Assembly combination for process devices

Abstract

This invention relates to an assembly for manufacturing chemical equipment, particularly pressure equipment and / or shell-and-tube heat exchangers, and a shell-and-tube heat exchanger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an assembly for a process device, particularly for a pressure device and / or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, and a shell-and-tube heat exchanger. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of process equipment manufacturing, particularly in chemical engineering, biotechnology, and energy technology, standard materials such as stainless steel, duplex steel, or nickel-based alloys are commonly used to construct complex process equipment such as towers or heat exchangers. However, these materials reach their performance limits in certain applications, necessitating the use of higher quality and / or more durable alternative materials.

[0003] These materials also have drawbacks. Due to their lower mechanical strength, graphite components typically need to be designed with thicker walls, resulting in larger material usage and increased equipment costs. Specialty metals are either insufficiently chemically resistant, expensive, or prone to damage at welded joints. Plastic materials can withstand far less stress (especially mechanical and thermal stress) than graphite or specialty metals, and they also have extremely low thermal conductivity.

[0004] Furthermore, each connection point between different components represents a potential leak point. The O-rings commonly used at component connections can limit the lifespan of equipment due to material aging and mechanical stress. This aging process is significantly accelerated when exposed to chemicals and high-temperature, high-pressure environments.

[0005] The aforementioned problems are particularly prominent for pressure vessels and heat exchangers.

[0006] Shell-and-tube heat exchangers typically consist of multiple tubes that pass through a shell, usually a cylindrical shell. These tubes are assembled in a so-called tube sheet, which is typically arranged at both ends of the cylindrical shell. A first process medium (also known as the heat exchange medium) flows inside these tubes, while a second process medium flows around these tubes in heat exchange chambers arranged within the shell, thereby achieving heat transfer from the first process medium to the second process medium.

[0007] In known heat exchangers, tube sheets and tubes are typically made of metallic materials. However, in highly corrosive applications, the use of graphite as the material for these tubes and tube sheets is also well-known.

[0008] Because graphite has significantly lower mechanical strength, components made from graphite are much thicker than those made from comparable steel. Therefore, graphite heat exchangers require more material, resulting in a higher price. Due to its relatively soft nature, graphite is susceptible to erosion caused by fluid and gas flows, especially in the presence of particles or abrasive substances in the medium. Graphite-based heat exchangers are limited to specific applications where the advantages of graphite outweigh its disadvantages.

[0009] However, for stability reasons, the corresponding tube sheets are very thick, which increases the equipment price. Furthermore, graphite possesses the properties of ceramic materials, meaning that operators not only face increased operational difficulty but also require specific knowledge to operate the equipment safely. Graphite is not a technically dense material and must undergo complex impregnation treatment with a matrix material (resin) in order to be used as a heat exchanger material in chemical corrosion applications. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In this context, the object of the present invention is therefore to provide a component assembly for a process device that overcomes the aforementioned problems, and in particular enables a reliable, permanent, leak-free connection that is comparable to or even less expensive to manufacture and / or easier to manufacture than component assemblies known in the prior art, and also enables greater structural stability, thereby achieving a longer service life.

[0011] According to the present invention, its purpose is achieved by the component combination according to claim 1.

[0012] The component assemblies according to the invention are suitable for process plants, particularly in the fields of chemical engineering, biotechnology, and energy technology. The component assemblies according to the invention are especially preferred for reactors, towers, absorbers, and / or heat exchangers, particularly shell-and-tube heat exchangers.

[0013] The assembly includes at least a first component and a second component, which are connected to each other, for example, by a connection method such as an adhesive. Preferably, the first component and / or the second component are selected from a group consisting of tubes, tube sheets, baffles, inlet heads, containers (especially pressure vessels), nozzles, and filters, wherein one component is preferably a tube, and the other component is a tube sheet into which at least one tube can be inserted.

[0014] The key to this invention lies in the combination of a first component made of a soft but highly inert component material (i.e., carbon or glass) with a high-strength fiber composite component comprising a reinforcing fiber material and a matrix material (preferably a polymer matrix material, especially an organic polymer matrix material), wherein the fiber material is at least partially, preferably entirely, embedded in the matrix material.

[0015] According to the present invention, the term "carbon component" can be understood as an assembly containing ≥30 wt.% of graphitized or graphitic carbon material or carbon material, wherein, if the substance comprises a combination of these materials, ≥30 wt.% means the sum of the contents of each of the aforementioned materials. Preferably, the proportion of the material is ≥40 wt.%, more preferably ≥50 wt.% or ≥60 wt.%, more preferably ≥70 wt.% or ≥80 wt.%, even more preferably ≥90 wt.%, and most preferably 100 wt.%. The inventors have determined that only with the corresponding carbon content can the required chemical resistance and mechanical resistance be achieved in applications involving harsh processes (particularly systems handling corrosive chemicals).

[0016] Preferred carbon materials are graphitic carbon, graphitized carbon, and amorphous carbon; graphite is particularly preferred because its thermal conductivity is suitable for use in the corresponding systems. In one preferred embodiment, the carbon material is present as a fibrous material in a proportion exceeding 50 wt.%, preferably in the form of a fibrous material designed for textile fabric. In another preferred embodiment, the carbon material is present as a fibrous material in a proportion below 30 wt.%, preferably below 10 wt.%. Preferably, this carbon component is impregnated with an organic polymer material (e.g., resins such as phenolic resins), which further significantly improves its durability.

[0017] According to the present invention, the term "glass assembly" can be understood as an assembly comprising ≥30 wt.% glass. Preferably, the proportion of glass is ≥40 wt.%, more preferably ≥50 wt.%, more preferably ≥70 wt.%, even more preferably ≥90 wt.%, and most preferably 100 wt.%.

[0018] The inventors were able to determine that only with a certain glass content can the required chemical and mechanical resistance be achieved in applications involving harsh processes (especially systems handling corrosive chemicals).

[0019] In one preferred embodiment, the glass material is present as a fibrous material in a proportion exceeding 50 wt.%, preferably in the form of a fibrous material arranged in the form of a fabric (preferably a textile). In another preferred embodiment, the glass material is present as a fibrous material in a proportion of less than 30 wt.%, preferably less than 10 wt.%.

[0020] The first glass-based and / or carbon-based component may also contain non-carbon and non-glass fiber materials, wherein the weight fraction of the fiber material is preferably less than 50 wt.%, more preferably less than 20 wt.%.

[0021] The first glass-based and / or carbon-based component may also contain a cured resin material, wherein the weight fraction of the cured resin material is preferably less than 70 wt.%, more preferably less than 50 wt.%, or even less than 20 wt.%.

[0022] According to the present invention, the term "carbon component or glass component" also includes components containing both carbon and glass, wherein the total amount of the two components is ≥30 wt.%. Preferably, the total amount of carbon and glass is ≥40 wt.%, more preferably ≥50 wt.%, more preferably ≥70 wt.%, even more preferably ≥90 wt.%, and most preferably 100 wt.%.

[0023] According to the present invention, the term "carbon material" can be understood as a carbon material that is structurally present in a non-graphitized and non-graphitic state. It is obtained through the carbonization treatment of organic materials, typically via pyrolysis.

[0024] "Graphitization" refers to carbon materials that can be confirmed to have a three-dimensional hexagonal long-range ordered crystal structure using diffraction methods.

[0025] "Graphite" refers to carbon materials with a near-perfect three-dimensional hexagonal long-range ordered crystal structure.

[0026] "Fiber composite material" can be understood as a substance composed of two or more bonded materials (such as a combination of fiber materials and matrix materials) whose material properties differ from those of a single component and which can be used as a component of a technical article. Such a component can be, for example, a plate, cylinder, or shell. However, the term also accordingly refers to fiber composite materials that can independently constitute a technical article. The fiber composite material according to the invention is a fiber composite material such as glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) or carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). Fiber composite materials can be manufactured by bonding different materials or coating materials. However, fiber composite materials are preferably integrally molded, i.e., formed as a single piece. Fiber composite materials are particularly preferably obtained by integral curing during their production process.

[0027] "Fiber material" is a material having a linear or filamentous structure or composed of linear or filamentous structures, which are preferably components of more complex surface structures (such as woven fabrics, nonwovens, laid meshes or knitted fabrics).

[0028] The "matrix material" of the fiber composite material according to the invention is used to be at least partially, preferably entirely, embedded in the fibrous material, i.e., the fiber material itself. This keeps the fibers of the fibrous material in situ and transfers and disperses stress between the fibers. Additionally, this ensures that the material has airtightness and liquidtightness. The matrix material is preferably a polymer material, particularly a thermosetting polymer material, but it can also be formed from carbon, for example, as in the case of carbon fiber reinforced carbon. The matrix material is preferably a polymer material made from resin and a curing agent. During the preparation process, accelerators, activators, and release agents are preferably used, and these substances are preferably part of the matrix material in the sense of the present invention.

[0029] The matrix material preferably comprises ≥30 wt.% graphitized and / or graphitic carbon materials and / or carbon materials, wherein if the substance comprises a combination of these materials, ≥30 wt.% means the sum of the contents of each of the above materials. Preferably, the proportion of the material is ≥40 wt.%, more preferably ≥50 wt.% or ≥60 wt.%, more preferably ≥70 wt.% or ≥80 wt.%, even more preferably ≥90 wt.%, and most preferably 100 wt.%.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the volume ratio of the matrix material to the fiber material in the fiber composite material is 5:1 to 1:5, preferably 3:1 to 1:3, and more preferably 1:1 to 1:2.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the weight ratio of the matrix material to the fiber material in the fiber composite material is 5:1 to 1:20, preferably 1:1 to 1:15, and particularly preferably 1:2 to 1:10.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the volume fraction of the fiber material in the total mass of the fiber composite is 10 to 90 vol.%, preferably 30 to 80 vol.%, more preferably 40 to 75 vol.%, even more preferably 50 to 70 vol.%, and most preferably 55 to 65 vol.%.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the volume fraction of the matrix material in the total mass of the fiber composite is 10 to 90 vol.%, preferably 20 to 70 vol.%, more preferably 25 to 60 vol.%, even more preferably 30 to 50 vol.%, and most preferably 35 to 45 vol.%.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the matrix material has a weight fraction of 15 to 95 wt.% in the total mass of the fiber composite, preferably 40 to 90 wt.%, more preferably 50 to 85 wt.%, even more preferably 60 to 80 wt.%, and most preferably 65 to 75 wt.%.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the matrix material has a weight fraction of 5 to 85 wt.% in the total mass of the fiber composite, preferably 10 to 60 wt.%, more preferably 15 to 50 wt.%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt.%, and most preferably 25 to 35 wt.%.

[0036] Fiber composites may also contain pores, i.e., air and / or gas inclusions; however, these pores are preferably no more than 5 vol.% of the total volume of the fiber composite assembly. Particularly preferred is no more than 3 vol.%, more preferably no more than 2 vol.%, and most preferably no more than 1 vol.%. As described below, the volume fractions of fibers and matrix, as well as the volume fraction of pores, can be determined using computed tomography analysis, for example, see "Determination of the fiber orientation of long glass-fiber reinforced thermoplastics using image-optical analysis and computed tomography" by Willems, Fabian et al., German Society for Non-Destructive Testing eV, 2018. For carbon fiber reinforced reinforcing units, the proportions of matrix material, fibers, and pores can also be determined according to the method described in ISO 14127, first edition (2008).

[0037] When used as intended, the components in the assembly typically withstand high mechanical loads, thus exhibiting particularly remarkable mechanical resistance and / or mechanical strength.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first component and / or the second component thereby have a bending strength determined according to DIN ENISO 14125:2011-05, which is ≥100 MPa, preferably ≥200 MPa, more preferably ≥300 MPa, more preferably ≥350 MPa, even more preferably ≥400 MPa, and most preferably ≥450 MPa, but generally not exceeding 600 MPa.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first component and / or the second component thereby have a flexural modulus determined according to DIN ENISO 14125:2011-05, which is ≥10 GPa, preferably ≥20 GPa, more preferably ≥30 GPa, more preferably ≥50 GPa, even more preferably ≥60 GPa, and most preferably ≥75 GPa, but typically not exceeding 1,000 GPa.

[0040] The inventors have discovered that, according to the present invention, the combination of a first component made of a soft but highly inert component material (i.e., carbon or glass) and a high-strength fiber composite component, despite the significant difference in their coefficients of thermal expansion, is particularly suitable for manufacturing process devices. These combinations exhibit excellent mechanical properties, enable permanent leak-free connections, and simultaneously possess extremely high material manufacturing efficiency.

[0041] Many system components used in corrosive conditions (such as tube sheets) are typically made of corrosion-resistant materials certified for pressure applications (e.g., graphite, specialty metals such as zirconium and tantalum, and plastics such as PFA and PTFE). In some cases, composite materials are also used, consisting of a non-corrosion-resistant material (e.g., carbon steel) as a load-bearing core and a coating (e.g., a coating layer) made of a corrosion-resistant material covering the core. The latter carries the risk that if the coating / coating layer is damaged, the stability of the system may be permanently compromised. Because such damage is undetectable or extremely difficult to detect, this material combination is clearly inferior to the component combination according to the invention, which is fully resistant to most chemical media. The component combination according to the invention exhibits significantly higher temperature resistance compared to solid plastic components, and compared to solid graphite component combinations based solely on graphite, it has the significant advantage of non-ceramic material properties while also exhibiting high mechanical strength.

[0042] Fiber composites can better absorb and disperse mechanical loads in component assemblies, meaning that introducing fiber composites further stabilizes "softer" components. Fiber composites also exhibit higher mechanical strength, meaning that tube sheets can be manufactured with thinner walls, thus reducing material usage. The weight of the components is also reduced accordingly, improving handling during equipment assembly and installation.

[0043] The reduced surface area of ​​the tube sheet facing the environment decreases accordingly, thereby reducing damage from external factors during operation. Due to the lower thermal conductivity and smaller surface area of ​​fiber composites compared to graphite materials, heat loss to the environment is reduced, improving the energy efficiency of the equipment.

[0044] The component assembly preferably also includes connecting means for connecting the first and second components to each other, and the connecting means are preferably arranged on the first and / or second components or between the first and second components. Multiple connecting means are also feasible and advantageous. The connecting means are preferably selected from integral joints, form-fit joints, and interference fit joints, or combinations thereof. Integral joints minimize possible leakage points because they eliminate the need for easily leaking seals such as O-ring seals. Therefore, integral joints are particularly preferred.

[0045] Furthermore, the lifespan of a one-piece joint is typically significantly longer than that of a form-fit connection using O-rings. O-rings become brittle under chemical and thermal stress, which often leads to leaks. Additionally, the reduced number of required parts lowers system complexity, resulting in simpler and more economical manufacturing and maintenance.

[0046] This integrated joint can withstand exceptionally high mechanical stresses, whereas connections using O-ring seals can only transmit force to a very small extent, and the transmission method is difficult to quantify and is uneven. Preferably, the integrated joint is achieved by a resin (preferably phenolic resin) or a multi-component adhesive, which preferably comprises a mixture of toner and phenolic resin.

[0047] By mixing carbon powder and phenolic resin, carbon materials and fiber composites can achieve (more) uniform material properties when using carbon components, resulting in more stable bonds. This effect is particularly pronounced when the first component is a carbon component and the matrix material of the second component contains or is carbon (e.g., in the case of CFC), or when the matrix material contains or is at least one organic polymer material. This avoids and disperses / eliminates peaks of temperature, mechanical stress, and chemical erosion throughout the device.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, one component has at least one receiving portion, such as a receiving opening, and another component is arranged at least partially within the receiving portion via a plug-in portion and fixed by connection, preferably integral engagement.

[0049] Preferably, one of the components has a mating portion whose geometry is adapted to the receiving portion. For example, the receiving portion may be a hollow cylinder, while the mating portion may be tubular or conical. The mating portion is preferably designed to form a shape fit within the receiving portion. In a particularly preferred embodiment, one component has a mating portion that is geometrically adapted to the receiving portion of another component, and it is preferably fixed to the receiving portion by a phenolic resin and / or a multi-component adhesive disposed between the mating portion and the receiving portion. The geometrically adapted receiving portion and mating portion are preferably designed to have a tenon-and-mortise structure, a V-shaped structure, or a tongue-and-groove structure.

[0050] Preferably, the receiving part is designed in the form of a straight cylindrical or conical groove.

[0051] Of course, the first component and the second component may each have at least one receiving part, and preferably a geometrically adapted plug-in part is provided on the other component.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, at least one component is plate-shaped. A plate refers to a geometry whose dimension in one spatial direction is significantly smaller than its dimensions in the other two directions. The plate preferably comprises two or more layers, thereby forming a multi-layer structure.

[0053] This plate-like structure allows for arbitrary component thicknesses based on mechanical calculations, without relying on manufacturing specific layer thicknesses. This enables the creation of desired component thicknesses using standard layers in a highly cost-effective, rapid, and extremely flexible manner.

[0054] The second component comprises or is composed of fiber composite materials, particularly preferably in the form of a plate, with the fibers arranged along the plane of the plate. Therefore, the fibers primarily bear stress through bending. The flexural strength of the fiber composite material, as determined according to DIN EN ISO 14125:2011-05, is preferably ≥400 MPa, more preferably ≥500 MPa, most preferably ≥600 MPa, but typically does not exceed 1,000 MPa.

[0055] If one of the components is plate-shaped, it preferably has a receiving portion for receiving a second component, which is preferably designed to be tubular. The first plate-shaped component is particularly preferably a CFRP or CFC plate, and the second component is a graphite tube. In another preferred embodiment, the first plate-shaped component is a graphite plate, and the second component is a CFRP or CFC tube. In another preferred embodiment, the second component is a CFC tube, and the first component is a collar that at least partially surrounds the CFC tube. In another preferred embodiment, the first plate-shaped component is a CFRP plate, and the second component is a CFRP tube. In another preferred embodiment, the first plate-shaped component is a CFC plate, and the second component is a CFC tube. In another preferred embodiment, the first plate-shaped component is a CFC plate, and the second component is a CFRP tube. In another preferred embodiment, the first plate-shaped component is a CFRP plate, and the second component is a CFC tube. The corresponding components can be impregnated, preferably with resin. When using a CFC component, it is preferable to use an organic polymer material (e.g., a resin such as phenolic resin) for impregnation.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the first component and / or the second component is plate-shaped, and the thickness of the plate is preferably from 10 mm to 300 mm. If the plate-shaped structure comprises two or more layers, the thickness of each layer is preferably from 3 mm to 100 mm.

[0057] The aforementioned thickness is particularly advantageous if the first and / or second components are tube sheets. Commonly used graphite plates can only be made in greater thicknesses with considerable material and cost, thus highlighting a particularly significant advantage of this invention.

[0058] In a layered design of the first and / or second components, two or more layers are preferably connected to each other by an interference fit and / or integral joint. For example, the component may include one or more pins and / or threaded rods extending through at least two of the two or more layers, thereby connecting the two or more layers by an interference fit. The one or more pins and / or threaded rods are preferably inserted perpendicular to the plane of the plate. Additionally or alternatively, bonding can be achieved using resin or carbon-based adhesives, primarily phenolic or vinyl ester resins. This can be achieved by impregnating one or more layers or by introducing resin or adhesive between the layers to bond them together.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first component and the second component have different designs, that is, the first component and the second component differ in terms of material composition and / or structural composition and / or design. Specifically, the first component and the second component contain different components, that is, one of the two components contains at least one component that is not contained in the other component.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fibrous material has at least partially, preferably entirely, a surface structure, preferably a textile surface structure, i.e., exists in this form. The fibrous material, i.e., the fibrous material, is particularly preferably present in the form of ≥50 wt.%, more preferably ≥70 wt.%, and most preferably ≥90 wt.%.

[0061] Particularly preferably, the surface structure is selected from the group consisting of a web, knitted fabric, woven fabric, braided fabric, nonwoven fabric, or a mixture thereof.

[0062] Laying netting is a particularly preferred method because it has very low manufacturing costs and excellent mechanical properties.

[0063] According to the present invention, nonwovens can be understood as structures consisting of fibers of finite length, continuous fibers (filaments), or chopped yarns of any type and origin connected in a certain way to form fiber layers and linked together in a certain way. This does not include, for example, the crossing or interlacing of yarns in the production of woven, knitted, machine-knitted, lace-making, braiding, and tufted articles. This definition corresponds to standard DIN EN ISO 9092. According to the present invention, the term nonwovens also covers felt-like materials. However, films and paper are not considered nonwovens.

[0064] In the context of this invention, weaving can be understood as the regular interlacing of multiple strands of yarn made of a flexible material. The difference from weaving is that, in weaving, the yarns are not supplied at an angle perpendicular to the main direction of product manufacturing.

[0065] According to the present invention, a woven fabric can be understood as a textile composed of two sets of yarn systems, namely warp yarns and weft yarns, which, when viewed from the fabric surface, intersect at precise or approximately 90° angles in a patterned manner. Each of the two sets of systems can be composed of multiple warp or weft yarns (e.g., base warp, pile warp, and filling warp; base weft, weft yarn, and filling weft). The warp yarns extend along the longitudinal direction of the woven fabric, parallel to the selvage; the weft yarns extend along the transverse direction, parallel to the fabric edge. The yarns are joined together to form the woven fabric primarily through frictional interlocking. To ensure sufficient anti-slip properties, the warp and weft yarns must generally be woven relatively tightly. Therefore, with a few exceptions, woven fabrics also have a dense fabric appearance. This definition corresponds to Part 1 of standard DIN 61100.

[0066] According to the present invention, the terms woven fabric and nonwoven fabric also include textile materials that have undergone tufting treatment. Tufting is a method of securing yarns to woven or nonwoven fabrics using a machine operated by compressed air and / or electricity.

[0067] According to the present invention, knitted fabrics can be understood as textile materials made from yarn systems through knitting processes. These materials include crocheted materials and knitted materials.

[0068] According to the present invention, a laid mesh can be understood as a fabric composed of one or more layers of parallel-extending stretched yarns. The yarns are typically secured at their intersections. This securing can be achieved through material bonding or mechanical means such as friction and / or shape locking. The laid mesh is preferably selected from uniaxial or biaxial or multiaxial meshes.

[0069] Preferably, the fibrous material has an anisotropic structure, meaning that within the functional layer according to the invention, the fibers have a specific fiber orientation. This results in anisotropic mechanical behavior of the layered composite material.

[0070] The fiber material preferably contains fibers with a length of ≥42 mm or is composed of fibers with a length of ≥42 mm.

[0071] The fiber material preferably comprises long fibers and / or continuous fibers or is composed of long fibers and / or continuous fibers.

[0072] In the context of this invention, "long fiber" can be understood as a fiber with a length L of 1-50 mm. The fiber material according to the invention preferably has a fiber length L, wherein L ≥ 25 mm, preferably L ≥ 35 mm, and particularly preferably ≥ 42 mm.

[0073] In the context of this invention, "continuous fiber" can be understood as fiber with a length L ≥ 50 mm. According to the invention, the fiber material preferably has a fiber length L, where L ≥ 75 mm, preferably L ≥ 100 mm. Continuous fibers are preferred. This results in components with particularly advantageous mechanical properties.

[0074] Particularly preferably, the continuous fibers are unidirectional fibers, that is, the continuous fibers are at least partially oriented in a single direction and are preferably arranged in parallel to each other.

[0075] The preferred fibrous material is composed of free glass fiber, carbon fiber, ceramic fiber, basalt fiber, boron fiber, steel fiber, polymer fiber (such as synthetic fiber, especially aramid fiber and nylon fiber) or natural fiber (especially natural polymer fiber). Carbon fiber is particularly preferred.

[0076] Natural fibers can be understood as fibers derived from natural sources such as plants, animals, or minerals that can be used directly without further chemical transformation. Examples according to the invention include flax or hemp fibers, as well as protein fibers or cotton. According to the invention, regenerated fibers, i.e., fibers produced from naturally occurring renewable raw materials through chemical methods, can also be used. The corresponding fibrous materials have higher recyclability and therefore particularly high sustainability.

[0077] The invention also includes “assemblies,” also known as component systems, which are functionally matched components arranged spatially adjacent to each other for manufacturing component assemblies according to the invention and / or for manufacturing process devices, particularly for manufacturing pressure equipment and / or shell-and-tube heat exchangers, wherein the components are preferably connected together. The component system preferably also includes other components and / or connecting devices, such as integral bonding agents, like resins or kits.

[0078] The components according to the invention are preferably shell-and-tube heat exchanger components. Preferably, the first component is a tube of the shell-and-tube heat exchanger, wherein the tube is preferably a carbon tube, particularly preferably a graphite tube, CFRP tube, or CFC tube. Preferably, the second component is a tube sheet of the shell-and-tube heat exchanger, wherein the tube sheet is preferably a CFRP tube sheet or a CFC tube sheet. Of course, the two can be interchanged.

[0079] The present invention also relates to a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, comprising a shell, one or two tube sheets, and at least one tube through which a first heat exchange medium can pass. Preferably, the at least one tube is integrally joined with one or two tube sheets, and the at least one tube passes through the shell to form a heat exchange chamber through which a second heat exchange medium can pass, thereby enabling heat transfer between the first and second heat exchange media. ▪ At least one tube is a carbon component or a glass component, and ▪ One or two tube sheets comprise or are composed of a fiber composite material, which comprises fiber material and matrix material, preferably a polymer matrix material.

[0080] At least one tube is preferably a carbon tube, and more preferably a graphite tube. Preferably, one or two tube sheets are CFRP or CFC tube sheets. Of course, the two can be interchanged, that is, one or two tube sheets are graphite sheets, and the tubes are CFRP or CFC tubes.

[0081] The present invention also relates to an assembly for a quench tube, wherein the first assembly is a graphite plate including a receiving portion for accommodating a second assembly (i.e., a CFRP tube).

[0082] The present invention also relates to an assembly for a feed tube, wherein the second component is a CFC tube and the second component is a graphite collar that at least partially surrounds the CFC tube.

[0083] The present invention also relates to a process apparatus comprising a component assembly according to the invention, particularly a pressure apparatus or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger comprising a component assembly according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0084] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0085] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger.

[0086] Figure 2 Is it like this? Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger base of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger in which heat exchange tubes are arranged.

[0087] Figure 3 This is a schematic three-dimensional diagram of a graphite tube quencher.

[0088] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a graphite tube quencher.

[0089] Figure 5 This is a schematic 3D diagram of the feed pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Figure 1A cylindrical shell-and-tube heat exchanger 1 is schematically shown. The external structure of the heat exchanger is formed by a pressure-resistant outer shell 4, which includes a pressure-resistant inlet chamber 2 and a pressure-resistant outlet chamber 3. The heat exchanger includes two tube sheets 6 inserted into the outer shell. Heat exchange tubes 7 are fixed inside the tube sheets 6, forming a heat exchange chamber between the two tube sheets 6. A first heat exchange medium is supplied to the heat exchange chamber of the heat exchanger via a first inlet connector 8 and flows around the heat exchange tubes. The first heat exchange medium is discharged via a first outlet connector 9. A second heat exchange medium is supplied via a second inlet connector 10, conveyed through the heat exchange tubes, and discharged via a second outlet connector 11, thereby realizing heat transfer from the first heat exchange medium to the second heat exchange medium (or from the second heat exchange medium to the first heat exchange medium).

[0091] Figure 2 It shows what can be used for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-section of the heat exchanger base. The tube sheet 6 includes a conical, i.e., a cone-shaped or truncated cone-shaped receiving portion 17 into which heat exchange tubes 7 are introduced. The ends of the tubes form fitting insertion portions. The insertion portions can be integrally joined with the receiving portion using resin 5.

[0092] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of the graphite tube quencher 12 is shown. Figure 4 A corresponding cross-section of the graphite tubular quencher 12 is shown. Quenching is used to rapidly cool high-temperature exhaust gases from heating furnaces, combustion chambers, and other exhaust gas sources. The graphite tubular quencher 12 includes a cylindrical container 13 comprising a tubular quencher base 14 made of graphite, on which a set of vertically mounted tubular components (i.e., pipes 15) are disposed, the components being constructed of carbon fiber reinforced carbon material. Quenching fluid is supplied via a quenching inlet pipe 16. Gas supplied from the upper end of the graphite tubular quencher comes into contact with the quenching fluid and flows into the vertically arranged pipes. Due to the reduced cross-sectional area, the flow velocity within the pipes increases significantly, thereby generating strong turbulence and achieving thorough mixing. Direct contact between the gas and fluid ensures immediate cooling of the gas. The graphite tubular quencher 12 according to the invention comprises as follows: Figure 2 The structure shown and described above for inserting a tube into the tubular quencher base 14 includes a conical, i.e., a conical or truncated conical receiving portion into which the tube is inserted via its fitting insertion portion.

[0093] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a feed pipe is shown, which includes a CFC (carbon fiber reinforced carbon) tube 18 having an outlet 19 therein and a graphite collar 20 surrounding the CFC tube. Figure Labels 1: Shell and tube heat exchanger 2: Enter the oral cavity room 3: Exit the oral cavity 4: Pressure-resistant outer casing 5: Resin 6: Tube sheet 7: Heat exchanger tubes 8: First entrance takeover 9: Takeover of the First Exit 10: Second entrance takeover 11: Second Exit Takeover 12: Graphite tube quench cooler 13: Cylindrical container 14: Base of tubular quench cooler 15: Vertically installed pipe fittings (“pipes”) 16: Quench inlet takeover 17: Receiving section of tube sheet 18: CFC pipe 19: Emission outlet 20: Graphite collar

Claims

1. An assembly for a process unit, particularly a pressure device and / or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, the assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component and the second component preferably being integrally joined together. Its features are: ▪ The first component is a carbon component or a glass component, preferably a graphite component, and ▪ The second component comprises or is composed of a fiber composite material, the fiber composite material comprising fiber material and matrix material, preferably a polymer matrix material.

2. The component combination according to claim 1, wherein, The first component or the second component has a receiving portion, in which another part of the first component and the second component is arranged, and is fixed by connection, preferably integral engagement.

3. The component combination according to claim 2, wherein, The integral bonding is achieved by resin or multi-component adhesive, wherein the resin is preferably phenolic resin and the multi-component adhesive is preferably a mixture of toner and phenolic resin.

4. The component combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first component and / or the second component are plate-shaped, and preferably include two or more layers.

5. The component combination according to claim 4, wherein, The thickness of the plate-shaped first component and / or second component is from 10 mm to 300 mm.

6. The component combination according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The plate-shaped first component and / or the second component comprises two or more layers, and the thickness of the two or more layers of the plate-shaped first component and / or the second component is from 3 mm to 100 mm.

7. The component combination according to claims 4-6, wherein, The plate-shaped first component and / or second component comprises two or more layers, and the two or more layers are interconnected by interference fit and / or integral joint.

8. The component combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first component and / or the second component have pins and / or threaded rods to improve mechanical stability, wherein if the first component and / or the second component comprises two or more layers, the pins and / or the threaded rods extend through at least two of the two or more layers, thereby connecting the two or more layers to each other by an interference fit.

9. The component combination according to claim 8, wherein, The pin and / or the threaded rod are inserted perpendicular to the plane of the plate.

10. The component combination according to claims 4-9, wherein, The plate-shaped first component and / or second component comprises two or more layers, and the layers are integrally bonded to each other by a resin or carbon-containing adhesive, the resin being primarily a phenolic resin or a vinyl ester resin.

11. The component combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fibrous material is present at least partially, preferably entirely, in the form of a textile structure, preferably in the form of a web, knitted fabric, woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, felt, especially short fiber felt, braided fabric and mixtures thereof.

12. The component combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fiber material is selected from the group consisting of glass fiber, carbon fiber, basalt fiber, ceramic fiber, steel fiber, polymer fiber such as synthetic fiber (especially aramid fiber and nylon fiber), or natural polymer fiber such as flax fiber, hemp fiber or protein fiber, preferably selected from carbon fiber and glass fiber.

13. The component combination according to claims 2-11, wherein, The receiving part is designed as a straight cylinder or a cone.

14. A kit for manufacturing a component assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first component and a second component as defined in the preceding claims.

15. A shell-and-tube heat exchanger, comprising a shell, one or two tube sheets, and at least one tube, through which a first heat exchange medium can pass, preferably the at least one tube being integrally joined with the one or two tube sheets, and the at least one tube passing through the shell to form a heat exchange chamber, through which a second heat exchange medium can pass, thereby exchanging heat between the first heat exchange medium and the second heat exchange medium. Its features are: ▪ The at least one tube is a carbon component or a glass component, and ▪ The one or two tube sheets comprise or are composed of fiber composite materials, wherein the fiber composite material comprises fiber materials and matrix materials, preferably polymer matrix materials.

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