MULTI-SUPPORT COLLAR, SUPPORT DEVICE AND DISTRICT HEATING SUBSTATION COMPRISING THEM

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: MULTI-SUPPORT COLLAR, SUPPORT DEVICE AND DISTRICT HEATING SUBSTATION COMPRISING THEM. The support collar (20) for at least one pipe comprises: - a body (21) formed from a metal plate and having a groove (22) whose sides have a succession of arcs of circles with diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the groove; and - a lateral part (23) folded along a crease parallel to an axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body and having at least one opening (25) for the passage of a threaded rod. Figure for the abstract: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: MULTI-SUPPORT COLLAR, SUPPORT DEVICE AND DISTRICT HEATING SUBSTATION COMPRISING THEM Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-purpose cable clamp, a support device, and a district heating substation comprising them. It applies to the support of cables and / or pipes, to the fixing of the clamp on rails, and / or to assisting in taking measurements in a device comprising this clamp. State of the art

[0002] A hose clamp is a mechanical device whose main function is to hold a flexible hose in position on a rigid support. Various models of hose clamps exist, and they are also known for a variety of applications, such as plastic hose clamps for securing cables.

[0003] However, known clamps are limited to these functions. Engineers designing or constructing complex systems, such as district heating substations, must therefore increase the number of clamps used on different mechanical supports. Furthermore, attaching these clamps to fixed supports is limited to rigid rods. This further complicates the design of complex systems. Technicians must also, when constructing a complex system on-site, take into account space constraints and the actual required or available piping, and use as many clamps as there are pipe diameters. Taking measurements from these clamps is tricky. And the addition of cable supports further complicates the technician's work.

[0004] These difficulties are particularly significant in the field of district heating substations. The principle of district heating is an underground network that carries heated water under pressure throughout the city. Supplied by a production unit, the network distributes heat to the buildings connected to it (hospitals, schools, high schools, colleges, apartment buildings, etc.). This heated water is transported through pipes serving the buildings equipped with delivery points called substations.

[0005] Known substations have many drawbacks. First, their high price, because they are custom-made to meet constraints such as size, power, schematic diagram, orientation, etc. Furthermore, there is a risk of damaging the substations during transport. This transport is also expensive. Handling the substations is complex, because their mass exceeds 150 kg. During delivery, difficulties arise in transporting the equipment to and within the reception area, as it is necessary to navigate corridors, staircases, narrow doorways, etc., and the reception area may be small. Finally, the shortage of skilled pipefitters / welders and supplier delivery delays, for example regarding meters and heat exchangers, make installation times very long. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks with a collar having, on the one hand, a groove preferably comprising a succession of arcs of circles of decreasing diameters towards the bottom of the groove, corresponding to the standard diameters of the pipes used and, on the other hand, at least one of the following means: - insertion openings at one end, one meter long, for taking measurements; preferably centered horizontally or vertically on the center of a circle inscribed within arcs of circles in the throat, - a movable clasp for closing the groove around a pipe, mounted on fixing points configured so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles in the groove, - a lower secondary collar support of a known type, - openings to support the passage of electrical cables, and / or - foldable parts for insertion into U-shaped profiled rails.

[0007] The present invention also relates to a mounting device for a system comprising a pipeline and a district heating substation including such a collar. Brief description of the figures

[0008] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the collar, device and substation which are the subject of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] [Fig. 1] represents, in front view, a first embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0010] [Fig.2] represents, according to the same front view, the collar illustrated in [Fig.1], with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a “U” shape and to fix a lower secondary collar,

[0011] [Fig.3] represents a partial horizontal section of the collar and vertical rail illustrated in [Fig.2],

[0012] [Fig.4] represents, according to the same front view as Figures 1 and 2, the illustrated necklace in [Fig. 1], with three folded parts to fix the collar in a profiled vertical rail cross-section in a "U" shape and for fixing a lower secondary collar, supporting a passage of electrical cables,

[0013] [Fig.5] represents, according to the same front view, the necklace illustrated in figures 1, 2 and 4, with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a "U" shape and to fix a lower secondary collar, supporting and retaining a first, small-diameter pipe,

[0014] [Fig.6] represents, according to the same front view, the necklace illustrated in figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, with three folded parts to fix the collar in a vertical rail profiled with a cross-section in a "U" shape and to fix a lower secondary collar, supporting and retaining a second pipe, of intermediate diameter,

[0015] [Fig.7] represents, according to the same front view, the necklace illustrated in figures 1, 2 and 4, with three folded sections to fix the collar in a horizontal rail profiled with a U-shaped cross-section, supporting and retaining a third, large-diameter pipe,

[0016] [Fig.8] shows, in front view, a second embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0017] [Fig.9] shows, in front view, a third embodiment of an object necklace of the invention, before folding,

[0018] [Fig. 10] represents, in front view, a fourth embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0019] [Fig. 11] represents, in front view, a fifth embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before stamping and folding,

[0020] [Fig. 12] represents, in partial perspective, a groove of the collar shown in [Fig. 11] after stamping,

[0021] [Fig. 13] shows, in side view, the collar shown in [Fig. 11] after stamping and folding,

[0022] [Fig. 14] represents, in front view, a sixth embodiment of a collar that is the subject of the invention, before folding,

[0023] [Fig. 15] schematically represents a first embodiment of a base for fixing a vertical upright to a plinth,

[0024] [Fig. 16] schematically represents the positioning of an exchanger between a primary network and a secondary network,

[0025] [Fig. 17] schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a first configuration of the substation which is the subject of the invention,

[0026] [Fig. 18] represents, in perspective, the device illustrated in [Fig. 17], after assembly of a heat exchanger and piping,

[0027] [Fig. 19] schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a second configuration of the substation that is the subject of the invention,

[0028] [Fig.20] represents, in perspective, the device illustrated in [Fig. 19], after assembly of a heat exchanger and piping,

[0029] [Fig.21] schematically represents, in top view, a base equipped with feet and vertical uprights, in a third configuration of the substation that is the subject of the invention,

[0030] [Fig.22] represents, in perspective, a complete substation, the subject of the invention, comprising the device shown in [Fig.21], and

[0031] [Fig.23] represents, in perspective, a second embodiment of a fixing base for a vertical upright on a base. Description of the implementation methods

[0032] The present description is given by way of non-limiting grammar, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0033] It is noted from the outset that figures 1 to 15 and 17 to 23 are to scale, even if their scales may be different.

[0034] As can be understood from reading the present description, various inventive concepts can be implemented, several examples of which are provided here.

[0035] The expression "and / or", as used in this document and in the claims, shall be understood as meaning "either or both" of the elements thus joined, that is, elements that are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in others. The multiple elements listed with "and / or" shall be interpreted in the same way, that is, "one or more" of the elements thus joined. Other elements may be present, other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with an open language such as "including", may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to A and B (possibly including other elements); etc.

[0036] As used herein in the description and in the claims, "or" should be understood inclusively.

[0037] As used in this description and in the claims, the expression "at least one," with reference to a list of one or more elements, is to be understood as meaning at least one element chosen from one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than the elements specifically identified in the list of elements to which the expression "at least one" refers, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, without B present (and possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, B, without A present (and possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, and at least one, possibly including more than one, B (and possibly including other elements); etc.

[0038] In the claims, as well as in the description below, all transitive expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "implying", "holding", "composed of", and others, shall be understood as open, that is to say, as meaning including but not limited to. Only the transitive expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be understood as closed or semi-closed transitive expressions, respectively.

[0039] Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10 show examples of the pipe support collars of the invention in their orientation for use, with the pipe support groove open upwards. The term "upper" refers to the area at the top (or higher when referring to the respective positions of two elements) in the figures, and therefore when the collar is installed to support a pipe. The term "lower" refers to the area at the bottom (or lower up when referring to the respective positions of two elements) in the figures, and therefore when the collar is installed to support a pipe. The height or width of an element is measured vertically or horizontally, respectively, in the plane of Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10. In Figures 1, 2, and 4 to 10, the pipe support collars of the invention are shown in front view, that is, in the plane of their pipe support groove.The thickness of an element is measured perpendicular to the plane in figures 1, 2 and 4 to 10.

[0040] A first embodiment of a necklace 20, the object of the invention, is shown in front view in [Fig. 1], before some of its parts are folded. The necklace 20 is formed by cutting, stamping, and / or milling a rigid sheet of material, for example, metal. The necklace 20 comprises a first part 21, or body, forming a support, and a second part 30 forming a clasp.

[0041] The body 21 has a groove 22 generally in the shape of an upward-opening "V", formed of circular arcs with diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the groove 22. The groove 22 has an axis of symmetry 70. As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, these circular arcs allow for the support of pipes of three diameters, preferably standard. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, the centers of the circles containing the circular arcs of the groove 22 are aligned on a vertical line (represented by an alternating vertical dashed line 70). In some embodiments, the circular arcs of the groove 22 are formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove 22. This reduces the risk of damaging the outer wall of a pipe supported by these circular arcs, particularly a plastic pipe.

[0042] A lateral part 23 of the body 21 is intended to be folded at 90 degrees to the plane of the [Fig.1], around a vertical fold illustrated by a dashed line. This fold is parallel to the axis of symmetry 70 of the groove 22. The part 23 continues with a lower extremity part 24 which can be folded at 90 degrees to the plane of the part 23, around a horizontal fold, perpendicular to the axis of symmetry 70, represented by a dashed line passing through openings 29 reducing the rigidity of the part 23. By the combination of these two folds, the part 24 extends in a direction opposite to the groove 22 to be inserted into a vertical rail 54 profiled with a horizontal U-shaped cross-section, as illustrated in Figures 2 to 6. When the lower part 24 is not folded, it extends downwards and can be inserted into a horizontal rail 75 profiled with a cross-section of a U-shaped cross-section, as illustrated in [Fig. 7].In an alternative (not shown) configuration, the extremity part 24 is located at the upper end of the lateral part 23. In an alternative (not shown) configuration, the lateral part 23 has extremities 24 at each of its upper and lower ends.

[0043] Part 23 has two openings 25 for the passage of threaded rods for fixing to a support, in particular to the vertical rail 54 mentioned above. The rail 54 is, for example, a standard rail distributed by the company Müpro ®.

[0044] A lower portion 26 of the body 21 is designed to be bent at 90 degrees to the plane of [Fig. 1], along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry 70, to form a support for a secondary collar, as illustrated in [Fig. 4], or to be fixed to the horizontal rail 75 mentioned above, as illustrated in [Fig. 7]. The lower portion 26 has a circular opening 27 for the passage of threaded rods for fixing the Secondary collar or for fixing to a support, in particular to the horizontal rail 75 mentioned above.

[0045] Preferably, parts 23 and 26 are bent at the factory at 90 degrees to the body 21, while the end part 24 is bent by the operator installing the collar. Indeed, the rigidity of the body 21 is such that bending parts 23 and 26 is difficult, if not impossible, without a machine. Conversely, bending the end part 24 with hand tools is facilitated by the presence of the openings 29. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 7, depending on the desired configuration (fixing on a vertical or horizontal rail), the end part 24 must be bent or not.

[0046] At least two T-shaped openings (or notches) 28 inclined at 90 degrees, the base of which opens, after a curve on the lower side of the body 21, allow for the support of a cable passage support, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. This curved T-shape includes a C-shape whose closed end (on the right in the figures) is closer to the lower edge of the body 21 than an intermediate portion between the open end (on the left in the figures) and the closed end of this opening 28.

[0047] The body 21 has a circular opening 33, on one side of the groove 22 and three circular openings 34, 35 and 36, on the other side of the groove 22.

[0048] The part, or clasp, 30 has a general arc-shaped form. It has circular openings 31 and 32 at its ends. The distance between the openings 31 and 32 is equal to the distance between the opening 33 and each of the openings 34, 35 and 36. As shown opposite Figures 5 to 7, the equality of these distances allows the clasp 30 to be positioned in support of three cylindrical channels, themselves in support of arcs of the groove 22, so as to fix these channels in the groove 22.

[0049] Four openings 37, two on each side of the groove 22, allow the fixing of a collar 20 on the side of another, by superimposing these openings and bolting.

[0050] Three horizontal slots 38, 39, and 40 have dimensions allowing the free end of a retractable measuring tape 65 to be inserted, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. Each slot 38 to 41 has a linear wall along a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of circles in the groove 22. Preferably, these are horizontal or vertical diameters. As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, the lower walls of the horizontal slots 38, 39, and 40 are respectively at the same height as the centers of the circles containing the arcs of circles in the groove 22. Measuring a vertical dimension from one of these centers, which correspond to the axes of cylindrical pipes that can be supported by the arcs of circles in the groove 22, is thus easy. A vertical slot 41 also has dimensions allowing the end to be inserted, at least partially. free of a meter with a reel 65. The vertical linear opening is vertically from the centers of the circles containing the arcs of the circles of the groove 22, that is to say on the axis of symmetry 70 of the groove 22. The measurement of a horizontal dimension from one of these centers is thus easy.

[0051] As can be seen in [Fig. 2], front view, and in [Fig. 3], partial top view, once parts 23 and 24 are folded so that part 24 extends in the opposite direction to the groove 22, this part 24 can bear against the inner walls of a vertical rail 54 with a horizontal U-shaped cross-section. By adding a washer 53 and a bolt 55 in at least one of the openings 25, the collar 20 is fixed to the rail 54.

[0052] Furthermore, once part 26 is folded, a secondary clamp 50 comprising two semicircles connected by fasteners 52 can be fixed, by means of bolts 51, in the opening 27 of part 26. This secondary clamp can fix a pipe.

[0053] As can be seen in [Fig. 4], two successive openings 28 among the four openings 28 can support a cable passage support 60 63. This support 60 is, in a known manner, made up of parallel horizontal metal rods 61 (here three horizontal rods) connected, at regular intervals, by welding to U-shaped metal arches 62. The upper metal rods 61 have a spacing equal to the spacing of two successive openings 28. Positioning a cable passage support 60 is thus easy, since it is sufficient to simultaneously follow the edges of the openings 28 with the two upper rods 61 until these rods 61 rest at the bottom of these openings 28. Alternatively, at least two openings 28 are positioned on the vertical side of the body 21 opposite the part 23.

[0054] Whether on the lower edge of the body 21 or on its vertical edge opposite the part 23, each opening 28 has a "C" shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body 21 than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end of this opening 28. A rod 61 placed at this closed end of the opening 28 is thus retained, by gravity, at this closed end.

[0055] As can also be seen in [Fig.4], the free end 64 of a reel meter 65, perpendicular to the part of this meter 65 bearing the distance indications, can penetrate, at least partially, into a slot 38, 39, 40 or 41 to take vertical or horizontal measurements from the center of a pipe which will be supported by arcs of circles of the groove 22.

[0056] As can be seen in [Fig. 5], after placing a cylindrical pipe 76 supported on the arc of the circle with the smallest diameter of the groove 22, the part 30 forming a clasp can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 34, on the other hand, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 76 and holds it in position of support on this arc of the circle of the groove 22. We also observe, in [Fig.5], that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 76 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 38 and vertically from the vertical slot 41. The alternating discontinuous lines 70 and 71 illustrate these relationships.

[0057] As can be seen in [Fig. 6], after placing a cylindrical pipe 77 supported on the arcs of the intermediate diameter of the groove 22, the clasp 30 can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 35, on the other hand, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 77 and holds it in position supported on these arcs of the groove 22. It can also be seen in [Fig. 6] that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 77 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 39 and vertically aligned with the vertical slot 41. The alternating dashed lines 70 and 72 illustrate these relationships.

[0058] As can be seen in [Fig.7], after placing a cylindrical pipe 78 in support on the highest diameter arcs of the groove 22, the clasp 30 can be fixed by bolting the openings 32 and 33, on the one hand, and the openings 31 and 36, on the other hand, in such a way that this clasp 30 is tangent to the surface of the pipe 78 and holds it in position in support on these arcs of the groove 22. It can also be seen in [Fig.7] that the central axis of the cylindrical pipe 78 is at the same height as the lower wall of the horizontal slot 40 and vertically above the vertical slot 4L. The alternating dashed lines 70 and 73 illustrate these relationships.

[0059] Returning to [Fig. 6], an optional part 42, bolted into the four circular openings 37, is shown in dashed lines. This optional part 42, located on the opposite side of the body 21 relative to the clasp 30, has a generally rectangular shape and a continuous arc that overlaps the intermediate-diameter arcs of the groove 22. This optional part 42 increases the thickness of these arcs and completes them, thereby increasing the contact area of ​​the pipe on the collar 20 and reducing the risk of damage to the pipe 77 on the edges of these arcs, particularly if it is made of plastic, for example, PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This optional part 42 may itself be made of plastic, for example, PVC. Its thickness may be greater than that of part 21.

[0060] Of course, similar optional parts can be adapted to the other arcs of the throat 22, to obtain the same effect.

[0061] Returning to [Fig.7], we observe that the body 21 is fixed to a horizontal rail 75 with a U-shaped cross-section, by means of the insertion of the part 24 into this rail 75 and a washer and bolt fixing similar to that described for the vertical rail 54.

[0062] Furthermore, two seals 79 made of elastic material, for example rubber or silicone, and for example with a "U" shaped cross-section, are placed on the arcs of circles supporting pipe 78, in order to reduce the risk of damage to this pipe 78, especially if it is made of plastic.

[0063] Many elements of the collar 20 are recognizable in the collar 80 of the second embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 8]. However, the absence of the circular openings 37 prevents one collar 80 from being mounted on top of another by superimposing and bolting these openings 37. The absence of the horizontal slot 40 is compensated for by the existence of an upper wall 82 of the body 81 at the same height as the center of the larger diameter arcs. In this [Fig. 8], the clasp 30 is not shown.

[0064] Many elements of the collar 20 are recognizable in the collar 83 of the third embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 9]. However, the groove 85 has seven circular arcs instead of five for the groove 22 of the collar 20. The groove 85 can thus accommodate four pipes of different diameters. A fourth horizontal slot 88 corresponds to the largest additional diameter. The body 84, which corresponds to the body 21 of the collar 20, has, on one side of the groove 85, four openings 87 equidistant from a circular opening 33 and at the same distance as the circular openings of the clasp 89. Pipes with the four diameters corresponding to the circular arcs of the groove 85 can thus be retained in the manner shown opposite Figures 5 to 7. The portion 23 of the collar 20 is replaced by the portion 86 of the collar 83.

[0065] Many elements of the necklace 83 are recognizable in the necklace 90 of the fourth embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 10]. The absence of the horizontal slot 88 is compensated for by the existence of an upper edge of the body of the same height as the center of the arcs of the circle with the largest diameter. In this [Fig. 10], the clasp 89 is not shown.

[0066] In embodiments not claimed in the original patent application, the groove of the body comprises only one arc of a circle corresponding to a single pipe diameter.

[0067] The fifth embodiment of a collar 91 shown in [Fig. 1 1] is similar to the collar 90 of the fourth embodiment. However, the lower part 26 is replaced by three parts 93, 94 and 95. The parts 93 and 95 are configured to be folded at 90 degrees around a horizontal fold (shown in dashed lines) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove 85 to form a support for at least one secondary clamping collar (not shown), as described opposite [Fig. 2]. For this purpose, at least one bolt (not shown) can be fixed in one of the openings 27 and 96 of these different parts 93 and 95. Part 94 is configured to be folded at 90 degrees from these parts 93 and 95, around a horizontal fold (shown as a dashed line) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove 85. The combination The two folds make part 94 vertical, parallel to the body of the collar 91, as illustrated in [Fig. 13]. Part 94 provides mechanical reinforcement to parts 93 and 95.

[0068] Furthermore, the contour of the groove 85 continues towards the axis of symmetry of the groove 85 before stamping, as illustrated in [Fig. 11]. Once stamped, this extension 92 is perpendicular to the body of the collar 91 and forms the arcs of the groove and has edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove 85. These edges have cylindrical surfaces for supporting pipes, visible in [Fig. 12]. These cylindrical surfaces of the extension 92 increase the contact area of ​​a pipe with the collar 91 and reduce the risk of damage to the pipe on the groove 85, particularly if it is made of plastic, for example PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This extension 92 can be supplemented by a seal 79 as described opposite [Fig. 7] or by an optional part 42 as described opposite [Fig. 6].

[0069] It is noted that the collar which is the subject of the invention can be made of stamped, molded or machined metal, plastic, cast iron, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, for example.

[0070] Figure 14 shows, in front view, a sixth embodiment of a collar 97 of the invention, before folding. This collar 97 is similar to the collar 91 illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, but the shape of its groove is circular 98 and has a constant diameter. The clasp 99 has the same internal diameter as the groove 98 and threaded rods with the same spacing as the through openings 27 and 96. Thus, a nut can be used to secure the clasp to the body of the collar 97 around a pipe whose external diameter is equal to the internal diameter of the groove 98 and the clasp 99. In this embodiment, the clasp 99 is therefore a hose clamp bolted to the body of the collar 97. A different hose clamp is then used for each pipe diameter to be retained in the groove 22 or 85 of the collar of the invention.

[0071] In variants (not shown) of the sixth embodiment, the groove has a set of arcs of circles, as described opposite Figures 1 to 13. In variants (not shown) of the sixth embodiment, the body of the collar has through openings positioned to retain the pipe placed in the groove 98 with an arc clasp similar to the clasp 30.

[0072] In variations of each of the first five embodiments, shown in Figures 1 to 13, the groove has a circular shape of constant diameter. In variations of each of the first five embodiments, shown in Figures 1 to 13, the clasp is a hose clamp of a known type, for example as shown in Figures 2 or 14.

[0073] In variants of each of the first four embodiments and of the sixth embodiment, each arc of the groove, 22 or 98, is formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove, as described opposite Figures 11 to 13.

[0074] Each of the embodiments of the collar which is the subject of the invention may include a seal made of elastic material on at least one arc of the groove, 22, 85 or 98.

[0075] Examples of implementation of the collar that is the subject of the invention

[0076] A substation 300, the object of the invention, is located between a primary heating network 105 and a secondary heating network 110. The primary heating network 105 is heated by a boiler room comprising boilers and a fuel source, for example, a gas distribution network. The secondary network 110 is, for example, located in an apartment building. The boiler room heats the water circulating in the primary network 105, which then carries it to the heat exchange substation 300. The water in the secondary network 110 is heated there by heat exchange with the water in the primary network 105 and circulates between the apartments in the building to heat them.

[0077] As illustrated in Figures 17, 19, and 21, a substation of the invention comprises a support device of the invention, 400, 500, and 600, which includes at least one base 405, 505, 605, and 606 provided with through holes 160, preferably tapped. This base 405, 505, 605, and 606 is, for example, formed from a rectangular galvanized steel plate folded on its four edges after its four corners have been removed. As shown opposite three example configurations, the position of the tapped holes 160 on the base 405, 505, and 605 can vary depending on the configuration. However, preferably, the bases 405, 505, and 605 are identical, and their tapped holes 160 are in the same positions. In [Fig.21], the base 605 is complemented by a complementary base 606.

[0078] The device 400, 500, and 600 also includes feet 175 or 176 for attaching vertical uprights 170 perpendicular to the plane of the base 405, 505, 605, or 606. In the example shown in [Fig. 15], the vertical uprights are square-section profiles made of galvanized steel. In this example, the mounting feet 175 take the form of profiles with a vertical body 190, a horizontal L-shaped cross-section, and two equal sides. The lower ends 180 are bent at right angles to form horizontal tabs once the vertical upright 170 is positioned on the horizontal base 405, 505, 605, or 606 for mounting. The bases 175 are, for example, made by folding a rectangular plate of galvanized steel, then drilling, for example with a punch, oblong openings 185 on the legs 180 and oblong openings 195 on the body 190.Tapped holes 200 on the vertical uprights 170 allow screws to be screwed through the . oblong openings 195. The mounting of the feet 175 of the vertical uprights 170 on the base 400, 500, 605 or 606 is done in the same way, by screwing screws through the oblong openings 185 of the legs 180 into the tapped holes 160.

[0079] In the example shown in [Fig. 23], the mounting brackets 176 have a vertical L-shaped cross-section with equal sides. The lower end 181 is bent at a right angle to the upper part 191 to form horizontal tabs once the vertical upright 170 is positioned on the horizontal base 405, 505, 605, or 606 for mounting. The brackets 176 are, for example, made by folding a galvanized steel plate and then punching, for example, oblong openings 186 in the horizontal part 181 and oblong openings 196 in the vertical part 191. Again, the tapped holes 200 in the vertical uprights 170 allow screws to be driven through the oblong openings 196.The mounting of the feet 176 of the vertical uprights 170 on the base 400, 500, 605 or 606 is done in the same way, by screwing screws through the oblong openings 186 of the horizontal parts 181 into the tapped holes 160.

[0080] In [Fig. 16], we observe various components of a substation 300 comprising a heat exchanger 350. A pressure gauge 305 is positioned on the hot water inlet from the primary network 105. A pressure gauge 310 is positioned on the hot water outlet leading to the secondary network 110. Similarly, temperature sensors 315 to 330 are respectively placed on the pipes.

[0081] Also observed in [Fig.16] is a meter 355, a union or flange fitting 360 from the nominal diameter of 65 mm, a steel sleeve 365 for probe, a filter 370, a two-way valve 375, two screw T fittings 380 and 385, a threaded end 390 for safety valve and a union or flange fitting 395 from the nominal diameter of 50 mm, for filter.

[0082] All the elements illustrated in [Fig. 16] are supported by the vertical uprights 170, except for the heat exchanger 350, which is supported by its manufacturer's chassis, itself supported, for small power ratings, by the vertical uprights 170.

[0083] In the first configuration of a device 400, illustrated in figures 17 and 18, we find: a base 405 with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing vertical uprights 170 and collars 210 for supporting pipes 270. A heat exchanger 480 is connected to pipes 270.

[0084] In the second configuration of a device 500, illustrated in Figures 19 and 20, we find the elements constituting the device 400, with the numerical references incremented by 100: a base 505 provided with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing vertical uprights 170 and 210 clamps to support 270 pipes. A 580 heat exchanger is connected to 270 pipes.

[0085] In the third configuration of a device 600, illustrated in Figures 21 and 22, we find the elements constituting the device 400, with the numerical references incremented by 200: a base 605 provided with threaded openings 160, vertical uprights 170, feet 175 for fixing vertical uprights and clamps 210 for supporting pipes 270. A heat exchanger 680 is connected to pipes 270. In this third configuration, a complementary base 606 also carries at least one foot 175 for fixing vertical upright 170, to support at least one pipe 270.

[0086] Figure 22 shows a complete substation 700, the object of the invention, comprising the device that is the object of the invention in this third configuration. In Figure 22, the pipes of the primary network are on the left and those of the secondary network are on the right.This substation 700 comprises: - a filter module 701 on the primary network, - a valve 702 on the secondary network, - thermometers 703, on each of the inlets and outlets of the primary and secondary networks, - probes 704, on each of the inlets and outlets of the primary and secondary networks, - a pressure gauge 705 on the outlet of the heat exchanger 680 to the secondary network, - a pressure gauge 706 on the inlet of the heat exchanger 680 from the primary network, - valves 707, notably at each end of the pipes of each of the primary and secondary networks, - a two-way valve ("V2V") 708 on the inlet of the heat exchanger 680 from the primary network, and - a meter module 709 on the outlet of the heat exchanger 680 to the primary network.

[0087] In variants (not shown), the substation of the invention comprises vertical posts of greater height than the vertical posts 170 used to support, in addition to pipes, an electrical panel of the district heating substation.

[0088] In variants (not shown), the substation which is the subject of the invention, comprises horizontal uprights connecting the vertical uprights to support, in addition to pipes, an electrical panel of the district heating substation.

[0089] In variants (not shown), the substation which is the subject of the invention comprises steel plates connecting vertical and / or horizontal uprights.

[0090] It can be seen from Figures 18, 20 and 22 that the support device of the invention is configured to support the heat exchanger in a cantilevered position, that is, outside the convex volume delimited by the vertical uprights. The collar of the invention, in two parts, is configured to accommodate and clamp pipes of various standard diameters.

[0091] It should also be noted that the bases 405, 505 and 605 are identical, both in terms of construction and in terms of the positioning of the threaded openings. Thus, during installation, the same base is compatible with each of the three configurations of the substation that is the subject of the invention.

[0092] As can be understood from the preceding description, the present invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art with a support device and substation concept available in several models, all sharing the same basic design. This design allows a complex system to be adapted to the orientation of existing or desired piping. The support device of the invention can accommodate different types of piping and / or different models of heat exchangers.

[0093] The modular design of the substations allows them to be sold and delivered as kits for direct installation in the building or on a skid without the need for a pipefitter / welder. This modular design also facilitates component replacement thanks to the interchangeability of the modules (repair, power upgrade, etc.). This design also allows assembly without the heat exchanger and / or meter, which reduces installation time. Each substation is designed to be compact once assembled, for example, with a footprint of 0.68 m² to 1.5 m² depending on the configuration. Maintenance is low-cost, simply by replacing the modules.

[0094] The invention also allows for retrofitting thanks to the interchangeability of the modules. For example, the collars are compatible with nominal diameters (“DN”) up to DN100, i.e. 100 mm.

[0095] In this design, vertical uprights allow the substation to be adapted to the piping of the different types of exchangers.

[0096] Further information on the technical characteristics, purposes and advantages of the device and substation which are the subject of the invention is given below.

[0097] Due to its design, the collar and support parts of the substation that are the subject of the invention can have a reduced cost price, for example, reduced by a factor of three for several of the configurations shown above. Their assembly is quick and easy: delivery is in kit form, and assembly of the substation by an installer or maintenance technician is completed in less than three hours, thanks to the included instructions.

[0098] The modular design allows: - Low-cost maintenance, simply by changing the modules, and - Retrofitting thanks to the interchangeability of modules.

[0099] The design is intended to accommodate several heat exchanger capacities and accept different orientations. In addition, the very compact design allows the substation to be adapted to all premises.

[0100] The components supported by the kit, including the base, vertical supports, feet and clamps, comprise: - a heat exchanger, - a filter, - a pressure gauge on the primary circuit, and - a pressure gauge on the secondary circuit.

[0101] Examples of heat exchanger power according to the configurations described above are given below: Configuration 1: PN = 16, exchanger power = 0 - 200 KW. Configuration 2: PN = 16, exchanger power = 200 - 500 KW. Configuration 3: PN = 16, Exchanger power = 500 - 1000 KW.

[0102] These mobile substations may have several sets: - Piping, - Solenoid valve, - Counter, - Heat exchanger, - Electrical box and / or panel, and - Chassis.

[0103] This chassis is capable of accommodating various heat exchanger capacities and design configurations. The modular chassis allows for simple assembly in just a few minutes. This optimizes transport costs and enables direct installation of substations in confined spaces.

[0104] The frame is height-adjustable: thanks to the vertical supports and clamps, the pipe positioning can be adjusted. The clamps are configured to accept different pipe diameters. For example, they can accommodate pipes up to DN100.

[0105] Object and invention

[0106] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks.

[0107] To this end, the present invention relates to a support collar of at least one a pipe, comprising a body formed from a metal plate and having a groove whose sides have at least one arc of a circle, characterized in that it also comprises a lateral part folded along a fold parallel to an axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body and having at least one opening of passage of a threaded rod, this folded lateral part having, at at least one of its ends, an extremal part configured to be folded, according to a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the folded lateral part and presenting a substantially rectangular face whose dimensions correspond to the internal section of a profiled rail whose cross-section has a "U" shape.

[0108] Thanks to these arrangements, the collar which is the subject of the invention can be easily fixed on a vertical support, in particular a profiled rail with a “U” cross-section.

[0109] In some embodiments, the groove has sides comprising a succession of arcs of circles with diameters decreasing towards the bottom of the groove.

[0110] The collar can thus support cylindrical pipes of different diameters

[0111] In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises a rigid clasp for closing the groove around a pipe, mounted on fixing points of the body positioned so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove.

[0112] In embodiments, the clasp has two openings for the passage of a threaded rod and the body has, on one side of the groove, a first opening for the passage of said threaded rod and, on the other side of the groove, as many second openings for the passage of said threaded rod as there are different diameters of the arcs of the groove, the distances between the first opening and each of the second openings being equal to the distance between the two openings of the clasp.

[0113] In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises at least one linear insertion slot for one end of a reel meter, a slot of which a linear wall is on a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the throat.

[0114] In embodiments, the collar of the invention further comprises a lower part folded along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the body, this part having an opening for the passage of a threaded rod.

[0115] In embodiments, the body has a plurality of lateral openings leading to the edge of the body, each of these lateral openings having a "C" shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end.

[0116] In embodiments, the arcs of the circles of the groove are formed by stamping to have edges folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove.

[0117] In embodiments, the collar of the invention comprises a seal made of elastic material on at least two arcs of the groove.

[0118] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a device for constructing a mechanical system comprising at least one pipeline, which includes: - at least one horizontal base, - uprights, - a plurality of upright fixing feet in a vertical position on a horizontal base, and - on at least one vertical post, a collar which is the subject of the invention.

[0119] In embodiments, at least one base has through holes corresponding to at least two district heating substation configurations.

[0120] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a district heating substation for thermally connecting a primary network and a secondary network, which comprises: - a device that is the subject of the invention, - pipes supported and held in position by clamps of the device, and - a heat exchanger (680) supported by the device.

[0121] The advantages, purposes and particular characteristics of this device and substation being similar to those of the collar which is the subject of the invention, they are not recalled here.

Claims

Demands

1. A pipe support collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) comprising a body (21) formed from a metal plate and having a groove (22, 85, 98) whose sides have at least one arc of a circle, characterized in that it further comprises a lateral portion (23, 86) folded along a fold parallel to an axis of symmetry (70) of the groove, at a right angle to the rest of the body and having at least one opening (25) for the passage of a threaded rod, this folded lateral portion having, at at least one of its ends, an extremity portion (24) configured to be folded along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (70) of the groove (22, 85), at a right angle to the folded lateral portion and having a substantially rectangular face whose dimensions correspond to the internal cross-section of a rail profile whose cross-section has a "U" shape.

2. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 1, wherein the groove (22, 85) has flanks comprising a succession of arcs of circles of decreasing diameters towards the bottom of the groove.

3. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 2, which further comprises a rigid clasp (30) for closing the groove (22, 85) around a pipe, mounted on fixing points of the body positioned so that the clasp is tangent to a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove.

4. Necklace (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to claim 3, wherein the clasp (30) has two openings (31, 32) for the passage of a threaded rod and the body (21) has, on one side of the groove (22, 85), a first opening (33) for the passage of said threaded rod and, on the other side of the groove, as many second openings (34, 35, 36) for the passage of said threaded rod as there are different diameters of the arcs of the groove, the distances between the first opening and each of the second openings being equal to the distance between the two openings of the clasp.

5. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises at least one linear slot (38, 39, 40, 41) for the insertion of one end of a reel meter (65), a slot of which a linear wall is on a diameter of a circle inscribed in arcs of circles of the groove (22, 85).

6. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91, 97) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which further comprises a lower part (26, 93, 95) folded along a fold perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the groove, at a right angle to the body, this part having an opening (27, 96) for the passage of a threaded rod.

7. Necklace (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the body (21) has a plurality of lateral openings (28) opening onto the edge of the body, each of these lateral openings having a “C” shape whose closed end is closer to the lower edge of the body than an intermediate part between the open end and the closed end.

8. Collar (91) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein each arc of the groove (85) is formed by stamping to have edges (92) folded perpendicular to the plane of the groove.

9. Collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which includes a seal made of elastic material (79) on at least two arcs of the groove (22, 85).

10. Device (400, 410, 500, 600, 610) for constructing a mechanical system comprising at least one pipeline, which includes: - at least one horizontal base (405, 505, 605, 606), - uprights (170, 620), - a plurality of feet (175) for fixing uprights in a vertical position on a horizontal base, and - on at least one vertical upright, a collar (20, 80, 83, 90, 91) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. Device (400, 410, 500, 600, 610) according to claim 10, wherein at least one base (405, 505, 605) has through holes (160) corresponding to at least two district heating substation configurations.

12. District heating substation (700) for thermally connecting a primary network and a secondary network, comprising: - a device (600) according to one of claims 10 or 11, - pipes supported and held in position by clamps of the device, and - a heat exchanger (680) supported by the device.

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