Heat production installation, comprising modules connected by sealed or semi-sealed ducts.

Abstract

Heat production installation comprising modules connected by sealed or semi-sealed ducts. The end (9a) of a duct (3a) and the end (9b) of a module duct (8a1) are arranged coaxially (A1) in a connection position to each other via a sleeve (13). The sleeve (13) surrounds, at a set radial distance (R1), both the end (9a) of the duct (3a) and the end (9b) of a module duct (8a1), maintaining a set axial distance (A1) (D1) between them. The sleeve (13) is fixed to the upstream end (9a) of a downstream duct (3a), and a sealing gasket (14) is mounted around the downstream end (9b) of an upstream duct (8a1). (See diagram: FIG. 4B)

Description

Title of the invention: Heat production installation, comprising modules connected by sealed or semi-sealed conduits connected to each other Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the field of heat production installations comprising a plurality of modules which are successively connected to each other two by two via conduits. The invention relates more specifically to methods of sealed or semi-sealed connection between conduits connecting at least two successive modules of the installation to each other. Prior art

[0002] Among combustion devices, heat production installations are known which comprise several modules successively connected to each other via conduits, including in particular a module for producing a high-temperature gas and a module for producing - in particular by heat exchange from the high-temperature gas previously produced - a heat source which can be used outside the installation.

[0003] For example, as appears from document EP3816512 (MINI GREEN POWER), such an installation comprises successively, depending on the direction of circulation of the gases inside the installation: -) a module arranged in a thermochemical reactor for combustion of a solid fuel, which is connected via a fuel post-combustion conduit to a module for purifying the gases discharged from the reactor, -) said gas purification module - for example a cyclonic filter or a plenum - separating from the gases the solid particles resulting from the combustion previously carried out inside the thermochemical reactor and / or the post-combustion duct, -) a transfer duct for the purified gases leaving the gas purification module to a module for exploiting the purified high-temperature gases, such as a boiler producing heat by heat exchange.

[0004] In devices conveying gases at high temperatures and at high speeds, it is common to use braided fiber type seals which are known to be resistant in such a context of use. Such seals are notably installed between two gas conveying conduits equipping such devices.

[0005] However, a problem arises in the fact that the production facilities of heat pumps composed of several successive modules, convey through the conduits which connect them gases at very high temperatures - for information purposes only, which can be higher than 1000°C (one thousand degrees Celsius) - at high speeds, namely speeds generating a depression, where pressures for information purposes only can be between -70 Pa and -120 Pa (Pa: Pascal).

[0006] In such a context, as a result of the operation of the installation, the conduits are subjected to stresses causing their potentially significant deformation due to their expansion. A significant deformation of the conduits therefore generates internal forces following their extension between the modules, which are significant. This has the effect of causing: -) potential damage to the various modules of the installation which are installed on the ground and consequently a risk of destabilization of the installation, and / or -) rapid deterioration of the seals that are interposed between the ends of the pipes connecting the modules together. Damage to the seals can cause leaks of gases circulating through the installation, which are potentially toxic. Presentation of the invention

[0007] In this context, the invention relates to a heat production installation which comprises a plurality of said modules which are successively connected to each other two by two via conduits. The conduits are assembled to each other at their ends via a sealed or semi-sealed connection device, in particular with regard to at least the conduits of the installation conveying gases at high temperatures and at high speeds.

[0008] The aim of the invention is to propose solutions at least to the problems to be solved and the difficulties to be overcome previously presented. In particular, it is sought to obtain a sealed or semi-sealed connection between conduits connecting two to two of the modules of the installation which is reliable and at best durable, despite the circulation between the modules of a gas at very high temperatures and at high speeds which cause a significant expansion of the conduits connecting at least two modules of the installation to each other.

[0009] It is more particularly intended that the expansion of the conduits at least does not induce: -) nor a risk of overall destabilization of the installation as a result of the repercussions from module to module of the expansion of the conduits connecting them successively in series; -) nor individual deterioration of the modules and / or conduits subject to specific stresses caused by the expansion of the connecting conduits between the modules, under the effect of the circulation through them of high-temperature gases and under high speeds; -) nor a risk of leakage from the modules of gases - potentially toxic - which circulate successively from one module to another via the conduits, due to a failure of the sealing obtained in the connection zones of the ends of the conduits successively to each other; and / or -) nor rapid fatigue of the sealing joints interposed between two conduits connected to each other, altering their effectiveness and consequently requiring their frequent replacement which requires a shutdown of the installation.

[0010] Such solutions are also sought from a sealed or semi-sealed connection.

[0011] between the conduits which is reliable, of simple structure, of at best limited size and / or allowing rapid and easy assembly between the modules and the conduits during assembly of the installation and / or during a maintenance operation of the installation.

[0012] To do this globally - at least as regards the conduits of the installation conveying high temperature gases - the ends of the conduits are assembled coaxially with each other in ways that prevent them from coming into direct contact with each other as a result of their expansion.

[0013] It is now specified and understood: -) that the upstream and downstream concepts used subsequently are relative concepts considered according to the direction of circulation of gases through the installation during its operation, from an upstream module to a downstream module via conduits included in the installation connecting them successively two by two, and -) that a clear and / or concise structural definition of the invention is assessed with regard to the installation considered on the one hand in an assembly station - or in other words when the installation is not in operation - and on the other hand in an operating station causing heating of the conduits and their expansion. Indeed, an expansion of the conduits influences the configuration of a sealed or semi-sealed connection device between the ends of the conduits, and / or a change in state of at least one of the members included in said connection device, -) that the axial concept used defines a direction of extension, with respect to the axis of extension of the ends of the conduits via which the conduits are assembled together. In other words, the axial concept defines both the axis of extension of the ends of the conduits to be assembled to each other, and a direction parallel to said axis of extension and which may be radially distant from this axis of extension, in particular with regard to members which comprise said device for the sealed or semi-sealed connection of the ends of the conduits to each other.

[0014] The conduits connecting at least two modules - in particular without being exclusive of modules and conduits through which a gas circulates at high temperatures and high speeds - are assembled via their ends by a connection device comprising a sleeve. The ends of the conduits to be connected to each other are arranged coaxially via the sleeve which axially surrounds at a radial distance the ends of the conduits to be assembled to each other. The sleeve is preferably advantageously fixed to the upstream end of a downstream conduit and a seal is mounted around the outer periphery of the downstream end of an upstream conduit, the seal being preferably surrounded at a radial distance by the sleeve. The seal is in particular of the type resistant to high temperatures and high speeds, such as preferably a braided fiber seal.

[0015] Whether in the assembly station or in the operating station of the installation, the sleeve constitutes at least one relative positioning member between the ends of the conduits preventing them from making direct contact with each other. In the operating station of the installation, the compression force of the sealing joint by the sleeve can be controlled.

[0016] More specifically, the sleeve maintains an axial gap between the end faces of the respective ends of the conduits and a radial gap between the inner axial face of the sleeve and the outer peripheral faces of the ends of the conduits. Consequently, despite a significant expansion of the conduits during operation of the installation, direct contact between the conduits is prohibited, which prevents the conduits from being stressed against each other.

[0017] More precisely, at the installation assembly station, the sleeve positions the respective end faces of the ends of the conduits to be joined to each other at a set axial distance. The inner axial face of the sleeve is placed at a set radial distance relative to one and the other of the respective downstream and upstream ends of the conduits surrounded by the sleeve.

[0018] Said set axial distance and said set radial distance are in particular predefined according to the amplitude and the expansion conditions of the conduits, by prohibiting during operation of the installation: -) axial abutment against each other of the ends of the conduits to be assembled to each other, and -) excessive radial abutment between the sleeve and the downstream end of the upstream conduit, the sleeve radially compressing the seal according to a predefined range of compression forces.

[0019] It will be noted from now on that said range of compression forces of the seal by the sleeve can be more specifically predefined by allowing - as more precisely described below - the passage of a flow of fresh air towards and / or through the seal for its cooling during operation of the installation.

[0020] It is understood here implicitly but if necessary explicitly specified, that the seal is compressible by the sleeve during operation of the installation. In the assembly station between the ends of the conduits, the relative radial positioning between the sleeve and the seal is potentially achieved: -) either by radial flushing without constraint of the inner lateral face of the sleeve against the sealing gasket, -) either by moderate radial compression of the seal by the inner lateral face of the sleeve, -) either advantageously and preferably - as described below - by providing radial clearance between the inner lateral face of the sleeve and the seal, a passage of a flow of fresh air outside the ducts then being formed between them.

[0021] It results from the provisions provided by the invention that during operation of the installation - at least at its nominal regime - and despite the circulation of gases at high temperatures and high speeds causing a significant expansion of the conduits: -) the set axial distance allows axial expansion of the end of the conduits by preventing direct contact between their respective axial end faces facing each other, -) the set radial distance makes it possible to prevent direct contact between, on the one hand, the inner lateral face of the sleeve and, on the other hand, the outer lateral faces of the ends of the conduits, without preventing moderate compression of the seal by the sleeve, providing a seal between the ends of the conduits, -) and this by allowing - via the sleeve - guidance in relative axial mobility between the ends of the conduits.

[0022] It ultimately results that during operation of the installation and expansion of the conduits: -) leaks of gas circulating at high temperatures under high speeds through the pipes are avoided in the assembly area between the ends of the pipes; -) the modules are protected from both axial and radial stresses that would be caused by direct contact between the ends of the conduits, and excessive radial contact between the sleeve and the ends of the conduits. This prevents deterioration of the modules and / or localized destabilization of the installation that could be transmitted from module to module, and protects the seal from rapid wear.

[0023] Furthermore, the seal is nevertheless subjected axially to stresses during operation of the installation at nominal speed, under the effect of friction. axial force exerted by the sleeve as a result of the sliding of the downstream end of the upstream conduit subject to expansion inside the sleeve. The seal is then subject to fatigue and wear. Under such conditions, this has the effect of causing deformation of the seal - which, as a reminder, is notably of the braided fiber type - and consequently which can gradually alter in the short term the quality of the seal it provides.

[0024] The invention proposes to best protect the seal from deterioration during operation of the installation, by ventilating it with a flow of fresh air coming from outside the conduits, while exploiting its progressive wear to maintain its ventilation.

[0025] To do this - as previously mentioned in the assembly station on the installation of the connection device between the ends of the conduits - a set radial clearance is provided between the inner lateral face of the sleeve and the sealing joint.

[0026] This has the effect of causing - when the installation is put into operation - a progressive compression of the seal by the sleeve from a predefined radial expansion threshold of the downstream end of the upstream conduit, from which the seal is placed under radial compression by the sleeve. Said radial expansion threshold is predefined according to said set radial clearance between the sleeve and the downstream end of the upstream conduit which is provided at the installation assembly station.

[0027] Furthermore, prior to the compression of the seal by the sleeve, a passage of a flow of fresh air from outside the ducts is provided between the sleeve and the seal. The passage of air is gradually absorbed as a result of the progressive bringing together and then compression of the seal by the sleeve. Nevertheless, since the seal is subject to wear and deformation during operation of the installation at nominal speed, ventilation of the seal may continue during operation of the installation at nominal speed, by said flow of fresh air coming from outside the ducts passing through the seal.

[0028] The fresh air flow may be generated by a fan external to the ducts and the sleeve, to generate and direct the fresh air flow towards said air passage and the seal. However, it is advantageously proposed to exploit the circulation of gases through the ducts to generate by suction the introduction of the fresh air flow through said air passage and then through the seal.

[0029] It is now necessary to note the choice made to mount the sealing gasket around the downstream end of the upstream conduit, and to maintain on the one hand the inner face of the side wall of the sleeve at a radial distance from the ends of the conduits and on the other hand the ends of the conduits at an axial distance from each other: -) not only to prevent the ends of the conduits from abutting axially against each other and radially against the sleeve, -) but also to generate said flow of fresh air by suction of ambient air from outside the ducts under the effect of a depression generated by the circulation of gases at high speeds through the ducts.

[0030] More precisely, during commissioning and gradually during operation at the nominal operating speed of the installation, the following are used for this purpose: -) on the one hand the radial distance maintained between the sleeve and the ends of the ducts and the axial extension of the sleeve jointly surrounding the ends of the ducts, to delimit an intake chamber for said fresh air flow, and -) on the other hand the axial distance maintained between the end faces of the ends of the ducts to put said chamber into air communication with the outlet of the upstream end of the downstream duct.

[0031] The circulation of gases from upstream to downstream through the conduits therefore generates a depression in the chamber and consequently an introduction by suction of the flow of fresh air through said air passage provided between the sleeve and the seal when the installation is put into operation. Then, during operation of the installation at nominal speed, the flow of fresh outside air circulates through the seal towards the chamber, as a result of its moderate compression by the sleeve to a predefined permitted compression threshold and / or the progressive wear of the seal subjected to a rise in temperature and friction during operation of the installation at nominal speed.

[0032] In other words, in accordance with the methods of assembling the ends of the conduits via the sleeve: -) a chamber is provided between the sleeve and the ends of the conduits, opening radially onto the separation volume between the end faces of the ends of the conduits, and -) the sleeve being fixed to the upstream end of the downstream conduit, such fixing is carried out via a member for closing said chamber at its downstream end, as more precisely described below, and -) the sealing gasket being mounted around the outer periphery of the downstream end of the upstream conduit, providing said radial clearance between the sleeve and the sealing gasket at the installation assembly station, the air passage is provided when the installation is put into service, -) the seal being progressively compressed by the sleeve in the nominal operating station of the installation, the compression of the seal is carried out at a compression threshold permitted in accordance with the said range of forces of compression in operating station at nominal installation speed. -) said air passage and / or the permeability of the seal placed in compression by the sleeve, are then used to allow circulation of the flow of fresh air towards and then through the seal from the outside of the ducts towards the chamber and then its evacuation towards the downstream duct.

[0033] The flow of fresh air is thus exploited: -) to cool the seal as soon as the installation is started up and then when it is operating at nominal speed, and -) to prevent gases from escaping to the outside of the installation, as a result of the chamber being under vacuum and the forced evacuation of the fresh air flow admitted into the chamber towards the downstream duct.

[0034] Furthermore, concerning the arrangement of the sleeve, this comprises a tubular shell which is provided with a fixing collar - in the direction of axial extension of the sleeve - to a plate secured to the upstream end of the downstream conduit. Said collar is for example fixed to the plate by screwing, bolting or riveting. The collar is provided around the outlet of the shell oriented towards the plate, extending diametrically beyond the axial extension of the shell towards the external environment of the sleeve.

[0035] The plate closes said downstream outlet of the shell and the collar is fixed to the plate at the outer periphery of the sleeve, the plate extending in a cover axially distant from the seal. Consequently, the plate closes said chamber formed by the internal volume of the sleeve surrounding the respective ends of the upstream and downstream conduits assembled to each other via the sleeve. The plate forms a radial spacer between on the one hand the upstream end of the downstream conduit and on the other hand the inner lateral face of the sleeve which extends in its axial direction of extension.

[0036] Thus in the position of fixing the sleeve to the upstream end of the downstream conduit - at the installation assembly station - the plate to which the collar is fixed: -) provides said set radial distance separating from each other on the one hand the inner lateral face of the sleeve and on the other hand the respective ends of the conduits surrounded by the sleeve; -) provides said set radial clearance separating the inner face of the side wall of the sleeve and the seal mounted around the downstream end of the upstream conduit; -) closes the chamber at its end axially opposite its other axial end delimited radially between the sleeve and the seal.

[0037] The shell is preferably made at low cost from a metallic material - such as steel in particular - providing resistance to its deformation at a temperature lower than that of the gas flowing from the nozzle to the conduit during operation of the installation at nominal speed. As a non-restrictive indication, the temperature of re resistance of the metallic material to deformation of the shell is of the order of less than 600°C (six hundred degrees Celsius).

[0038] To counteract deformation of the shell during operation of the installation at its nominal speed, the inner lateral face of the shell is provided with a coating made of a thermally insulating material resistant to high temperatures, in particular resistant at least to the high temperatures of the gases which circulate through the conduits during operation of the installation at nominal speed. It is specified if necessary that the inner lateral face of the sleeve is consequently then provided by said coating.

[0039] To facilitate the assembly of the shell at the upstream end of the downstream conduit - by fixing said collar to said plate - the shell is subdivided into several sections which can be individually approached by an installer radially around the upstream end of the downstream conduit. More particularly, the shell is subdivided along the axial direction of extension of the sleeve, into several arcuate lateral shells which are successively butted against each other along the circumference of the shell. The shells - at least two in number - are individually fixed via the portion of the collar which they comprise, to the plate which the upstream end of the downstream conduit comprises.

[0040] The shells are successively butted together according to their arcuate conformation or in other words according to the circumference of the shell. The mounting of the sleeve in axial and radial interposition between the upstream end of the downstream conduit is simplified and easy to carry out by an installer when installing the sleeves on the installation assembly site and / or during an operation of its maintenance of the installation, in particular during an operation of replacing the sealing joint in an unsatisfactory state of wear greater than a tolerated wear threshold.

[0041] The shells are joined together via interlocking members with which their ends are provided according to their arcuate conformation. The interlocking members provide a sealed or semi-sealed junction between the shells which prevents the passage of a potential gas leak in the areas where the shells join together successively according to the peripheral extension of the shell.

[0042] Furthermore, the modules of the installation are each integrally equipped with at least one module duct to allow airflow communication between two modules connected to each other, via a central duct whose upstream and downstream ends are assembled to the respective downstream and upstream ends of an upstream module duct and a downstream module duct. A sealed or semi-sealed connection device between the ends of the ducts - as just described - is then used to assemble the ends of the ducts together, at least with regard to such ducts conveying gases at high temperatures under high speeds.

[0043] In other words, two modules to be connected together are placed in air communication via a set of conduits, including a middle conduit assembled via its respective ends on the one hand to a module conduit that comprises an upstream module and on the other hand to a module conduit that comprises a downstream module. It cannot be excluded that the middle conduit is itself segmented into several sections assembled together via a sealed or semi-sealed connection device as just described.

[0044] It will be noted that it is appropriate to reserve a sealed or semi-sealed connection device as previously described for such sets of conduits conveying high-temperature gases between two successive modules, such as in particular: -) a module arranged in a thermochemical reactor equipped with an upstream module conduit which is connected to a downstream module conduit equipping a gas purification module via a median post-combustion conduit, and -) a so-called gas purification module equipped with an upstream module conduit which is connected to a purified gas exploitation module to produce a heat source which can be used outside the installation, via a median conduit for transferring purified gases to said purified gas exploitation module.

[0045] Account is therefore taken of the high constraints to which the central conduits carrying gases at high temperatures and at high speeds are subjected, and the coaxial positioning of their ends with the module conduits assigned to them.

[0046] In this context, it is proposed by the invention to support the median conduits in a coaxial assembly position from their ends to the module conduits which are respectively assigned to them, without hindering their expansion.

[0047] To do this, the installation comprises support members for the central conduits placed between the modules which are to be connected to each other. Such support members each comprise a ground fixing base which carries a cradle on which the central conduit rests in a coaxial mounting position from its ends to the module conduits assigned to them.

[0048] During the on-site assembly of the installation, the modules are previously put in place and installed in position on the installation site and the support members of the middle ducts are installed selectively between two modules to be connected, in particular as previously referred to in the case where the middle ducts are intended to convey high-temperature gases. The middle ducts are thus prepositioned via the support members in a coaxial connection position with the module ducts assigned to them, taking into account the set axial distance separating the end face of the ends of the middle ducts from each other. and the end face of the module ducts respectively assigned to them.

[0049] The junctions - and conversely the separations - between the ends of the median conduits and the module conduits are easy to carry out by fitters, due to the coaxial pre-positioning of the ends of the conduits in relation to the end pieces and due to the subdivision of the shell into several shells. This simplifies the maintenance operations of the installation, in particular for the replacement of a defective sealing joint.

[0050] It should also be noted that the provisions provided by the invention concerning the successive connection in series of two by two of the modules via the conduits, can be applied whatever the direction relative to the ground of coaxial connection between the ends of the median conduits and the module conduits, such as for example a horizontal direction, a vertical direction and / or an orientation of the ends of the same conduit in respective concurrent directions.

[0051] The median conduits may generally be of arched or elongated conformation, extending individually or in relation to each other in constant or concurrent directions, depending on the junction methods between the modules of the installation successively two by two.

[0052] Furthermore, the conduits each comprise an outer casing made of steel of the common type resistant to a temperature of the order of 650°C. During operation of the installation, the casing is protected against deformation by a hollow core made of refractory material, the inner wall of the casing of which is coated. Such a refractory material is structurally resistant to high temperatures of the gases which pass through the modules and the conduits at high speeds, and which can reach, as a non-limiting indication, a temperature of the order of 1200°C.

[0053] As mentioned above, the invention relates to a heat production installation comprising a plurality of modules. The modules are successively connected to each other via a set of gas conveyance conduits through the installation from upstream to downstream. The downstream end of an upstream conduit is assembled to the upstream end of a downstream conduit by a device for the sealed or semi-sealed connection of said upstream and downstream conduits to each other.

[0054] It is obviously understood but recalled if necessary - taking into account the routing of gases successively from module to module via said sets of conduits - that at least one of the conduits making up a said set of conduits constitutes both a said upstream conduit and a said downstream conduit.

[0055] In this context, the invention is mainly recognizable in that at least two said modules of the installation are connected to each other via conduits assembled successively to each other by a said sealed or semi-sealed connection device according to which: -) the downstream end of an upstream conduit and the upstream end of a said downstream conduit are assembled coaxially to each other via a coaxial sleeve, the sleeve being fixed to the upstream end of the downstream conduit and a seal is mounted around the outer periphery of the downstream end of the upstream conduit, and -) in the assembly station on the installation of the connection device at the said respective upstream and downstream ends of the said downstream and upstream conduits, the sleeve on the one hand surrounds at a set radial distance jointly the said respectively upstream and downstream ends of the downstream and upstream conduits, and on the other hand provides a set axial distance between the end faces of the said respectively upstream and downstream ends of the downstream and upstream conduits.

[0056] Other remarkable arrangements of a connection device according to the invention are set out below.

[0057] The conduits being subject to expansion in the operating station of the installation, the sleeve constitutes: -) a guide member in relative axial sliding between the ends of the conduits axially towards each other, -) a member preventing direct contact axially and radially between the respective upstream and downstream ends of the conduits, and -) a member for progressive compression of the seal, from an initial position of the seal in the installation assembly station in which the seal is radially distant from the inner face of the side wall of the sleeve.

[0058] At the assembly station on the installation of the connection device, the sleeve surrounds the sealing gasket at a radial distance in accordance with a set radial clearance provided between them. A passage of a flow of fresh air from outside the ducts is provided between the sleeve and the sealing gasket.

[0059] A chamber is provided between the inner face of the side wall of the sleeve and said respective downstream and upstream ends of said conduits which it surrounds. Said chamber opens radially into a volume provided between the end faces of the respective downstream and upstream ends of the conduits which are surrounded by the sleeve.

[0060] The sleeve comprises a tubular shell provided with a collar for axial attachment to a plate which comprises the upstream end of a downstream conduit. The collar is provided around the outlet of the shell axially oriented towards the plate, extending diametrically beyond the axial extension of the shell towards the external environment of the sleeve. The plate forms a radial spacer between the inner lateral face of the sleeve and said respective downstream and upstream ends of the conduits which are surrounded by the sleeve.

[0061] The shell comprises an axially extending side wall made of a metal material metal, the inner face of the side wall of the hull being provided with a coating made of a thermally insulating material resistant to high temperatures.

[0062] The shell is subdivided along the axial direction of extension of the sleeve into several arcuate lateral shells. The shells are individually fixed to said plate via the portion of the collar that they comprise, and are successively butted in a sealed or semi-sealed junction against each other via their ends along the circumference of the shell.

[0063] The modules are successively connected to each other by sets of conduits comprising module conduits which are respectively integral with the modules and which are connected to each other two by two by a central conduit. The ends of the central conduit are assembled to the ends of the module conduits which are assigned to them via said connection devices.

[0064] The installation comprises at least one support member for a said central duct. Said support member is placed between the modules whose module ducts are respectively assembled, via their ends, to the ends of the central duct which are assigned to them, being arranged as a coaxial positioning member between the ends of the central duct and the ends of the module ducts which are assigned to them.

[0065] Said support member comprises a ground fixing base which is provided with a cradle for supporting and holding the central conduit in a coaxial mounting position from its ends to the ends of the module conduits assigned to them.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the median conduit is of arcuate conformation and is held positioned relative to the ends of the module conduits which the median conduit connects to each other, via an arcuate median zone of the median conduit. The ends of the median conduit are oriented coaxially vertically relative to the ground towards the ends of the module conduits which are assigned to them.

[0067] According to another embodiment, the middle conduit is of elongated conformation following a constant direction of extension and is kept positioned by said support member in the middle zone of the middle conduit. Each of the ends of the middle conduit are oriented parallel to the ground towards the ends of the module conduits which are assigned to them.

[0068] The installation is in particular of the type of installation comprising at least from upstream to downstream: -) a module arranged in a thermochemical reactor for producing heat by combustion of a solid fuel, -) a first set of said conduits which connect the thermochemical reactor to a module for purifying the gases evacuated at high temperatures and at high speeds from the thermochemical reactor, -) said gas purification module separating solid particles from the gases resulting from the combustion previously carried out inside the thermochemical reactor, -) a second set of said conduits which connect the gas purification module to a boiler producing heat by heat exchange from the previously purified high-temperature gases.

[0069] The middle duct of the first set of ducts is of arcuate conformation, the ends of which are assembled respectively to the downstream end of an upstream module duct equipping the thermochemical reactor and to the upstream end of a downstream module duct equipping the gas purification module. The middle duct of the second set of ducts is of elongated conformation, the ends of which are assembled respectively to the downstream end of an upstream module duct equipping the gas purification module and to the upstream end of a downstream module duct equipping the boiler.

[0070] The boiler is equipped with a heat exchange system between the purified gases and a heat transfer fluid discharged from the installation. The boiler is connected via at least one conduit to a module for filtering the low-temperature gases which are discharged from the boiler, prior to their discharge into the atmosphere via a chimney for evacuating the fumes from the gases previously treated by the filtration module.

[0071] It is specified that in a context in which the gases conveyed by conduits are at low temperatures, the connection devices between such conduits are not - non-exclusively - necessarily connected to each other via connection devices such as those just described. This is the case in particular with regard to the conduit(s) connecting the boiler to said gas filtration module, and the conduit(s) connecting the gas filtration module to the chimney. Presentation of figures

[0072] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, in relation to the following figures: [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is a schematic illustration of an example of the arrangement of a heat production installation in accordance with the invention, comprising modules successively connected two by two by conduits. [Fig.2A] [Fig.2A] is a perspective illustration of a first example of the construction of a conduit support member included in the installation illustrated in [Fig.1]. [Fig.2B] [Fig.2B] is a perspective illustration of a second example of the embodiment of a conduit support member included in the installation illustrated in [Fig.1], [Fig. 3] [Fig. 3] is a partial schematic illustration in vertical section of two modules comprising the installation illustrated in [Fig. 1]. At least two modules are connected to each other by conduits assembled together via sealed or semi-sealed connection devices in accordance with the invention, which are interposed between the downstream end of an upstream conduit and the upstream end of a downstream conduit. [Fig.4A] [Fig.4A] is an axial sectional illustration of an example of a sealed or semi-sealed connection device between the downstream end of an upstream module conduit and the upstream end of a downstream middle conduit. [Fig.4A] [Fig.4B] is an enlarged detail in partial axial section of [Fig.4A], which illustrates more precisely the methods of watertight or semi-watertight connection between the downstream end of the upstream module conduit and the upstream end of the downstream median conduit, via the connection device. [Fig.5A] [Fig.5A] is an exploded perspective illustration of the sealed or semi-sealed connection device illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, between the downstream end of the upstream module conduit and the upstream end of the downstream middle conduit. [Fig.5B] [Fig.5B] is a profile illustration in the assembled position of the downstream end of the upstream module conduit and the upstream end of the conduit, via the connection device which are shown in Figures 4A, 4B and 5A. Detailed description of the invention

[0073] The figures and their detailed non-limiting descriptions set out the invention according to particular methods which are not restrictive as to the scope of the invention. The figures and their detailed descriptions of exemplary embodiments of the invention can be used to better define it, if necessary in relation to the general description which has just been given. Furthermore, to avoid overloading the figures and thus facilitate their reading, the reference numbers assigned to the terms and / or concepts used to describe the invention and indicated in any one of the figures are potentially repeated in the description of any other figure without implying their presence in all of the figures.

[0074] In [Fig.l], a heat production installation 1 comprises a plurality of modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d which are connected in series successively to each other via sets of conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2; 3c. The installation 1 is organized to convey gases G1 successively from one module 2a-2d to the other via said sets of conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2; 3c, until the residual fumes are evacuated from the installation 1 to the atmosphere via a chimney 6.

[0075] According to the illustrated example, four successive modules 2a-2d of the installation 1 are represented, but it is obviously understood that the installation 1 can include additional modules depending on its organization, its operating methods and / or its specific functionalities.

[0076] From upstream to downstream following the direction SI of circulation of gases G1 through installation 1, installation 1 comprises: -) a thermochemical combustion reactor 2a using solid fuel. For information purposes, the temperature of the gas G1 passing through the reactor 2a is greater than 850°C; -) a 2b purification module for the Gl gases, a post-combustion and plenum chamber for example, in particular to ignite the majority of the unburned Gl gases coming from the reactor 2a. The temperature of the Gl gases evacuated from the 2b purification module for the Gl gases can reach more than 1000°C; -) a heat exchange boiler 2c, in which the heat of the high-temperature gases Gl admitted inside the boiler 2c is exploited via a heat exchange system 5 - such as for example via at least one heat exchanger - to produce in particular hot water; -) a 2d filtration module for the gases evacuated at low temperatures at the outlet of the boiler 2c, prior to discharge into the atmosphere via the smoke evacuation chimney 6.

[0077] It should also be noted that the gases Gl circulate at high temperatures and at high speeds from the thermochemical reactor 2a to the boiler 2c, then at low temperatures at the outlet of the boiler 2c to the chimney 6 as a result of the heat exchange carried out inside the boiler 2c.

[0078] The modules 2a, 2b, 2c subjected to gases Gl at high temperatures and under high speeds are installed on the ground via bases 4a, 4b, 4c according to their functionalities, their organization and / or the methods of their aeraulic junction successively two by two. Depending on the direction SI of circulation of the gases Gl at high temperatures through the installation 1, the modules 2a-2c are immobilized on the ground - as illustrated for the modules 2a, 2c - or are fixed to the ground in suspension as illustrated for the modules 2b.

[0079] In this context, during operation of the installation 1, the conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2 which convey gases Gl at high temperatures and at high speeds are subject to significant expansion. This causes an expansion of these conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2 both radially and along their axial extension between the modules 2a-2c which they connect successively two by two. An axial expansion of the conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2,3b,8b2 is possible without generating axial forces, thanks to the space between the modules, forces which it is advisable to avoid in order not to damage the modules 2a,2c and / or destabilise the installation 1. In addition, it is essential to prevent possible leaks of Gl gas - potentially toxic - which may occur in particular in the connection areas between the ends 9a,9b of the conduits 8al,3a,8bl; 8a2,3b,8b2.

[0080] The sets of conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2 successively connecting two by two the modules 2a-2c, comprise module conduits 8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8b2 which comprise the modules 2a-2c, which are connected two by two via central conduits 3a, 3b. Thus from upstream to downstream following the direction SI of circulation of the gases G1 through the installation 1: -) an upstream module duct 8al,8a2 - via which the high-temperature gases G1 are evacuated from a module 2a,2b, in particular the reactor 2a and the purification module 2b - is connected at its downstream end 9b to the upstream end 9a of a downstream median duct 3a,3b, and -) a downstream module duct 8bl,8b2 - via which the high-temperature gases G1 are admitted inside a module 2b,2c, in particular the purification module 2b and the boiler 2c - is connected at its upstream end 9a to the downstream end 9b of an upstream median duct 3a, 3b.

[0081] It is therefore clearly specified and understood as previously mentioned, that the median conduits 3a, 3b constitute both a downstream conduit for admitting gases G1 from an upstream module conduit 8al, 8a2, and an upstream conduit for discharging gases G1 which they convey to another module 2b, 2c.

[0082] It will be noted that a median conduit 3c conveying gases at low temperatures, is - after exploitation by the boiler of the heat of the gases G1 at high temperatures - interposed between the boiler 2c and a filtration module 2d, prior to the evacuation from the filtration module 2d to the external environment of the installation 1 via the chimney 6, of the fumes from the gases G1 previously purified, exploited by the boiler and then filtered.

[0083] The median conduits 3a, 3c are potentially arched in shape - as in the example illustrated the median conduit 3a connecting the reactor 2a to the purification module 2b of the gases G1 - or else are potentially rectilinear in shape - as in the example illustrated the median conduit 3b connecting the purification module 2b of the gases G1 to the boiler 2c.

[0084] The sets of conduits 8al, 3a, 8bl connecting the reactor 2a to the purification module 2b of the gases G1, and the sets of conduits 8a2, 3b, 8b2 connecting the purification module 2b of the gases G1 to the boiler 2c, are assembled together via sealed or semi-sealed connection devices 7 proposed by the invention. Such connection devices 7 are interposed between the upstream ends 9a and the downstream ends 9b of these conduits 8a, 3a, 8b and 8a, 3a, 3b. The sealed or semi-sealed connection devices do not have any leakage from the inside to the outside. On the other hand, they are likely to have a slight leak from the outside to the inside in order to cool the joint.

[0085] To avoid stressing the modules 2a, 2b, 2c due to the expansion of the middle conduits 3a-3b which carry high temperature gases Gl under high speeds and which successively connect two by two the modules 2a, 2b, 2c, it is generally at least proposed: -) to support the middle conduits 3a-3b by support members 10 - such as for example the support members 10 illustrated respectively in figures 2A and 2b. The support members 10 are fixed to the ground 11 and support the middle conduits 3a-3b in coaxial orientation position A1 of their ends 9a,9b with the module conduits 8a,8b which are assigned to them, -) to prohibit, via the connection devices 7, direct contact between the ends 9a, 9b of the conduits assembled together, in order to prevent the internal stresses that the conduits 3a, 3b, 3c undergo during their expansion from impacting the modules 2a-2c, -) to limit by a supply of a flow of fresh air Fl, heating of the sealing joints 14 equipping the connection devices 7, -) to exploit said fresh air flow to prevent gas leakage in the connection areas between the ends of the ducts, and / or -) to facilitate the assembly and / or maintenance operations of the installation 1.

[0086] As shown in more detail for example in Figures 2A and 2B, the support member 10 of the central conduit 3a of arcuate conformation comprises a base 10a which is fixed to the ground 11 at its base and which is provided at its top with a cradle 10b for supporting the conduit 3a connecting the reactor 2a to the gas purification module 2b Gl. The cradle 10b supports the central conduit 3a in the coaxial connection position Al of its ends 9a, 9b with respectively the ends 9b, 9a of the module conduits 8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8bl which are respectively assigned to them.

[0087] The support arrangements for the middle conduits 3a, 3b do not hinder their expansion either axially or radially, being supported by the support members 10 free to move between their ends. For example in [Fig.2A], the middle conduit 3a rests by gravity on the cradle 10b via cleats 12a which do not hinder its expansion. For example again in [Fig.2B], the middle conduit 3a is held in suspension by the cradle 10b via plates 12b equipping the middle conduit 3a, which are attached to the cradle 10b by floating hooks 12c.

[0088] In [Fig. 1] and in more detail for example in figures 3 to 5B, the ends 9a, 9b of the middle conduits 3a, 3b are - via a said connection device 7 - each assembled coaxially Al to the ends 9b, 9a of the module conduits 8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8bl which are assigned to them, via a coaxial sleeve 13 Al which the connection device 7 comprises and which jointly surrounds them along an extension axis Al which is common to them.

[0089] According to the direction SI of circulation of the gases Gl through the installation 1 and for each of the connection devices 7, the sealing joints 14 are always fixed in upstream and the sleeves 13 fixed downstream relative to the relative position from upstream to downstream of the conduits whose ends are assembled together via a connection device 7. This makes it possible to ventilate the sealing joints 14 to cool them by a flow of fresh air F1 introduced from the outside of the conduits towards the inside of the connection device 7, according to particular methods described later.

[0090] More precisely: -) either the sleeves 13 are fixed on the upstream end 9a of a median conduit 3a,3b - then considered as a downstream conduit - and the sealing joints 14 are fixed on the downstream end 9b of the module conduit 8al,8a2 considered upstream with respect to the downstream median conduit 3a,3b, -) or the sleeves 13 are fixed on the upstream end 9a of a module conduit 8bl,8b2 downstream with respect to the middle conduit 3a,3b considered as an upstream conduit - and the sealing joints 14 are fixed on the downstream end 9b of the upstream middle conduit 3a,3b.

[0091] In Figures 4A, 4B and 5A, 5B, the arrangement of a connection device 7 and the methods of its assembly between an upstream module conduit 8al and a middle conduit 3a then considered downstream are illustrated in more detail. The sleeve 13 is integral with the upstream end 9a of a downstream middle conduit 3a and the seal 14 is fixed to the downstream end 9b of an upstream module conduit 8al, as referenced in the other figures. The seal 14 - such as chosen from the braided fiber type - is interposed between the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 and the downstream end 9b of the upstream module conduit 8al. More specifically, the seal 14 is fixed around and on the outer periphery of the downstream end 9b of the upstream module conduit 8al.

[0092] In Figures 4A and 4B, the sleeve 13 is fixed to the upstream end 9a of the downstream module conduit 8a 1 while respecting: -) a set axial distance DI between the end faces of the upstream end 9a of the middle duct 3a and the downstream end 9b of the module duct 8al, and -) a set radial distance RI of diametrical separation between the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 on the one hand, and the peripheral outer faces respectively of the downstream end 9b of the module duct 8al and of the upstream end 9a of the median duct 3a on the other hand.

[0093] The values ​​of said set axial distance DI and said set radial distance RI are each predefined to be greater than the optimal variations of the axial and diametrical dimensions respectively of the module duct 8al and of the median duct 3a under the effect of their expansion during operation of the installation 1 in nominal mode.

[0094] More particularly visible in [Fig.4B], a set radial clearance JRI is provided for mounting between the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 and the sealing gasket 14. Such a set radial clearance JRI is predefined to provide sealing of the connection device 7 when the installation 1 is put into operation. A chamber 15 is provided: -) diametrically between on the one hand the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13, and on the other hand the downstream end 9b of the upstream module conduit 8a 1 and the upstream end 9a of the downstream median conduit 3a, and -) axially Al between the seal 14 and a plate 19 which comprises the central conduit 3a to which the sleeve 13 is fixed.

[0095] The radial clearance JRI is gradually absorbed when the installation 1 is put into operation as a result of the radial expansion of the module duct 8al, with the effect of applying the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 against the seal 14. As illustrated more visibly in [Fig.4B], provision is made to provide an air passage 16 for the introduction of a flow of fresh air F1 towards the interior of the chamber 15, via which the seal 14 is cooled when the installation 1 is put into service.

[0096] The fresh air flow F1 comes from the outside ambient air surrounding the module duct 8a, being generated by suction under the effect of the depression of the chamber 15 caused by the circulation of the gases G1 at high speeds from upstream to downstream from the module duct 8a towards the middle duct 3a.

[0097] As a result of the compression of the seal 14 by the sleeve 13, a tolerated deformation and / or wear of the seal 14 then allows passage through it of the flow of fresh air F1 towards the chamber 15. The cooling of the seal 14 by the flow of fresh air F1 continues after it has been compressed by the sleeve, the flow of fresh air F1 circulating through the seal 14 towards the chamber 15.

[0098] Such fresh air supplies limit the wear of the seal 14, which increases its durability and consequently limits the maintenance operations of the installation 1, in particular for replacing the seal 14.

[0099] The chamber 15 placed under vacuum as a result of its opening onto the outlets of the conduits assembled together at an axial distance from each other, prevents a reflux of the gas G1 towards the outside of the connection device 7 and consequently prevents the passage of a leak of gas G1 towards the outside of the connection device 7.

[0100] The sealing provided by the connection device 7 between the module conduit 8a and the end 9a of the middle conduit 3a is thus obtained: -) prior to the compression of the seal 14 by the sleeve 13, by an association between the sleeve 13 and the seal 14 which provides between them said air passage 16 via which the fresh air flow Fl is admitted inside the chamber 15, -) during compression of the seal 14 by the sleeve 13, not only by intrinsic resistance of the seal 14 against a passage of gases G1 through it, but also failing this - at a tolerated wear threshold and / or deformation threshold of the seal 14 - by allowing a passage of a fresh air flow Fl through it towards the chamber 15.

[0101] It follows that the sleeve 13: -) is a guide member in relative axial sliding between the downstream end 9b of the module duct 8al and the upstream end 9a of the middle duct 3a during its expansion, preventing direct contact between them, both axially and radially, -) is a compression member of the seal 14 by participating in cooperation with the seal 14 in the formation of the chamber 15, via which the sealing of the connection between the end 9b of the module duct 8a and the end 9a of the middle duct 3a is obtained, including in the event of wear and / or deformation at tolerated thresholds of the seal 14.

[0102] The sealing obtained via the connection device 7 between a module conduit 8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8b2 and a middle conduit 3a, 3b, 3c conveying gases G1 at high temperatures, does not only result from the presence of the seal 14, but from the association between the sleeve 13 forming the chamber 15 and the seal 14. Indeed, such an association allows the passage of a flow of fresh air F1 from the external environment of the downstream ends 9a of the conduits 8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b towards the chamber 15 - progressively as the temperature of the conduits rises and as a result of their expansion - initially via the air passage 16 then through the seal 14 compressed by the sleeve 13.The fresh air flow Fl is naturally generated by suction of outside air into the ducts - via chamber 15 - under the effect of the circulation of gases G1 at high temperatures and at high speeds from upstream to downstream successively through the ducts 8al, 3a, 8bl then 8a2, 3b, 8b2.

[0103] Furthermore, also referring to Figures 5A and 5B, the sleeve 13 comprises at its outer periphery a tubular shell 17 which is made of a metallic material and which is provided on its inner lateral face with a coating 18a made of a thermally insulating material resistant to high temperatures. The inner lateral face of said coating 18a consequently provides the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 surrounding the ends 9a, 9b of the conduits which are assembled together via a connection device 7.

[0104] In the example illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B, the sleeve 13 is fixed to the upstream end 9a of the downstream conduit 3a as illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B. The shell 17 is provided with a collar 18b for attachment to a plate 19 which comprises the upstream end 9a of the downstream conduit 3a. The collar 18b is oriented axially A1 towards the plate 19 for their attachment to each other and extends radially beyond its axial extension A1 towards the external environment of the sleeve 13.

[0105] The plate 19 extends radially from the radial end of the collar 18b oriented towards the outside of the sleeve 13, to the upstream end 9a of the downstream conduit 3a with which the plate 19 is integral. The plate 19 assembled to the collar 18b is thus integral with the sleeve 13 itself integral with the upstream end 9a of the downstream conduit 3a. The plate 19 - fixed to the sleeve 13 via the collar 18b - on the one hand thus forms a radial spacer between the inner lateral face 13a of the sleeve 13 and the upstream end 9a of the downstream conduit 3a, and on the other hand also provides a closing member for the chamber 15 at its downstream end.

[0106] Furthermore, more particularly visible in [Fig.5A], the shell 17 is subdivided along the axial direction of extension of the sleeve 13 into several arcuate lateral shells 17a, 17b, 17c, three in number in the illustrated example. Each shell 17a, 17b, 17c is fixed to the plate 19 via the portion of the collar 18b that they comprise, and are successively butted in a sealed or semi-sealed junction against each other, via their ends along the circumference of the shell 17. The sealing between the shells 17a, 17b, 17c is achieved by cooperating interlocking members 20 that they comprise at their respective ends along the circumference of the shell 17.

[0107] Furthermore, as illustrated for example in Figures 4A, 4B and 5A, the middle conduits 3a, 3b and the module conduits 8a1, 8b1, 8a2, 8b2 each comprise a metallic steel casing 21 which is coated on its inner wall with a refractory material 22. The refractory material 22 provides reinforcement for the casing 21 and thermal protection for the conduits by delimiting their respective inner recesses 2la, 21b through which the gases G1 circulate from upstream to downstream during operation of the installation 1.

Claims

Claims

1. Heat production installation (1) comprising a plurality of modules (2a-2d), the modules (2a-2d) being successively connected to each other via a set of conduits (8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2) for conveying gas (Gl) through the installation (1) from upstream to downstream, the downstream end (9b) of an upstream conduit (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) being assembled to the upstream end (9a) of a downstream conduit (3a, 8bl, 3b, 8b2) by a device for sealing or semi-sealing connection (7) of said upstream and downstream conduits (8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2) between them, characterized: in that at least two said modules (2a, 2b, 2c) of the installation (1) are connected to each other via conduits (8al,3a,8bl;8a2,3b,8b2) successively assembled to each other by a said sealed or semi-sealed connection device (7) according to which the downstream end (9b) of an upstream conduit (8al,3a,8a2,3b) and the upstream end (9a) of a downstream conduit (3a,8bl,3b,8b2) are assembled coaxially (Al) to each other via a coaxial sleeve (13) (Al), the sleeve (13) being fixed to the upstream end (9a) of the downstream conduit (3a,8bl,3b,8b2) and a sealing gasket (14) being mounted around the outer periphery of the downstream end of the upstream conduit (8al,3a,8a2,3b), and; in that in the assembly station on the installation (1) of the connection device (7) at the said upstream (9a) and downstream (9b) ends respectively of the said downstream (3a, 8bl, 3b, 8b2) and upstream (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) conduits, the sleeve (13) on the one hand surrounds at a set radial distance (RI) jointly the said ends (9a, 9b) respectively upstream (9a) and downstream (9b) of the downstream (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) and upstream (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) conduits, and on the other hand provides an axial distance (Al) of set (Dl) between the end faces of the said ends respectively upstream (9a) and downstream (9b) of the downstream (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) and upstream (8al, 3a, 8a2, 3b) conduits.

2. Installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the conduits (8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2) being subjected to expansion in the operating station of the installation (1), the sleeve (13) constitutes: -) a guide member for axial sliding (Al) relative to the ends (9a,9b) of the conduits (8al,3a,8bl; 8a2,3b,8b2) axially (Al) towards each other, -) a member preventing direct contact axially and radially between the respective upstream (9a) and downstream (9b) ends of the conduits (8al, 3a, 8bl; 8a2, 3b, 8b2), and -) a member for progressively compressing the seal (14), from an initial position of the seal (14) in the assembly station of the installation (1) in which the seal (14) is radially distant from the inner face (13a) of the side wall of the sleeve (13).

3. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that at the assembly station on the installation (1) of the connection device (7), the sleeve (13) surrounds the sealing joint (14) at a radial distance in accordance with a set radial clearance (JRI) provided between them, a passage (16) for a flow of fresh air (Fl) external to the conduits being provided between the sleeve (13) and the sealing joint (14).

4. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a chamber (15) is provided between the inner face (13a) of the side wall of the sleeve (13) and said respective downstream (9b) and upstream (9a) ends of said conduits which it surrounds, said chamber (15) opening radially onto a volume provided between the end faces of the respective downstream (9b) and upstream (9a) ends of the conduits which are surrounded by the sleeve (13).

5. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized: in that the sleeve (13) comprises a tubular shell (17) provided with a collar (18b) for axial fixing (A1) to a plate (19) which comprises the upstream end (9a) of a downstream conduit (3a, 8b1, 3b, 8b2), in that the collar (18b) is provided around the periphery of the outlet of the shell (17) axially oriented towards the plate (19), extending diametrically beyond the axial extension (A1) of the shell (17) towards the external environment of the sleeve (13), and in that the plate (19) forms a radial spacer between the inner lateral face (13a) of the sleeve (13) and said respective downstream (9b) and upstream (9a) ends of the conduits which are surrounded by the sleeve (13).

6. Installation (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the shell (17) comprises an axially extending side wall made of a metallic material, the inner face of the side wall of the shell (17) being provided with a coating (18a) made of a thermally insulating material resistant to high temperatures.

7. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 5 and 6, ca- characterized in that the shell (17) is subdivided along the axial direction (Al) of extension of the sleeve (13) into several arcuate lateral shells (17a-17c), the shells (17a-17c) being individually fixed to the plate (19) via the portion of the collar (18b) which they comprise, and being successively butted in a sealed or semi-sealed junction against each other via their ends along the circumference of the shell (17).

8. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized: in that the modules (2a-2c) are successively connected to each other by sets of conduits comprising module conduits (8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8b2) which are respectively integral with the modules (2a, 2b, 2c) and which are connected to each other two by two by a central conduit (3a-3b), and in that the ends (9a, 9b) of the central conduit (3a, 3b) are assembled to the ends (9b, 9a) of the module conduits (8al, 8bl; 8a2, 8b2) which are assigned to them via said connection devices (7).

9. Installation (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises at least one support member (10) for a said median conduit (3a, 3b), said support member (10): -) being placed between the modules (2a, 2b, 2c) whose module conduits (8al, 8bl, 8a2, 8b2) are respectively assembled, via their ends (9b, 9a), to the ends (9a, 9b) of the median conduit (3a, 3b) which are assigned to them, and -) being arranged as a coaxial positioning member between the ends (9a, 9b) of the median conduit (3a, 3b) and the ends (9b, 9a) of the module conduits (8al, 8bl, 8a2, 8b2) which are assigned to them.

10. Installation (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that said support member (10) comprises a base (10a) for fixing to the ground (11) which is provided with a cradle (10b) for supporting and holding the central conduit (3a-3b) in the coaxial mounting position (Al) from its ends (9a, 9b) to the ends (9b, 9a) of the module conduits (8al, 8bl, 8a2, 8b2) which are assigned to them.

11. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that the middle duct (3a) is of arcuate conformation and is kept positioned relative to the ends (9b, 9a) of the module ducts (8a 1, 8b 1) which the middle duct (3a) connects to each other, via an arcuate middle zone of the middle duct (3a), the ex- ends (9a, 9b) are oriented coaxially (Al) vertically relative to the ground (11) towards the ends (9b, 9a) of the module conduits (8al, 8bl) which are assigned to them.

12. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that the middle conduit (3b) is of elongated conformation in a constant direction of extension and is kept positioned by said support member (10) in the middle zone of the middle conduit (3b), by orienting parallel to the ground (11) each of its ends (9a, 9b) towards the ends (9b, 9a) of the module conduits (8a2, 8b2) which are assigned to them.

13. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the installation (1) is of the type comprising at least from upstream to downstream: -) a module arranged in a thermochemical reactor (2a) for producing heat by combustion of a solid fuel, -) a first set of said conduits (8a1, 3a, 8b1) which connect the thermochemical reactor (2a) to a purification module (2b) for the gases (G1) discharged at high temperatures and at high speeds from the thermochemical reactor (2a), -) said purification module (2b) for the gases (G1) separating solid particles from the gases (G1) resulting from the combustion previously carried out inside the thermochemical reactor (2a), -) a second set of said conduits (8a2, 3b, 8b2) which connect the purification module (2b) for the gases (G1) to a boiler (2c) heat production by heat exchange (5) from previously purified high-temperature gases (Gl).

14. Installation (1) according to claim 13 and claims 11 and 12, characterized: in that the middle conduit (3a) of the first set of conduits (8al, 3a, 8bl) is of arcuate conformation whose ends (9a, 9b) are assembled respectively to the downstream end (9b) of an upstream module conduit (8a 1) equipping the thermochemical reactor (2a) and to the upstream end (9a) of a downstream module conduit (8b 1) equipping the gas purification module (2b) (Gl), and in that the middle conduit (3b) of the second set of conduits (8a2, 3b, 8b2) is of elongated conformation whose ends (9a, 9b) are assembled respectively to the downstream end (9b) of an upstream module conduit (8a2) equipping the gas purification module (2b) (Gl) and at the upstream end (9a) of a downstream module conduit (8b2) equipping the boiler (2c).

15. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, characterized in that the boiler (2c): -) is equipped with a heat exchange system (5) between the purified gases (Gl) and a heat transfer fluid discharged from the installation (1), and -) is connected via at least one conduit (3c) to a filtration module (2d) for the low-temperature gases (Gl) which are evacuated from the boiler (2c), prior to their discharge into the atmosphere via a chimney (6) for evacuating the fumes from the gases (Gl) previously treated by the filtration module (2d).

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