Natural cooling system and natural cooling unit

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of refrigeration equipment, and discloses a natural cooling system and a natural cooling unit. The natural cooling system comprises a basic module, the basic module comprises an evaporator, a dry cooler, a first pipeline, a second pipeline and a third pipeline, one end of the first pipeline is connected to a first inlet of the dry cooler, and one end of the first pipeline is provided with a liquid inlet; a first switch valve in the first pipeline is located between a first auxiliary interface and a second auxiliary interface, the second auxiliary interface is located on the side of the first auxiliary interface away from the liquid inlet; the second pipeline is connected between a first outlet of the dry cooler and a first inlet of a first evaporation chamber in the evaporator, a second switch valve in the second pipeline is located between a third auxiliary interface and a fourth auxiliary interface, and the fourth auxiliary interface is located on the side of the third auxiliary interface away from the first outlet of the dry cooler; one end of the third pipeline is connected to a first outlet of the first evaporation chamber, and one end of the third pipeline is provided with a liquid outlet; the first auxiliary interface, the second auxiliary interface, the third auxiliary interface and the fourth auxiliary interface are all provided with plugging pieces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and in particular to a natural cooling system and a natural cooling unit. Background Technology

[0002] In fields such as industrial production, data centers, and power electronics, various core devices continuously generate a large amount of heat during operation. If this heat cannot be dissipated in time, the internal temperature of the equipment will rise, leading to problems such as decreased operating efficiency, reduced performance stability, and increased risk of failure. In severe cases, it may even shorten the lifespan of the equipment and affect the safe and reliable operation of the overall system. Therefore, equipment cooling technology is a key support for ensuring the stable operation of equipment in related fields.

[0003] Traditional equipment cooling methods mostly rely on mechanical refrigeration (such as air conditioning and compressor refrigeration units). While these methods achieve cooling effects, they suffer from drawbacks such as high energy consumption, high operating costs, high noise levels, and frequent maintenance requirements. Furthermore, the long-term operation of mechanical components is prone to wear and tear and failure, further increasing the system's maintenance burden and downtime risk. In contrast, natural cooling systems, with their unique technological advantages, have become one of the preferred solutions for addressing equipment cooling needs. However, the core limitation of existing natural cooling units lies in their fixed cooling system structure. Once assembled, they can only maintain a single operating state and cannot flexibly adjust their application mode according to actual usage requirements. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application discloses a natural cooling system and a natural cooling unit. The natural cooling system can adjust its working state according to user needs, so that the natural cooling system can adapt to the low-cost operation mode without the isolation module and the high-performance operation mode after the isolation module is loaded.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: In a first aspect, this application provides a natural cooling system, comprising: a basic module including an evaporator, a dry cooler, a first pipeline, a second pipeline, and a third pipeline; the dry cooler having a first inlet and a first outlet; the evaporator including a first evaporation chamber having a first inlet and a first outlet; one end of the first pipeline connected to the first inlet of the dry cooler, and the other end of the first pipeline having a liquid inlet for connection to a user side; the first pipeline having a first switching valve, a first pre-connected interface, and a second pre-connected interface, the first switching valve being located between the first pre-connected interface and the second pre-connected interface, and the second pre-connected interface being located on the side of the first pre-connected interface opposite to the liquid inlet; the second pipeline connecting the first outlet of the dry cooler and the first inlet of the first evaporation chamber, the second pipeline having a second switching valve, a third pre-connected interface, and a fourth pre-connected interface, the second switching valve being located between the third pre-connected interface and the fourth pre-connected interface, and the fourth pre-connected interface being located on the side of the third pre-connected interface opposite to the first outlet of the dry cooler; one end of the third pipeline connected to the first outlet of the first evaporation chamber, and the other end of the third pipeline having a liquid outlet for connection to a user side; When the natural cooling system is in the first working mode, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are open, and the first pre-port, the second pre-port, the third pre-port and the fourth pre-port are all equipped with plugs.

[0006] When using the natural cooling system provided in this application, the natural cooling system can be configured to operate in a first working mode. In this first working mode, the medium enters from the inlet on the user side and flows into the first pipeline, passing sequentially through the first pre-connected port (with a plug), the open first switch valve, and the second pre-connected port (with a plug), and then enters the dry cooler through the first inlet. After the medium has completed its initial cooling, it flows out from the first outlet of the dry cooler and enters the second pipeline connecting the dry cooler and the evaporator. During the flow of the medium through the second pipeline, it passes sequentially through the third pre-connected port (with a plug), the open second switch valve, and the fourth pre-connected port (with a plug), then enters the evaporator through the first inlet of the first evaporation chamber and completes secondary cooling in the first evaporation chamber. Finally, it flows out from the first outlet of the first evaporation chamber and enters the third pipeline, which is then transported to the outlet on the user side, and finally returns to the user side, completing the entire flow cycle.

[0007] When the natural cooling system provided in this application is in its first operating mode, the overall number of structural components is small and the circuit structure is simple, which can reduce manufacturing costs and optimize operating power consumption. Customers who are limited by their economic conditions or have cost considerations during initial investment can preferentially choose this natural cooling system.

[0008] It should be noted that the natural cooling system provided in this application, by setting a first, second, third, and fourth pre-existing interfaces on the first and second pipelines respectively, provides flexible adaptation space for the access of the isolation module. When users need to modify the system in the future, there is no need to purchase new units. They can directly expand and upgrade based on the original configuration, which can significantly save costs and greatly improve the efficiency of the modification. At the same time, combined with the precise connection layout of the first, second, and third pipelines, the reasonable placement of each pre-existing interface on the corresponding pipeline, and the opening and closing control of the first and second switching valves, the natural cooling system can flexibly switch between different working modes. Users can choose the appropriate working mode according to their actual needs, such as pursuing lower operating costs or needing to expand to obtain better cooling effects, which can further improve the practicality and adaptability of the natural cooling unit.

[0009] In some embodiments, the natural cooling system further includes an isolation module for separating the antifreeze and the circulating medium in the natural cooling system; the isolation module includes an isolation plate heat exchanger, the isolation plate heat exchanger includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity that are independent of each other, the first receiving cavity is used to receive the circulating medium, the second receiving cavity is used to receive the antifreeze, and the circulating medium in the first receiving cavity and the antifreeze in the second receiving cavity are capable of heat exchange; the first receiving cavity includes a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second receiving cavity includes a second inlet and a second outlet; When the natural cooling system is in the second operating mode, the first and second switching valves are closed, and the first, second, third, and fourth pre-connected interfaces are connected. The first inlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the first pre-connected interface, and the first outlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the fourth pre-connected interface. The second inlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the third pre-connected interface, and the second outlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the second pre-connected interface. This isolation module can separate the circulating medium and antifreeze, preventing antifreeze from entering the user side and avoiding risks such as corrosion to user-side equipment caused by antifreeze, thereby extending the service life of the user-side equipment. In the natural cooling system of this application, its basic configuration is a natural cooling system without an isolation plate heat exchanger. The isolation module is used as a configuration module. When the user needs to expand the configuration of the isolation plate heat exchanger, the isolation module can be directly installed as a whole module into the basic configuration of the natural cooling unit without purchasing a new natural cooling unit, which provides convenience for the user's configuration expansion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the isolation module further includes a third switching valve and a fourth switching valve. The third switching valve is connected in a pipeline between the second outlet of the second receiving cavity and the second pre-portion; the fourth switching valve is connected in a pipeline between the first inlet of the first receiving cavity and the first pre-portion. When applying the natural cooling system of this application, the third and fourth switching valves in the isolation module can cooperate with the first and second switching valves in the basic module, allowing the natural cooling system to switch to either the first or the second operating mode. That is, the natural cooling system of this application can simultaneously support two heat exchange modes, allowing users to switch to a low-power operating state or an operating state where the circulating medium and antifreeze are separated during use.

[0011] In some embodiments, the third switching valve is an electrically operated switching valve or a manually operated switching valve; And / or, the fourth switching valve is an electric switching valve or a manual switching valve.

[0012] In some embodiments, the isolation module further includes a drive pump connected in the pipeline between the third switching valve and the second pre-connection port. This application adds a drive pump to the isolation module and connects it in the pipeline between the third switching valve and the second pre-connection port, providing stable and sufficient power support for the circulation of antifreeze. This effectively compensates for pressure losses of the antifreeze as it flows through the isolation plate heat exchanger, related pipelines, and various ports, ensuring that its flow rate and volume meet heat exchange requirements and guaranteeing the efficiency and stability of heat exchange between the circulating medium and the antifreeze.

[0013] In some embodiments, the isolation module further includes a one-way valve connected in the pipeline between the drive pump and the second pre-port, so that the circulating medium on the user side will not enter the circuit where the antifreeze is located.

[0014] In some embodiments, the circulating medium is water, and the antifreeze is an ethylene glycol solution.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first switching valve is an electrically operated switching valve or a manually operated switching valve.

[0016] And / or, the second switching valve is an electrically operated switching valve or a manually operated switching valve.

[0017] Secondly, this application also provides a natural cooling unit, including a natural cooling system as provided by any of the technical solutions in the first aspect above.

[0018] It should be noted that in the natural cooling unit provided in this application, the natural cooling system reserves flexible adaptation space for the access of the isolation module by setting a first, second, third, and fourth pre-existing interfaces on the first and second pipelines respectively. When users need to modify the system later, there is no need to purchase new units. They can directly expand and upgrade based on the original configuration, which can significantly save costs and greatly improve the efficiency of the modification. At the same time, combined with the precise connection layout of the first, second, and third pipelines, the reasonable layout of each pre-existing interface on the corresponding pipeline, and the opening and closing control of the first and second switching valves, the natural cooling system can flexibly switch between different working modes. Users can choose the appropriate working mode according to their actual needs, such as pursuing lower operating costs or needing to expand to obtain better cooling effect, which can further improve the practicality and adaptability of the natural cooling unit.

[0019] In some embodiments, the evaporator in the natural cooling system further includes a second evaporation chamber having a second inlet and a second outlet; The natural cooling unit also includes a refrigerant system comprising a refrigerant circulation loop formed by a compressor, a condenser, and a second evaporation chamber of the evaporator. The compressor has a first inlet and a first outlet, and the condenser has a first inlet and a first outlet. The first outlet of the compressor is connected to the first inlet of the condenser, the first outlet of the condenser is connected to the second inlet of the second evaporation chamber, and the second outlet of the second evaporation chamber is connected to the first inlet of the compressor. The refrigerant system also includes refrigerant located within the refrigerant circulation loop. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of a water system within a natural cooling system according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 This application provides a schematic diagram of a water system within another natural cooling system according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the expandable natural cooling system provided in an embodiment of this application is shown; Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The flow direction of the medium; Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the expanded natural cooling system in the middle; Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 The flow direction of the medium; Figure 7This application illustrates a system schematic diagram of yet another natural cooling system provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 8 An overall structural diagram of a natural cooling unit using this expandable natural cooling system is shown. Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The diagram shows the lower structure of the natural cooling unit, hidden behind the upper dry cooler in the middle structure.

[0021] Figure label: 1. Evaporator; 1a. First inlet; 1b. First outlet; 1c. Second outlet; 2. Dry cooler; 2a. First inlet; 2b. First outlet; 3. Isolation plate heat exchanger; 4. First pipeline; 4a. Liquid inlet; 4b. Second interface; 5. Second pipeline; 5a. Interface; 6. Third pipeline; 6b. Liquid outlet; 7. First switching valve; 8. First backup interface; 9. Second backup interface; 10. Second switching valve; 11. Third backup interface; 12. Fourth backup interface; 13. Third switching valve; 14. Fourth switching valve; 15. 16. Drive pump; 17. Check valve; 18. Y-type filter; 19. Compressor; 10. First inlet; 11. First outlet; 12. Copper pipe assembly; 13. Piping; 14. Piping; 25. Dryer filter; 26. Chassis; 27. Tee; 28. Steel pipe assembly; 29. ​​Pressure sensor; 20. Temperature sensor; 21. Exhaust valve; 22. Drain valve; 23. Manual butterfly valve; 34. Check valve; 35. Flow meter; 36. Ball valve; 37. Expansion tank; 38. Safety valve; 39. Flow switch; 30. Fan. Detailed Implementation

[0022] To better understand the natural cooling system and natural cooling unit provided in this application embodiment, we will first introduce the application environment of the natural cooling system and natural cooling unit. With the continuous rise in global energy costs and increasing emphasis on green environmental protection, the demand for energy conservation is becoming increasingly strong. The energy-saving potential of natural cooling units under certain weather conditions is very attractive to IT environments, and it has now become a necessary condition for meeting the energy efficiency targets of data center operators or industry standards (such as ANSI / ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010, "Energy Standards for Buildings Other Than Low-Rise Residential Buildings"). Under certain weather conditions, natural cooling units can use natural cooling mode as the primary operating mode, while refrigerant-based operation (i.e., mechanical cooling mode) serves as a supplementary operating mode or backup solution.

[0023] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships, for example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B at the same time, and B alone. In addition, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more.

[0024] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature, and in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0025] This application provides a natural cooling unit comprising a natural cooling system and a refrigerant system, integrating the two systems into a single unit. The refrigerant system consists of components such as a compressor, evaporator, electronic expansion valve, and condenser; the natural cooling system consists of components such as a filter and a dry cooler.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a water system within a natural cooling system according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 1 As shown, when mechanical refrigeration is not required, i.e., no refrigerant system is used, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol solution from the user can enter the dry cooler 2 to exchange heat with the air. After heat exchange, the mixture flows to the user side through the evaporator 1, such as a shell-and-tube heat exchanger. However, for data center applications, natural cooling systems often need to operate year-round; and for natural cooling systems operating in low-temperature environments, the antifreeze medium is generally a mixture of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol solution, which is corrosive and can affect user equipment with long-term use. It should be understood that... Figure 1 Only key structural components such as evaporator 1 and dry cooler 2 are shown to schematically illustrate the principle of the water system. Of course, other structural components are also present in this water system loop, which are not shown here. Figure 1 Not shown in the image.

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a water system within another natural cooling system provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 As shown, users can also choose a natural cooling system with a heat exchanger 3, in which case the circulating medium from the user, such as water, passes through the heat exchanger 3. This heat exchanger 3 is used for heat exchange between the circulating medium (such as water) and the antifreeze (such as ethylene glycol solution), and also prevents ethylene glycol from entering the user's terminal. After absorbing heat from the water on the user side, the ethylene glycol solution enters the dry cooler 2, where it dissipates the heat into the air, and then returns to the heat exchanger 3 from the dry cooler 2, completing the cycle. This heat exchanger 3 can separate the circulating medium and antifreeze from the user side. It should be understood that... Figure 2 Only key structural components such as evaporator 1, dry cooler 2, and isolation plate 3 are shown to schematically illustrate the principle of the water system. Of course, other structural components are also present in this water system loop, which are not shown here. Figure 2 Not shown in the image.

[0028] but, Figure 2 The water system shown is compared to the natural cooling system. Figure 1 The water system within the natural cooling system shown has components such as an isolation plate and a heat exchanger, resulting in higher overall costs and higher power consumption.

[0029] Based on this, this application provides a scalable natural cooling system structure that can adjust its operating state according to user needs, enabling it to adapt to both a low-cost operating mode without an isolation module and a high-performance operating mode with an isolation module.

[0030] Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the expandable natural cooling system provided in an embodiment of this application is shown; Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The flow direction of the medium. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the natural cooling system includes: a basic module, which comprises an evaporator 1, a dry cooler 2, a first pipe 4, a second pipe 5, and a third pipe 6. It should be understood that... Figure 4 The dry cooler 2 is illustrated by a dashed box to indicate the flow direction of the mixing medium in the natural cooling system.

[0031] like Figure 4 As shown, the dry cooler 2 has a first inlet 2a and a first outlet 2b; the evaporator 1 includes a first evaporation chamber, which has a first inlet 1a and a first outlet 1b; one end of the first pipe 4 is connected to the first inlet of the dry cooler 2, and the other end of the first pipe 4 is provided with a liquid inlet 4a for connection with the user side. It should be understood that the liquid inlet 4a of the first pipe 4 is connected to the liquid outlet of the user-side equipment; the first pipe 4 is provided with an interface 4b to connect to the first inlet 2a of the dry cooler 2.

[0032] like Figure 4 As shown, the first pipeline 4 is equipped with a first switching valve 7, a first pre-connection port 8, and a second pre-connection port 9. The first switching valve 7 is located between the first pre-connection port 8 and the second pre-connection port 9, and the second pre-connection port 9 is located on the side of the first pre-connection port 8 away from the liquid inlet 4a. The second pipeline 5 is connected between the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2 and the first inlet 1a of the first evaporation chamber. The second pipeline 5 is equipped with an interface 5a to connect to the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2. The second pipeline 5 is equipped with a second switching valve 10, a third pre-connection port 11, and a fourth pre-connection port 12. The second switching valve 10 is located between the third pre-connection port 11 and the fourth pre-connection port 12, and the fourth pre-connection port 12 is located on the side of the third pre-connection port 11 away from the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2. One end of the third pipeline 6 is connected to the first outlet 1b of the first evaporation chamber, and the other end of the third pipeline 6 is equipped with a liquid outlet 6b for connecting to the user side. It should be understood that the liquid outlet 6b of the third pipeline 6 is connected to the liquid inlet of the user-side equipment.

[0033] It is worth noting that, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The medium in the natural cooling system shown, which only includes the basic module, can consist only of circulating medium such as water from the user side, or it can simultaneously include circulating medium from the user side and antifreeze.

[0034] The first pre-connected port 8, the second pre-connected port 9, the third pre-connected port 11, and the fourth pre-connected port 12 are used to connect to an isolation module, which separates the antifreeze and circulating medium in the natural cooling system. When the natural cooling system is in the first operating mode, the first switching valve 7 and the second switching valve 10 are open; each of the first pre-connected port 8, the second pre-connected port 9, the third pre-connected port 11, and the fourth pre-connected port 12 is equipped with a plug. For example, the first pre-connected port 8, the second pre-connected port 9, the third pre-connected port 11, and the fourth pre-connected port 12 can be selected as a standard steel tee for connecting the isolation module in subsequent applications.

[0035] When using the natural cooling system provided in the embodiments of this application, the natural cooling system can be configured to operate in a first working mode. In this first working mode, such as... Figure 4As shown, the medium enters through the inlet 4a connected to the user side and flows into the first pipeline 4. It then passes sequentially through the first preparatory port 8 (with a plug), the open first switch valve 7, and the second preparatory port 9 (with a plug), before entering the dry cooler 2 through the first inlet 2a. After initial cooling, the medium flows out from the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2 and into the second pipeline 5 connecting the dry cooler 2 and the evaporator 1. During its flow through the second pipeline 5, the medium passes sequentially through the third preparatory port 11 (with a plug), the open second switch valve 10, and the fourth preparatory port 12 (with a plug), before entering the evaporator 1 through the first inlet 1a of the first evaporation chamber. It undergoes secondary cooling in the first evaporation chamber and finally flows out from the first outlet 1b of the first evaporation chamber into the third pipeline 6. The medium is then transported along the third pipeline 6 to the outlet 6b connected to the user side, and finally returns to the user side, completing the entire flow cycle.

[0036] It should be understood that, in the first operating mode, the natural cooling system provided in this application embodiment has fewer overall structural components and a simpler circuit structure, which can reduce manufacturing costs and optimize operating power consumption. Customers, when initially investing and constrained by their economic conditions or for cost considerations, may prefer this natural cooling system.

[0037] When it is necessary to separate the medium in the natural cooling system, the blockages at the first pre-port 8, the second pre-port 9, the third pre-port 11 and the fourth pre-port 12 can be removed, so that the antifreeze and the circulating medium are separated inside the isolation module and heat exchange takes place inside the isolation module. Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the expanded natural cooling system in the middle; Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 The flow direction of the medium. For example... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, as an example, the circulating medium, such as water, from the user side flows only within the loop formed by the inlet 4a, the isolation module, the evaporator 1, and the outlet 6b. This flow state is... Figure 6 The solid arrow indicates that the antifreeze flows within the loop formed by the dry cooler 2 and the isolation module; this flow pattern is shown in... Figure 6 The dashed arrow lines indicate this. The natural cooling system provided in this application embodiment, by loading an isolation module, ensures that the medium entering the user-side equipment is pure, preventing antifreeze from affecting the user-side equipment and extending its service life. Furthermore, since the antifreeze and the circulating medium are separated into two circuits, a wider range of antifreeze options is available, optimizing the structural performance of the natural cooling system and further improving its performance in low-temperature environments.

[0038] It is worth noting that, such as Figure 6As shown, when the basic module in the natural cooling system is connected to the isolation module, the first switch valve 7 is closed, and the circulating medium in the pipeline between the liquid inlet 4a and the first switch valve 7 does not participate in the heat exchange at the isolation module location; at the same time, the second switch valve 10 is closed, and the circulating medium will not flow to the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2.

[0039] It should be noted that the natural cooling system provided in this application embodiment, by setting a first pre-existing interface 8, a second pre-existing interface 9, a third pre-existing interface 11, and a fourth pre-existing interface 12 on the first pipeline 4 and the second pipeline 5 respectively, reserves flexible adaptation space for the access of the isolation module. When users need to modify the system later, they do not need to purchase new units. They can directly expand and upgrade based on the original configuration, which can significantly save costs and greatly improve the efficiency of modification. At the same time, combined with the precise connection layout of the first pipeline 4, the second pipeline 5, and the third pipeline 6, the reasonable layout of each pre-existing interface on the corresponding pipeline, and the opening and closing control of the first switching valve 7 and the second switching valve 10, the natural cooling system can flexibly switch between different working modes. Users can choose the appropriate working mode according to their actual needs, such as pursuing lower operating costs or needing to expand to obtain better cooling effect, which can further improve the practicality and adaptability of the natural cooling unit.

[0040] In the embodiments of this application, the structural forms of the dry cooler 2 and the evaporator 1 are various, and the number of dry coolers 2 and evaporators 1 can be set according to requirements. For example, the evaporator 1 is a shell-and-tube heat exchanger; the number of dry coolers 2 is multiple, and the multiple dry coolers 2 are connected in parallel. In this case, the first inlet 2a of the aforementioned dry cooler 2 serves as the inlet on the main pipeline, and the first outlet 2b of the aforementioned dry cooler 2 serves as the outlet on the main pipeline.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first switching valve 7 is an electrically operated valve, such as an electrically operated butterfly valve; the second switching valve 10 is a manually operated valve, such as a manually operated butterfly valve. In this embodiment, setting the first switching valve 7 as an electrically operated valve enables automated control and remote operation of the valve. It can accurately respond to system operating mode switching commands without manual on-site intervention, improving operational convenience and control efficiency, and adapting to the system's automated operation requirements. Setting the second switching valve 10 as a manually operated valve allows for reliable opening and closing through direct manual operation during system maintenance, repair, or special operating conditions, ensuring intuitive and controllable operation. It also reduces the cost and failure rate of some valves. The two valves complement each other, meeting the automated control requirements of the system during normal operation while also ensuring the reliability of manual adjustment in special scenarios, further improving the flexibility and economy of natural cooling system operation and maintenance.

[0042] Of course, the first switching valve 7 can also be set as a manual switching valve according to the needs; or the second switching valve 10 can be set as an electric switching valve, which will not be elaborated further.

[0043] In one embodiment, the plugging component includes a blind plate and a clamp, wherein one end face of the blind plate is provided with a sealing surface, and the sealing surface is connected to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The end faces of at least one of the first preparatory interface 8, the second preparatory interface 9, the third preparatory interface 11 and the fourth preparatory interface 12 shown are fitted together; the clamp is in the shape of a clamp and is located along the radial direction of the preparatory interface. The clamp is located on the side of the blind piece away from the preparatory interface and is used to provide radial clamping force for the blind piece.

[0044] When using the natural cooling system provided in this application embodiment, if the natural cooling system is not equipped with an isolation module, at least one of the first pre-existing interfaces 8, 9, 11, and 12 can be sealed with a blind plate, and the relative position of the blind plate and the pre-existing interface is locked by a clamp. When the natural cooling system is equipped with an isolation module, the sealing component formed by the blind plate and the clamp can be removed from the pre-existing interface.

[0045] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the blocking component adopts a combination structure of blind plate and clamp. The sealing surface of the blind plate is precisely fitted with the end face of each preparatory interface, and the clamp-shaped clamp applies a clamping force on the radial side of the blind plate away from the interface. This not only achieves reliable sealing of the preparatory interface and effectively prevents media leakage, ensuring stable operation of the system in the first working mode, but also has the advantages of simple structure and convenient installation and disassembly. It provides convenience for interface modification when connecting the isolation module, and can reduce the difficulty of operation and maintenance costs.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 3 As shown in the structure, the pipes and other structural components in the natural cooling system provided in this application embodiment can be made of steel, and different steel structural components can be connected by detachable grooved clamps.

[0047] Figure 7 This illustration shows a system schematic diagram of yet another natural cooling system provided in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 refer to Figure 7As shown in the diagram, in one embodiment, the natural cooling system provided in this application further includes an isolation module. The isolation module includes an isolation plate 3, which includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity that are independent of each other. The first receiving cavity is used to contain circulating medium, and the second receiving cavity is used to contain antifreeze. The circulating medium in the first receiving cavity and the antifreeze in the second receiving cavity can exchange heat. The first receiving cavity includes a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second receiving cavity includes a second inlet and a second outlet. This isolation module can separate the circulating medium and the antifreeze, preventing the antifreeze from entering the user side and avoiding risks such as corrosion to the user-side equipment caused by the antifreeze, thereby extending the service life of the user-side equipment.

[0048] When the natural cooling system is in the second working mode, the first switch valve 7 and the second switch valve 10 are closed, and the first pre-connection port 8, the second pre-connection port 9, the third pre-connection port 11 and the fourth pre-connection port 12 are connected; the first inlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the first pre-connection port 8, and the first outlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the fourth pre-connection port 12; the second inlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the third pre-connection port 11, and the second outlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the second pre-connection port 9.

[0049] When users need to expand the isolation module, the isolation module can be directly connected to the basic module. Specifically, it can be removed as follows: Figure 3 The blind flanges at each interface location are shown, and the isolation module is continued to be connected by clamps. Specifically, when the first switch valve 7 and the second switch valve 10 are closed, antifreeze such as ethylene glycol solution can be filled into the isolation module. At this time, the ethylene glycol solution will be isolated in one loop and exchange heat with the circulating medium such as water from the user side in another loop, while the antifreeze will not enter the user side.

[0050] When applying the natural cooling system provided in the embodiments of this application, when the natural cooling system is in the second operating mode, such as Figure 6As shown, the first switching valve 7 and the second switching valve 10 are closed, and the first preparatory interface 8, the second preparatory interface 9, the third preparatory interface 11 and the fourth preparatory interface 12 are connected. After the isolation module is connected to the basic module through the isolation plate 3, it forms two independent circuits that can exchange heat: the circulating medium enters the first pipeline 4 from the liquid inlet 4a, flows into the first inlet of the first receiving cavity in the isolation plate 3 through the connected first preparatory interface 8, completes the heat exchange in the first receiving cavity, flows out from the first outlet of the first receiving cavity, enters the second pipeline 5 through the connected fourth preparatory interface 12, flows into the first evaporation chamber through the first inlet 1a, then flows out from the first outlet 1b of the first evaporation chamber to the third pipeline 6, and finally flows out from the liquid outlet 6b to the user side. The antifreeze flows from the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2 into the second pipe 5, then through the conductive third preparatory interface 11 into the second inlet of the second receiving cavity within the isolation plate 3. After heat exchange with the circulating medium within the second receiving cavity, it flows out from the second outlet of the second receiving cavity, through the conductive second preparatory interface 9 into the first pipe 4, and then through the first inlet 2a of the dry cooler 2 into the interior of the cavity, forming an independent circulation. During the flow of the circulating medium and antifreeze, the two loops achieve heat exchange through the isolation plate 3, and the media do not flow between them.

[0051] It should be noted that in the natural cooling system of this application embodiment, its basic configuration is a natural cooling system without the isolation plate replacement 3. The isolation module is used as a configuration module. When the user needs to expand the configuration of the isolation plate replacement 3, the isolation module can be directly installed into the natural cooling unit of the basic configuration as an integral module. There is no need to purchase a new natural cooling unit, which can provide convenience for the user's configuration expansion.

[0052] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the isolation module also includes a third switching valve 13 and a fourth switching valve 14. The third switching valve 13 is connected in the pipeline between the second outlet of the second receiving cavity and the second preparatory interface 9; the fourth switching valve 14 is connected in the pipeline between the first inlet of the first receiving cavity and the first preparatory interface 8.

[0053] When using the natural cooling system in this embodiment, the third switching valve 13 and the fourth switching valve 14 in the isolation module can cooperate with the first switching valve 7 and the second switching valve 10 in the basic module, allowing the natural cooling system to switch to either the first operating mode or the second operating mode. In other words, the natural cooling system in this embodiment can simultaneously support two heat exchange modes, allowing users to switch to a low-power operating state or an operating state where the circulating medium and antifreeze are separated during use.

[0054] When the third switching valve 13 and the fourth switching valve 14 are configured, the third switching valve 13 can be an electrically operated valve or a manually operated valve; and / or, the fourth switching valve 14 can be an electrically operated valve or a manually operated valve. Furthermore, when classified by type, the third switching valve 13 and the fourth switching valve 14 can also be selected as butterfly valves.

[0055] In one specific embodiment, the first switching valve 7 is an electric butterfly valve; the second switching valve 10 is a manual butterfly valve; the third switching valve 13 is a manual butterfly valve; and the fourth switching valve 14 is an electric butterfly valve, so as to combine the advantages of electric control and manual control.

[0056] In another specific embodiment, the first switching valve 7, the second switching valve 10, the third switching valve 13, and the fourth switching valve 14 are all electric butterfly valves, so that both operating modes can be automatically controlled. When both the second switching valve 10 and the third switching valve 13 in this other specific embodiment are electric butterfly valves, they can both be incorporated into the control of the natural cooling unit, just as the first switching valve 7 and the fourth switching valve 14 in the aforementioned specific embodiment, allowing the user to switch between the two natural cooling modes at any time.

[0057] When the natural cooling unit is running in winter, the first switch valve 7 and the second switch valve 10 are shut off, and the third switch valve 13 and the fourth switch valve 14 are opened. The first switch valve 7, the second switch valve 10, the third switch valve 13 and the fourth switch valve 14 are all electric valves.

[0058] When the natural cooling unit is running in summer, the first switch valve 7 and the second switch valve 10 are opened, and the third switch valve 13 and the fourth switch valve 14 are closed, so that the circulating medium from the user side can enter the dry cooler 2 to complete the circulation.

[0059] Therefore, users who choose natural cooling units that are compatible with both modes can avoid antifreeze entering their equipment and can also directly use circulating media such as water for heat exchange in summer to operate with low power consumption.

[0060] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the isolation module also includes a drive pump 15, such as a variable frequency pump, which is connected in the pipeline between the third switching valve 13 and the second pre-connection port 9. It is worth noting that this drive pump is only activated in the second operating mode. Accordingly, the natural cooling system in the first operating mode can reduce power consumption.

[0061] In this embodiment, a drive pump 15 is added to the isolation module and connected to the pipeline between the third switch valve 13 and the second preparatory interface 9. This provides stable and sufficient power support for the circulation of antifreeze, effectively compensating for the pressure loss of antifreeze when it flows through the isolation plate 3, related pipelines and interfaces, ensuring that its flow rate and volume meet the heat exchange requirements, and guaranteeing the efficiency and stability of heat exchange between the circulating medium and the antifreeze.

[0062] Meanwhile, the drive pump 15 can flexibly adjust its output power to adapt to the flow requirements of the system under different operating conditions, which can further improve the flow reliability and adjustment flexibility of the antifreeze circuit, and help the natural cooling system achieve more efficient and stable operation in the second working mode.

[0063] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the isolation module also includes a one-way valve 16, which is connected in the pipeline between the drive pump 15 and the second preparatory interface 9, so that the circulating medium on the user side will not enter the circuit where the antifreeze is located.

[0064] Figure 8 An overall structural diagram of a natural cooling unit using this expandable natural cooling system is shown. Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The diagram shows the lower structure of the natural cooling unit, concealed by the upper dry cooler in the middle structure. Please refer to the diagram. Figure 3 and Figure 4 refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the structure, the evaporator 1 in the natural cooling system provided in this embodiment of the application further includes a second evaporation chamber, which has a second inlet and a second outlet 1c. Figure 9 As shown, the refrigerant system includes a refrigerant circulation loop formed by a compressor 18, a condenser (not shown), and a second evaporation chamber of an evaporator 1. The compressor 18 has a first inlet 18a and a first outlet 18b, wherein the first inlet 18a and the first outlet 18b may have a short circuit. The condenser has a first inlet and a first outlet; the first outlet 18b of the compressor 18 is connected to the first inlet of the condenser, the first outlet of the condenser is connected to the second inlet of the second evaporation chamber, and the second outlet 1c of the second evaporation chamber is connected to the first inlet 18a of the compressor 18. The refrigerant system also includes refrigerant located within the refrigerant circulation loop. Furthermore, the refrigerant system may also include other structural components, such as a dryer filter 20, etc., which will not be described in detail here.

[0065] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the natural cooling unit provided in this embodiment mainly includes a two-layer structure. The upper layer mainly consists of several dry coolers 2 and condensers arranged side by side. The condensers can be air-cooled condensers to enhance the heat exchange effect with the air. The lower layer mainly consists of a compressor 18, an evaporator 1, a dryer filter 20, an electronic expansion valve, a first switching valve 7, a second switching valve 10, a Y-type filter 17, etc., and all components are mounted on a chassis 21.

[0066] Moreover, such as Figure 9 As shown, the lower structure includes a copper tube assembly 19 made of materials such as copper, connecting the upper and lower structures, as well as connecting different structural components within the lower structure. The main pipe within the copper tube assembly 19 connects the compressor 18, evaporator 1, dryer filter 20, and other components to the refrigerant-side heat exchanger within the condenser of the upper structure. This refrigerant-side heat exchanger refers to the microchannel heat exchanger inside the air-cooled condenser, with R134a as the internal medium. Pipe 19a in the copper tube assembly 19 is the port where gaseous refrigerant enters the refrigerant-side heat exchanger from the first outlet 18b of the compressor 18 (the discharged substance is gaseous); pipe 19b is the port where liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator 1 from the refrigerant-side heat exchanger. After entering the evaporator 1, the liquid refrigerant exchanges heat with the circulating medium, such as water, and transforms into a gaseous state, then enters the compressor 18 through the first inlet 18a, forming the refrigerant system circulation loop for the entire unit.

[0067] like Figure 9 As shown, the lower structure includes a steel pipe assembly 23 made of steel. This steel pipe assembly 23 connects the first switching valve 7, the second switching valve 10, the Y-type filter 17, and other devices to the second-layer dry cooler 2. The Y-type filter 17 can filter impurities in the circulating medium within the pipeline, improving circulation performance. Of course, other types of filters can also be used in the pipeline, which will not be elaborated further.

[0068] It should be understood that the first pipeline 4, the second pipeline 5, and the third pipeline 6 can be considered as part of the steel pipeline system. The circulating medium, such as water, enters the natural cooling unit through the liquid inlet 4a, passes through the first switching valve 7 and the Y-type filter 17, enters the dry cooler 2 through the interface 5a, exchanges heat with the air, enters the manifold through the interface 4b, and flows into the evaporator 1 (such as a shell-and-shell heat exchanger) through the tee 22. Finally, it is sent back to the user side through the liquid outlet 6b, forming a natural cooling circulation system.

[0069] When configuring the natural cooling unit provided in this application embodiment, other structural components may also be included internally to improve system performance. For example... Figure 7 As shown, a pressure sensor 24 (marked with the circled letter PT) and a temperature sensor 25 (marked with the circled letter TT) can also be set in the circuit. The pressure sensor 24 and the temperature sensor 25 have different detection functions depending on their placement.

[0070] Specifically, for Figure 7 The three pressure sensors 24 are: the pressure sensor 24 located on the first inlet side of the dry cooler 2 is used to detect the high pressure of the liquid ethylene glycol without antifreeze; the pressure sensor 24 located on the first outlet side of the dry cooler 2 is used to detect the low pressure of the liquid ethylene glycol without antifreeze; and the pressure sensor 24 located on the connecting pipe of the first outlet 1b of the evaporator 1 is used to detect the outlet water pressure.

[0071] for Figure 7 Three temperature sensors 25 are provided: the temperature sensor 25 located in the first pipeline 4 is used to detect the inlet water temperature; the temperature sensor 25 located in the first outlet 1b connecting pipeline of the evaporator 1 is used to detect the outlet water temperature of the evaporator 1; and the temperature sensor 25 located in the first inlet 1a connecting pipeline of the evaporator 1 is used to detect the inlet water temperature of the evaporator 1.

[0072] The pressure at the first inlet 2a of the dry cooler 2 can be detected; and / or, a pressure sensor can be installed to detect the pressure at the first outlet 2b of the dry cooler 2. Alternatively, a flow meter, a safety valve, a temperature sensor for monitoring the inlet water temperature, and a flow switch for controlling the flow rate of the circulating medium in the pipeline can also be installed in the pipeline, etc., which will not be described in detail here.

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, the natural cooling unit provided in this application embodiment can also be equipped with various valves in the circuit, some of which are functionally classified as exhaust valves or drain valves. For example, a drain valve 27 is provided on the first pipeline 4 to drain the circulating medium, such as water, from the pipeline when needed; the isolation plate 3 is connected to an exhaust valve 26 to discharge the gas generated during heat exchange, ensuring structural safety. In addition, other types of valves can also be provided in the circuit, such as a manual butterfly valve 28 and a check valve 29. It is worth noting that the first switching valve 7 in the first pipeline 4 is an electrically operated two-way valve. Figure 7 As shown in the diagram. Of course, the valves mentioned above can be configured according to requirements, and details will not be elaborated further.

[0074] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 7 The structure shown. Figure 7 The newly added piping when the isolation plate 7 is connected to the basic module is shown in bold lines. The natural cooling unit provided in this embodiment can also have other structural components added to this newly added piping as needed, such as a flow meter 30, a ball valve 31, an expansion tank 32, and a safety valve 33. Of course, various valves can also be installed in this newly added piping as needed, which will not be elaborated further.

[0075] In addition, a flow switch 34 can be installed on the third pipeline 6 to limit the flow rate of the circulating medium; and a fan 35 can be installed at the corresponding position of the dry cooler 2 to enhance the heat exchange effect, which will not be elaborated further.

[0076] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the embodiments of this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if these modifications and variations of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A natural cooling system, characterized in that, include: The basic module includes an evaporator, a dry cooler, a first pipeline, a second pipeline, and a third pipeline; The dry cooler has a first inlet and a first outlet; the evaporator includes a first evaporation chamber, the first evaporation chamber has a first inlet and a first outlet, one end of the first pipeline is connected to the first inlet of the dry cooler, and the other end of the first pipeline is provided with a liquid inlet for connection to the user side. The first pipeline is provided with a first switching valve, a first pre-port and a second pre-port. The first switching valve is located between the first pre-port and the second pre-port, and the second pre-port is located on the side of the first pre-port away from the liquid inlet. The second pipeline is connected between the first outlet of the dry cooler and the first inlet of the first evaporation chamber. The second pipeline is provided with a second switching valve, a third pre-connection port, and a fourth pre-connection port. The second switching valve is located between the third pre-connection port and the fourth pre-connection port, and the fourth pre-connection port is located on the side of the third pre-connection port away from the first outlet of the dry cooler. One end of the third pipeline is connected to the first outlet of the first evaporation chamber, and the other end of the third pipeline is provided with a liquid outlet for connecting to the user side. When the natural cooling system is in the first working mode, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are open, and the first pre-port, the second pre-port, the third pre-port and the fourth pre-port are all equipped with plugs.

2. The natural cooling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The natural cooling system further includes an isolation module for separating the antifreeze and the circulating medium in the natural cooling system; the isolation module includes an isolation plate heat exchanger, the isolation plate heat exchanger includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity that are independent of each other, the first receiving cavity is used to receive the circulating medium, the second receiving cavity is used to receive the antifreeze, and the circulating medium in the first receiving cavity and the antifreeze in the second receiving cavity can exchange heat; the first receiving cavity includes a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second receiving cavity includes a second inlet and a second outlet; When the natural cooling system is in the second operating mode, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are closed, and the first preparation interface, the second preparation interface, the third preparation interface and the fourth preparation interface are connected; the first inlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the first preparation interface, and the first outlet of the first receiving cavity is connected to the fourth preparation interface; the second inlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the third preparation interface, and the second outlet of the second receiving cavity is connected to the second preparation interface.

3. The natural cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The isolation module further includes a third switching valve and a fourth switching valve. The third switching valve is connected in the pipeline between the second outlet of the second receiving cavity and the second preparation interface; the fourth switching valve is connected in the pipeline between the first inlet of the first receiving cavity and the first preparation interface.

4. The natural cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The third switching valve is either an electric switching valve or a manual switching valve; And / or, the fourth switching valve is an electric switching valve or a manual switching valve.

5. The natural cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The isolation module also includes a drive pump, which is connected in the pipeline between the third switching valve and the second preparatory interface.

6. The natural cooling system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The isolation module also includes a one-way valve, which is connected in the pipeline between the drive pump and the second preparatory interface.

7. The natural cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The circulating medium is water, and the antifreeze is an ethylene glycol solution.

8. The natural cooling system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The first switching valve is an electric switching valve or a manual switching valve. And / or, the second switching valve is an electrically operated switching valve or a manually operated switching valve.

9. A natural cooling unit, characterized in that, Includes the natural cooling system as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. The natural cooling unit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The evaporator in the natural cooling system further includes a second evaporation chamber, which has a second inlet and a second outlet; The natural cooling unit also includes a refrigerant system comprising a refrigerant circulation loop formed by a compressor, a condenser, and a second evaporation chamber of the evaporator. The compressor has a first inlet and a first outlet, and the condenser has a first inlet and a first outlet. The first outlet of the compressor is connected to the first inlet of the condenser, the first outlet of the condenser is connected to the second inlet of the second evaporation chamber, and the second outlet of the second evaporation chamber is connected to the first inlet of the compressor. The refrigerant system also includes refrigerant located within the refrigerant circulation loop.

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