9, further comprising an intermediate body (23) mechanically connected to the body (7) and the nozzle device (25), the intermediate body (23) being rotatable relative to the body (7) about the first axis (22), and the nozzle device (25) being rotatable relative to the intermediate body (23) about the second axis (27).

12. The automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the main body (7) further comprises a hose (16) fluidly connected to the fixed base (2) and fluidly connected to the nozzles (29, 30, 32, 32), preferably fluidly connected to the nozzles (29, 30, 32, 32) at least indirectly through the main body (7).

13. A cooling tower (100, 100') comprising a bottom (125), an outer peripheral wall (112), and an upper wall (119, 122), wherein the bottom (125), the outer peripheral wall (112), and the upper wall (119, 122) together define a cooling chamber (113) of the cooling tower (100, 100'); and an automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the fixed base (2) of the automatic cleaning device (1) is attached to the upper wall (119, 122), and the body (7) of the automatic cleaning device (1) is movable between a storage position where the nozzle device (25) is located outside the cooling chamber (113) and a cleaning position where the nozzle device (25) is located inside the cooling chamber (113).

14. An automatic cleaning method for components (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) of a cooling tower (100, 100'), wherein the components are preferably the walls (112, 119, 122, 125) of the cooling tower (100, 100') or the demister (118) of the cooling tower (100, 100'), the method comprising: - The body (7) of the automatic cleaning device (1) according to any one of claims 1-12 is moved relative to the fixed base (2), the movement being a translation along a first direction (X) substantially perpendicular to the upper wall (119, 122) of the cooling tower (100, 100'), the movement being performed between a storage position in which the nozzle device (25) of the automatic cleaning device (1) is located above the upper wall (119, 122) and a cleaning position in which the nozzle device (25) is located below the upper wall (119, 122). - Cleaning fluid is sprayed onto the components (112, 118, 119, 122, 125) to be cleaned through at least one nozzle (29, 30, 32, 32) of the nozzle device (25). The method is characterized in that, during spraying, the nozzle device (25) is rotated relative to the body (7) about the first axis (22) and about the second axis (27).

15. A method for cooling liquid in a cooling tower (100, 100'), the method comprising: Gas, optionally air, is introduced into the cooling chamber (113) through the gas inlet (114) of the cooling tower (100, 100'). The liquid to be cooled is sprayed from one or more nozzles (124) into the cooling chamber (113), such that gas from the gas inlet (114) cools the liquid and mixes with the liquid to form a mixed fluid. The mixed fluid is passed through one or more demisters (118) to reduce or eliminate liquid in the mixed fluid. The cooling method includes periodically performing the automatic cleaning method according to claim 14.

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