Valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CMBLU ENERGY AG
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-29
Smart Images
Figure EP2023066862_26122024_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Venti (device for selectively draining fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery
[0002] Technical area
[0003] The present invention relates to a valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery; it further relates to a tank unit for a liquid battery and a liquid battery, for example a redox flow battery, each having a valve device.
[0004] State of the art
[0005] Liquid batteries store electrical energy in liquid electrolytes, a positive electrolyte (anolyte) and a negative electrolyte (catholyte). The two energy-storing electrolytes are each stored in a tank and circulate in two separate flow circuits, between which ion exchange occurs via a membrane in a galvanic cell. In the galvanic cell, the dissolved substances are chemically reduced or oxidized, releasing electrical energy, which can be tapped via current collectors connected to the electrodes arranged in the galvanic cell.
[0006] For the safe operation of the liquid battery, it is necessary to prevent the pressure in the tanks from rising above a specified value. For this purpose, pressure relief valves can be provided to open the closed hydraulic circuit and drain fluid from the tank units in a controlled manner. Furthermore, air must be prevented from entering the tanks, as the liquid electrolytes are sensitive to air. Accordingly, contact with oxygen must be avoided in particular. Furthermore, when filling the liquid battery, the hydraulic system to be flooded must be opened to displace any air in the tank and lines to the outside. The hydraulic system opening must be designed to allow excess fluid to be drained away in a controlled manner. For this purpose, vent valves are used, which can be opened manually or selectively.An example of such a vent valve is a ball valve provided on top of the tank unit.
[0007] An example of a liquid battery can be found in EP 3 580 802 A1.
[0008] Description of the invention
[0009] Based on the known prior art, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery, as well as an improved tank unit for a liquid battery and an improved liquid battery.
[0010] The object is achieved by a valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery, in particular an electrolyte tank unit of a redox flow battery, having the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments emerge from the subclaims, the description, and the figures.
[0011] Accordingly, a valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery, for example an electrolyte tank unit of a redox flow battery, is proposed, which comprises a valve seat part and a valve body part that can be displaced relative to the valve seat part between an open position and a closed position.
[0012] A safety valve is arranged in the valve body part, which is designed to open an overpressure flow path at a predetermined overpressure. This makes it possible to implement both the function of manual, selective venting, for example in the case of (initial) filling of the tank unit with the liquid electrolyte, and the function of overpressure protection by the valve device described here. By integrating the safety valve into the valve body part, a small installation space can be achieved, in particular a short length or height of the valve device in a direction oriented parallel to the acceleration due to gravity in the intended installation position of the valve device on the tank unit.
[0013] By moving the valve body relative to the valve seat, a main flow path is opened or closed. The main flow path is open when the valve body is in the open position; the main flow path is closed when the valve body is in the closed position. Fluids in the tank unit can be discharged via the main flow path through the valve device when the valve body is in the open position.
[0014] The valve device comprises a tank-side end, which is intended to be arranged on a side facing the tank unit with respect to the valve seat unit. It further comprises an outlet-side end, at which the fluids discharged from the tank unit exit or are discharged from the valve device, for example, into a further line or into the environment.
[0015] The overpressure flow path can branch off from the main flow path.
[0016] The overpressure flow path can flow into the main flow path, i.e., be connected to it. Furthermore, the overpressure flow path can have an overpressure outlet connection, for example, at the outlet end.
[0017] To drain fluids from the tank unit, the valve device can be arranged directly on the tank, for example, on a flange or nozzle provided on the tank unit. Alternatively, it can also be arranged, in particular, screwed or flanged, on a line connected to the tank, leading away from or to the tank.
[0018] The fluids discharged from the tank unit can include liquids and gases. For example, during the filling of the tank unit with a working fluid, for example, an electrolyte liquid, gases displaced in the tank unit by the inflowing electrolyte liquid, such as air or an air mixture or an inert gas mixture, can be vented from the interior of the tank unit via the open valve device and the open main flow path through the valve device. Furthermore, electrolyte liquid added during filling can escape via the open main flow path through the open valve device. The valve device can thus function as a vent valve, which can ensure that the tank unit has been essentially completely filled with the electrolyte liquid.This is a desirable technical property for air-sensitive liquids such as those used in liquid batteries.
[0019] By providing the safety valve, the valve device can also ensure that any excess pressure that may develop in the tank unit, for example, during operation and / or due to external influences, is compensated. This is because when the specified excess pressure is reached, the safety valve located in the closed valve body opens, allowing fluids inside the tank unit to escape through the safety valve. This continues until the pressure inside the tank unit returns to normal, i.e., has fallen below the specified excess pressure.
[0020] The safety valve is also advantageously designed to prevent fluids from the environment from penetrating into the tank unit, advantageously even when there is a negative pressure inside the tank unit compared to the environment.
[0021] According to one embodiment, the safety valve can be a check valve or designed as a check valve or be a pressure relief valve or designed as a pressure relief valve.
[0022] The safety valve can be inserted into a receptacle located in the valve body. For example, the safety valve can be designed as an assembly or coherent unit that can be inserted into the receptacle as a whole. Thus, the safety valve can be assembled in an upstream production step and inserted into the receptacle as a fully assembled unit during a subsequent production step involving the actual valve device. The receptacle can, for example, be located in a base body of the valve body.
[0023] Alternatively, the safety valve may be formed at least partially from a base body of the valve body part.
[0024] According to one embodiment, the valve body part can be cap-shaped. The valve body part can comprise an internal thread by means of which it engages with an external thread of the valve seat part, at least in the closed position.
[0025] The cap-shaped design of the valve body allows for a particularly short length of the valve device in the direction of the central axis of the valve body. In contrast to conventional valve devices, such as ball valves, the additional installation space required by the valve body is essentially equivalent to that of an end cap. Furthermore, the valve body can be easily replaced, for example, by a valve body with a different cross-sectional area of the main flow path provided by the valve body, or even by an end cap if the valve functions are temporarily not desired or required at this location.
[0026] According to one embodiment, the valve body part and the valve seat part can be configured such that, in the open position, the internal thread of the valve body part is disengaged from the external thread of the valve seat part. In other words, in the open position, the valve body part is not coupled to the external thread of the valve seat part via its internal thread.
[0027] The valve body part can be unscrewed from the closed position by turning the valve body part in an unscrewing direction specified by the threads from the external thread of the valve seat part.
[0028] According to one embodiment, the valve body part can be secured to the valve seat part in the open position so that it cannot be lost. The term "lost" is to be understood as meaning that the valve body part is prevented or secured in the open position against complete detachment or falling off from the valve seat part.
[0029] For the above-described captive securing of the valve body part relative to the valve seat part, a locking feature can be arranged on the valve seat part, projecting radially outward relative to the central axis of the external thread and spaced from the external thread in the direction of the central axis of the external thread. The maximum outer diameter of the locking feature can be equal to or larger than an inner diameter of the internal thread of the valve body part. The locking feature can therefore form an undercut relative to the internal thread of the valve body part or a positive connection with the internal thread of the valve body part in the direction of the central axis of the internal thread or the external thread.
[0030] According to one embodiment, the securing feature may comprise a collar extending in the circumferential direction, a coating applied to a radial outer side of the valve seat part, a circumferentially extending, optionally elastic, ring element, for example an O-ring, and / or a circumferentially extending, wedge-shaped feature.
[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the securing feature can comprise a securing thread or be designed as a securing thread. The securing thread represents a further external thread arranged at a distance from the above-described external thread of the valve seat part. The securing thread can be designed to correspond to the internal thread of the valve body part in order to also be screwable to the valve body part.
[0032] The locking feature can optionally be positioned at a specified distance from the external thread of the valve seat. This specified distance can be equal to or greater than the thread length of the internal thread of the valve body. This allows the internal thread of the valve body to be disengaged from the external thread by unscrewing it from the external thread of the valve seat, without the internal thread abutting or coming into contact with the locking feature.
[0033] In particular, if the securing feature is designed as a locking thread arranged at a distance from the external thread, this ensures that the valve body part, after being completely unscrewed from the external thread, can be rotated relative to the valve seat part without engaging the locking thread. Engagement with the locking thread may only be possible when a force is exerted on the valve body part in the direction of the central axis in the direction of the locking thread, thus pushing or lifting the valve body part toward the locking thread.
[0034] The locking thread can be designed such that after unscrewing the valve body part from the locking thread, the valve body part can be completely removed from the valve seat part. The valve seat part can therefore comprise two spaced-apart external threads, wherein when the valve body part is mounted on the valve seat part, the internal thread of the valve body part initially engages with the locking thread. After the internal thread has been screwed completely through the locking thread, it disengages from the locking thread. It then lies in the intermediate area provided by the predetermined distance between the locking thread and the external thread, where it can rotate freely. This position of the valve body part corresponds to the open position. The main flow path is therefore open and represents the outlet point for fluids from the valve seat part through the valve body part.
[0035] If the valve body moves in the direction of the central axis, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the threads, the internal thread of the valve body engages with the external thread, and the valve body can be screwed onto the valve seat via the external thread until the valve head area of the valve body comes into contact with the valve seat area of the valve seat body. This closes the main flow path, and the valve body is in the closed position.
[0036] Conversely, the valve body can be screwed back into the open position from the closed position by applying torque to the valve body. The locking thread prevents the valve body from detaching from the valve seat. Because the locking thread is spaced apart from the external thread, the internal thread does not automatically engage the locking thread after disengaging from the external thread, but instead rotates freely below them in the intermediate area. This prevents the valve body from being accidentally unscrewed from the valve seat further than the open position when the main flow path is opened.
[0037] According to one embodiment, a securing projection can be arranged on the valve body part, alternatively or additionally, to prevent loss, which projects radially inward relative to the central axis of the internal thread and is arranged at a distance from the external thread in the direction of the central axis of the internal thread. The minimum internal diameter of the securing projection is smaller than an external diameter of the external thread of the valve seat part. This can also provide an undercut. Optionally, the securing projection can be wedge-shaped. It therefore comprises at least one surface which, relative to the central axis, i.e., the longitudinal axis of the internal thread, is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis. This embodiment may facilitate assembly or disassembly of the valve body part on the valve seat part.
[0038] Alternatively, the locking projection can be designed as an internal locking thread.
[0039] The locking projection can be arranged at a predetermined distance from the internal thread.
[0040] According to one embodiment, the valve seat part can have a cap-shaped base body formed from a central cover section and an adjoining, collar-shaped hollow cylinder section (or collar section). Optionally, a valve head region, which in the closed state is in sealing contact with a valve seat region of the valve seat part, can be arranged on the cover section. The valve head region can, for example, be arranged centrally with respect to the central axis of the valve seat part. Alternatively or additionally, a safety valve can be arranged on the cover section, for example, centrally with respect to a central axis of the valve seat part.
[0041] According to one embodiment, the valve body part can comprise at least one connection section for connecting a media discharge line. For example, the valve body part can comprise a first connection section for connecting a media discharge provided for discharging fluids from the main flow path and / or a second connection section for connecting a media discharge provided for discharging fluids from the overpressure flow path.
[0042] The above-mentioned object is further achieved by a valve device for selectively discharging fluids from a tank unit of a liquid battery, in particular an electrolyte tank unit of a redox flow battery, which valve device comprises a valve seat part and a valve body part that is displaceable relative to the valve seat part between an open position and a closed position. The valve body part is cap-shaped. The valve body part comprises an internal thread by means of which it engages with an external thread of the valve seat part, at least in the closed position. Optionally, the internal thread of the valve body part can be disengaged from the external thread of the valve seat part in the open position, and further optionally, the valve body part can be arranged on the valve seat part in a captive manner in the open position. The above description with regard to the captive device also applies to this valve device.
[0043] The above-mentioned object is further achieved by a tank unit for a liquid battery, in particular a redox flow battery, having the features of claim 19. Advantageous further developments emerge from the description and the figures.
[0044] Accordingly, a tank unit for a liquid battery, in particular a redox flow battery, is proposed, comprising a tank and a valve device fluidly connected to the tank for selectively discharging fluids according to one of the embodiments described herein.
[0045] What has been described with regard to the valve device also applies to the tank unit. The tank unit allows the advantages and effects described for the valve device to be realized in an analogous manner. Accordingly, a repetition of the disclosure described with regard to the valve device is omitted here to avoid redundancies.
[0046] The above-mentioned object is further achieved by a liquid battery, in particular a redox flow battery, having the features of claim 20. Advantageous further developments emerge from the description and the figures.
[0047] Accordingly, a liquid battery, in particular a redox flow battery, is proposed, comprising a tank unit and a valve device for selectively discharging fluids from the tank unit according to one of the embodiments described herein.
[0048] What has been described regarding the valve device also applies to the liquid battery. The liquid battery can achieve the advantages and effects described for the valve device in an analogous manner. Accordingly, what has been described regarding the valve device will not be repeated here to avoid redundancies.
[0049] Short description of the characters
[0050] Advantageous further embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description of the figures. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a liquid battery;
[0051] Figure 2 shows schematically a sectional view through a valve device of the liquid battery from Figure 1;
[0052] Figure 3 schematically shows a further sectional view through the valve device 1 from Figure 2;
[0053] Figure 4 shows schematically a part of Figure 2;
[0054] Figure 5 shows schematically a part of Figure 3;
[0055] Figure 6 shows schematically a sectional view through a partial area of a valve device according to a further embodiment;
[0056] Figure 7 schematically shows a sectional view through a partial area of a valve device according to a further embodiment;
[0057] Figure 8 shows schematically a sectional view through a valve device according to a further embodiment;
[0058] Figure 9 schematically shows a further sectional view through the valve device of Figure 8, and
[0059] Figure 10 schematically shows a sectional view through a valve device according to a further embodiment.
[0060] Detailed description of advantageous embodiments
[0061] Some advantageous embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. Identical, similar, or equivalent elements in the various figures are provided with identical reference numerals, and a repeated description of these elements is partially omitted to avoid redundancies.
[0062] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a liquid battery 100. It comprises two tank units 110, each comprising a tank 113 for storing a liquid electrolyte, which is connected via lines 111 to a chamber 122 of a galvanic cell 120. A hydraulic flow circuit for flowing electrolyte can be generated in each of the tank units 110 via a pump 112.
[0063] The galvanic cell 120 comprises two chambers 122 separated by a membrane 121. Ion exchange can occur between the chambers 122 via the membrane 121.
[0064] In each chamber 122, an electrode 123 is arranged, which is connected via a current collector to the corresponding battery pole 130 of the liquid battery 100.
[0065] In the present case, the tank unit 110 on the left in Figure 1 is designed to store and circulate an anolyte, and the tank unit 110 shown on the right in Figure 1 is intended to store and circulate a catholyte.
[0066] The liquid battery 100 stores electrical energy in the liquid electrolyte. As the electrolytes circulate in the two separate flow circuits, ion exchange occurs between the two electrolytes in the galvanic cell 120 via the membrane 121. In the galvanic cell 120, the dissolved substances are chemically reduced or oxidized, releasing electrical energy, which can be tapped via the current collectors connected to the electrodes 123 arranged in the galvanic cell 120. The liquid battery 100 thus represents a redox flow battery 100.
[0067] Each tank unit 110 comprises at least one valve device 1 for selectively discharging fluids from the respective tank unit 110.
[0068] On the left tank unit 110 in Figure 1, the valve device 1 is arranged, for example, directly on the tank 113. For example, the valve device 1 is screwed onto a tank container nozzle of the tank 113 (not shown here).
[0069] On the right-hand tank unit 110 in Figure 1, its valve device 1 is arranged, for example, on a line 111 of the tank unit 110. For example, the valve device 1 is integrated, for example, into the line 111. Alternatively, the valve device 1 can be connected, for example, to the line 111 via a T-piece provided in the line 111. Figure 2 shows a sectional view through a valve device 1 of the liquid battery 100 from Figure 1, as it can be installed, for example, in the line 111 of the right-hand tank unit 110.
[0070] The valve device 1 comprises a valve seat part 2 and a valve body part 3 which can be displaced relative to the valve seat part 2 between an open position and a closed position. In Figure 2, the valve body part 3 is positioned in the closed position.
[0071] The valve seat part 2 extends along a central axis 10. The valve device 1 comprises a tank-side end 20, at which it can be connected to the tank 113 or a line 111 coming from the tank 113. It further comprises an outlet-side end 21, at which the fluids discharged from the tank unit 110 via the valve device 1 can exit or be discharged from the valve device 1, as described in more detail below.
[0072] The valve seat part 2 further comprises a lateral nozzle 22 to which a further line 1 1 1 , which according to this embodiment is connected to the galvanic cell 120, can be connected.
[0073] Alternatively, the lateral nozzle 22 can also be closed with a closure cap or omitted if it is not required, as for example in the case of the valve device 1 of the left tank unit 110 in Figure 1, which is arranged directly on the tank 113.
[0074] The valve body part 3 is cap-shaped. It thus comprises a cap-shaped base body 30, which is formed from a central cover section 31 and a hollow cylindrical section 32, which represents a collar of the valve body part 3.
[0075] In the closed position, as shown in Figure 2, a valve head region 33 of the valve body part 3 is in sealing contact with a valve seat region 23 of the valve seat part 2.
[0076] The valve head region 33 comprises a seal 34 which is in sealing contact with the valve seat region 23. This closes a main valve channel 24 of the valve seat part 2. Accordingly, the through openings 36 provided in the cover section 31 are not fluidly connected to the main valve channel 24. In order to be held in the closed position, the valve body part 3 engages with an external thread 25 of the valve seat part 2 via an internal thread 35 arranged on its collar. The valve body part 3 is supported with its cover section 31 on the end face 26 of the valve seat part 2. The thread pairing consisting of the external thread 25 and the internal thread 35 is in a clamped state. Accordingly, the valve body part 3 is fixed to the valve seat part 2.
[0077] The valve device 1 further comprises a safety valve 4 which is configured to open an overpressure flow path P2 at a predetermined overpressure.
[0078] The safety valve 4 is designed as a check valve. It represents a separate unit that is inserted into a receptacle 37 located centrally in the cover section 31 of the valve body part 3. The receptacle 37 is arranged centrally to the central axis 10 and surrounded by the annular valve head region 33.
[0079] In Figure 1, the safety valve 4, which can also be understood as a pressure relief valve, is shown in a closed position. Accordingly, the overpressure flow path P2 is closed.
[0080] If there is an overpressure inside the tank unit 1 10, i.e. inside the valve seat part 2, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the safety valve 4 opens. Fluids present inside the valve seat part 2, usually the electrolyte, can be discharged to the outside via the opened safety valve 4.
[0081] In the present case, the valve body part 3 comprises an overpressure outlet channel 41 and a second connection section 40 for connecting a media discharge line (not shown), via which electrolyte escaping via the overpressure flow path P2 can be discharged into a collecting container not shown here.
[0082] The media discharge line for discharging electrolyte escaping via the overpressure flow path P2 can, for example, be a hose. Accordingly, the second connection section 40 can be in the form of a connection piece. A first connection section 38, designed in the form of a thread, is provided on the radial outer side of the collar of the valve body part 3, to which a further media discharge line or an overflow protection device can be attached.
[0083] The safety valve 4 can optionally be omitted. In this case, the valve body part 3 can have an even smaller installation space in the direction of the central axis 10.
[0084] Alternatively, the safety valve 4 can also be arranged in the valve seat part.
[0085] Figure 3 schematically shows a further sectional view through the valve device 1 from Figure 2, wherein here the valve body part 3 has been moved from its closed position shown in Figure 2 into the open position by unscrewing the external thread 25. By unscrewing the valve body part 3 from the external thread 25, the valve body part 3 is offset or shifted relative to the valve seat part 2 in the direction of the central axis 10 by a predetermined amount. As a result, the valve head region 33 and the valve seat region 23 are spaced apart from one another, and the main valve channel 24 is opened. A space R now exists between the end face 26 and the cover section 31. In this position of the valve body part 3, fluid located in the tank unit 110 or in the valve seat part can flow through the main valve channel 24 into the space R and via this further through the passage openings 36. Accordingly, the main flow path P1 for the outflowing fluid is open.
[0086] A cylindrical inner wall of the valve body part 3 is sealed against a cylindrical outer wall of the valve seat part 2 by a seal 27.
[0087] An overflow prevention device 6 is attached to the first connection section. This device comprises an annular collar 60, which is sealed against the outer end face of the cover section 31 via a seal 61. (Liquid) fluid flowing out of the valve device 1 from the passage openings 36, i.e., via the main flow path P1, can collect in the space provided by the overflow prevention device 6 above the valve body part 3.
[0088] Alternatively, the overflow protection device 6 can also be formed integrally with the valve body part 3, more specifically as part of the base body 30. As can be seen from Figure 3, the internal thread 35 of the valve body part 3 is disengaged from the external thread 25 of the valve seat part 2 in the open position, i.e., completely unscrewed from the latter.
[0089] In the open position shown in Figure 3, the valve body part 3 is secured against loss on the valve seat part 2. Thus, in the open position, the valve body part 3 is prevented from completely loosening or falling off the valve seat part 2.
[0090] For this purpose, the valve seat part 2 comprises a securing feature 5 which, relative to the central axis 10, projects radially outwards and is arranged at a distance from the external thread 25 as seen in the direction of the central axis 10. As can be seen from Figure 3, a maximum external diameter of the securing feature 5 is larger than a (minimum) internal diameter of the internal thread 35 of the valve body part 3. Accordingly, the securing feature 5 represents a positive stop for the internal thread 35 in the direction of the central axis 10.
[0091] Figures 4 and 5 each show a portion of Figures 2 and 3. Based on Figures
[0092] 4 and 5, the loss protection via security type 5 is explained in more detail.
[0093] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 4 and 5, the fuse design is
[0094] 5 is formed by a locking thread 50 arranged at a distance from the external thread 25 on the valve seat part 2. The locking thread 50 is located closer to the end face 26 than the external thread 25. The locking thread 50 is designed to correspond to the external thread 25. Accordingly, the locking thread 50 is also designed to correspond to the internal thread 35 of the valve body part 3 and can be screwed to it.
[0095] The securing feature 5, more specifically the securing thread 50 here, is arranged at a predetermined distance 51 from the external thread 25 of the valve seat part 2, wherein the predetermined distance is equal to or greater than the thread length 52 of the internal thread 35 of the valve body part 3. The thread length 52 corresponds to the length of the internal thread 35 in the direction of the central axis 10.
[0096] In the open position (see Figure 4), the valve body part 3 can therefore be rotated relative to the valve seat part without this rotation resulting in screwing into the locking thread 50. To achieve the latter, the valve body part 13 must be moved upwards against gravity in the direction of the central axis 10, due to the optional vertical installation position of the valve device 1 with respect to the central axis 10, in order to engage the locking thread 50. Only then can the valve body part 13 be completely unscrewed from the valve seat part 2 and removed from it.
[0097] Figure 6 schematically shows a sectional view through a portion of a valve device 1 according to another embodiment. This essentially corresponds to that of Figures 2 to 5, wherein, instead of the locking thread 50, an elastic ring element 53, provided here as an O-ring, is arranged on the valve seat part 2 at a predetermined distance 51 from the external thread 25.
[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the securing feature 5 can also comprise a coating applied to the radial outer side of the valve seat part 2 and / or a circumferentially extending, for example wedge-shaped, feature and / or a collar extending in the circumferential direction.
[0099] Figure 7 schematically shows a sectional view through a portion of a valve device 1 according to a further embodiment. This essentially corresponds to that of Figures 2 to 5, wherein, instead of the securing feature 5, a securing projection 7 is provided on the valve body part 3 as a captive device. The securing projection 7 protrudes radially inward relative to the central axis 10 and is spaced from the internal thread 25 in the direction of the central axis 10 by a predetermined distance 72, which is equal to or greater than a thread length 71 of the external thread 25 of the valve seat part 2. A minimum internal diameter of the securing projection 7 is smaller than the (maximum) external diameter of the external thread 25 of the valve seat part 2.
[0100] The securing projection 7 is wedge-shaped with respect to the central axis 10, specifically wedge-shaped on both sides. It therefore comprises, on its first side, a first surface 73 which is inclined with respect to the central axis 10 by an angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. It further comprises, on its second side, a second surface 74 which is inclined with respect to the central axis 10 by an angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. The angle of inclination of the first surface 73 is relatively small, in this case, for example, 20°. Accordingly, the securing projection 7 can be pushed over the external thread 25 in the direction of the central axis 10 with relatively little effort.
[0101] The angle of inclination of the first surface 73 is relatively large, in this case, for example, 70°. Accordingly, a disproportionately greater force is required in the direction of the central axis 10 to push the securing projection 7 back over the external thread 25 in order to completely disassemble the valve body part 3 from the valve seat part 2. Analogous to securing feature 5 of the embodiments of Figures 2 to 6, the securing projection 7 performs the function of securing the valve body part 3 against loss relative to the valve seat part 2.
[0102] Alternatively, the securing projection 7 can be designed as an internal securing thread, which is spaced from the internal thread at the specified distance 72. The captive effect of the internal securing thread is analogous to the securing thread 50.
[0103] According to further embodiments, the valve device 1 may also comprise a securing feature 5 and a securing projection 7.
[0104] The securing feature 5 and / or the securing projection 7 can be segmented in the circumferential direction relative to the central axis 10.
[0105] Figure 8 shows a schematic sectional view through a valve device 1 according to a further embodiment. This basically has the shape of a ball valve. It thus comprises a valve body part 3, which is received in a valve seat part 2 in a manner known per se, sealed by seals 27. In an open position, the valve body part 3 releases a main flow path P1 by having a passage opening 36 of the valve body part 3 in fluid communication with a tank-side end 20 and an outlet-side end 21 of the valve device 1.
[0106] The valve seat part 2 has an overflow protection device 6 integrated at the outlet-side end 21. By rotating the valve body part 3 relative to the valve seat part 2 about a predetermined rotation axis 8, the valve body part 3 can be moved from the open position shown in Figure 8 to the closed position shown in Figure 9.
[0107] Figure 9 shows a further sectional view through the valve device 1 from Figure 8.
[0108] The main flow path P1 is closed in Figure 9. The tank-side end 20 is now in contact with a safety valve 4, analogous to the embodiments described above. If the pressure present in the tank unit 110 exceeds a predetermined overpressure, the safety valve 4 opens and releases an overpressure flow path P2 via the overpressure outlet channel 41.
[0109] Figure 10 shows a schematic sectional view through a valve device 1 according to another embodiment. This essentially corresponds to that of Figures 8 and 9, with the overpressure outlet channel 41 extending laterally through the valve seat part 2.
[0110] Where applicable, all individual features presented in the embodiments may be combined and / or exchanged without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0111] List of reference symbols
[0112] 1 valve device
[0113] 10 Central Axis
[0114] 2 valve seat part
[0115] 20 Tank-side end
[0116] 21 Outlet end
[0117] 22 nozzles
[0118] 23 Valve seat area
[0119] 24 Main valve channel
[0120] 25 external threads
[0121] 26 Front side
[0122] 27 Seal
[0123] 3 Valve body part
[0124] 30 basic bodies
[0125] 31 Lid section
[0126] 32 Hollow cylinder section (collar section / collar)
[0127] 33 Valve head area
[0128] 34 Seal
[0129] 35 internal thread
[0130] 36 passage opening
[0131] 37 recording
[0132] 38 First connecting section
[0133] 4 Safety valve (pressure relief valve, check valve)
[0134] 40 Second connecting section
[0135] 41 Overpressure outlet channel
[0136] 5 Security characteristics
[0137] 50 locking threads
[0138] 51 Specified distance
[0139] 52 thread length
[0140] 53 ring element
[0141] 6 Overflow protection
[0142] 60 Collar 1 Sealing projection 1 Thread length 2 Specified distance 3 First surface (first wedge surface) 4 Second surface (second wedge surface) Rotation axis 00 Liquid battery 10 Tank unit
[0143] 1 1 1 Line
[0144] 1 12 Pump
[0145] 1 13 Tank
[0146] 120 Galvanic cell
[0147] 121 Membran
[0148] 122 Chamber
[0149] 123 Electrode
[0150] 130 Battery terminal
[0151] P1 main flow path
[0152] P2 overpressure flow path
[0153] R Room
Claims
Claims 1. Valve device (1) for the selective discharge of fluids from a tank unit (110) of a liquid battery (100), in particular an electrolyte tank unit (110) of a redox flow battery (100), comprising a valve seat part (2) and a valve body part (3) which is displaceable relative to the valve seat part (2) between an open position and a closed position, characterized in that a safety valve (4) is arranged in the valve body part (3), which is designed to open an overpressure flow path (P2) at a predetermined overpressure.
2. Valve device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the safety valve (4) is a check valve.
3. Valve device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the safety valve (4) is inserted in a receptacle (37) arranged in the valve body part (3).
4. Valve device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body part (3) is cap-shaped, wherein the valve body part (3) comprises an internal thread (35) by means of which it engages with an external thread (25) of the valve seat part (2) at least in the closed position.
5. Valve device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the internal thread (35) of the valve body part (3) is disengaged from the external thread (25) of the valve seat part (2) in the open position.
6. Valve device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the valve body part (3) is arranged in a captive manner on the valve seat part (2) in the open position.
7. Valve device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that for securing against loss a on the valve seat part (2), relative to a central axis (10) of the External thread (25), radially outwardly projecting, arranged in the direction of the central axis (10) at a distance from the external thread (25), wherein a maximum outer diameter of the securing feature (5) is equal to or greater than an inner diameter of the internal thread (35) of the valve body part (3).
8. Valve device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the securing feature (5) comprises a collar extending in the circumferential direction, a coating applied to a radial outer side of the valve seat part (2), a preferably elastic ring element (53) extending in the circumferential direction, preferably an O-ring, and / or a wedge-shaped feature extending in the circumferential direction.
9. Valve device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the securing feature (5) comprises a securing thread (50).
10. Valve device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the locking thread (50) is designed to correspond to the internal thread (35) of the valve body part (3). 1 1. Valve device (1) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the securing feature (5) is arranged at a predetermined distance (51) from the external thread (25) of the valve seat part (2).
12. Valve device (1) according to claim 1 1, characterized in that the predetermined distance (51) is equal to or greater than a thread length (52) of the internal thread (35) of the valve body part (3).
13. Valve device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 12, characterized in that for securing against loss on the valve body part (3), relative to a central axis (10) of the internal thread (35), a radially inwardly projecting securing projection (7) is arranged, spaced from the internal thread (25) in the direction of the central axis (10), wherein a minimum internal diameter of the securing projection (7) is smaller than an external diameter of the external thread (25) of the valve seat part (2).
14. Valve device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the securing projection (7) is wedge-shaped or is designed as an internal securing thread.
15. Valve device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body part (3) has a cap-shaped base body (30) which is formed from a central cover section (31) and a hollow cylinder section (32).
16. Valve device (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that a valve head region (33), which in the closed state is in sealing contact with a valve seat region (23) of the valve seat part 2, is arranged on the cover section (31), for example centrally with respect to a central axis (10) of the valve seat part (2), and / or the safety valve (4) is arranged on the cover section (31), for example centrally with respect to a central axis (10) of the valve seat part (2).
17. Valve device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body part (3) comprises at least one connection section (38, 40) for connecting a media discharge line.
18. Valve device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the valve body part (3) comprises a first connection section (38) for connecting a media discharge line for discharging fluids from the main flow path (PI) and / or a second connection section (40) for connecting a media discharge line for discharging fluids from the overpressure flow path (P2).
19. Tank unit (110) for a liquid battery (100), in particular a redox flow battery (100), comprising a tank (113) and a valve device (1) fluidly connected to the tank (113) for selectively discharging fluids from the tank unit (110) according to one of the preceding claims.
20. Liquid battery (100), in particular redox flow battery (100), comprising a tank unit (110) and a valve device (1) for selectively discharging fluids from the tank unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18.