Fluid inlet system, apparatus and method of supplying fluid

Abstract

The invention relates to a fluid inlet system (200) configured for use with an axial inlet port, wherein the fluid inlet system comprises an axial inlet end (202) and an axial outlet end (204) along an axial direction (206), and wherein the fluid inlet system comprises a support structure (210) and a deflecting structure comprising one or multiple deflecting elements (221-225), wherein each deflecting element (221-225) of the deflection structure has a plate-shaped and / or profile-shaped form, and has an outer periphery, and wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, all or all but one of the deflection elements have a through hole defining an inner periphery, wherein the deflecting structure is arranged at the support structure (210) and, wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, the multiple deflecting elements (221-225) are arranged next to each other, and wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements (221-225), the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end (202) to the axial outlet end (204), a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end, or wherein the one deflection element or the one of the multiple deflection elements located closest to the axial inlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end (202) to the axial outlet end (204), only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port, an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid with such fluid inlet system, e.g., a shell and tube heat exchanger, and to a method of supplying a fluid into such an apparatus.Background

[0002] Axial inlet ports (or axial inlet nozzles) can be used in a wide variety of apparatuses, in particular cylindrical apparatuses like vessels or other applications; an example of such an apparatus is a shell and tube heat exchanger where such axial inlet port can be used for supplying the tube-side fluid to a chamber of the shell and tube heat exchanger.

[0003] If a good uniform distribution of the flow of the supplied fluid over the cross-section of the apparatus or vessel or, in the specific case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, over the individual tubes, is important, the size of the inlet port can be determined in such a way that this requirement is met, in the specific case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, for example, this typically leads to the requirement that a pressure loss over the tube bundle must be significantly greater than over the inlet and outlet ports. A device for distribution fluid is shown, for example, in DE10 2012 000 146 A1.

[0004] Under certain circumstances, however, the size of the port cannot be chosen arbitrarily large (e.g. in the case of revamps), so that sufficient uniform distribution cannot be achieved with this measure.

[0005] In this specific example, other measures can aim at increasing the pressure loss in the tubes, such as the use of tube inserts. However, increasing the pressure loss may not be feasible in terms of process technology. Inlays can also be problematic due to fouling issues.

[0006] It is therefore an objective of the present invention to provide an improved way for supplying fluid into apparatuses via axial inlet ports.Disclosure of the invention

[0007] This objective is achieved by providing a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port, an apparatus and a method of supplying a fluid with the features of the independent claims. Embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and of the description that follows.

[0008] The invention, in general, relates to apparatuses having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. An example for such an apparatus, in particular a cylindrical apparatus, is a shell and tube heat exchanger to which tube-side fluid is supplied via such axial inlet port. Although the invention will also be described by means of the example of the shell and tube heat exchanger, this shall not restrict the invention to such particular apparatuses. Other such apparatuses are, in particular, separators (i.e. an apparatus for separating liquid from gas or different liquids) or columns (like high or low pressure columns of an air separation unit). Such fluid can comprise liquid or gas or solid material or a combination of two or all of them.

[0009] An embodiment of the invention relates to a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port. The fluid inlet system comprises an axial inlet end and an axial outlet end along an axial direction. When arranged in an apparatus having an axial inlet port, the fluid inlet system is to be arranged such that the fluid supplied to the apparatus via the axial inlet port, first reaches the axial inlet end of the fluid inlet system and then propagates (at least in part) to the axial outlet end.

[0010] The fluid inlet system comprises a support structure and a deflecting structure. The deflection structure comprises one or multiple deflecting elements. Each deflecting element has a plate-shaped and / or profile-shaped form; thus, the deflecting elements can, e.g., also be referred to as deflecting plates. It is noted that this, in particular, means that such deflecting element is of essentially flat shape like a plate, i.e., a thickness is small compared to other geometric measures. A cross section, however, does not necessarily have to have a straight form, but can, for example, also have a Tor L-form or be of another profile. Further, each deflecting element has an outer periphery. In case of multiple deflecting elements, all or all but one of them have a through hole defining an inner periphery; in case of only one deflecting element, this can or cannot have such a through hole. In an embodiment, each deflecting elements is of an at least essentially ring-shaped form or even of a ring-shaped form. Thus, such deflecting elements can, for example, have the shape of a washer or the like.

[0011] It is to be noted, however, that this specific shape is just an ideal shape and the same or similar effect can also be achieved with similar shapes. For example, the outer and / or inner periphery of the deflecting elements can have a ring or round shape but this is not essential. The shape of outer and / or inner periphery can, for example, also be polygonal. In addition, the deflecting elements do not need to be flat in their entirety. Rather, also bent parts at the inner and / or outer periphery can be provided, for example; also, a full profile or hollow profile of squared or round or L or T shape is also possible.

[0012] Further, the deflecting structure is arranged at the support structure. In case of multiple deflection elements, the multiple deflecting elements are arranged next to each other. In an embodiment, the multiple deflecting elements are arranged at the support structure, such that the multiple deflecting elements are arranged at least essentially parallel to each other and at least essentially perpendicular to the axial direction, with respect to their form, e.g., plate-shaped form, or their flat part. However, no parallel or perpendicular arrangement is required, also angles of, e.g., 45° or different angles with respect to the axial direction are possible. Also, small angles of up to, e.g., 2° or 5° or 10° with respect to the axial direction are possible. Further, the multiple deflecting elements can also be arranged in coaxial manner. In this way, kind of a channel is provided via the through holes of the multiple deflecting elements, this channel, in particular, going through the fluid inlet system, from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end along the axial direction.

[0013] Further, in case of multiple deflection elements, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This can also be true for more or even all possible sets of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements.

[0014] In case of only one deflection element, this one deflection element covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port, i.e., not the entire opening. This also can apply in case of multiple deflection elements, then the one of the multiple deflection elements located closest to the axial inlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port. This can also be provided in combination with the last one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements mentioned above.

[0015] In this way, the fluid entering the fluid inlet system from the axial inlet penetrates the trough hole of one deflecting element but a part of that fluid is then deflected by another deflecting element, in particular, by a part that covers a part of the through hole. In case of only one deflecting element, the same effect is achieved in that part of the fluid is deflected by this one deflecting element.

[0016] In an embodiment, for the at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. In an embodiment, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

[0017] Note that in case of ring-shaped deflecting elements, there is a certain diameter of the inner and outer periphery. For other shapes, like polygonal shapes, for example, there is a varying diameter from which an average can be determined. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible sets of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements. In this way, kind of a pyramidal or cone shape is formed by the multiple deflecting elements, resulting in part of the fluid deflected outwards at each of the deflecting elements.

[0018] In an embodiment, for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible those sets of two of the multiple deflecting elements. This allows a very compact structure of the fluid inlet system while providing good deflecting effects.

[0019] In an embodiment, the fluid inlet system further comprises one or multiple linking elements, wherein for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the two deflecting elements are connected to each other via the one or at least one of the multiple linking elements. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible those sets of two of the multiple deflecting elements. For example, for each of such sets, two or three or four linking elements can be provided. These linking elements are provided in addition to the support structure, and, thus, provide additional fixing points. This results in that a natural or resonance frequency of the deflecting elements is decoupled form the frequency of the vortices of the fluid, which detach from the deflecting elements. In this way, a resonant excitation can be avoided. A reason for this is that the low natural or resonance frequency of larger deflecting elements is increased by means of these linking elements, because, then the larger deflecting elements can only wing in combination with the smaller deflecting elements.

[0020] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises at least two support plate elements, wherein each support plate element extends from a center axis of the support structure, aligned with the axial direction, outwards to each multiple deflecting element. There can also be more support plate elements, e.g., three or four. In case of four support plate elements, these can be arranged to form a cross-shaped cross section, for example. This allows an effective support and fixation of the multiple deflecting elements.

[0021] Another embodiment relates to an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. The apparatus comprises a fluid inlet system in any of the embodiments described above, wherein the fluid inlet system is arranged in the apparatus such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. The apparatus can be configured as a shell and tube heat exchanger for example, or as another cylindrical apparatus or vessel, e.g. a separator or column.

[0022] Another embodiment relates to a method of supplying a fluid into an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. The fluid inlet system of in any of the embodiments described above is arranged in the apparatus such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. Further, the fluid is supplied to the inlet port.

[0023] The fluid inlet system described herein allows a uniform distribution of the fluid stream, with no noticeable increase in pressure loss, which enables very economical operation (compared to other measures aimed at increasing pressure loss). The fluid inlet system has an open structure and an easy accessibility for maintenance and cleaning compared to other measures such as inlays. With revamps this is possibly the least cost-intensive measure.

[0024] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the description and the accompanying drawing. The invention is illustrated schematically by means of embodiments in the drawing and is described below with reference to the drawing.

[0025] Short description of the figures Fig. 1 illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger for explaining the invention; Figs. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d illustrate a fluid inlet system according to an embodiment in different views; and Fig. 3 illustrates a method according to an embodiment. Detailed description of the figures

[0026] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger 100 as an example for an apparatus for explaining the invention and its background. The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a housing (in case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, the housing is typically called chamber) having three different parts 110, 120, 130 and a plurality of tubes 140. The housing or housing part 110 is configured as or forms an inlet chamber, the housing or housing part 130 is configured as or forms an outlet chamber, and the housing or housing part 120 is configured as a shell (the chamber).

[0027] The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial inlet port 112, is arranged in the housing or housing part 110, i.e., the inlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial outlet port 132, is arranged in the housing or housing part 130, i.e. the outlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a shell inlet 122 and a shell outlet 124.

[0028] The inlet chamber 110 is connected, via the plurality of tubes 140, to the outlet chamber 130. In this way, a fluid path for a first fluid a is established. The first fluid a can be fed into the inlet chamber 110, via the axial inlet port 112; then the first fluid a is routed through the plurality of tubes 140 and then reaches the outlet chamber 130. From the outlet chamber 130, the first fluid a can be withdrawn via the axial outlet port 132.

[0029] The shell 120 comprises the shell inlet 122, and the shell outlet 124, and encloses the plurality of tubes 140. In this way a fluid path for a second fluid b bis established. The second fluid can be fed into the shell 120 via the shell inlet 152, then the second fluid is routed through the shell (i.e., the inside of the shell) by means of baffles 142, passing the tubes 140, and then reaches the shell outlet 124, such that the second fluid b can be withdrawn.

[0030] In this way, heat between the first fluid a and the second fluid b, when both are routed through their respective path, can be exchanged.

[0031] Figs. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d illustrate a fluid inlet system 200 according to an embodiment in different views; these Figs. will be described together in the following. Such fluid inlet system 200 can be used with an apparatus like the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 shown in Fig. 1.

[0032] The fluid inlet system 200 comprises an axial inlet end 202 and an axial outlet end 204 along an axial direction 206 as shown in Figs. 2a, 2c. The direction indicated with arrows for the axial direction 206 is also the intended flow direction of supplied fluid as shown for fluid a in Fig. 1, supplied to axial inlet port 112.

[0033] Further, the fluid inlet system 200 comprises a support structure 210 and a deflecting structure 220, comprising multiple deflecting elements. By means of example, the deflecting structure 220 comprises five deflecting elements 221 to 225. Further, and by means of example, the support structure 210 comprises four support plate elements 211 to 214, each of which extends from a center axis of the support structure 210, aligned with the axial direction 206, outwards to each of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225. For example, the four support plate elements 211 to 214 are distributed equally around the center axis, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, i.e., an angle between two neighbouring support plate elements is 90°. Note that this might also deviate.

[0034] Each of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 has a plate-shaped form, has an outer periphery and has a through hole defining an inner periphery. By means of example, each of the multiple deflecting elements is of an at least essentially ring-shaped form, e.g., similar to a washer or the like.

[0035] For illustration and explanation purposes, deflecting element 223 is shown in Fig. 2b separately. The through hole 240 defines or has an inner periphery 241, and the deflecting element has an outer periphery 242. In this case of a ring-shaped deflecting element, the inner periphery 241 defines an inner diameter Di and the outer periphery 242 defines an outer diameter Do. A thickness (or height) of the deflecting element, along the axial direction 206, is indicated by reference numeral H in Fig. 2b.

[0036] The multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged at the support structure 210, such that the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged at least essentially parallel to each other and at least essentially perpendicular to the axial direction 206, with respect to their plate-shaped form. In addition, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged coaxially to each other. This can clearly be seen in Fig. 2a. It is noted that a misalignment in any of these arrangements can occur. For example, one or more or all of the deflecting elements can be arranged in an angle with respect to the axial direction 206 (or axis); these angles can all be the same, also with respect to orientation. For example, the deflecting elements can still be parallel to each other, although this is not required.

[0037] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction 206 from the axial inlet end 202 to the axial outlet end 204, a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

[0038] In particular, the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This means, for example, that the inner diameter of deflecting element 222 is smaller than the inner diameter of deflecting element 221, and the inner diameter of deflecting element 223 is smaller than the inner diameter of deflecting element 222 and so on.

[0039] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This means, for example, that the outer diameter of deflecting element 222 is smaller than the outer diameter of deflecting element 221, and the outer diameter of deflecting element 223 is smaller than the outer diameter of deflecting element 222 and so on.

[0040] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction 206, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This can be seen in Fig. 2a, for example.

[0041] This arrangement of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 successively shears off the outer areas of the core flow of fluid entering the fluid inlet system at the axial inlet end 202 and deflects it into the outer areas of the housing or bonnet of the apparatus. With each next deflecting element, the flow is deflected less strongly in a radial direction than with the previous deflecting element, so that the flow is hardly deflected at all with the last deflecting element and tends to remain more in the area of the axis of the apparatus.

[0042] However, the deflecting element closest to the axial end, i.e., deflecting element 225 in this case, does not necessarily require a through hole, it also could be a closed or plain plate of, e.g., round shape. This still allows the deflection of fluid via the previous deflecting elements.

[0043] In Fig. 2c, such deflection is shown exemplarily with parts of flow of fluid a at deflecting elements 222 and 223 by means of dashed lines.

[0044] A simulation of such successive deflection of the fluid is illustrated in Fig. 2d, where the supplied fluid a is shown at the left, when entering the fluid inlet system at the axial inlet end. In the middle, the fluid is deflected and guided into the housing at each deflecting element (deflecting element 221 is referred to explicitly). At the right side, the flow of the fluid in the tubes is shown.

[0045] This fluid inlet system allows a uniform distribution of the flow across the cross-section of the apparatus to be achieved within very short path lengths. The number of deflecting elements, the axial distances between them and their inner and outer diameters can be chosen according to requirements, for example. Also, these numbers and measures can be determined by means of a simulation, for example.

[0046] Preferred differences between outer and inner diameter of the deflecting elements are, for example, between 25% and 200% of a distance between two neighbouring deflecting elements. The thickness of the deflecting elements can, for example, be between 5 mm and 15 mm. For example, plates having a thickness of 10 mm can be used; a suitable material for the deflecting elements is, for example, steel or stainless steel.

[0047] The support structure 210, as shown in Figs. 2a, 2c, comprising the four support plate elements, has a tree structure; each support plate element has a step for each deflecting element, such that the deflecting element can be arranged or fixed thereto. The plate-shape of the support plate elements allows additional guiding of the flow of the fluid along the axial direction 206. Note, however, that also another type of support structure could be used.

[0048] As can be seen in Fig. 2c, the support structure 210 is used to arrange and / or fix the fluid inlet system 200 in the apparatus such that fluid a received by the axial inlet port 112 is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. The support structure 210 can, for example, be directly mounted to the axial inlet port 112 and / or the housing 110.

[0049] Further, in an embodiment, the support structure and / or the mounting of the fluid inlet system 200 in the apparatus is such that already the deflecting element located nearest at the axial inlet end (the first deflecting element 221), is used for deflecting fluid. This can be achieved in that the inner periphery of this first deflecting element 221 has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the axial inlet port 112 at its inner side. The outer diameter of the first deflecting element 221 should be at least as large as the diameter than the axial inlet port 112 at its inner side. In addition, the first deflecting element 221 should be located at a certain distance from the end of the axial inlet port in the axial direction.

[0050] From that, it is also clear that a deflection of fluid can also be achieved with only a single deflecting element, e.g., deflecting element 221 in this case. If only a single deflecting element is used, the inner diameter could be made smaller than in the situation shown, for example.

[0051] Further, the fluid inlet system 200 comprises multiple linking elements, one of which is referred to by 230. By means of example, for each possible set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction 206, the two deflecting elements are connected to each other via four of the multiple linking elements 230. For example, the multiple linking elements are arranged, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, between two neighbouring ones of the at least two support plate elements. In Fig. 2a, it can be seen that the four linking elements are distributed equally around the center axis, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, i.e., an angle between two neighbouring linking elements is 90°, and an angle between a support plate element and a neighbouring linking element is 45°. Note that this might also deviate. These linking elements can be provided in the form of struts, for example, having a rectangular or square or circular cross section.

[0052] This results in that a natural or resonance frequency of the deflecting elements is decoupled form the frequency of the vortices of the fluid, which detach from the deflecting elements. In this way, a resonant excitation can be avoided.

[0053] Fig. 3 illustrates a method according to an embodiment. In step 300, the fluid inlet system as shown, for example, in Figs. 2a to td, is arranged in the apparatus as shown, for example, in Figs. 1 and 2c, such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. In step 310, the fluid to the axial inlet port. This results in the fluid being uniformly distributed as explained above.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0026]Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger 100 as an example for an apparatus for explaining the invention and its background. The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a housing (in case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, the housing is typically called chamber) having three different parts 110, 120, 130 and a plurality of tubes 140. The housing or housing part 110 is configured as or forms an inlet chamber, the housing or housing part 130 is configured as or forms an outlet chamber, and the housing or housing part 120 is configured as a shell (the chamber).

[0027]The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial inlet port 112, is arranged in the housing or housing part 110, i.e., the inlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial outlet port 132, is arranged in the housing or housing part 130, i.e. the outlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a shell inlet 122 and a shell ...

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port, an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid with such fluid inlet system, e.g., a shell and tube heat exchanger, and to a method of supplying a fluid into such an apparatus.Background

[0002] Axial inlet ports (or axial inlet nozzles) can be used in a wide variety of apparatuses, in particular cylindrical apparatuses like vessels or other applications; an example of such an apparatus is a shell and tube heat exchanger where such axial inlet port can be used for supplying the tube-side fluid to a chamber of the shell and tube heat exchanger.

[0003] If a good uniform distribution of the flow of the supplied fluid over the cross-section of the apparatus or vessel or, in the specific case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, over the individual tubes, is important, the size of the inlet port can be determined in such a way that this requirement is met, in the specific case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, for example, this typically leads to the requirement that a pressure loss over the tube bundle must be significantly greater than over the inlet and outlet ports. A device for distribution fluid is shown, for example, in DE10 2012 000 146 A1.

[0004] Under certain circumstances, however, the size of the port cannot be chosen arbitrarily large (e.g. in the case of revamps), so that sufficient uniform distribution cannot be achieved with this measure.

[0005] In this specific example, other measures can aim at increasing the pressure loss in the tubes, such as the use of tube inserts. However, increasing the pressure loss may not be feasible in terms of process technology. Inlays can also be problematic due to fouling issues.

[0006] It is therefore an objective of the present invention to provide an improved way for supplying fluid into apparatuses via axial inlet ports.Disclosure of the invention

[0007] This objective is achieved by providing a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port, an apparatus and a method of supplying a fluid with the features of the independent claims. Embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and of the description that follows.

[0008] The invention, in general, relates to apparatuses having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. An example for such an apparatus, in particular a cylindrical apparatus, is a shell and tube heat exchanger to which tube-side fluid is supplied via such axial inlet port. Although the invention will also be described by means of the example of the shell and tube heat exchanger, this shall not restrict the invention to such particular apparatuses. Other such apparatuses are, in particular, separators (i.e. an apparatus for separating liquid from gas or different liquids) or columns (like high or low pressure columns of an air separation unit). Such fluid can comprise liquid or gas or solid material or a combination of two or all of them.

[0009] An embodiment of the invention relates to a fluid inlet system configured for use with an axial inlet port. The fluid inlet system comprises an axial inlet end and an axial outlet end along an axial direction. When arranged in an apparatus having an axial inlet port, the fluid inlet system is to be arranged such that the fluid supplied to the apparatus via the axial inlet port, first reaches the axial inlet end of the fluid inlet system and then propagates (at least in part) to the axial outlet end.

[0010] The fluid inlet system comprises a support structure and a deflecting structure. The deflection structure comprises one or multiple deflecting elements. Each deflecting element has a plate-shaped and / or profile-shaped form; thus, the deflecting elements can, e.g., also be referred to as deflecting plates. It is noted that this, in particular, means that such deflecting element is of essentially flat shape like a plate, i.e., a thickness is small compared to other geometric measures. A cross section, however, does not necessarily have to have a straight form, but can, for example, also have a Tor L-form or be of another profile. Further, each deflecting element has an outer periphery. In case of multiple deflecting elements, all or all but one of them have a through hole defining an inner periphery; in case of only one deflecting element, this can or cannot have such a through hole. In an embodiment, each deflecting elements is of an at least essentially ring-shaped form or even of a ring-shaped form. Thus, such deflecting elements can, for example, have the shape of a washer or the like.

[0011] It is to be noted, however, that this specific shape is just an ideal shape and the same or similar effect can also be achieved with similar shapes. For example, the outer and / or inner periphery of the deflecting elements can have a ring or round shape but this is not essential. The shape of outer and / or inner periphery can, for example, also be polygonal. In addition, the deflecting elements do not need to be flat in their entirety. Rather, also bent parts at the inner and / or outer periphery can be provided, for example; also, a full profile or hollow profile of squared or round or L or T shape is also possible.

[0012] Further, the deflecting structure is arranged at the support structure. In case of multiple deflection elements, the multiple deflecting elements are arranged next to each other. In an embodiment, the multiple deflecting elements are arranged at the support structure, such that the multiple deflecting elements are arranged at least essentially parallel to each other and at least essentially perpendicular to the axial direction, with respect to their form, e.g., plate-shaped form, or their flat part. However, no parallel or perpendicular arrangement is required, also angles of, e.g., 45° or different angles with respect to the axial direction are possible. Also, small angles of up to, e.g., 2° or 5° or 10° with respect to the axial direction are possible. Further, the multiple deflecting elements can also be arranged in coaxial manner. In this way, kind of a channel is provided via the through holes of the multiple deflecting elements, this channel, in particular, going through the fluid inlet system, from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end along the axial direction.

[0013] Further, in case of multiple deflection elements, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This can also be true for more or even all possible sets of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements.

[0014] In case of only one deflection element, this one deflection element covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port, i.e., not the entire opening. This also can apply in case of multiple deflection elements, then the one of the multiple deflection elements located closest to the axial inlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end, only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port. This can also be provided in combination with the last one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements mentioned above.

[0015] In this way, the fluid entering the fluid inlet system from the axial inlet penetrates the trough hole of one deflecting element but a part of that fluid is then deflected by another deflecting element, in particular, by a part that covers a part of the through hole. In case of only one deflecting element, the same effect is achieved in that part of the fluid is deflected by this one deflecting element.

[0016] In an embodiment, for the at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. In an embodiment, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

[0017] Note that in case of ring-shaped deflecting elements, there is a certain diameter of the inner and outer periphery. For other shapes, like polygonal shapes, for example, there is a varying diameter from which an average can be determined. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible sets of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements. In this way, kind of a pyramidal or cone shape is formed by the multiple deflecting elements, resulting in part of the fluid deflected outwards at each of the deflecting elements.

[0018] In an embodiment, for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible those sets of two of the multiple deflecting elements. This allows a very compact structure of the fluid inlet system while providing good deflecting effects.

[0019] In an embodiment, the fluid inlet system further comprises one or multiple linking elements, wherein for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the two deflecting elements are connected to each other via the one or at least one of the multiple linking elements. Again, this can also be true for more or even all possible those sets of two of the multiple deflecting elements. For example, for each of such sets, two or three or four linking elements can be provided. These linking elements are provided in addition to the support structure, and, thus, provide additional fixing points. This results in that a natural or resonance frequency of the deflecting elements is decoupled form the frequency of the vortices of the fluid, which detach from the deflecting elements. In this way, a resonant excitation can be avoided. A reason for this is that the low natural or resonance frequency of larger deflecting elements is increased by means of these linking elements, because, then the larger deflecting elements can only wing in combination with the smaller deflecting elements.

[0020] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises at least two support plate elements, wherein each support plate element extends from a center axis of the support structure, aligned with the axial direction, outwards to each multiple deflecting element. There can also be more support plate elements, e.g., three or four. In case of four support plate elements, these can be arranged to form a cross-shaped cross section, for example. This allows an effective support and fixation of the multiple deflecting elements.

[0021] Another embodiment relates to an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port for receiving a fluid, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. The apparatus comprises a fluid inlet system in any of the embodiments described above, wherein the fluid inlet system is arranged in the apparatus such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. The apparatus can be configured as a shell and tube heat exchanger for example, or as another cylindrical apparatus or vessel, e.g. a separator or column.

[0022] Another embodiment relates to a method of supplying a fluid into an apparatus having a housing and an axial inlet port, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing. The fluid inlet system of in any of the embodiments described above is arranged in the apparatus such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. Further, the fluid is supplied to the inlet port.

[0023] The fluid inlet system described herein allows a uniform distribution of the fluid stream, with no noticeable increase in pressure loss, which enables very economical operation (compared to other measures aimed at increasing pressure loss). The fluid inlet system has an open structure and an easy accessibility for maintenance and cleaning compared to other measures such as inlays. With revamps this is possibly the least cost-intensive measure.

[0024] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the description and the accompanying drawing. The invention is illustrated schematically by means of embodiments in the drawing and is described below with reference to the drawing.

[0025] Short description of the figures Fig. 1 illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger for explaining the invention; Figs. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d illustrate a fluid inlet system according to an embodiment in different views; and Fig. 3 illustrates a method according to an embodiment. Detailed description of the figures

[0026] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger 100 as an example for an apparatus for explaining the invention and its background. The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a housing (in case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, the housing is typically called chamber) having three different parts 110, 120, 130 and a plurality of tubes 140. The housing or housing part 110 is configured as or forms an inlet chamber, the housing or housing part 130 is configured as or forms an outlet chamber, and the housing or housing part 120 is configured as a shell (the chamber).

[0027] The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial inlet port 112, is arranged in the housing or housing part 110, i.e., the inlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial outlet port 132, is arranged in the housing or housing part 130, i.e. the outlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a shell inlet 122 and a shell outlet 124.

[0028] The inlet chamber 110 is connected, via the plurality of tubes 140, to the outlet chamber 130. In this way, a fluid path for a first fluid a is established. The first fluid a can be fed into the inlet chamber 110, via the axial inlet port 112; then the first fluid a is routed through the plurality of tubes 140 and then reaches the outlet chamber 130. From the outlet chamber 130, the first fluid a can be withdrawn via the axial outlet port 132.

[0029] The shell 120 comprises the shell inlet 122, and the shell outlet 124, and encloses the plurality of tubes 140. In this way a fluid path for a second fluid b bis established. The second fluid can be fed into the shell 120 via the shell inlet 152, then the second fluid is routed through the shell (i.e., the inside of the shell) by means of baffles 142, passing the tubes 140, and then reaches the shell outlet 124, such that the second fluid b can be withdrawn.

[0030] In this way, heat between the first fluid a and the second fluid b, when both are routed through their respective path, can be exchanged.

[0031] Figs. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d illustrate a fluid inlet system 200 according to an embodiment in different views; these Figs. will be described together in the following. Such fluid inlet system 200 can be used with an apparatus like the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 shown in Fig. 1.

[0032] The fluid inlet system 200 comprises an axial inlet end 202 and an axial outlet end 204 along an axial direction 206 as shown in Figs. 2a, 2c. The direction indicated with arrows for the axial direction 206 is also the intended flow direction of supplied fluid as shown for fluid a in Fig. 1, supplied to axial inlet port 112.

[0033] Further, the fluid inlet system 200 comprises a support structure 210 and a deflecting structure 220, comprising multiple deflecting elements. By means of example, the deflecting structure 220 comprises five deflecting elements 221 to 225. Further, and by means of example, the support structure 210 comprises four support plate elements 211 to 214, each of which extends from a center axis of the support structure 210, aligned with the axial direction 206, outwards to each of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225. For example, the four support plate elements 211 to 214 are distributed equally around the center axis, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, i.e., an angle between two neighbouring support plate elements is 90°. Note that this might also deviate.

[0034] Each of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 has a plate-shaped form, has an outer periphery and has a through hole defining an inner periphery. By means of example, each of the multiple deflecting elements is of an at least essentially ring-shaped form, e.g., similar to a washer or the like.

[0035] For illustration and explanation purposes, deflecting element 223 is shown in Fig. 2b separately. The through hole 240 defines or has an inner periphery 241, and the deflecting element has an outer periphery 242. In this case of a ring-shaped deflecting element, the inner periphery 241 defines an inner diameter Di and the outer periphery 242 defines an outer diameter Do. A thickness (or height) of the deflecting element, along the axial direction 206, is indicated by reference numeral H in Fig. 2b.

[0036] The multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged at the support structure 210, such that the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged at least essentially parallel to each other and at least essentially perpendicular to the axial direction 206, with respect to their plate-shaped form. In addition, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are arranged coaxially to each other. This can clearly be seen in Fig. 2a. It is noted that a misalignment in any of these arrangements can occur. For example, one or more or all of the deflecting elements can be arranged in an angle with respect to the axial direction 206 (or axis); these angles can all be the same, also with respect to orientation. For example, the deflecting elements can still be parallel to each other, although this is not required.

[0037] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction 206 from the axial inlet end 202 to the axial outlet end 204, a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

[0038] In particular, the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This means, for example, that the inner diameter of deflecting element 222 is smaller than the inner diameter of deflecting element 221, and the inner diameter of deflecting element 223 is smaller than the inner diameter of deflecting element 222 and so on.

[0039] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This means, for example, that the outer diameter of deflecting element 222 is smaller than the outer diameter of deflecting element 221, and the outer diameter of deflecting element 223 is smaller than the outer diameter of deflecting element 222 and so on.

[0040] Further, by means of example, the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 are configured such that, for each possible set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction 206, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end. This can be seen in Fig. 2a, for example.

[0041] This arrangement of the multiple deflecting elements 221 to 225 successively shears off the outer areas of the core flow of fluid entering the fluid inlet system at the axial inlet end 202 and deflects it into the outer areas of the housing or bonnet of the apparatus. With each next deflecting element, the flow is deflected less strongly in a radial direction than with the previous deflecting element, so that the flow is hardly deflected at all with the last deflecting element and tends to remain more in the area of the axis of the apparatus.

[0042] However, the deflecting element closest to the axial end, i.e., deflecting element 225 in this case, does not necessarily require a through hole, it also could be a closed or plain plate of, e.g., round shape. This still allows the deflection of fluid via the previous deflecting elements.

[0043] In Fig. 2c, such deflection is shown exemplarily with parts of flow of fluid a at deflecting elements 222 and 223 by means of dashed lines.

[0044] A simulation of such successive deflection of the fluid is illustrated in Fig. 2d, where the supplied fluid a is shown at the left, when entering the fluid inlet system at the axial inlet end. In the middle, the fluid is deflected and guided into the housing at each deflecting element (deflecting element 221 is referred to explicitly). At the right side, the flow of the fluid in the tubes is shown.

[0045] This fluid inlet system allows a uniform distribution of the flow across the cross-section of the apparatus to be achieved within very short path lengths. The number of deflecting elements, the axial distances between them and their inner and outer diameters can be chosen according to requirements, for example. Also, these numbers and measures can be determined by means of a simulation, for example.

[0046] Preferred differences between outer and inner diameter of the deflecting elements are, for example, between 25% and 200% of a distance between two neighbouring deflecting elements. The thickness of the deflecting elements can, for example, be between 5 mm and 15 mm. For example, plates having a thickness of 10 mm can be used; a suitable material for the deflecting elements is, for example, steel or stainless steel.

[0047] The support structure 210, as shown in Figs. 2a, 2c, comprising the four support plate elements, has a tree structure; each support plate element has a step for each deflecting element, such that the deflecting element can be arranged or fixed thereto. The plate-shape of the support plate elements allows additional guiding of the flow of the fluid along the axial direction 206. Note, however, that also another type of support structure could be used.

[0048] As can be seen in Fig. 2c, the support structure 210 is used to arrange and / or fix the fluid inlet system 200 in the apparatus such that fluid a received by the axial inlet port 112 is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. The support structure 210 can, for example, be directly mounted to the axial inlet port 112 and / or the housing 110.

[0049] Further, in an embodiment, the support structure and / or the mounting of the fluid inlet system 200 in the apparatus is such that already the deflecting element located nearest at the axial inlet end (the first deflecting element 221), is used for deflecting fluid. This can be achieved in that the inner periphery of this first deflecting element 221 has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the axial inlet port 112 at its inner side. The outer diameter of the first deflecting element 221 should be at least as large as the diameter than the axial inlet port 112 at its inner side. In addition, the first deflecting element 221 should be located at a certain distance from the end of the axial inlet port in the axial direction.

[0050] From that, it is also clear that a deflection of fluid can also be achieved with only a single deflecting element, e.g., deflecting element 221 in this case. If only a single deflecting element is used, the inner diameter could be made smaller than in the situation shown, for example.

[0051] Further, the fluid inlet system 200 comprises multiple linking elements, one of which is referred to by 230. By means of example, for each possible set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction 206, the two deflecting elements are connected to each other via four of the multiple linking elements 230. For example, the multiple linking elements are arranged, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, between two neighbouring ones of the at least two support plate elements. In Fig. 2a, it can be seen that the four linking elements are distributed equally around the center axis, seen in cross section along the axial direction 206, i.e., an angle between two neighbouring linking elements is 90°, and an angle between a support plate element and a neighbouring linking element is 45°. Note that this might also deviate. These linking elements can be provided in the form of struts, for example, having a rectangular or square or circular cross section.

[0052] This results in that a natural or resonance frequency of the deflecting elements is decoupled form the frequency of the vortices of the fluid, which detach from the deflecting elements. In this way, a resonant excitation can be avoided.

[0053] Fig. 3 illustrates a method according to an embodiment. In step 300, the fluid inlet system as shown, for example, in Figs. 2a to td, is arranged in the apparatus as shown, for example, in Figs. 1 and 2c, such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end. In step 310, the fluid to the axial inlet port. This results in the fluid being uniformly distributed as explained above.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0026]Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a shell and tube heat exchanger 100 as an example for an apparatus for explaining the invention and its background. The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a housing (in case of the shell and tube heat exchanger, the housing is typically called chamber) having three different parts 110, 120, 130 and a plurality of tubes 140. The housing or housing part 110 is configured as or forms an inlet chamber, the housing or housing part 130 is configured as or forms an outlet chamber, and the housing or housing part 120 is configured as a shell (the chamber).

[0027]The shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial inlet port 112, is arranged in the housing or housing part 110, i.e., the inlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises an axial outlet port 132, is arranged in the housing or housing part 130, i.e. the outlet chamber. Further, the shell and tube heat exchanger 100 comprises a shell inlet 122 and a shell ...

Claims

1. A fluid inlet system (200) configured for use with an axial inlet port (112), wherein the fluid inlet system comprises an axial inlet end (202) and an axial outlet end (204) along an axial direction (206), and wherein the fluid inlet system comprises a support structure (210) and a deflecting structure comprising one or multiple deflecting elements (221-225), wherein each deflecting element (221-225) of the deflection structure has a plate-shaped and / or profile-shaped form, and has an outer periphery, and wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, all or all but one of the deflection elements have a through hole defining an inner periphery, wherein the deflecting structure is arranged at the support structure (210) and, wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, the multiple deflecting elements (221-225) are arranged next to each other, and wherein, in case of multiple deflection elements, for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements (221-225), the one located more to the axial outlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end (202) to the axial outlet end (204), a part of the through hole of the one located more to the axial inlet end, or wherein the one deflection element or the one of the multiple deflection elements located closest to the axial inlet end covers, seen along the axial direction from the axial inlet end (202) to the axial outlet end (204), only a part of an opening of the axial inlet port.

2. The fluid inlet system (200) of claim 1, wherein each deflecting element is of an at least essentially ring-shaped form.

3. The fluid inlet system (200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein, for the at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

4. The fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein for at least one set of two different ones of the multiple deflecting elements, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a smaller diameter than the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

5. The fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the outer periphery of the one located more to the axial outlet end has, at least in average, a diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the inner periphery of the one located more to the axial inlet end.

6. The fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or multiple linking elements (230), wherein for at least one set of two of the multiple deflecting elements arranged next to each other along the axial direction, the two deflecting elements are connected to each other via the one or at least one of the multiple linking elements.

7. The fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure comprises at least two support plate elements (211-215), wherein each support plate element extends from a center axis of the support structure, aligned with the axial direction, outwards to each deflecting element.

8. The fluid inlet system (200) of claims 6 and 7, wherein the one or each of the multiple linking elements are arranged, seen in cross section along the axial direction, between two neighbouring ones of the at least two support plate elements.

9. The fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the multiple deflecting elements comprise at least three or at least four or at least five deflecting elements (221-225).

10. An apparatus (100) having a housing (110) and an axial inlet port (112) for receiving a fluid, wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing, wherein the apparatus comprises the fluid inlet system (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid inlet system is arranged in the apparatus such that fluid (a) received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end.

11. The apparatus (100) of claim 10, configured as a shell and tube heat exchanger, as a column or as a separator.

12. A method of supplying a fluid (a) into an apparatus (100) having a housing (110) and an axial inlet port (112), wherein the axial inlet port is arranged in the housing, comprising: arranging the fluid inlet system (200) of any one of claims 1 to 9 in the apparatus such that fluid received by the axial inlet port is guided through the inlet system from the axial inlet end to the axial outlet end; and supplying the fluid to axial the inlet port (112).

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