WATER SEPARATOR AND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM COMPRISING A FUEL CELL AND A WATER SEPARATOR

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a water separator and an energy conversion system comprising a fuel cell and a water separator.

[0002] Water separators are devices for separating water. Energy conversion systems with fuel cells often operate at high temperatures of up to 200°C and high pressures of up to 5 bar. Such high pressures are necessary for a fuel cell to operate efficiently. These pressures are achieved using an air compressor located in the fuel cell's supply air stream, which compresses the supply air. The air compressor requires energy. To increase efficiency, energy can be extracted from the exhaust gas stream. For example, a gas turbine can be located in the exhaust gas stream and mounted on the same shaft as the air compressor. This allows energy to be transferred from the exhaust gas stream to the air compressor via the gas turbine and the shaft.

[0003] In addition to electricity, the fuel cell also produces water, which is carried away via the exhaust stream. The water in the exhaust stream is often in the form of droplets. The water droplets travel at high speed and thus impact the gas turbine. Exposure to high-speed water droplets can damage the gas turbine or cause rapid wear.

[0004] The most effective way to slow or delay wear or damage to the gas turbine is to remove water droplets from the exhaust stream. This is done using a water separator.

[0005] CN 105148623 A, DE 2411801 A1, JP 2010104906 A and DE 2336278 A1 describe different liquid separators.

[0006] Furthermore, US 2020277919 A1 describes a liquid separator comprising an inlet pipe and an inner pipe.

[0007] Water separators are well known in the art. Water separators use guide vanes to rotate the exhaust stream. Centrifugal force pushes the water droplets outward, where they are then separated via a separation channel.

[0008] US 4,985,058 discloses a particle separator which swirls a gas stream with a swirling device, whereby particles in the gas stream are pushed outwards by centrifugal force and subsequently separated by means of a separation channel and then exit via an outlet opening.

[0009] US 2010 / 0275561 A1 also discloses a particle separator that works according to this principle.

[0010] Such particle separators feature a separation channel. Water droplets are often located on the inner wall of the tube. State-of-the-art water separators first swirl and then partially separate such water droplets. However, this process is inefficient because a significant portion of the swirled water droplets is not separated but remains in the gas stream.

[0011] It is the object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide a water separator and an energy conversion system comprising a water separator, which is robust and efficient and in particular separates a large part of the water.

[0012] The problem is solved by a water separator and an energy conversion system according to the independent patent claims.

[0013] In particular, the object is achieved by a water separator comprising a flow channel defined by a wall and having an inlet and an outlet. A water-containing channel gas stream can be passed through the flow channel from the inlet to the outlet. The water separator has a first separation channel with a first inlet opening and a second separation channel with a second inlet opening. The first inlet opening and the second inlet opening are formed on the inside of the wall of the flow channel.

[0014] The first inlet opening of the first separation channel allows water droplets located on the inner wall of the flow channel to be separated. This type of water separator with two separation channels is therefore particularly efficient.

[0015] The water separator can be made of plastic or metal. It is also possible for the water separator to be made of other materials or a composite material. The use of different materials, for example, for different components, is also conceivable.

[0016] The flow channel can have a circular or oval cross-section. It is possible for the interior of the flow channel to have several sections with different shapes. It is possible for the interior of the flow channel to have sections essentially in the shape of a truncated cone or a cylinder.

[0017] The inlet and / or outlet can have a rubber lip on the inner or outer wall, allowing the water separator to be mounted on a pipe in a substantially gas-tight manner. The water separator can be plugged onto the pipe or plugged into the pipe. The water separator can be secured using pipe clamps or hose clamps. The inlet and / or outlet of the water separator can have a rubber lip on the inner or outer wall and can also be secured using a pipe clamp or hose clamp. The pipe clamp or hose clamp then presses the rubber lip against a pipe to which the water separator is mounted, and the water separator is attached simply, securely, and detachably.

[0018] The water-containing duct gas stream may contain completely water-saturated air. It is also possible for the water-containing duct gas stream to contain water in the form of water droplets or a water surge. However, the largest volume of the duct gas stream is occupied by a gas. The gas may essentially be air.

[0019] The first inlet opening and / or the second inlet opening can be formed annularly in the inner side of the flow channel wall. It is possible for the first inlet opening and / or the second inlet opening to be formed over the entire circumference of the inner side of the flow channel wall. It is also possible for the first inlet opening and / or the second inlet opening to be formed only over parts, for example, circular segments, of the inner side of the flow channel wall. The first inlet opening and the second inlet opening can be substantially identical or congruent in shape.

[0020] According to the invention, the first inlet opening of the water separator is arranged upstream of the second inlet opening, wherein the second separation channel opens into the first separation channel through a second outlet opening.

[0021] Such an arrangement of the first inlet and second inlet makes it possible to separate the water in a multi-stage process. This multi-stage process allows a particularly large amount of water to be separated, making the water separator highly efficient. The second outlet opening opens into the first separation channel, allowing the water from the first separation channel and the water from the second separation channel to be combined. This allows the water from the first separation channel and the water from the second separation channel to be discharged together. This makes the water separator particularly simple in design.

[0022] The first inlet opening can be arranged at a greater radial distance from a longitudinal axis of the flow channel than the second inlet opening. The longitudinal axis of the flow channel is the axis in the direction of the greatest extent of the flow channel. It is also possible for the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening to be at substantially the same radial distance from the longitudinal axis of the flow channel. The second outlet opening can be annular. The second outlet opening can also be oval. It is possible for the second outlet opening to be formed over the entire circumference of the flow channel. It is possible for the second outlet opening to be formed only over parts or segments of the circumference of the flow channel.

[0023] At least one deflection element can be formed in the flow channel between the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening. Water droplets can be directed by the at least one deflection element. The water droplets can be directed by the one deflection element toward the second inlet opening.

[0024] Such a deflection element allows the water to be directed specifically toward the second inlet opening. This allows more water to be separated and increases the efficiency of the water separator.

[0025] The deflection elements can cause the channel gas flow to rotate. The arrangement of the deflection element between the first inlet and the second inlet allows the first inlet to capture water droplets located on the inner wall of the flow channel. Additionally, the channel gas flow downstream of the first inlet is directed toward the second inlet by the deflection element, and centrifugal force pushes water droplets located in the channel gas flow toward the second inlet. Thus, two effects overlap in the water separator. First, water droplets located on the inner wall of the flow channel are separated, and then water droplets located in the central region of the channel gas flow are separated.Water droplets on the inner wall of the flow channel are thus separated directly through the first inlet opening into the first separation channel and are not redirected by the deflection element. The water separator thus operates in two stages. This makes it particularly efficient.

[0026] It is possible for a plurality of deflection elements to be formed in the flow channel. One, two, three, four, five, six or more deflection elements can be formed in the flow channel, with three or four deflection elements being particularly preferred. The deflection elements can be made of metal, plastic, or a composite material. Other materials are also conceivable. It is possible for the deflection elements to be detachably attached. The deflection elements can then be quickly replaced in the event of a defect. It is possible for all deflection elements to be integrally connected and detachably formed together in the flow channel. All deflection elements can then be replaced together in the event of a defect. The deflection elements can each be curved or essentially shaped as a plate.

[0027] It is possible for the deflection elements to be movable within the flow channel. The angle of attack of the deflection elements can then be varied, for example, depending on the flow velocity of the duct gas stream. This allows the deflection effect to be adapted to the respective flow velocity, allowing the water separator to operate efficiently at different flow velocities. The angle of attack of the deflection elements can be changed manually by a technician or automatically using actuators. It is possible for sensors to be arranged in the flow channel to measure the flow velocity. The angle of attack of the deflection elements can then be adjusted and optimized based on the sensor readings.

[0028] It is possible for the region of the flow channel between the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening to be substantially cylindrical or frustoconical. The first separation channel can be arranged at least partially around the region of the flow channel with the deflection element. The first separation channel can be arranged in a ring around the region of the flow channel with the deflection element.

[0029] This arrangement makes the water separator particularly robust and compact. By arranging the first separation channel in a ring around the flow channel area between the first inlet and the second inlet, the first separation channel can have a large cross-section for water separation while maintaining a compact design. This allows the water separator to separate a large amount of water while maintaining an extremely compact design.

[0030] The truncated cone shape can taper downstream or be widened downstream. Annular means that the first separation channel is at least partially annular. It is of course possible for webs, ledges, or other connections to be formed between several walls of the water separator in the first separation channel.

[0031] The first separation channel may have a first outlet opening. The first separation channel may have a larger cross-section in the region of the first inlet opening than in the region of the first outlet opening.

[0032] The large cross-section of the first separation channel in the area of the first inlet opening allows the first separation channel to collect a large amount of water or a large number of water droplets through the first inlet opening. The larger cross-section of the first separation channel in the area of the first inlet opening than in the area of the first outlet opening allows the first separation channel to taper in a nozzle-like manner. This ensures that the water collected in the first separation channel can be collected and released precisely and in a concentrated manner through the first outlet opening.

[0033] The cross-sectional area of the first separation channel in the region of the first outlet opening can be substantially 50 percent, 20 percent, or less than the cross-sectional area of the separation channel in the region of the first inlet opening. Other ratios between the cross-sectional area of the first separation channel in the region of the first outlet opening and the cross-sectional area of the first separation channel in the region of the first inlet opening are also conceivable.

[0034] According to the invention, the first separation channel opens into a circulation channel through a circulation channel opening, wherein the circulation channel runs at least partially around the flow channel.

[0035] By opening the second outlet opening into the first separation channel, the separated water from both the first separation channel and the second separation channel is collected downstream in the first separation channel. By opening the first separation channel into the circulation channel through a circulation channel opening, all of the separated water is collected in the circulation channel. Because the circulation channel runs around the flow channel, the separated water can be precisely collected in the circulation channel with a compact water separator design.

[0036] The cross-sectional area of the circulation channel can essentially make up 40 percent, 30 percent, or less of the cross-sectional area of the flow channel. Other ratios between the cross-sectional area of the circulation channel and the cross-sectional area of the flow channel are also conceivable. The circulation channel can be bonded to the flow channel by means of a bonded joint. It is also possible for the circulation channel to be attached to the flow channel by welding. The circulation channel can be detachably attached to the flow channel, for example, by means of screws. This has the advantage that the circulation channel can be removed and subsequently reattached for maintenance, inspection, or repair of the water separator.

[0037] It is possible for the circulation channel to have a longitudinal axis which extends at least partially on a plane which intersects the longitudinal axis of the flow channel substantially perpendicularly.

[0038] According to the invention, a first gas stream can be conducted through the first separation channel, and a second gas stream can be conducted through the second separation channel. Furthermore, the second outlet opening is designed such that the second gas stream can be conducted through the second outlet opening in such a way that the first gas stream can be deflected toward the circulation channel opening by the second gas stream.

[0039] The first gas stream contains water droplets. The deflection of the first gas stream by the second gas stream toward the circulation channel opening also directs the water droplets toward the circulation channel opening. This makes it extremely unlikely that water droplets from the first separation channel will re-enter the flow channel through the second outlet and inlet openings. Rather, the effect of the first separation channel is amplified by the second gas stream in the second separation channel. In addition to the arrangement of two separation channels in the water separator, the first separation channel and the second separation channel are arranged in such a way that they mutually reinforce each other's effect. This results in an extremely high level of effectiveness of the water separator.

[0040] The second outlet opening can be narrowed or widened. The second outlet opening can be designed as a nozzle. It is possible for the second outlet opening to contain steering elements, such as vanes or plates, which direct the second gas flow.

[0041] The circulation channel can be spiral-shaped. The radius of curvature of the circulation channel can be larger, at least partially along the flow direction of the circulation channel, with the circulation channel expanding in the flow direction than in a region opposite to the flow direction.

[0042] Such an arrangement allows the gas flow to be advantageously discharged.

[0043] The circulation channel may comprise a first volute channel and a second volute channel. The first volute channel and the second volute channel may be configured such that they have a substantially equal pressure distribution during operation of the water separator.

[0044] The separated water can be advantageously drained away through the first volute channel and the second volute channel.

[0045] A volute channel is a channel which has a radius of curvature which is at least partially larger as the volute channel expands along the flow direction than in an area opposite to the flow direction.

[0046] The circulation channel opening opens into the first volute channel. Due to the spiral shape of the first volute channel and the second volute channel, the gas flow is directed partially into the first volute channel and partially into the second volute channel. It is possible for the first volute channel and the second volute channel to have a slot-shaped connection. The slot-shaped connection between the first volute channel and the second volute channel can be designed to be essentially V-shaped.

[0047] It is possible that the first volute channel is formed on a circular segment of essentially 180° around the flow channel.

[0048] It is possible for several passages to be formed from the first volute channel to the second volute channel. The passages can be circular.

[0049] It is possible for the gas stream to flow around the flow channel, at least partially, multiple times in the first volute channel, thus forming a first volute channel gas stream. The first volute channel gas stream thus encounters the gas stream, which is set in rotation by the deflection elements and flows through the circulation channel opening into the first volute channel. As a result, the gas stream, which enters the first volute channel through the circulation channel opening, is additionally set in rotation by its encounter with the first volute channel gas stream. This intensifies the rotation triggered by the deflection elements. The deflection elements and the first volute channel thus complement each other and mutually reinforce their effect.

[0050] It is possible for the circulation channel opening to be designed such that it supports or reinforces the rotation of the gas flow. For this purpose, further deflection elements, for example blades, can be arranged in the region of the circulation channel opening. In the first volute channel, the gas flow is partially deflected, and in the second volute channel, the gas flow is completely deflected, into a region in the circulation channel in which the first volute channel and the second volute channel merge. Downstream of this region, the circulation channel is at least partially no longer subdivided. With a substantially horizontal arrangement of the longitudinal axis of the flow channel, the circulation channel can have a substantially vertical longitudinal axis in the region in which the first volute channel and the second volute channel merge.

[0051] The second volute channel may be formed radially further outward from a longitudinal axis of the flow channel than the first volute channel.

[0052] This prevents backflow of water from the first volute channel or second volute channel into the flow channel. The second volute channel can be designed such that water located in the second volute channel is necessarily directed into the circulation channel. The water is thus directed into the first volute channel and then flows from the first volute channel into the second volute channel. The water is directed from the second volute channel into the circulation channel. It is possible for the water to flow from the first volute channel into the circulation channel without passing through the second volute channel.

[0053] It is also possible for the second volute channel to be radially spaced substantially at the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the flow channel as the first volute channel. In this case, the second volute channel is arranged further downstream of the flow channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the flow channel than the first volute channel.

[0054] Such an arrangement of the first volute channel and the second volute channel enables a particularly compact design of the water separator.

[0055] The circulation channel can flow into the flow channel.

[0056] This reunites all gas streams flowing through the water separator. By reuniting the gas stream from the recirculation channel and the duct gas stream, a gas turbine located downstream of the water separator can be supplied with both the gas stream from the recirculation channel and the duct gas stream. By recirculating the gas stream from the recirculation channel into the flow channel, the kinetic energy of the gas stream from the recirculation channel can also be utilized. This would not be possible if the gas stream were simply discharged from the recirculation channel with the water it contains. By recirculating the gas stream from the recirculation channel into the flow channel, the kinetic energy of the gas streams is largely retained. The gas turbine can therefore at least partially convert both the kinetic energy of the gas stream from the recirculation channel and the kinetic energy of the duct gas stream into mechanical energy.The kinetic energy can thus be advantageously utilized by a gas turbine located downstream of the gas separator. This increases the efficiency of a plant equipped with such a water separator.

[0057] The circulation channel can open orthogonally into the flow channel. Advantageously, the circulation channel opens into the flow channel such that both the channel gas flow and the gas flow from the circulation channel flow at least partially in the same direction. This can create a negative pressure at the opening, which improves function and reduces pressure losses. This can be achieved, for example, by the flow channel and the circulation channel having longitudinal axes that intersect essentially at a 45° angle. The gas flow from the circulation channel is then entrained by the channel gas flow. This results in a beneficial interaction between the channel gas flow and the gas flow from the circulation channel.

[0058] A water separator can be connected to the circulation channel.

[0059] A water separator is a device for separating water from a gas stream. Such a water separator can separate the water, which was separated by the water separator and conducted with the gas stream into the circulation channel, from the gas stream in the circulation channel. At the outlet of the circulation channel into the flow channel, the gas stream from the circulation channel is thus essentially free of water droplets. This results in a channel gas stream downstream of the outlet of the circulation channel into the flow channel that contains no significant liquid components such as water droplets. Such a channel gas stream can advantageously be directed to a gas turbine, allowing a gas turbine thus supplied with water to operate with low wear and thus low maintenance.

[0060] The water separator can be designed such that a smaller mass flow flows in the circulation channel than in the flow channel. The mass flow in the circulation channel can, for example, be 20 percent or less of the mass flow in the flow channel. Furthermore, the flow velocity in the circulation channel can be lower than in the flow channel, and the water content can be higher in the circulation channel than in the flow channel. This ensures that the water separator can advantageously and efficiently separate the water from the gas flow in the circulation channel. The water separator can, for example, be designed as a lamella water separator.

[0061] The water separator is preferably located at a lower level than the water separator. Gravity then exerts a force on the water droplets, which is located at a higher level in the gas flow than the water separator, acting at least partially in the direction of the water separator. It is possible for at least one component of the mass flow to act in the same direction as gravity. In this case, both gravity and the mass flow exert a force on the water droplets, which acts at least partially in the direction of the water separator. This enhances the effect of the water separator.

[0062] The water separator may have a water outlet. The water outlet can be fixed or adjustable. Adjustable means that the amount of water drained through the water outlet per unit of time can be determined by adjusting an adjustment device. It is possible that adjusting the water outlet of the water separator can influence the amount of water separated by the water separator.

[0063] Upstream of the inlet, an insert may be formed through which the channel gas flow can be guided into the inlet in a substantially laminar manner.

[0064] A laminar airflow makes it extremely unlikely that water droplets located on the inner wall of the flow channel will fall down or otherwise enter the central region of the channel gas flow. The water droplets located on the inner wall of the flow channel therefore have a high probability of remaining on the inner wall of the flow channel. As a result, the water droplets are highly likely to be separated through the first inlet opening and the first separation channel. Furthermore, the deflection element is subjected to a controlled flow of an essentially laminar airflow, and a repeatable, satisfactory result can be achieved through the arrangement of the deflection elements. This allows the gas flow deflected by the deflection element to flow advantageously and with high reliability toward the second inlet opening.By virtue of a substantially laminar air flow upstream of the deflection element, water droplets located in the central region of the duct gas flow can be advantageously directed by the deflection element toward the second inlet opening. Of course, it is possible for the flow downstream of the deflection element to be turbulent. Thus, by virtue of the arrangement of the insert and the substantially laminar air flow upstream of the deflection element, both the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening can be advantageously supplied with water, allowing the water separator to be used efficiently and advantageously.

[0065] The inner wall of the insert can be essentially truncated-cylindrical in shape. It is possible for the insert to have a larger cross-section downstream than upstream. It is also possible for the insert to have a larger cross-section upstream than downstream. The insert can be designed as a nozzle or a diffuser. It is possible for the insert to contain elements that direct the gas flow. These could be vanes, for example. The insert can be made of metal or plastic. It is possible for the insert to be made of a composite material. The insert can be made of the same material as other parts of the water separator.

[0066] A rubber lip can be arranged on the inner wall of the insert, which is located downstream. In addition, the inner wall of the insert, which is located downstream, can have substantially the same diameter as the outer wall of the inlet. The insert can then be plugged onto the inlet and the rubber lip seals the area between the inner wall of the insert and the outer wall of the inlet. It is possible for the insert to have an extension in which the inner diameter of the insert is larger than the remaining inner diameter of the insert. In this case, the insert and the inlet can be designed such that there is a transition from the inner wall of the insert to the inner wall of the inlet that is essentially free of projections and grooves. In this way, air turbulence at the transition from insert to inlet is avoided or at least reduced.

[0067] It is also possible for a rubber lip to be arranged on the outer wall of the insert, which is located downstream of the insert, and for the outer wall of the insert to have essentially the same diameter as the inner wall of the inlet. The insert can then be plugged into the inlet, and the rubber lip seals the area between the outer wall of the insert and the inner wall of the inlet. It is possible for the inlet to have an extension in which the inner diameter is larger than the remaining inner diameter of the rest of the flow channel. In this case, the insert and the inlet can be designed such that there is a transition from the inner wall of the insert to the inner wall of the inlet that is essentially free of projections and grooves. In this way, air turbulence at the transition from insert to inlet is avoided or at least reduced.

[0068] When the inlet is inserted into the insert and / or when the insert is inserted into the inlet, the two components can be secured using pipe clamps or hose clamps. The inlet and insert can be screwed together. The inlet and insert can be secured using a bayonet lock. The insert and inlet can also be joined by a material bond, for example, by welding.

[0069] It is possible for the insert to be designed in such a way that a negative pressure is created behind the insert. The air flow, which is directed from the circulation channel into the flow channel, is then at least partially drawn from the circulation channel into the flow channel by the negative pressure.

[0070] The object of the invention is further achieved by an energy conversion system which comprises a fuel cell and a water separator as described above.

[0071] In such an energy conversion plant, a gas turbine can be located downstream of the water separator. Away The separation of water by means of the water separator prevents excessive amounts of water from reaching the gas turbine. This allows such a gas turbine to operate with low wear and for a long service life. This makes the energy conversion plant reliable and durable.

[0072] The water separator can be arranged in an exhaust air stream of the energy conversion system. A longitudinal axis of the flow channel can be essentially horizontal when used as intended.

[0073] By arranging the longitudinal axis of the flow channel horizontally, the water separator can be arranged such that the longitudinal axis of the circulation channel is at least partially arranged substantially vertically, and the further arrangement for separating water is preferably arranged at a lower level. Gravity then acts on water droplets in the circulation channel toward the center of the earth and thus away from the flow channel, which is located at a higher level. Thus, as described above, gravity supports the function of the water separator, enabling extremely advantageous and efficient operation.

[0074] The energy conversion system can be configured such that the water separator has a water outlet and an adjustment device, and the water outlet can be opened or closed by means of the adjustment device. The energy conversion system can comprise a controller configured to adjust the adjustment device such that, within a time interval, the water outlet is open for one time unit and closed for two to six time units. The controller can comprise a fill level sensor.

[0075] Such an adjustment device and control system allows the energy conversion plant to be operated efficiently for a wide range of load cases.

[0076] The level sensor can measure the fill level of the water separator. The control system can then adjust the adjustment device depending on the fill level of the water separator. For example, the level sensor can measure the electrical conductivity between two contacts. The electrical conductivity between the contacts is then low when there is air between the contacts and high when there is water between the contacts. The control system can include multiple level sensors.

[0077] The invention is explained in more detail in the following figures.

[0078] This shows: Figure 1: A view of a water separator with a water separator, Figure 2: a side view of a water separator, Figure 3: a longitudinal section of a water separator, Figure 4: a front view of a water separator, Figure 5: a cross section of a water separator, Figure 6: a view of a water separator with a circulation channel, Figure 7: a schematic representation of an energy conversion plant with a water separator, Figure 8: a longitudinal section of a water separator, wherein the first volute channel and the second volute channel have the same distance from a longitudinal axis of the flow channel.

[0079] Figure 1shows a view of a water separator 1 with a water separator 16. The water separator 16 is arranged at a lower level than the water separator 1. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. The flow channel 2 is essentially cylindrical. The flow channel 2 is arranged essentially horizontally. The flow channel 2 has an inlet 3 and an outlet 4. A gas flow can be guided from the inlet 3 through the flow channel 2 to the outlet 4. An insert 17 is arranged upstream of the inlet 3. A gas flow can be guided essentially laminarly into the inlet 3 through the insert 17. The insert 17 has the same outer diameter as the inlet 3 and is seamlessly connected to it. The water separator 1 has a circulation channel 13. The circulation channel 13 runs around the flow channel 2. The circulation channel 13 is arranged at least partially substantially vertically.The circulation channel 13 runs from the flow channel to a water separator (16) and from the water separator (16) to the flow channel 2. A substantially vertical hose runs from the water separator (16), through which water can be separated from the water separator (16). The circulation channel 13 opens downstream into the flow channel 2 at an angle of substantially 45°.

[0080] Figure 2shows a side view of a water separator 1. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. The flow channel 2 is essentially cylindrical. The flow channel 2 is essentially horizontal. The flow channel 2 has an inlet 3 and an outlet 4. A gas flow can be conducted from the inlet 3 through the flow channel 2 to the outlet 4. An insert 17 is arranged upstream of the inlet 3. A gas flow can be conducted essentially laminarly into the inlet 3 through the insert 17. The insert 17 has the same outer diameter as the inlet 3 and is connected to it seamlessly and by a material fit. The water separator 1 has a circulation channel 13. The circulation channel 13 runs around the flow channel 2. The circulation channel 13 is arranged at least partially essentially vertically. The circulation channel 13 runs from the flow channel to a water separator 16 and from the water separator 16 to the flow channel 2.Thus, a gas flow is directed from flow channel 2 through circulation channel 13, with the gas flow being fed back downstream to flow channel 2 through circulation channel 13. Circulation channel 13 opens into flow channel 2 downstream at an angle of substantially 45°. The outer diameter of flow channel 2 is tapered. Insert 17 and outlet 4 each have a projection on their outer side onto which other components can be plugged. Insert 17 and inlet 3 have a larger outer diameter than outlet 4.

[0081] Figure 3shows a longitudinal section of a water separator 1. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. The flow channel 2 is essentially cylindrical in shape. The longitudinal axis 31 of the flow channel 2 is arranged essentially horizontally. The flow channel 2 has an inlet and an outlet 4. An insert 17 is arranged upstream of the inlet 3. The insert 17 is connected to the inlet 3 in a seamless and materially bonded manner. The water separator 1 has a circulation channel. A gas stream can be guided from the flow channel 2 into the circulation channel 13. From the circulation channel 13, the gas stream is fed back downstream to the flow channel 2. The water separator 1 has a first separation channel 5 and a second separation channel 8. The first separation channel 5 extends from the first inlet opening 6 to the circulation opening 12. Furthermore, the first separation channel 5 has a first outlet opening 7.The second separation channel 8 extends from the second inlet opening to the second outlet opening 10. In the region of the second outlet opening, the second separation channel 8 opens into the first separation channel 5. The second outlet opening 10 is shaped such that a gas flow leaving the second separation channel 8 through the second outlet opening 10 can deflect a gas flow, which is guided in the first separation channel 5 through the first outlet opening 7, towards the circulation channel opening 12. This reinforces the effect of the first separation channel 5. The water separator 1 has deflection elements 11 which are arranged such that a channel gas flow can be guided through the deflection elements 11 to the second inlet opening 9 of the second separation channel. The circulation channel opening 12 opens into the circulation channel 13. The circulation channel 13 runs around the flow channel 12. The circulation channel 13 has a first volute channel 14 and a second volute channel 15.The first volute channel 14 and the second volute channel 15 are at least partially connected by a slot-shaped opening.

[0082] Figure 4shows a front view of a water separator 1. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. Deflection elements 11 are arranged in the flow channel 2. A first separation channel 5 and a second separation channel 8 are located in the flow channel 2. The first separation channel 5 has a first inlet opening 6. The second separation channel 8 has a second inlet opening 9. The water separator 1 has a circulation channel 13. The circulation channel 13 runs around the flow channel 2. A gas flow can be guided through the flow channel 2 into the circulation channel 13. Downstream of the flow channel 2, the circulation channel 13 opens back into the flow channel 2. A gas flow can thus be guided through the flow channel 2 into the circulation channel 13 and then back into the flow channel 2. From the flow channel 2, a gas flow can be directed through the first separation channel 5 into the circulation channel 13 and then back into the flow channel 2.From the flow channel 2, a gas flow can be directed through the second separation channel 8 into the circulation channel 13 and then back into the flow channel 2. The first separation channel 5 and the second separation channel 8 converge in the circulation channel 13. Reinforcing elements are arranged in the circulation channel 2. The deflection elements 11 are attached to the reinforcing elements.

[0083] Figure 5shows a cross-section of a water separator 1. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. A first separation channel 5 and a second separation channel 8 are arranged in the flow channel 2. The first separation channel 5 has a first inlet opening 6. The second separation channel 8 has a second inlet opening 9. The circulation channel 13 runs around the flow channel 2. The circulation channel 13 has a first volute channel 14 and a second volute channel 15. The second volute channel 15 is radially further away from the longitudinal axis (not shown) of the flow channel 2 than the first volute channel 14. The circulation channel 13 has a first volute channel 14 and a second volute channel 15 in sections. The first volute channel 14 and the second volute channel 15 open into a section of the circulation channel which has a substantially vertically arranged longitudinal axis (not shown).The first volute channel 14 and the second volute channel 15 are partially spiral-shaped, so that the first volute channel 14 and the second volute channel 15 are at least partially radially further away from the longitudinal axis (not shown) of the flow channel 2 in the flow direction of the circulation channel 13.

[0084] Figure 6 shows a view of a water separator 1 with a circulation channel 13. The water separator 1 is installed between two pipes. The water separator 1 has a flow channel 2. The longitudinal axis 31 of the flow channel 2 is aligned essentially horizontally. The circulation channel 13 runs at a level below the flow channel 2. Gravity thus acts on water droplets in the circulation channel 13 at least in one direction essentially orthogonal to the circulation channel 2 toward the Earth's center. Thus, the effect of the water separator 1 is amplified by gravity.

[0085] Figure 7shows a schematic representation of an energy conversion system 18 with a water separator 1. Ambient air 19 is passed through an air filter 20 and an air cooler to a humidifier 24. There, the ambient air 19 is brought to a humidity level favorable for the operation of the fuel cell 26. The ambient air 19 is passed into the fuel cell 26. From the hydrogen pressure tank 30, hydrogen is passed through a valve 29 by means of an injection 28 and through a droplet eliminator 27 into the fuel cell 26. The ambient air 19 and the hydrogen react in the fuel cell. The fuel cell emits electrical current and an air-water mixture 25. The air-water mixture 25 is passed through the humidifier 24 to the water separator 1. Water 23 is separated by the water separator 1. In addition, the water separator 1 emits air 21 into the environment.It is possible for the humidifier 24 to draw water 23 from the water separator 1. The humidifier 24 can then humidify the ambient air 19, which is supplied to the humidifier through the air filter 20 and the air cooler 22, with water 23 from the water separator 1. Thus, the fuel cell 26 can be supplied with humidified air that is advantageous for operation.

[0086] Figure 8 shows a longitudinal section of a water separator 1, wherein the first volute channel 14 and the second volute channel 15 are at the same distance from the longitudinal axis 31 of the flow channel 2. The second volute channel 15 is arranged further downstream of the flow channel 2 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 31 of the flow channel 2 than the first volute channel 14.

[0087] The same reference numerals refer to the same components.

Claims

1. A water separator (1) comprising a flow channel (2) defined by a wall and having an inlet (3) and an outlet (4) through which a flow of channel gas containing water (23) can be passed from the inlet (3) to the outlet (4), wherein the water separator (1) has a first separation channel (5) with a first inlet opening (6) and a second separation channel (8) with a second inlet opening (9), wherein the first inlet opening (6) and the second inlet opening (9) are formed on the inside of the wall of the flow channel (2), the first inlet opening (6) being arranged upstream of the second inlet opening (9), wherein the second separation channel (8) opens into the first separation channel (5) through a second outlet opening (10), wherein the first separation channel (5) opens into a bypass channel (13) through a bypass channel opening (12), wherein the bypass channel (13) extends at least partially around the flow channel (2), wherein a first gas flow can be conducted through the first separation channel (5) and wherein a second gas flow can be conducted through the second separation channel (8), characterized in that the second outlet opening (10) is designed such that the second gas flow can be conducted through the second outlet opening (10) such that the first gas flow can be deflected in the direction of the circulation channel opening (12) by the second gas flow.

2. Water separator (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one deflection element (11) is formed between the first inlet opening (6) and the second inlet opening (9) in the flow channel (2), through which water droplets can be deflected, in particular in the direction of the second inlet opening (9).

3. Water separator (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the region of the flow channel (2) between the first inlet opening (6) and the second inlet opening (9) is essentially of cylindrical shape or truncated cone shape and the first separation channel (5) is arranged at least partially, preferably annularly, around the region of the flow channel (2) with the deflection element (11).

4. Water separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first separation channel (5) has a first outlet opening (7) and the first separation channel (5) has a larger cross-sectional area in the region of the first inlet opening (6) than in the region of the first outlet opening (7).

5. Water separator (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bypass (13) is sprial shaped, so that the radius of curvature of the bypass (13) is larger at least partially along the flow direction of the bypass (13) with the extension of the bypass (13) advancing in the flow direction than in a region opposite to the flow direction.

6. Water separator (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bypass (13) has a first volute channel (14) and a second volute channel (15), the first volute channel (14) and the second volute channel (15) being designed such that they have an essentially equal pressure distribution of the gas flow during operation of the water separator (1).

7. Water separator (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bypass (13) opens into the flow channel (2).

8. Water separator (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a gas dehydration unit (16) is connected to the bypass (13).

9. Water separator (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an insert (17) is formed upstream of the inlet (3), through which the channel gas flow can be conducted into the inlet (3) in an essentially laminar manner.

10. Energy conversion system (18) comprising a fuel cell (26) and a water separator (1) according to any one of claims 1 - 9 .

11. Energy conversion plant (18) according to claim 10, characterized in that the water separator (1) is arranged in an exhaust air flow of the energy conversion plant (18) and a longitudinal axis (31) of the flow channel (2) is designed to be in particular essentially horizontal when used as intended.

12. Energy conversion plant (18) according to one of claims 10 - 11, wherein the water separator has a water dehydration unit (16) which comprises a water drain and a regulating mechanism, wherein the water drain can be opened or closed by means of the regulating mechanism, characterized in that the energy conversion plant comprises a controller which is designed to adjust the regulating mechanism in such a way that in a time interval the water drain is opened for one time unit and closed for two to six time units, wherein the controller comprises in particular a fill level sensor.