Hollow plate heat exchanger

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of heat exchange between fluids, in particular implementing fluid separation within at least one of the fluids. State of the art

[0002] In order to optimize the efficiency of an installation implementing an energy transformation, particular attention is paid to the heat exchanger that makes up this installation.

[0003] Increasing the thermal efficiency of a heat exchanger has a direct effect on the performance of the installation's thermodynamic cycle, reducing its primary energy consumption, and consequently the corresponding emissions and supply costs.

[0004] Generally, the goal of optimizing the performance of a heat exchanger is achieved by adopting complex solutions where the original geometry of the component is specifically adapted to the intended application. Implementing such solutions is costly and limits the potential reuse of the exchanger for other applications.

[0005] In addition, the progressive shortage of raw materials, due to increasing consumption and the depletion of existing deposits, is driving the design of heat exchangers with little material while maintaining or improving their performance.

[0006] Furthermore, if phase separation is desired in one of the fluids during heat exchange, thermodynamic interactions can occur within the exchanger. It may then be necessary to design the heat exchanger to optimize either heat exchange or mass transfer.

[0007] Concentric tube, tube-bund, coil, plate, mixing, and finned heat exchangers are all known. Plate heat exchangers are the most widespread, due to the excellent heat transfer coefficients they achieve.

[0008] Plate heat exchangers can be of the brazed or welded type or of the plate and gasket type.

[0009] Welded plate heat exchangers are monolithic, as the plates cannot be separated after welding. Conversely, plate and gasket heat exchangers can be disassembled and then lengthened or shortened as needed, allowing them to be adapted to the desired application and facilitating heat exchanger maintenance.

[0010] The flow of fluids in the heat exchanger can be single-phase or two-phase. In the case of two-phase flow, the heat exchange benefits from a very favorable condition, because the phase change generally takes place at a constant temperature: the logarithmic temperature difference therefore increases considerably, reducing the required exchange surface area.

[0011] Other parameters that influence the performance of plate heat exchangers.

[0012] The two fluids are separated by a separating plate, usually metallic. The thermal conductivity of the separating plate induces a resistance to heat transfer, which can be reduced by decreasing its thickness or by using a separating plate made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, for example copper or aluminum rather than steel.

[0013] Turbulence in the fluid circulation systems of each fluid (distribution chamber, collection chamber, exchange channels...) is generally sought because it increases the thermal efficiency of the exchanger.

[0014] Finally, an optimal spatial distribution of fluid circulation systems also helps to improve heat exchange.

[0015] US 5,392,849 A describes, for example, a superimposed plate heat exchanger in which the two fluids flow in counter-current to each other. It has solid plates alternating with hollow plates where the fluid is distributed, flows, and is collected before being discharged from the exchanger.

[0016] CN 104748605 A describes a plate heat exchanger with microchannels. Heat exchange is facilitated by a magnetic field generated by electrodes inserted in a plate.

[0017] CN 111780597 A describes a vacuum diffusion welded plate heat exchanger, suitable for cross-flow between fluids.

[0018] US-A-2379671 discloses a heat exchanger according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0019] There is therefore a need for a heat exchanger suitable for efficient heat exchange, whose design can be easily adapted to the application in which the installation in which the exchanger is integrated is located, and which optionally is adapted to operate within it a phase separation within at least one of the fluids. Summary of the invention

[0020] The invention proposes a heat exchanger comprising, superimposed longitudinally one on top of the other: a plurality of first and second exchange modules in which first and second fluidic circulation systems are formed, for the circulation of first and second fluids respectively, and a plurality of separation plates each sandwiched between adjacent first and second exchange modules and in contact with adjacent first and second exchange modules, each separation plate fluidically disconnecting the first and second fluidic circulation systems from each other.

[0021] According to a first principal aspect of the invention, at least one of the first and second exchange modules comprises: a frame plate, of constant thickness, comprising a window passing through it in its thickness and an inner piece entirely housed within the window and of a thickness equal to the thickness of the frame plate, the inner piece consisting of a) a shaped plate consisting of at least one hollowed area passing through the thickness of the shaped plate and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness, the corresponding fluidic circulation system being formed in the hollowed area and delimited transversely by the surrounding solid area and longitudinally by the separation plates adjacent to said module, or b) a stack of shaped plates, at least one, preferably each of the shaped plates consisting of at least one hollowed area passing through the thickness of the shaped plate and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness,The corresponding fluid circulation system is defined by the hollowed-out areas of the stack and delimited transversely by the surrounding solid areas and longitudinally by the separation plates adjacent to said corresponding exchange module.

[0022] The heat exchanger according to the first principal aspect of the invention is easily adaptable to its intended application. Furthermore, it is easy to maintain. The frame plate defines a housing in which different types of shaped plates or stacks of shaped plates can be housed. Thus, a worn shaped plate can be replaced while keeping the frame plate in place if the latter is still in good working order. Moreover, when the heat exchanger is to be integrated into an installation for which the application differs from that initially envisaged, a shaped plate or stack of shaped plates with a fluid circulation system of a shape specifically adapted to the application can be designed without the need to modify the separating plate and / or the frame plate.

[0023] Furthermore, the shape plate or stack of shape plates can be obtained from cutting techniques that are simpler to implement and less expensive than the machining or stamping techniques usually used to produce prior art heat exchangers.

[0024] In the variant where the inner component is a stack of shaped plates, each shaped plate is thinner than the frame plate. For example, each shaped plate has a thin profile, allowing for optimal heat transfer without needing to contribute to the mechanical strength of the heat exchanger, as this function is performed by the thicker frame plate.

[0025] Unless otherwise stated, the thickness of a component, for example a plate or a heat exchanger module, is defined and measured along the longitudinal axis of the heat exchanger.

[0026] Preferably, the window outline and the outer outline of the inner part, in at least one cross-sectional plane, being homothetic to each other, so as to facilitate the assembly of the exchange module during the manufacture or maintenance of the heat exchanger.

[0027] Preferably, the heat exchanger has a groove separating the frame plate and the inner piece from each other, the width of the groove preferably being constant. The groove can completely encircle the inner piece.

[0028] Preferably, the heat exchanger includes a seal, preferably an O-ring, located in the groove and compressed by the adjacent separating plates. This reinforces the seal between the separating plates and the corresponding heat exchanger module, reducing the risk of fluid leakage. Furthermore, the seal can be easily removed when replacing or changing the internal component.

[0029] The seal can be extruded or overmolded. It can be made of a polymer material, for example, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It can have a Shore hardness between 70 and 80.

[0030] Alternatively, the inner piece can be fixed, for example glued, brazed or welded, including by diffusion welding, to the frame plate.

[0031] The frame plate and the form plate(s) can be made of different materials. For example, it is possible to choose a material with low mechanical properties and good thermal properties to form the form plate(s).

[0032] In particular, the frame plate can be made of a material having a modulus of elasticity and / or a tensile strength higher than the modulus of elasticity and / or the tensile strength, respectively, of the material constituting the forming plate(s). Thus, the frame plate contributes more to the rigidity and / or mechanical strength of the heat exchanger than the inner component.

[0033] The solid area of ​​the or each form plate and the frame plate may exhibit different surface roughness.

[0034] The frame plate and / or the shape plate(s) may be metallic, for example made of steel, including stainless steel, or based on aluminum, copper or titanium.

[0035] The shaping plate(s) may include a material that catalyzes a chemical reaction upon contact with a component of the first and / or second fluid.

[0036] The frame plate, whose function is to ensure spacing between two consecutive separating plates, can have a low thermal conductivity, for example less than 50 Wm -1< .K -1< , to avoid participating in heat transfer.

[0037] Furthermore, the second heat exchange module may include a third fluid circulation system that is fluidically disconnected from the second fluid circulation system. The second and third fluid circulation systems are defined by different portions of the hollowed-out area(s) of the corresponding internal component. Advantageously, the same internal component can define different and separate flow zones for different fluids.

[0038] Alternatively, the second exchange module may include a third fluidic circulation system fluidly disconnected from the second fluidic circulation system, the corresponding frame plate having a second window in which is arranged a second inner piece which delimits the third fluidic circulation system.

[0039] Furthermore, according to a second principal aspect of the invention, at least one of the first and second exchange modules comprises: a stack of shaped plates superimposed one on top of the other along a longitudinal axis, each shaped plate consisting of at least one hollowed area traversing the thickness of the shaped plate from one side to the other and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness, the corresponding fluidic circulation system being defined by the hollowed areas of the stack and extending longitudinally between the separation plates adjacent to the corresponding exchange module, at least a portion of the hollowed area of ​​one of the shaped plates of the stack being superimposed on a solid area of ​​another adjacent shaped plate of the stack, and vice versa.

[0040] The heat exchanger according to the second main aspect of the invention thus defines, by a simple stacking of shaped plates between two adjacent separating plates and in the plane and / or in the thickness of the stacking, a fluidic circulation system of complex two-dimensional or, preferably, three-dimensional shape.

[0041] Unlike the prior art, where it requires complex and costly machining, or is even impossible to achieve, according to the invention, such a fluid circulation system can be obtained easily and at a lower cost, the shaped plates being easy to manufacture as mentioned above. The invention also overcomes the limitations encountered in stamped plate heat exchangers of the prior art, where the channels have a geometry defined by the shape of the stamped reliefs.

[0042] Preferably, the fluid circulation system has, in at least one longitudinal section plane, different profiles in at least two different positions along the transverse axis of said section plane, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0043] In particular, the profile in a position along said transverse axis may include the rank of the hollowed-out zone(s) in the stack and / or the height of the fluidic circulation system in said position and / or the number of hollowed-out zones in said position.

[0044] The fluid circulation system may include portions extending along different axes. It may include at least two portions extending along axes contained in a transverse plane and which are different from each other. It may include at least two portions extending along axes contained in a longitudinal plane and which are different from each other.

[0045] A longitudinal plane contains the longitudinal axis. A transverse plane is defined by two transverse axes, each perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A transverse plane is therefore perpendicular to a longitudinal plane.

[0046] The fluid circulation system can include at least one main path that divides upstream into several secondary paths that rejoin downstream. Thus, the fluid flowing within the system can follow different paths within the corresponding heat exchange module. This allows for varying the fluid flow conditions by changing the shape of the cross-section along the fluid circulation system's path. It is therefore possible to generate phase separation within each secondary path and / or self-equilibration of pressures and / or fluid flow rates between the secondary paths.

[0047] The fluidic flow system may include, when observed in a longitudinal section plane, a meandering portion extending between adjacent separating plates.

[0048] The length and / or width of the shape plates and the separation plates can be equal.

[0049] According to a third principal aspect of the invention, the first fluid comprises different first and second fluid components, and each separating plate longitudinally delimits the circulation system of the exchange module with which said separating plates are in contact. Each of the second exchange modules further comprises a third fluid circulation system, fluidically disconnected from the second fluid circulation system. the first and third fluid circulation systems being fluidically connected through the corresponding separation plate, the heat exchanger being configured to induce a phase change of the second fluid component under the effect of the heat exchange between the first and second fluids, and to direct the flow of the first fluid component out of the exchanger through the first fluid circulation system and the flow of the second fluid component out of the exchanger through the third fluid circulation system.

[0050] The heat exchanger according to the third main aspect of the invention has the advantage of being very compact, with heat exchange and phase separation taking place within the first and second exchange modules.

[0051] Preferably, the heat exchanger includes a supply line for the first fluid circulation system opening into an inlet port for the first fluid and a discharge line for the first fluid opening into an outlet port for the first fluid. The third fluid circulation system is located closer to the inlet port of the first fluid than to its outlet port. When the first fluid enters the first heat exchange module colder than it exits, the third fluid circulation system is then closer to the coldest area of ​​the first heat exchange module, thus facilitating the cooling, and for example, the liquefaction, of the second fluid component.

[0052] Preferably, the heat exchanger is configured so that the second fluid component, after changing state, flows counter-currently to the first fluid in the first fluid circulation system towards the third fluid circulation system. For example, the second fluid component, which has changed from a liquid to a gaseous state due to heat exchange with the second fluid, flows in a gaseous state against the flow of the first fluid, which contains the second fluid component in a liquid state.

[0053] The heat exchanger preferably includes a vent pipe for the third fluid circulation system to purge the second fluid component out of the exchanger.

[0054] According to one variant, at least one of the first and second exchange modules consists of a shaped plate comprising at least one hollowed area traversing the thickness of the shaped plate from one side to the other and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness, the first fluidic circulation system on the one hand or the second fluidic circulation system and / or the third fluidic circulation system on the other being formed respectively in the hollowed area and delimited transversely by the surrounding solid area and longitudinally by the separation plates adjacent to said module.

[0055] According to another variant, at least one of the first and second exchange modules consists of a frame plate of constant thickness, having a window passing through its entire thickness and an inner piece entirely housed within the window and of equal thickness to the thickness of the frame plate, the inner piece consisting of a) a form plate consisting of at least one hollowed area extending through the thickness of the form plate and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness, the first fluidic circulation system or the second fluidic circulation system and / or the third fluidic circulation system respectively being formed in the hollowed area and delimited transversely by the surrounding solid area and longitudinally by the separation plates adjacent to said module, or b) a stack of form plates, at least one, preferably each of the form plates consisting of at least one hollowed area extending through the thickness of the form plate and a surrounding solid area of ​​constant thickness,the first fluidic circulation system on the one hand, or the second fluidic circulation system and / or the third fluidic circulation system on the other hand, being defined respectively by the hollow areas of the stack and delimited transversely by the surrounding solid areas and longitudinally by the separation plates adjacent to said module.

[0056] The characteristics of the various main aspects of the invention, whether optional or not, as well as the optional characteristics presented above and those of the following description can be combined with each other.

[0057] Preferably, regardless of the main aspect of the invention considered, the heat exchanger may include one or more of the following optional features.

[0058] The first and second exchange modules are preferably arranged alternately one after the other along the longitudinal axis.

[0059] Preferably, the hollowed-out area is formed by cutting.

[0060] Preferably, it is formed by laser beam cutting, water jet cutting, or punching. Preferably, the hollowed-out area is formed by laser beam cutting.

[0061] The first and second fluid circulation systems are preferably delimited longitudinally by the separation plates which sandwich the first and second adjacent exchange modules respectively and which are in contact with said first and second exchange modules respectively.

[0062] At least one, preferably each of the first, second and, where appropriate, third fluid circulation systems includes at least one channel, preferably a plurality of channels, and / or a fluid distribution chamber to supply fluid to the channel(s) and / or a collection chamber into which the channel(s) discharge downstream.

[0063] The channels can extend parallel to each other, for example parallel to the length of the interior room. Alternatively, the channel(s) can form a coil extending in the median plane of the interior room.

[0064] The shaping plate(s) and / or the separating plate and / or the frame plate are preferably flat and have parallel faces.

[0065] The separating plate can have a thickness of less than or equal to 2.0 mm, in order to maximize heat exchange, and optionally greater than or equal to 0.5 mm.

[0066] The separating plate can have a roughness adapted to facilitate the establishment of a turbulent flow of the first fluid or the second fluid.

[0067] The frame plate can have a thickness of between 1 and 10 mm.

[0068] Preferably, each shaped plate in the stack can have a thickness of less than 3 mm, or even less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm.

[0069] The shaped plates can have the same thickness.

[0070] The stack can include at least two identical shaped plates. Preferably, the identical shaped plates are each asymmetrical, with one of the shaped plates being arranged symmetrically to the other shaped plate with respect to a longitudinal plane.

[0071] By "asymmetrical," we mean that a plate has at most one longitudinal plane of symmetry. Thus, an asymmetrical plate can be symmetrical with respect to a transverse median plane.

[0072] In one variant, at least two of the stack's shape plates are different.

[0073] The stack can include more than two, or even more than five, or more than ten shaping plates. A large number of shaping plates allows for a more precise design of the fluid circulation system.

[0074] The separating plate on the one hand and the shaping plate(s), and / or, where applicable, the frame plate on the other hand, may be made of different materials.

[0075] Preferably, the separation plates have a thickness less than the thickness of each of the first exchange modules and / or the thickness of each of the second exchange modules.

[0076] Preferably, the exchanger includes end plates arranged longitudinally at the ends of the exchanger and which sandwich the plurality of first and second exchange modules and the plurality of separation plates.

[0077] Preferably, one and / or the other of the terminal plates shall have an inlet opening for the first fluid and / or an outlet opening for the first fluid and / or an inlet opening for the second fluid and / or an outlet opening for the second fluid and / or, where applicable, an outlet opening for the second fluid component.

[0078] Preferably, the first heat exchange modules are all identical and / or the second heat exchange modules are all identical. This simplifies the manufacturing and maintenance of the heat exchanger.

[0079] The heat exchanger can be of the welded type. In particular, the first and / or second heat exchange modules can be welded onto the separation plates.

[0080] According to a preferred variant, the heat exchanger is of the "sealed" type, which facilitates its maintenance, for example by replacing only the worn separation plate(s), shape plate(s) or frame plate(s).

[0081] Preferably, the heat exchanger includes a compression mechanism for compressing the first and second heat exchange modules and the separating plates to ensure the sealing of each of the first, second, and, where applicable, fluid circulation systems. The end plates may have perforations, and the exchanger includes connecting rods engaged in the perforations that link the end plates. The connecting rods are bolted to the end plates and compress the assembly.

[0082] The invention also relates to a heat transfer method comprising the supply of the heat exchanger according to the third principal aspect of the invention, the circulation of a first fluid and a second fluid in the first and second fluid circulation systems, the first fluid comprising first and second fluid components, the exchange of heat between the first and second fluids and the phase change of the second fluid component resulting from the heating or cooling of the first fluid during the heat exchange, the flow of the second fluid component out of the heat exchanger through the third fluid circulation system.

[0083] Preferably, the flow of the second fluid component, whose state has changed as a result of the phase change, takes place against the flow of the first fluid in the first fluidic circulation system.

[0084] The process may include cooling the second fluid component after the exit of the third fluidic circulation and prior to the flow of the second fluid component out of the heat exchanger.

[0085] Preferably, the first fluid is introduced in a liquid state into the first fluidic circulation system, and the second component is in a gaseous state after the phase change due to the heating of the first fluid by heat transfer with the second fluid. The first fluid component is preferably maintained in a liquid state during its flow in the first fluidic circulation system.

[0086] Specifically, the first fluid component can be water and the second fluid component can be ammonia. The second fluid can be water, particularly glycol water, or oil.

[0087] The first fluid and the second fluid can flow in opposite directions in the first and second fluid circulation systems, in order to maximize heat exchange between them.

[0088] The invention also relates to a thermodynamic installation comprising an exchanger according to the invention, in particular according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0089] Finally, it concerns the use of the thermodynamic installation according to the invention for: phase separation by evaporation of the second component, for example in the petrochemical field, or phase separation by condensation of the second component, for example in the field of gasification, or mass exchange, in particular by absorption / desorption, coupled with heat exchange. Brief description of the drawings

[0090] The invention will be better understood upon reading the detailed description that follows, the non-limiting examples of its implementation, and upon examination of the attached drawing, on which: [ Fig. 1 ] schematically represents a) a plate heat exchanger and b) an exploded view of the exchanger; [ Fig. 2 ] And [ Fig. 3 ] schematically represent different exploded perspective views of different arrangements of the heat exchanger according to the invention; [ Fig. 4 ] illustrates in detail an exchange module with a frame plate and an internal part; [ Fig. 5 a) is a schematic view of a longitudinal section plane (AA') of a stack of shaped plates and b), c), and d) are views along different shaped plates according to their position in the stack; Fig. 6 ] schematically illustrates different examples of arrangements of shaped plates and / or frame plates; [ Fig. 7] is a perspective and exploded view of an example embodiment of a heat exchanger according to the invention; [ Fig. 8 ] is a perspective view of a first exchange module and a second adjacent exchange module separated by separating plates; [ Fig. 9] and [Fig. 10 ] are enlargements respectively of the first and second exchange modules of the exchanger illustrated on the figure 8 ; Fig. 11 ], [ Fig. 12 ], [ Fig. 13 ] And [ Fig. 14 ] are views along the longitudinal axis of a first exchange module, a second exchange module, a separation plate, and a terminal plate of the exchanger illustrated on the Figures 9 and 10 ; And [ Fig. 15 ] is a perspective and exploded view of another example of a heat exchanger according to the invention.

[0091] In the attached drawing, the actual proportions of the various constituent elements or their spacing have not always been respected for the sake of clarity. Furthermore, some elements may not have been shown in contact with each other for the sake of clarity, even though they are in practice. Detailed description

[0092] We illustrated on the figure 1 Schematically, an example of a plate heat exchanger 1, in particular such as the invention. This exchanger is intended for the exchange of heat between two fluids, one of the fluids entering the heat exchanger at a lower temperature than the other fluid.

[0093] The exchanger 1 includes a terminal plate 3 with an inlet opening 5 for the first fluid, an inlet opening 7 for the second fluid, an outlet opening for the first fluid and an outlet opening for the second fluid 11 for introducing the first and second fluids into the exchanger and extracting them from it.

[0094] The heat exchanger also comprises first 13 and second 15 exchange modules which are superimposed on one another along a longitudinal axis X. The first and second modules are arranged alternately one after the other along the longitudinal axis. Each has a roughly parallelepiped and slender shape that extends transversely to the longitudinal axis X.

[0095] Preferably, each of the first 13 and second 15 exchange modules has transversely extending faces 17 that are flat and parallel.

[0096] The heat exchanger also includes separation plates 19, each of which is arranged between adjacent first and second heat exchange modules. Each separation plate is also in contact with the first and second heat exchange modules adjacent to it.

[0097] Each separating plate 19 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis and preferably has flat and parallel faces.

[0098] The first and second exchange modules each define a first fluidic circulation system 21 for the flow of the first fluid and a second fluidic circulation system 23 for the flow of the second fluid.

[0099] The heat exchanger further includes a supply conduit 25 for the first fluid circulation system and a supply conduit 27 for the second fluid circulation system to deliver the first and second fluids respectively into the first and second fluid circulation systems.

[0100] The supply conduit of the first fluidic circulation system and the supply conduit of the second fluidic circulation system each open at one of their ends into the inlet opening 5 of the first fluid and into the inlet opening 7 of the second fluid.

[0101] The supply conduit 25 of the first fluid circulation system and the supply conduit 27 of the second fluid circulation system are formed, for example, by holes in the first heat exchange modules and in the separation plates. They are shaped to be fluidically disconnected from each other, thus preventing mixing between the first and second fluids.

[0102] The heat exchanger further includes a discharge conduit 29 from the first fluid circulation system and a discharge conduit 31 from the second fluid circulation system to purge the first and second fluids respectively from the first and second fluid circulation systems.

[0103] The discharge conduit 29 of the first fluidic circulation system, respectively the discharge conduit 31 of the second fluidic circulation system, fluidly connects the first, respectively second, fluidic circulation system to the outlet opening 9 of the first fluid, respectively to the outlet opening 11 of the second fluid.

[0104] The supply and discharge ducts of the first fluid circulation system and the supply and discharge ducts of the second fluid circulation system are each formed, for example, by holes in the first and second heat exchanger modules and in the separation plates. They are configured to create disconnected fluid circulation paths between the inlet and outlet openings for each of the first and second fluids. In other words, the heat exchanger is designed so that the first and second fluids do not come into contact or mix.

[0105] The supply and discharge conduits of the first fluidic circulation system and the supply and discharge conduits of the second fluidic circulation system also open respectively into the first fluidic circulation system and into the second fluidic circulation system provided in each of the first and second exchange modules respectively.

[0106] Furthermore, each of the first exchange modules is separated from the two exchange modules adjacent to it on either side of the longitudinal axis by a separating plate 19 and vice versa.

[0107] The portion of each separation plate that overlaps the first fluidic flow system and the adjacent second fluidic flow system is solid. In this way, the separation plates 19, which sandwich a first exchange module 13 and are in contact with said first exchange module, fluidly isolate the first fluidic circulation system 21 from the second fluidic circulation systems formed in the adjacent second exchange modules 15, and vice versa.

[0108] Thus, during operation, the first and second fluids are introduced into the heat exchanger through the inlet port 5 of the first fluid and the inlet port 7 of the second fluid, respectively. They flow into the supply line 25 of the first fluid circulation system and the supply line 27 of the second fluid circulation system, respectively. They then circulate through the first 21 and second 23 fluid circulation systems, respectively, and exchange heat across the separating plate sandwiched between these systems. They are then collected by the outlet line of the first fluid circulation system and the outlet line of the second fluid circulation system, respectively, before exiting the heat exchanger through the outlet port of the first fluid and the outlet port of the second fluid, respectively.

[0109] We illustrated on the figure 2two examples of the realization of an exchange module 33 which can be a first exchange module 13 for the first fluid and / or a second exchange module 15.

[0110] The exchange module is arranged between and in contact with two separation plates 19 which separate it longitudinally from the adjacent exchange modules 35.

[0111] According to the example of implementation illustrated on the figure 2 , the exchange module 33 includes a frame plate 37 which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis X.

[0112] The frame plate 37 has two flat and parallel faces.

[0113] It defines a through window 39 that passes completely through the thickness of the frame plate. The window 39 thus opens through both opposite faces of the frame plate.

[0114] The exchange module 33 further comprises an inner piece 41 which is entirely housed within the window. The inner piece 41 and the frame plate 37 are of equal thickness e. Thus, the inner piece 41 and the frame plate 37 are both in contact on their opposite faces with the adjacent separation plates 19.

[0115] The interior part 41 includes at least one plate of shape 43.

[0116] According to a first embodiment, it comprises a single plate of shape 43 whose thickness is equal to the thickness e of the frame plate. Such an embodiment is illustrated, for example, on the figures 9 to 13 which will be described later.

[0117] In one variant, illustrated on the figure 2The inner part comprises a stack 45, along the longitudinal axis, of several shaped plates 43 one on top of the other. In the illustrated example, it comprises two shaped plates, but it can comprise a greater number.

[0118] Furthermore, the single shaping plate or each shaping plate in the stack has two flat and parallel faces. It also consists of at least one hollow area 47 surrounded, at least partially, or even entirely, by a surrounding solid area 49.

[0119] Thus, the fluidic circulation system 50 of the exchange module, which is, where applicable, the first 21 or the second 23 fluidic circulation system, is defined by the hollowed-out area(s) 47 of the single shaped plate or stack. For example, in the example of the figure 2The shaped plate 43a has a hollowed area 47 in the form of a main groove 51 and parallel transverse secondary grooves 53, each extending from the same side of the main groove 51. The other shaped plate 43b superimposed on the shaped plate 43a has a pattern substantially identical to that of the shaped plate 43a except that it is rotated at an angle of 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0120] In this way, the superposition of the hollowed areas 47 and / or solid areas 49 of the plates of shape 43 of the plurality defines a fluidic circulation system with different circulation paths which extend in the thickness and transversely in the inner room.

[0121] Thus, the fluidic system formed in the exchange module 33 is delimited longitudinally by the opposite faces of the separation plates 19 which sandwich the exchange module 33, and transversely by the solid area(s) 49 of the shaped plate(s) 43 as well as, optionally, by the lateral face 55 of the window 39 of the frame plate 37.

[0122] According to a second embodiment, the exchange module 33 consists of at least one plate of shape 43 consisting of at least one hollow area 47 and a surrounding solid area 49 completely surrounding the hollow area.

[0123] In the example shown on the figure 3The module 33 comprises a stack 45 of shaped plates 43 ab extending along the longitudinal axis. The superposition of the hollowed areas 47 and / or solid areas 49 of the shaped plates 43 of the stack defines a fluidic circulation system with different circulation paths that extend longitudinally and transversely in the exchange module 33.

[0124] The heat exchanger 33 may include heat exchange modules according to the first embodiment and / or according to the second embodiment. For example, all the first heat exchange modules are according to the first embodiment and all the second heat exchange modules are according to the second embodiment or vice versa.

[0125] Various means can be implemented to improve the sealing of the fluid circulation system. For example, a bead of adhesive can be applied to the facing surfaces of the form plate(s) and the separation plates. The heat exchanger according to the first embodiment may include a groove 57, preferably of constant width, extending transversely between the inner part 41 and the frame plate 37. A sealing gasket 59, preferably an O-ring, can be placed in the groove, as illustrated in the figure. figure 4 The sealing gasket may protrude longitudinally from the groove 57, so as to be compressed by the adjacent shaping plates and / or separating plates.

[0126] There figure 5 illustrates an example of stacking a heat exchanger according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0127] The stack consists of three plates of shape 43 arranged such that the solid area 49 of one plate is superimposed on one of the hollow areas 47 of at least one other plate in the stack and vice versa.

[0128] There figure 5 a)is a view of a longitudinal cross-section (AA) of the stack defined by the longitudinal axis X and a transverse axis Z perpendicular to the X axis. As can be observed by traversing the stack along the transverse axis, the overlapping of the solid areas 49 and hollow areas 47 defines a fluidic circulation system 50 whose profile varies depending on the position along the transverse axis Y. For example, at abscissa Y1, the hollow areas of the three form plates are superimposed on one another, and the circulation system extends entirely between the two opposing separating plates 19. At abscissa Y2, the hollow area of ​​the intermediate form plate is superimposed on the solid areas of the form plates superimposed on it. The profile of the fluidic circulation system thus evolves from a profile of greater thickness to a profile of lesser thickness.At abscissa Y3, the fluidic circulation system has a profile identical to that at abscissa Y1. At abscissa Y4, hollowed-out areas of the lower and upper plates are superimposed on the solid area of ​​the intermediate plate. Thus, the system comprises a main path 59 which divides into secondary paths 61 which rejoin downstream at abscissa Y5, as indicated by the arrows F.

[0129] The fluidic circulation system 50 thus comprises portions which extend according to the thickness of the stack which are extended by portions which extend parallel to the median plane of the stack.

[0130] THE figures 5 b) to 5 d)represent each of the lower, intermediate and upper shaped plates, observed along the longitudinal axis. As can be observed, the variation in profile of the fluidic system also included the variation in width, measured along the Z axis perpendicular to the longitudinal X and transverse Y axes of the fluidic system, which also includes portions that extend along axes different from the median plane of the stack.

[0131] In this way, a complex, three-dimensional circulation of the fluid flowing through the exchange module can be achieved. It is thus possible to vary the fluidic conditions of the fluid flow by locally changing the shape of the fluidic circulation system.

[0132] We have represented on the figure 6 examples of implementations where the exchange module 33 can define several fluid circulation systems 50. For example, on the Figures 6 a) and 6 b)This is achieved by ensuring that different portions (63, 65) of a plate of shape 43 are supplied by different supply and discharge conduits. On the figure 6 c) The frame plate 37 has two windows 39 in which are housed two shaped plates 43 respectively, for example for the flow of two different fluids within the same exchange module. Other examples similar to the one illustrated on the figure 6 c) are illustrated on the figures 7 to 13 .

[0133] THE figures 7 to 13 represent another example of a heat exchanger 1 according to the invention, adapted to separate, under the effect of heat exchange between the first and second fluids, the first and second different fluid components that constitute the first fluid.

[0134] It comprises a plurality of identical first exchange modules 13 and a plurality of identical second exchange modules 15 extending along a vertical Y-axis. The first and second exchange modules are arranged alternately with each other along the horizontal longitudinal X-axis.

[0135] Identical separation plates 19 are also arranged between each pair of first and second modules. Finally, it includes two end plates 3 at each longitudinal end and clamping means, not shown, which longitudinally compress the overlapping of the first and second exchange modules and separation plates.

[0136] The first exchange module 13 comprises a frame plate 67 with a through window 69 in which an inner piece 71 is arranged. The inner piece 71 is formed by a stack 72 along the longitudinal axis of two plates of shape 73a-b, as is particularly visible on the figure 9 The stack 72 and the frame plate 67 are of equal thickness.

[0137] The inner piece 71 has an outer contour 75 that is homothetic to the lateral contour 77 of the window, such that it is positioned at a constant distance from the window contour. A groove 79 is thus defined between the inner piece and the frame plate.

[0138] The two plates of shape 73a-b are identical.

[0139] Each shape plate 73a-b has a generally perpendicular shape that extends along its length at both ends with triangular sections. It comprises a solid area 81, which includes a frame 83 defining a lateral wall of the shape plate. The solid area 81 further comprises lower 85 and upper 87 bands, each extending between two opposite lateral edges 89 of the shape plate, and a central portion 91 that represents more than 70% of the solid area. A "lower" structure is arranged at a lower height along the vertical Y-axis than an "upper" structure. The central portion 91 is located between the lower 85 and upper 87 bands. It frames a plurality of hollow areas 93 in the form of parallel straight grooves extending along the length of the shape plate.

[0140] Furthermore, each 73a-b form plate defines lower 95 and upper 97 hollowed areas on either side of the central portion, according to the length of the frame plate. These lower and upper hollowed areas each represent more than 10% of the form plate area. They extend from one lateral edge 89 to the other. The overlap of the lower and upper hollowed areas of the two form plates in the stack thus defines a distribution chamber 99 for the first fluid and a collection chamber 101 for the first fluid, respectively.

[0141] Each 73a-b shape plate is asymmetrical along a median longitudinal plane. They are arranged relative to each other such that one is the image of the other under a rotation of 180° around a vertical transverse axis Y', parallel to the length of said shape plates.

[0142] Thus, the superposition of said shape plates 73a-b defines a complex fluidic circulation path composed of parallel channels 103 extending along the length of the inner part and winding through the thickness of the inner part, grooves of one of the shape plates being superimposed on the central portion of the other shape plate and vice versa. Each channel 103 is supplied upstream by the distribution chamber 99 of the first fluid and opens downstream into the collection chamber 101 of the first fluid.

[0143] Furthermore, in order to ensure the sealing of the flow of the first fluid, the first module includes a sealing gasket 59 arranged in the groove.

[0144] The second exchange module 15, illustrated on the figure 12 , is different from the first exchange module 13.

[0145] It includes a frame plate 105 with two through windows 107, 109 and separated from each other, in which two interior rooms 111, 113 are arranged respectively.

[0146] The first inner piece 111 is formed from a longitudinal stack 115 of two shaped plates 117a-b, and the second inner piece 113 consists of a single shaped plate 119, as is particularly visible on the Figure 10 .

[0147] The first 111 and second 113 inner pieces are of equal thickness to the frame plate 105.

[0148] The first and second interior pieces are each homothetic to the contours of the windows in which they are placed and are each separated by a groove from the surrounding window in which a sealing O-ring is placed.

[0149] The form plates 117a-b of the first inner piece 111 are identical and asymmetrical. They are arranged relative to each other such that one is the mirror image of the other after a 180° rotation about a vertical transverse axis Y", parallel to the length of said frame plates. Each form plate 117 consists of a surrounding solid area 121 enclosing hollow areas 123 which together define a serpentine groove 125 extending between two transverse edges 127 of the form plate. The groove is interrupted by reinforcements 129 transverse to the extension axis of the groove 125. The grooves of the two form plates 117a-b are superimposed on one another, thus defining a second fluid circulation system 23, in the form of a channel, for the flow of the second fluid.In addition, the transverse reinforcements 129 superimposed on a hollowed area of ​​the other form plate induce a deviation of the flow of the second fluid according to the thickness of the stack 115.

[0150] The second inner piece 113 consists of a pentagonal shaped plate 119 with a thickness equal to that of the frame plate 105. The shaped plate has a solid area 131 whose surface area is less than 20% of the area covered by the shaped plate. The solid area 131 further comprises an outer frame 133 and fingers 134 extending perpendicularly from an edge 135 of the outer frame 133, parallel to each other. It also includes a cord 137 that connects said edge 135 to an opposite vertex 139 of the pentagon. The solid area 131 thus surrounds two hollow areas 141 that define a third fluid circulation system 145, which may be a deflection chamber 146, as will become apparent later.

[0151] Each separation plate 19 which separates the first 13 and second 15 adjacent exchange modules has holes 147 which go through it in its thickness and which put the third fluidic circulation system 145 in fluidic connection with the first fluidic circulation system 21. The holes are in the form of slots which are superimposed on the spaces between the fingers 133 of the inner part 113 and on the distribution chamber 99 of the first fluidic circulation system.

[0152] Furthermore, one of the end plates 3 has an inlet 5 for the first fluid and an outlet 9 for the first fluid to introduce and extract the first fluid component from the heat exchanger, as described below. It also has an inlet 7 for the second fluid and an outlet 11 for the second fluid to introduce and extract the second fluid from the heat exchanger. Finally, it has an outlet 149 for the second fluid component to extract the second fluid component from the heat exchanger. In an alternative embodiment not shown, one or more of the aforementioned inlet and / or outlet openings may be located on the other end plate.

[0153] The inlet opening 5 of the first fluid is extended by a supply conduit 151 of the first fluid circulation system 21 which opens into the distribution chamber 99 of the first fluid circulation system.

[0154] The supply conduit 151 of the first fluid circulation system is defined by the repeated assembly formed by the longitudinal superposition of a through hole in the end plate that opens onto the inlet of the first fluid, a through hole drilled in the bead of the forming plate of the second inner part of the second exchange module, a through hole formed in the separating plate, and a through hole formed in the inner part of the first exchange module. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all the first exchange modules 13 are supplied in parallel with the first fluid.

[0155] The inner part 71 of the first exchange module 13 has a notch 153 formed in the upper band which fluidly connects the supply conduit of the first fluidic circulation system to the first fluid distribution chamber.

[0156] The outlet opening 9 of the first fluid is extended by an evacuation conduit 155 of the first fluid circulation system 21 which opens into the collection chamber 101 of the first fluid circulation system.

[0157] The 155 discharge conduit of the first fluid circulation system is defined by the repetition of an assembly formed by the longitudinal superposition of a through hole in the end plate leading to the outlet of the first fluid, a through hole in the frame plate of the second heat exchange module, and a through hole in the separation plate. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all the first heat exchange modules are purged in parallel with the first fluid.

[0158] Furthermore, the supply duct of the second fluid circulation system opens into the second fluid circulation system. It is defined by the superposition of an assembly formed by the longitudinal superposition of a through hole made in and around the periphery of the end plate, which opens into the inlet of the second fluid, and, where applicable, a through hole drilled in the frame plate of the first heat exchange module and a through hole formed in the separation plate. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all second heat exchange modules are supplied in parallel with the second fluid.

[0159] The inlet opening 7 of the second fluid is extended by a supply conduit 157 of the first fluid circulation system 21.

[0160] The supply conduit 157 of the second fluid circulation system opens into the second fluid circulation system 23. It is delimited by the repetition of an assembly formed by the longitudinal superposition of a through hole made in and around the periphery of the end plate 3, which opens into the inlet of the second fluid 7, and, where applicable, a through hole drilled in the frame plate of the first heat exchange module and a through hole formed in the separation plate. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all the second heat exchange modules are supplied in parallel with the second fluid.

[0161] The outlet opening 11 of the second fluid is extended by an evacuation conduit 159 of the second fluid circulation system 23.

[0162] The evacuation conduit 159 of the second fluidic circulation system opens into the second fluidic circulation system 23. It is delimited by the repetition of an assembly formed by the longitudinal superposition of a through hole made in and around the periphery of the end plate 3 and which opens onto the outlet of the second fluid 11 and where applicable, a through hole drilled in the frame plate of the first exchange module and a through hole formed in the separation plate 19. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all the second exchange modules are purged in parallel with the second fluid.

[0163] Finally, the outlet opening 149 of the second fluid component is extended by an evacuation conduit 161 of the third fluid circulation system 145.

[0164] Finally, the 161 discharge conduit of the third fluid circulation system opens into the third fluid circulation system. It is defined by the superposition of an assembly consisting of a longitudinal through-hole in the end plate, which opens into the outlet of the second fluid component, and, where applicable, a through-hole drilled in the inner part of the first heat exchange module, and a through-hole in the separation plate. This assembly is repeated longitudinally so that all second heat exchange modules are purged in parallel with the second fluid component.

[0165] An example of the implementation of the exchanger is illustrated on the figures 7 to 14 is shown below, in which heat exchange takes place between a first cold fluid and a second hot liquid which flow in opposite directions.

[0166] The first fluid consists of a first fluid component, for example water, and a second fluid component, for example ammonia. When it enters the heat exchanger, the first fluid is entirely liquid.

[0167] During heat exchange, the first fluid enters the heat exchanger through the first fluid inlet 5. It flows into the supply duct 151 of the first fluid circulation system and then enters the distribution chamber 99 of the first heat exchange module 21 where it is distributed into the various parallel channels 103 of the central portion 91 towards the collection chamber 101.

[0168] The second fluid flows in the opposite direction to the first fluid. It enters the heat exchanger through the second fluid's inlet opening 7 and flows into the second fluid's supply line 157. It then enters the second heat exchange module 23 where it circulates in the second serpentine fluid circulation system until it reaches the second fluid circulation system's discharge line.

[0169] The first fluid and the second fluid exchange heat in the portions of the first and second fluidic circulation systems superimposed longitudinally and fluidically disconnected by the separation plate 19 which separates them.

[0170] The amount of heat supplied to the first fluid is sufficient to induce a phase transformation, from liquid to gas, only in the second fluid component. For example, within the first fluid, ammonia changes from a liquid to a gaseous state, while water remains in a liquid state.

[0171] The first fluid component accumulates in the collection chamber 101 before being discharged through the outlet opening 9 of the second fluid circulation system.

[0172] The second fluid component, in its gaseous state, flows counter-currently in the first circulation system due to buoyancy in the central portion 91 of the first fluid circulation system. The flow of the second fluid component is constrained by the volume of the first fluid contained in the distribution chamber 99 of the first fluid. The second fluid component is then deflected through the slots 147 of the separating plate and enters the deflection chamber 146 in the second exchange module. The deflection chamber 146 thus collects the second fluid component, bypassing the distribution zone 99 of the first fluid, in order to extract it from the second exchange module via the discharge conduit of the third fluid system to the corresponding outlet opening.

[0173] Finally, the figure 15 illustrates another example of a heat exchanger that differs from the one shown on the figures 7 to 14 by the following characteristics.

[0174] Each shaped plate 73 of the inner part 71 of the first exchange module 13 has a central band 162 extending between two opposite lateral edges 89 of the shaped plate. The central band has a hole through which the supply conduit 151 of the first fluid opens into the first fluid circulation system 21.

[0175] Each shaped plate further comprises a central portion 91 which is interrupted by a distribution chamber for the first fluid, into which the central band is inserted. Thus, the central band is positioned between and at a distance from the lower 91i and upper 91s portions of the central portion 91. A distribution chamber 99 for the first fluid is defined between the central band and the lower central portion 91i.

[0176] The second exchange module 15 includes first 107, second 109, and third 163 windows receiving respectively first 111, second 113 and third interior rooms 165.

[0177] The first 107 and third 163 windows are arranged on either side of the second 109 window.

[0178] The second fluid circulation system 23 is formed by the first inner part 111, which is a single shaped plate 117 having a hollowed-out area in the form of a coil extending between the supply ducts 27 and discharge ducts 31 of the second fluid circulation system. In an alternative, the second fluid circulation system can be defined by a stack of shaped plates as described in the figures 7 to 14 .

[0179] The second inner part 113 is a rectangular and perforated plate 119, which has an outer frame 133 delimiting a deflection chamber 146, superimposed on the distribution chamber 99 of the first fluid and on lower 147 i and upper 147 s through slots made in the separation plate 19.

[0180] The third internal part 165 is a shaped plate 167 having a hollowed area in the shape of a coil, which thus defines a fourth fluidic circulation system 173. The frame plate 67 of the first exchange module 13 and the separation plate 19 are provided with superimposed through holes which define supply ducts 169 and discharge ducts 171 for a fluid flowing in the fourth fluidic circulation system.

[0181] A method of implementing the heat exchanger is illustrated on the figure 15 is described below.

[0182] A first fluid, consisting of a mixture of a first fluid component, for example liquid water, and a second fluid component, for example liquid ammonia, is introduced into the first fluid circulation system 21 via the supply conduit 151, where it is distributed into the distribution chamber 99 and then flows, under the effect of gravity, towards the collection chamber 101. A second fluid, warmer than the first fluid, is circulated counter-currently in the second fluid circulation system 23 between the corresponding inlet 27 and outlet 29 conduits. The first fluid is then heated by heat transfer with the second fluid, which induces a phase transformation of the second fluid component, for example, the vaporization of the ammonia. The second fluid component then rises up the lower part 91i of the central portion counter-currently to the flow of the first fluid.Its flow is then blocked by the first fluid contained in the distribution chamber 99. It is thus diverted through the lower slot 147 i into the diverting chamber 146.

[0183] The second fluid component then rises through the deflection chamber 146 and again passes through the separation plate 19 through the upper slot 147 s. It then flows into the upper part 91 s of the central portion towards the outlet opening 149 of the second fluid component to extract the second fluid component from the exchanger.

[0184] A fluid, for example identical to the second fluid but cooler than the second fluid component, is circulated counter-currently to the second fluid component in the fourth fluid circulation system 173, between the supply ducts 169 and the discharge duct 171 of the fourth fluid circulation system. The second fluid component is thus cooled as it flows between the third fluid circulation system 145 and the outlet 149 of the second fluid component.

[0185] When the second fluid component transitions to a gaseous state in the lower portion 91s, a small amount of the first fluid may also transition to the same gaseous state. Advantageously, cooling by heat exchange with the fluid circulating in the fourth fluidic system 173 causes the first fluid component to condense, thus separating it from the second fluid component. The first fluid component then recirculates in a liquid state under the influence of gravity through the upper 91s and then the lower 91i of the central portion to the first liquid's collection chamber 101.

[0186] The second fluid component, for example ammonia, thus separated is of high purity.

[0187] Other variations and improvements may be considered without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. Heat exchanger (1) comprising, superposed longitudinally on one another: - a plurality of first (13) and second (15) heat-exchange modules in which first (21) and second (23) fluid-circulation systems are formed, for circulating first and second fluids respectively, and - a plurality of partition plates (19) each sandwiched between adjacent first (13) and second (15) heat-exchange modules and in contact with the adjacent first and second heat-exchange modules, each partition plate fluidically disconnecting the first and second fluid-circulation systems from one another, at least one of the first and second heat-exchange modules comprising: - a frame plate (37, 67, 105), of constant thickness, comprising an aperture (39, 69, 107, 109) passing through its entire thickness, and - an insert (41, 71, 111, 113) fully housed in the aperture and of a thickness equal to the thickness of the frame plate, characterized in that the insert consists of a) a shaped plate (43, 119) consisting of at least one hollowed-out zone (47, 141) passing through the entire thickness of the shaped plate and of a surrounding solid zone (49, 131) of constant thickness, the corresponding fluid-circulation system being formed in the hollowed-out zone and bounded transversely by the surrounding solid zone and longitudinally by the partition plates adjacent to said module, or b) a stack (50, 72, 115) of shaped plates (43, 73, 117), at least one and preferably each of the shaped plates consisting of at least one hollowed-out zone (47, 93, 123) passing through the entire thickness of the shaped plate and of a surrounding solid zone (49, 81, 121) of constant thickness, the corresponding fluid-circulation system (21, 23, 50) being defined by the hollowed-out zones of the stack and bounded transversely by the surrounding solid zones and longitudinally by the partition plates adjacent to said corresponding heat-exchange module.

2. Heat exchanger according to Claim 1, the hollowed-out zone (47, 93, 123, 141) being formed by cutting, preferably laser cutting, waterjet cutting, or by punching, and preferably by laser cutting.

3. Heat exchanger according to either one of Claims 1 and 2, the contour of the aperture (77) and the outer contour (75) of the insert being in at least one plane of cross section, homothetic with one another.

4. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a groove (57, 79) separating the frame plate and the insert from one another, the width of the groove preferably being constant.

5. Heat exchanger according to the preceding claim, comprising a seal (59), preferably an O-ring, placed in the groove and which is compressed by the adjacent partition plates.

6. Heat exchanger according to one of the preceding claims, the shaped plate or plates and / or the partition plate and / or the frame plate being planar and having parallel faces.

7. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, at least part of the hollowed-out zone of one of the shaped plates of the stack being superposed with a solid zone of another shaped plate adjacent to it in the stack, and vice versa.

8. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, the fluid-circulation system having, in at least a longitudinal plane of section, different profiles at least at two different positions along the transverse axis (Y) of said plane of section, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X).

9. Heat exchanger according to the preceding claim, the profile at a position along the transverse axis (Y) being the rank of the hollowed-out zone or zones in the stack and / or the height of the fluid-circulation system at said position and / or the number of hollowed-out zones at said position.

10. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, the stack comprising at least two identical shaped plates.

11. Heat exchanger according to the preceding claim, the identical shaped plates each being asymmetrical, one of the shaped plates being arranged symmetrically with the other shaped plate, with respect to a longitudinal plane.

12. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, the shaped plates each having a thickness of less than 3 mm, or even less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm, and / or being of the same thickness.

13. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, the frame plate and the shaped plate or plates being made of different materials.

14. Heat exchanger according to any one of the preceding claims, the second heat-exchange module (15) comprising a third fluid-circulation system fluidically disconnected from the second fluid-circulation system (145), the second (23) and third (145) fluid-circulation systems being defined by different portions of the hollowed-out zone or zones of the corresponding insert.

15. Heat exchanger according to any one of Claims 1 to 14, the second heat-exchange module (15) comprising a third fluid-circulation system (145) fluidically disconnected from the second fluid-circulation system (23), the corresponding frame plate comprising a second aperture in which there is placed a second insert (113) which bounds the third fluid-circulation system.