Outlet connection mechanism for an electrolytic cell and electrolytic device comprising same
By staggering the outlet pipes on the electrolytic cell outlet manifold, the problem of limited channel area caused by the reduction in electrolytic cell thickness was solved, the flow rate and connection reliability were improved, and the smooth discharge of electrolytic products was ensured.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BLUESTAR BEIJING CHEM MACHINERY
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-22
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
Smart Images
Figure CN224299385U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of electrolytic cell technology, specifically to an outlet connection mechanism for an electrolytic cell and its electrolysis device. Background Technology
[0002] As the scale of individual electrolysis units increases, so does the footprint of the unit. Reducing the thickness of the electrolytic cells can reduce the footprint for the same size unit. An electrolysis unit includes an electrolytic cell, an outlet hose, an outlet manifold, an inlet hose, and an inlet manifold. One end of the outlet hose connects to the outlet of the electrolytic cell, and the other end connects to the outlet manifold. One end of the inlet hose connects to the inlet of the electrolytic cell, and the other end connects to the inlet manifold. The electrolyte enters multiple inlet hoses through the inlet manifold and then enters multiple electrolytic cells for electrolysis. The resulting gas-liquid mixture enters a single outlet manifold through multiple outlet hoses, from which the electrolysis products are transported to subsequent processes. For example, in a common hydrogen production electrolysis unit, the electrolysis products include oxygen and hydrogen.
[0003] Reducing the thickness of the electrolytic cell decreases the outlet spacing between adjacent cells, as does the spacing between the interfaces on the collection pipe (the ports connecting to the outlet hoses). Furthermore, to ensure that a large amount of electrolytic product can be collected at a suitable flow rate, the area of all flow channels cannot be reduced due to the decreased distance. This could lead to interference between adjacent collection pipe interfaces, posing challenges to the outlet structure of the electrolytic cell and the connection design between the collection pipe interfaces and the outlet hoses.
[0004] The most common connection method for both ends of the outlet hose is through threaded connection, see [link / reference]. Figure 1 The connector 9 serves as the outlet or outlet manifold interface of the electrolytic cell, and is T-shaped. The outer wall of the head end of connector 9 has external threads. The end flange 921 of the hose 92 is pressed between connector 9 and connector nut 91. A sealing gasket 93 is pressed between connector 9 and flange 921. This threaded connection method is limited by its T-shaped structure, which occupies a large amount of space. When the thickness of the electrolytic cell decreases, the channel area of the connector needs to be reduced (i.e., the inner diameter d of connector 9 needs to be reduced) to ensure the connection, but this will affect the flow rate of the electrolytic products and pose a risk of pressure buildup. It should be noted that the manifold interface must be aligned with the corresponding electrolytic cell outlet, for example, laterally, to facilitate hose installation. Therefore, the axial center distance between adjacent manifold interfaces corresponds to the electrolytic cell outlet position and cannot be arbitrarily changed. Therefore, a connection structure that matches the electrolytic cell outlet and manifold interface is urgently needed. Utility Model Content
[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved
[0006] In view of the above-mentioned shortcomings and deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides an outlet connection mechanism for an electrolytic cell and an electrolysis device thereof, which solves the technical problem that the channel area of the connecting pipe needs to be reduced accordingly when the thickness of the electrolytic cell is reduced.
[0007] (II) Technical Solution
[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the electrolytic cell outlet connection mechanism of this utility model includes an electrolytic cell outlet, an outlet hose, an outlet connector, and an outlet manifold.
[0009] One end of the outlet hose is connected to the outlet of the electrolytic cell, and the other end is connected to the first end of the outlet connector; the second end of the outlet connector is connected to the outlet collection pipe.
[0010] On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the outlet manifold, the included angle between the axes of adjacent outlet manifolds is a1.
[0011] Optionally, the axis of the outlet pipe intersects the axis of the outlet conduit.
[0012] Optionally, a1 < 90°, preferably 0° ≤ a1 ≤ 45°.
[0013] Optionally, the outlet of the electrolytic cell includes a pipe body, a first flange, and a flange;
[0014] The first flange is fitted onto the pipe body; the outlet of the electrolytic cell has a flange on the outer end face adjacent to the first flange;
[0015] The outlet hose is provided with a hose flange and a second flange; the first flange and the second flange are connected by bolts.
[0016] The flange has a through hole inside, and the diameter of the through hole is not less than the inner diameter of the tube body.
[0017] Optionally, a sealing gasket is provided between the flange and the hose flange.
[0018] Optionally, in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the tube, the height of the tube is h1 and the width is w1;
[0019] h1 / w1≥1.
[0020] Optionally, in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the pipe body, the height of the first flange and the width of the second flange are h2 and w2, respectively.
[0021] h2 / w2≥1.
[0022] Furthermore, this utility model also provides an electrolysis device, which includes the outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell described above; the electrolysis device also includes an electrolytic cell, an electrolytic cell inlet, an inlet hose, an inlet connecting pipe, and an inlet collection pipe;
[0023] The outlet of the electrolytic cell is connected to the electrolytic cell;
[0024] One end of the electrolytic cell inlet is connected to the electrolytic cell, and the other end is connected to the first end of the inlet hose; the other end of the inlet hose is connected to the first end of the inlet connector; and the second end of the inlet connector is connected to the inlet manifold.
[0025] Optionally, on a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the inlet manifold, the included angle between the axes of adjacent inlet manifolds is a2.
[0026] Optionally, the electrolysis apparatus further includes a pressing mechanism, a seal, and a diaphragm;
[0027] The plurality of electrolytic cells are arranged laterally inside the extrusion mechanism; the extrusion mechanism is capable of extruding the plurality of electrolytic cells along the lateral direction.
[0028] A diaphragm and a pair of seals are provided between adjacent electrolytic cells; the diaphragm is pressed between the pair of seals.
[0029] (III) Beneficial Effects
[0030] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0031] By staggering adjacent outlet connectors on the outlet manifold, with the included angle between the axes of adjacent outlet manifolds being a1, the T-shaped connection structure of adjacent outlet connectors can be misaligned. This effectively solves the technical problem of limited channel area of outlet connectors caused by the reduction in the thickness of the electrolytic cell, avoids mutual interference between adjacent outlet connectors, improves the flexibility of connecting outlet hoses and outlet connectors, and can even expand the channel area of outlet connectors, further increasing the flow rate of electrolytic products, reducing the risk of pressure buildup, thereby ensuring the connection and sealing effect of the electrolytic cell and improving the reliability of the outlet connection mechanism. Attached Figure Description
[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the outlet connection mechanism of an existing electrolytic cell;
[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the electrolytic cell and the outlet connection mechanism of this utility model;
[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the outlet manifold and the outlet connector of this utility model.
[0035] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the outlet manifold of this utility model;
[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrolytic cell outlet of this utility model;
[0037] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the tube body in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the tube body in another embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the electrolysis device of this utility model.
[0040] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]
[0041] 1: Electrolytic cell; 11: Electrolysis chamber; 12: Separation chamber; 13: Frame; 14: Electrolytic cell inlet; 15: Electrolytic cell outlet; 151: Pipe; 152: First flange; 153: Flange; 154: Sealing gasket;
[0042] 2: Inlet collection pipe; 21: Inlet connection pipe;
[0043] 3: Export summary management; 31: Export control;
[0044] 4: Outlet hose;
[0045] 5: Inlet hose;
[0046] 6: Extrusion mechanism;
[0047] 7: Seals;
[0048] 8: Diaphragm;
[0049] 9: Connector; 91: Connector nut; 92: Hose; 93: Sealing gasket. Detailed Implementation
[0050] To better explain and facilitate understanding of this utility model, the present utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0051] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in this utility model embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.
[0052] Furthermore, in this utility model, the use of terms such as "first," "second," etc., is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0053] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixing" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; "connection" can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.
[0054] See Figures 2 to 4 This utility model provides an outlet connection mechanism for an electrolytic cell. The outlet connection mechanism includes an electrolytic cell outlet 15, an outlet hose 4, an outlet connector 31, and an outlet concentrator 3. One end of the outlet hose 4 is connected to the electrolytic cell outlet 15, and the other end is connected to the first end of the outlet connector 31. The second end of the outlet connector 31 is connected to the outlet concentrator 3. On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the outlet concentrator 3, the included angle between the axes of adjacent outlet connectors 31 is α1.
[0055] Electrolysis products sequentially enter the outlet hose 4, outlet connector 31, and outlet manifold 3 through the electrolytic cell outlet 15. The outlet manifold 3 has multiple outlet connectors 31 arranged axially along its axis. Each outlet connector 31 is connected to a corresponding outlet hose 4, which in turn is connected to multiple electrolytic cell outlets 15. The multiple electrolytic cell outlets 15 are connected to multiple arrayed electrolytic cells 1. Furthermore, the outlet connection mechanism does not affect the existing pipe connection methods; for example, the outlet connector 31 and the outlet manifold 3 can be connected using... Figure 1 The connection is made using a threaded connection method, so the outlet connection mechanism is highly adaptable to existing electrolysis devices, and the length of the hose can be set accordingly.
[0056] As the thickness of the electrolytic cell decreases, the distance between adjacent electrolytic cell outlets 15 decreases, as does the distance between adjacent outlet pipes 31. By staggering the adjacent outlet pipes 31 on the outlet manifold 3, with the included angle between the axes of the adjacent outlet manifold 3 being α1, the T-shaped connection structure of the adjacent outlet pipes 31 can be misaligned. This effectively solves the technical problem of limited channel area of the outlet pipes 31 caused by the reduction in electrolytic cell thickness, avoids mutual interference between adjacent outlet pipes 31, improves the flexibility of docking the outlet hose 4 with the outlet pipes 31, and can even increase the channel area of the outlet pipes 31, further increasing the flow rate of electrolytic products, reducing the risk of pressure buildup, and thus ensuring the connection and sealing effect of the electrolytic cell, improving the reliability of the outlet connection mechanism.
[0057] The method of misaligning the T-shaped connection structure of the outlet pipe 31 can also be applied to the connection between the electrolytic cell outlet 15 and the outlet hose 4. By misaligning the outlets 15 of adjacent electrolytic cells, interference between the T-shaped connection structures can also be avoided after the thickness of the electrolytic cell is reduced, so that the flow rate of the electrolytic products meets the requirements.
[0058] Furthermore, the axis of the outlet connector 31 intersects with the axis of the outlet manifold 3. Compared to the method where multiple connection ports of the outlet manifold 3 are all located at the same height at the top of the manifold 3, the arrangement of the axis of the outlet connector 31 along the radial direction of the outlet manifold 3 enhances the connection strength between the outlet connector 31 and the outlet manifold 3. On the other hand, the outlet connector 31 can be arranged circumferentially in the outlet manifold 3, thus increasing the channel area of the outlet connector 31. Of course, it needs to be arranged at an angle a1 with adjacent outlet connectors 31 to ensure that there is no interference between adjacent outlet connectors 31.
[0059] Optionally, a1 < 90°. Preferably, 0° ≤ a1 ≤ 45°. If a1 is too small, interference is likely between adjacent outlet pipes 31, limiting the expansion of the channel area. If a1 is too large, it will increase the difficulty of connecting the outlet hose 4.
[0060] like Figure 5As shown, the electrolytic cell outlet 15 includes a pipe body 151, a first flange 152, and a flange 153. The first flange 152 is fitted onto the pipe body 151. The electrolytic cell outlet 15 has a flange 153 on its outer end face adjacent to the first flange 152. The outlet hose 4 has a hose flange 41 and a second flange 42 fitted together. The first flange 152 and the second flange 42 are connected by bolts. A through hole is opened inside the flange 153, and the diameter of the through hole is not less than the inner diameter of the pipe body 151. Specifically, a sealing gasket 154 is provided between the flange 153 and the hose flange 41. The first flange 152 and the second flange 42 are fixed by bolts, and the sealing gasket 154 is clamped to achieve a seal. The diameter of the through hole is not less than the inner diameter of the pipe body 151, so that the connection between the pipe body 151 and the outlet hose 4 does not affect the channel area of either, ensuring the flow rate of the electrolytic products inside both. Optionally, the sealing gasket 154 is a rubber gasket.
[0061] See Figure 6 On a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of tube 151, the height of tube 151 is h1, and the width is w1; h1 / w1≥1. The cross-section of tube 151 includes circular and oval shapes (e.g., ...). Figure 6 ), rounded rectangle (e.g.) Figure 7 The tube body 151 is either straight or has a groove-like opening, with its width not exceeding its height, resulting in a long and narrow cross-section. This effectively prevents interference between adjacent electrolytic cell outlets 15 without altering their location. Furthermore, the long and narrow shape of the tube body 151 facilitates gas-liquid separation of electrolytic products, reduces internal pressure, and prevents pressure disturbances.
[0062] Secondly, on the cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the pipe body 151, the height of the first flange 152 and the width of the second flange are h2 and w2, respectively; h2 / w2≥1. Specifically, the first flange 152 and the pipe body 151 combine to form a T-shaped connection structure, and the second flange and the outlet hose 4 combine to form a T-shaped connection structure. Similarly, by setting h2 / w2≥1, the first flange 152 and the second flange are made to have a flat and elongated shape, further avoiding interference between adjacent first flanges 152 or adjacent second flanges.
[0063] In addition, such as Figure 8As shown, this utility model also provides an electrolysis device, which includes the outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell described above; the electrolysis device also includes an electrolytic cell 1, an electrolytic cell inlet 14, an inlet hose 5, an inlet connecting pipe 21, and an inlet concentrator pipe 2; the electrolytic cell outlet 15 is connected to the electrolytic cell 1; one end of the electrolytic cell inlet 14 is connected to the electrolytic cell 1, and the other end is connected to the first end of the inlet hose 5; the other end of the inlet hose 5 is connected to the first end of the inlet connecting pipe 21; the second end of the inlet connecting pipe 21 is connected to the inlet concentrator pipe 2. In this embodiment, the electrolytic cell 1 includes a separation chamber 12 and a frame 13, which together form an electrolysis chamber 11; the separation chamber 12 is connected to the electrolysis chamber 11, and the separation chamber 12 is connected to the electrolytic cell outlet 15. The bottom end of the frame 13 is provided with the electrolytic cell inlet 14, which is connected to the electrolysis chamber 11. Optionally, an outlet connection mechanism is mirrored on both sides of the electrolytic cell 1, which effectively improves the discharge efficiency of the electrolysis device for electrolysis products and further reduces the risk of pressure disturbance.
[0064] Furthermore, on a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the inlet manifold 2, the included angle between the axes of adjacent inlet pipes 21 is α2, i.e., they are staggered. The connection method between the electrolytic cell inlet 14, the inlet hose 5, and the inlet pipe 21 can be analogous to the connection method between the electrolytic cell outlet 15, the outlet hose 4, and the outlet pipe 31, to improve the adaptability of the electrolytic cell inlet 14 and the inlet pipe 21 to the reduction of the electrolytic cell thickness. Of course, the electrolytic cell inlet 14, the inlet hose 5, and the inlet pipe 21 can also be connected by conventional means.
[0065] In addition, the electrolysis device also includes a pressing mechanism 6, a sealing element 7, and a diaphragm 8; multiple electrolytic cells 1 are arranged laterally inside the pressing mechanism 6; the pressing mechanism 6 is capable of pressing multiple electrolytic cells 1 laterally; a diaphragm 8 and a pair of sealing elements 7 are arranged between adjacent electrolytic cells 1; the diaphragm 8 is pressed between the pair of sealing elements 7. Specifically, multiple electrolytic cells 1 are mounted inside the pressing mechanism 6, and the pressing mechanism 6 presses multiple electrolytic cells 1 laterally by a pusher block. The diaphragm 8 separates adjacent electrolysis chambers 11. The sealing element 7 can be a rubber gasket, which seals the multiple electrolytic cells 1 by the pressing mechanism 6 to prevent the electrolyte and its electrolysis products from escaping circumferentially through the frame 13. The inlet manifold 2 and the outlet manifold 3 are arranged in parallel, and the axial direction of the outlet manifold 3 is parallel to the transverse direction. Multiple outlet pipes 31 are arranged laterally in a staggered manner at the top of the outlet manifold 3 and aligned with the electrolytic cell outlet 15, so that the outlet hose 4 is basically vertical, which facilitates the connection of the outlet hose 4. Of course, the length of the hose needs to be adjusted according to the staggered outlet connector 31.
[0066] By arranging the outlet pipes 31 of the electrolytic cell 1 in a cross-position, the number of pipes can be reasonably set without reducing the internal cross-sectional area of the outlet pipes 31. Simultaneously, by setting the cross-sectional shape of the pipe body 151 to a flattened circle or rounded rectangle with an aspect ratio greater than or equal to 1, the cross-sectional area of the pipe body 151 can be ensured to meet fluid flow requirements even when the cell frame thickness is reduced. The electrolysis device of this invention can use a thinner electrolytic cell, resulting in a smaller footprint for the same scale.
[0067] It should be understood that the above description of the specific embodiments of this utility model is only for illustrating the technical route and features of this utility model, and its purpose is to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this utility model and implement it accordingly. However, this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. All changes or modifications made within the scope of the claims of this utility model should be covered by the protection scope of this utility model.
Claims
1. An outlet connection mechanism for an electrolytic cell, characterized in that, The outlet connection mechanism includes an electrolytic cell outlet (15), an outlet hose (4), an outlet connector (31), and an outlet collection pipe (3); One end of the outlet hose (4) is connected to the outlet (15) of the electrolytic cell, and the other end is connected to the first end of the outlet connector (31); the second end of the outlet connector (31) is connected to the outlet collection pipe (3); On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the outlet manifold (3), the included angle between the axes of adjacent outlet manifolds (31) is a1.
2. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axis of the outlet pipe (31) intersects the axis of the outlet confluence pipe (3).
3. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, 0°≤a1≤45°。 4. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell outlet (15) includes a pipe body (151), a first flange (152), and a flange (153); The first flange (152) is fitted onto the pipe body (151); the electrolytic cell outlet (15) has a flange (153) on its outer end face adjacent to the first flange (152); The outlet hose (4) is provided with a hose flange (41) and a second flange (42) fitting together; the first flange (152) and the second flange (42) are connected by bolts; The flange (153) has a through hole inside, and the diameter of the through hole is not less than the inner diameter of the tube body (151).
5. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, A sealing gasket (154) is provided between the flange (153) and the hose flange (41).
6. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the tube body (151), the height of the tube body (151) is h1 and the width is w1; h1 / w1≥1.
7. The outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the pipe body (151), the height of the first flange (152) and the width of the second flange are h2 and w2, respectively. h2 / w2≥1.
8. An electrolysis apparatus, characterized in that, The electrolysis device includes the outlet connection mechanism of the electrolytic cell as described in any one of claims 1-7; the electrolysis device also includes an electrolytic cell (1), an electrolytic cell inlet (14), an inlet hose (5), an inlet connector (21), and an inlet collection pipe (2); The outlet (15) of the electrolytic cell is connected to the electrolytic cell (1); One end of the electrolytic cell inlet (14) is connected to the electrolytic cell (1), and the other end is connected to the first end of the inlet hose (5); the other end of the inlet hose (5) is connected to the first end of the inlet connector (21); and the second end of the inlet connector (21) is connected to the inlet collection pipe (2).
9. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, On a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the inlet manifold (2), the included angle between the axes of adjacent inlet manifolds (21) is a2.
10. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electrolysis device also includes a pressing mechanism (6), a sealing element (7), and a diaphragm (8); Multiple electrolytic cells (1) are arranged laterally inside the extrusion mechanism (6); the extrusion mechanism (6) is capable of extruding multiple electrolytic cells (1) laterally. A diaphragm (8) and a pair of seals (7) are provided between adjacent electrolytic cells (1); the diaphragm (8) is pressed between the pair of seals (7).