A narrow space heat exchanger pressure test tool
By designing a pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces, a double-sealed connection for the heat exchanger tube bundle is achieved using a pressure pump and a handle structure. This solves the problem of heat exchanger leakage detection in confined spaces, improves maintenance efficiency and production stability, and reduces maintenance costs.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BAOTOU IRON & STEEL (GROUP) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-26
AI Technical Summary
In confined spaces, traditional heat exchanger tube bundle leak detection and repair tools are difficult to use effectively, making it impossible to locate leaks in a timely and accurate manner, affecting repair results, and may even lead to the replacement of the entire equipment or production shutdown, increasing maintenance costs and affecting production stability.
A pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces is provided, comprising a pressure pump, a through handle, and a solid handle. By fixing it to a wall or bolt holes, and combining it with a conical rubber plug and a fixing head, a double-sealed connection for the heat exchanger tube bundle is achieved, ensuring the stability and sealing of the pressure testing process.
It effectively overcomes the limitations of confined spaces, improves maintenance efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, ensures the continuity and stability of production, ensures no leakage of the medium during pressure testing, and improves the accuracy of testing.
Smart Images
Figure CN224416345U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of heat exchanger tube bundle maintenance technology, and in particular to a pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces. Background Technology
[0002] In many important fields such as petrochemicals, energy and power, refrigeration, and chemical production, heat exchangers play an irreplaceable core role as key equipment for achieving heat exchange and are widely used. However, in actual operation, heat exchanger tube bundle leakage problems inevitably occur, which urgently requires maintenance work on the heat exchanger to accurately determine the specific leaking tube bundle.
[0003] However, in reality, due to various factors such as site layout and industrial facility planning, many heat exchangers are located in very small spaces. In particular, the rear end cap area of the heat exchanger is generally not disassembled, making the space in this area even more cramped, with only 300mm-500mm away from the wall.
[0004] When a heat exchanger tube bundle leaks, the usual approach is to disconnect the individual unit, then seal or replace it, before putting it back into service. However, due to the limited space occupied by the heat exchanger, traditional leak detection methods and tools are often ineffective, hindering efficient work. This results in the inability to locate the leak promptly and accurately, severely impacting the repair results. In extreme cases, it may even necessitate replacing the entire unit or forcing a production shutdown, placing immense pressure on the company's maintenance costs and negatively affecting production stability and balance. Given these frequent problems encountered during air cooler leak detection and sealing, designing a specialized tube bundle pressure testing fixture suitable for confined spaces has become a crucial issue that the industry urgently needs to address. Utility Model Content
[0005] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces to solve the problems existing in the prior art. It has a simple structure, is easy to use, can effectively overcome the limitations caused by confined spaces, effectively improve maintenance efficiency, effectively reduce maintenance costs, and effectively ensure the continuity and stability of production.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following solution:
[0007] This utility model provides a pressure testing fixture for a heat exchanger in a confined space, comprising: a pressure pump, a hollow handle, and a solid handle. One end of the pressure pump is connected to a water source. The hollow handle has a hollow structure, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end is used to tightly connect to the output end of the pressure pump. A plug-in sealing port is provided in the middle of the hollow handle. One end of the hollow handle is used to press against a wall or to be fixed to a bolt hole on the heat exchanger shell using an iron wire, while the other end is for the operator to hold, so that the plug-in sealing port can be plugged into and sealed to one end of the tube bundle. A sealing element is provided in the middle of the solid handle. One end of the solid handle is used to press against a wall or to be fixed to a bolt hole on the heat exchanger shell using an iron wire, while the other end is for the operator to hold, so that the sealing element can be sealed to the other end of the tube bundle.
[0008] Preferably, it further includes a first conical rubber plug and a first fixing head. The first fixing head has a hollow structure. One end of the first fixing head is connected and communicates with the middle part of the through-hole handle, and the other end is used to communicate with the tube bundle. The first conical rubber plug is sleeved and fixed to the first fixing head, and the first conical rubber plug is used to insert and seal with one end of the tube bundle.
[0009] Preferably, it further includes a second conical rubber plug and a second fixing head. The second fixing head is a solid structure and is fixedly connected to the middle part of the solid grip. The second conical rubber plug is sleeved and fixed to the second fixing head, and the second conical rubber plug is used for insertion and sealing connection with the other end of the tube bundle.
[0010] Preferably, the diameter of the small end of the first conical rubber stopper is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, the diameter of the large end of the first conical rubber stopper is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle, the diameter of the small end of the second conical rubber stopper is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, and the diameter of the large end of the second conical rubber stopper is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle.
[0011] Preferably, it also includes a water supply pipe, one end of which is connected to and communicates with the output end of the pressure pump, and the other end is provided with an internal thread. The open end of the through-hole handle is provided with an external thread, and the internal thread is used to connect with the external thread.
[0012] Preferably, it also includes a hollow support rod, which is a hollow tube, and one end of the hollow support rod is connected and communicates with the middle part of the hollow handle, and the other end is connected and communicates with the first fixing head. The length of the hollow support rod is 100mm.
[0013] Preferably, it also includes a solid support rod, one end of which is fixedly connected to the middle of the solid grip, and the other end is fixedly connected to the second fixing head, and the length of the solid support rod is 100mm.
[0014] Preferably, the length of the hollow grip is 2000mm.
[0015] Preferably, the length of the solid grip is 2000mm.
[0016] The present invention achieves the following technical advantages over the prior art:
[0017] This invention provides a pressure testing fixture for a heat exchanger in a confined space. A pressure pump connected to a water source provides a stable pressure source for the fixture, ensuring sufficient power to deliver water to the heat exchanger tube bundle during the entire pressure testing process, guaranteeing the normal operation of the test. The hollow, through-hole handle facilitates water flow, and the open end is tightly connected to the pressure pump output to ensure smooth water transmission. A centrally located plug-in sealing port facilitates accurate sealing connection with one end of the tube bundle. It can be mounted against a wall or fixed to bolt holes, providing a stable support point for the operator, facilitating force application and ensuring the reliability of the plug-in seal, preventing leakage of the test medium. The solid handle, through this structural design, provides the operator with a force point, allowing them to firmly push the sealing element to the other end of the tube bundle for a sealing connection, ensuring the sealing of the other end of the tube bundle and effectively preventing leakage of the pressure medium from that end during the pressure test. Attached Figure Description
[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the pressure testing fixture for the confined space heat exchanger provided by this utility model during use;
[0020] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the through-hole handle and through-hole support rod in the pressure testing fixture for the confined space heat exchanger provided by this utility model;
[0021] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first conical rubber plug installed on the first fixed head in the pressure testing fixture for the confined space heat exchanger provided by this utility model;
[0022] Figure 4A schematic diagram of the solid handle and solid support rod in the pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger provided by this utility model;
[0023] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second conical rubber plug installed on the second fixed head in the pressure testing fixture for the confined space heat exchanger provided by this utility model;
[0024] In the diagram: 1. External thread; 2. Through handle; 3. Through support rod; 4. First fixing head; 5. First conical rubber plug; 6. Second fixing head; 7. Solid support rod; 8. Solid handle; 9. Pressure pump; 10. Second conical rubber plug; 11. Water pipe. Detailed Implementation
[0025] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0026] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces to solve the problems existing in the prior art. It has a simple structure, is easy to use, can effectively overcome the limitations caused by confined spaces, effectively improve maintenance efficiency, effectively reduce maintenance costs, and effectively ensure the continuity and stability of production.
[0027] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0028] This utility model provides a pressure testing fixture for heat exchangers in confined spaces, such as... Figures 1-5As shown, the apparatus includes: a pressure pump 9, a hollow handle 2, and a solid handle 8. One end of the pressure pump 9 is connected to a water source. The hollow handle 2 has a hollow structure, with one end open and the other closed. The open end is used to tightly connect to the output end of the pressure pump 9. A plug-in sealing port is provided in the middle of the hollow handle 2. One end of the hollow handle 2 is used to press against a wall or to be fixed to a bolt hole on the heat exchanger shell using a wire, while the other end is held by the operator to allow the plug-in sealing port to be plugged into and sealed to one end of the tube bundle. A sealing element is provided in the middle of the solid handle 8. One end of the solid handle 8 is used to press against a wall or to be fixed to a bolt hole on the heat exchanger shell using a wire, while the other end is held by the operator to allow the sealing element to be sealed to the other end of the tube bundle. The pressure pump 9, connected to a water source, provides a stable pressure source for the pressure testing apparatus, ensuring sufficient power to deliver water to the heat exchanger tube bundle throughout the pressure testing process, and ensuring the normal operation of the pressure testing. The hollow, hollow handle 2 facilitates water flow, and its open end connects tightly to the output end of the pressure pump 9 to ensure smooth water transmission. The central insertion sealing port facilitates accurate sealing connection with one end of the tube bundle. It can be abutted against a wall or fixed to bolt holes, providing a stable support point for the operator, facilitating force application, and thus better ensuring the reliability of the insertion seal and preventing leakage of the test medium. The solid handle 8, through this structural design, provides the operator with a force point, enabling them to firmly push the sealing element to the other end of the tube bundle using the end support, ensuring the sealing of the other end of the tube bundle and effectively preventing leakage of the pressure medium from that end during the pressure test.
[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the system further includes a first conical rubber plug 5 and a first fixing head 4. The first fixing head 4 is hollow, with one end connected and communicating with the middle of the through-hole handle 2, and the other end communicating with the tube bundle. The first conical rubber plug 5 is fitted and fixed to the first fixing head 4, and is used for a sealed connection with one end of the tube bundle. The hollow structure of the first fixing head 4 allows water to flow smoothly through and reach one end of the tube bundle. The first conical rubber plug 5 fitted onto the first fixing head 4 and sealed with one end of the tube bundle provides a better fit to the tube bundle port, offering a tighter and more reliable seal, reducing the possibility of leakage during pressure testing, and improving the accuracy of the pressure test results.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the system further includes a second conical rubber plug 10 and a second fixing head 6. The second fixing head 6 is a solid structure and is fixedly connected to the middle of the solid handle 8. The second conical rubber plug 10 is fitted and fixed to the second fixing head 6, and is used for insertion and sealing connection with the other end of the tube bundle. The solid structure of the second fixing head 6 provides stable support for the second conical rubber plug 10, allowing it to be securely inserted and sealed with the other end of the tube bundle under the operation of the solid handle 8. In conjunction with the first conical rubber plug 5, a double seal is achieved from both ends of the tube bundle, greatly improving the sealing performance and reliability of the entire pressure testing process.
[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the small end of the first conical rubber plug 5 is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, and the diameter of the large end of the first conical rubber plug 5 is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle. Similarly, the diameter of the small end of the second conical rubber plug 10 is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, and the diameter of the large end of the second conical rubber plug 10 is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle. This design of the conical rubber plug with different diameters allows the small end to be easily inserted into the tube bundle port, while the large end can tightly fit against the inner wall of the tube bundle, forming a good sealing effect. This effectively prevents leakage of the test medium during the pressure test, further improving the sealing performance and accuracy of the pressure test fixture.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the system further includes a water supply pipe 11. One end of the water supply pipe 11 is connected to and communicates with the output end of the pressure pump 9, and the other end is provided with an internal thread. The open end of the through-handle 2 is provided with an external thread 1. The internal thread is used for threaded connection with the external thread 1. The water supply pipe 11 achieves a reliable connection between the pressure pump 9 and the through-handle 2 through the threaded connection, ensuring that the medium delivered by the pressure pump 9 can reach the through-handle 2 and subsequent components stably and without leakage. The threaded connection method is more convenient for installation and disassembly, and facilitates maintenance, debugging, and component replacement of the tooling.
[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the device further includes a hollow support rod 3. The hollow support rod 3 is a hollow tube, with one end connected and communicating with the middle of the hollow handle 2, and the other end connected and communicating with the first fixing head 4. The length of the hollow support rod 3 is 100mm. The 100mm length of the hollow tube structure ensures that water flow can be smoothly transmitted from the hollow handle 2 to the first fixing head 4 and one end of the tube bundle, while also providing good adaptability in confined spaces. A suitable length contributes to the compactness and stability of the overall structure, avoiding any impact on the operation and sealing effect of the pressure testing fixture in a limited space due to excessive length or shortness.
[0034] In a preferred embodiment, a solid support rod 7 is further included. One end of the solid support rod 7 is fixedly connected to the middle of the solid handle 8, and the other end is fixedly connected to the second fixing head 6. The solid support rod 7 has a length of 100mm. This 100mm long solid support rod 7 effectively connects the solid handle 8, the second fixing head 6, and the second conical rubber plug 10, providing a stable support structure for the operator to apply force to push the sealing component and seal the tube bundle. It can accurately position components in a confined space and ensure a stable connection between them, ensuring that the operation of the solid handle 8 during the pressure test can accurately and effectively seal the other end of the tube bundle.
[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the through-handle 2 is 2000mm. This length allows the operator to maneuver more flexibly in confined spaces, keeping them away from potential obstacles around the heat exchanger and reducing the impact of space constraints during operation. Simultaneously, the sufficient length facilitates the operator's application of force, ensuring the smooth completion of the insertion and sealing operation between one end of the through-handle 2 and the tube bundle.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the solid handle 8 is 2000mm long. This length provides the operator with ample operating space and force application distance, making it easier to control the sealing connection between the sealing element at one end of the solid handle 8 and the tube bundle, even in confined spaces. This helps improve the accuracy and stability of the operation, and better coordinates with the through-handle 2 to complete the sealing operation of the entire pressure testing fixture.
[0037] This utility model uses specific examples to illustrate its principles and implementation methods. The above description of the embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core idea of this utility model. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the idea of this utility model. In summary, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.
Claims
1. A pressure testing fixture for a heat exchanger in a confined space, characterized in that: include: A pressure pump, one end of which is connected to a water source; A hollow handle, comprising an open end and a closed end, wherein the open end is for tight connection with the output end of the pressure pump, and a plug-in sealing port is provided in the middle of the handle; one end of the handle is for mounting against a wall or for fixing to bolt holes on the heat exchanger housing using wire, and the other end is for the operator to hold, so that the plug-in sealing port can be plugged into and sealed to one end of the tube bundle; and A solid grip with a sealing element in the middle. One end of the solid grip is used to press against a wall or to be fixed to a bolt hole on the heat exchanger housing using an iron wire. The other end is for the operator to hold so that the sealing element is sealed to the other end of the tube bundle.
2. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a first conical rubber plug and a first fixing head. The first fixing head has a hollow structure. One end of the first fixing head is connected and communicates with the middle part of the through handle, and the other end is used to communicate with the tube bundle. The first conical rubber plug is sleeved and fixed to the first fixing head, and the first conical rubber plug is used to insert and seal with one end of the tube bundle.
3. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that: It also includes a second conical rubber plug and a second fixing head. The second fixing head is a solid structure and is fixedly connected to the middle of the solid grip. The second conical rubber plug is sleeved and fixed to the second fixing head, and the second conical rubber plug is used to insert and seal with the other end of the tube bundle.
4. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The diameter of the small end of the first conical rubber stopper is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, and the diameter of the large end of the first conical rubber stopper is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle. The diameter of the small end of the second conical rubber stopper is smaller than the diameter of the tube bundle, and the diameter of the large end of the second conical rubber stopper is larger than the diameter of the tube bundle.
5. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized in that: It also includes a water supply pipe, one end of which is connected to and communicates with the output end of the pressure pump, and the other end is provided with an internal thread. The open end of the through-hole handle is provided with an external thread, and the internal thread is used to connect with the external thread.
6. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that: It also includes a hollow support rod, which is a hollow tube. One end of the hollow support rod is connected and communicates with the middle part of the hollow handle, and the other end is connected and communicates with the first fixing head. The length of the hollow support rod is 100mm.
7. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 6, characterized in that: It also includes a solid support rod, one end of which is fixedly connected to the middle of the solid grip, and the other end is fixedly connected to the second fixing head. The length of the solid support rod is 100mm.
8. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The length of the hollow grip is 2000mm.
9. The pressure testing fixture for a confined space heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The solid grip is 2000mm long.