Temperature regulation system

Abstract

To provide a temperature regulation system that can supply super-heated steam having a desired temperature to an object.SOLUTION: A temperature regulation system 1 includes: a steam generation unit 2 for generating steam by heating a heating medium; and a super-heated steam generation unit 3 interposed between the steam generation unit 2 and an object A, generating super-heated steam by further heating the steam generated by the steam generation unit 2 and supplying the generated super-heated steam to the object A.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature regulation system for regulating the temperature of an object. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as a temperature control system for adjusting the temperature of an object, a temperature control device has been proposed that includes a superheated steam generator that heats water to generate superheated steam, and an accumulator that stores the generated superheated steam, and that heats a mold with the superheated steam (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-45814 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the temperature control device described in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to maintain the temperature of the superheated steam in the accumulator.

[0005] Therefore, it is difficult to supply superheated steam at a desired temperature to the target.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a temperature regulation system that can supply superheated steam at a desired temperature to an object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention [1] includes a temperature control system comprising a steam generating unit that heats a heat medium to generate steam, and a superheated steam generating unit that is interposed between the steam generating unit and an object, further heats the steam generated by the steam generating unit to generate superheated steam, and supplies the generated superheated steam to the object.

[0008] According to this configuration, the superheated steam generating unit is interposed between the steam generating unit and the target.

[0009] Therefore, the steam generating unit can be kept on standby in a state where it can generate steam, and when it is desired to supply superheated steam to an object, the superheated steam generating unit can be activated to generate superheated steam.

[0010] As a result, superheated steam at a desired temperature can be supplied to the target.

[0011] The present invention [2] includes the temperature control system of the above [1], further comprising a first heat exchanger interposed between the steam generating unit and the superheated steam generating unit, which heats the steam flowing from the steam generating unit to the superheated steam generating unit by heat exchange with a heat medium that has passed through the object.

[0012] According to this configuration, by utilizing the heat of the heat medium that has passed through the object, it is possible to heat the steam flowing from the steam generating unit to the superheated steam generating unit while achieving energy savings.

[0013] The present invention [3] includes the temperature adjustment system of the above [2], further comprising a supply unit that supplies a heat medium to the steam generating unit, and a second heat exchanger that cools the heat medium that flows from the object through the first heat exchanger and returns to the supply unit.

[0014] With this configuration, the heat medium can be circulated between the target and the supply unit.

[0015] The present invention [4] includes the temperature control system of any one of [1] to [3] above, wherein the steam generation unit has a heater unit including a tank for storing a heat medium, the tank having an outlet through which steam can be discharged, a heater for heating the heat medium in the tank, and a valve connected to the outlet, and the valve is opened when the temperature of the heat medium in the tank is equal to or higher than the temperature at which steam is generated.

[0016] With this configuration, when the temperature of the heat medium in the tank is at or above the temperature at which steam is generated, the valve is closed and the steam generating unit is put into standby, and when it is desired to supply superheated steam to the target, the valve is opened to lower the air pressure in the tank, thereby generating steam.

[0017] This allows steam to be generated at a desired timing with a simple configuration.

[0018] The present invention [5] includes the temperature adjustment system of [4] above, wherein the steam generating unit has a plurality of the heater units.

[0019] With this configuration, the amount of steam generated can be ensured.

[0020] The present invention [6] includes the temperature adjustment system of [5] above, in which the valve of one of the plurality of heater units is opened while the valve of another of the plurality of heater units is closed.

[0021] According to this configuration, when superheated steam is supplied to a target, the valve of only one of the plurality of heater units is opened while the valves of the other heater units are closed.

[0022] This allows steam to be sent to the superheated steam generating unit while maintaining the temperature in the other heater units at or above the temperature at which steam is generated.

[0023] The present invention [7] includes the temperature adjustment system of any one of the above [4] to [6], wherein the heater unit has a plurality of the valves connected in parallel to the exhaust port and opening at the same time.

[0024] With this configuration, the air pressure inside the tank can be reduced all at once by opening multiple valves at the same time.

[0025] This allows a large amount of steam to be generated at the desired timing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The temperature regulation system of the present invention can supply superheated steam at a desired temperature to a target. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a piping diagram of a temperature adjustment system according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] 1. Temperature Control System 1 Configuration As shown in Fig. 1, the temperature control system 1 is a device for controlling the temperature of an object A. Examples of the object A include a mold for an injection molding machine or a compression molding machine, a mold for a hot press, a roll for an extruder, and a jacket for a mixer or a reaction vessel.

[0029] The temperature regulation system 1 includes a steam generation unit 2, a superheated steam generation unit 3, a steam supply line 4, a superheated steam supply line 5, a supply unit 6, a return line 7, and a bypass line 8.

[0030] (1) Steam Generation Unit 2 The steam generating unit 2 heats a heat medium to generate steam. An example of the heat medium is water. The type of water is not limited. Examples of the water include industrial water, tap water, groundwater, purified water, and fresh water. From the viewpoint of cost, industrial water is preferred.

[0031] The steam generating unit 2 has a plurality of heater units 21. In this embodiment, the steam generating unit 2 has two heater units 21A and 21B. The number of heater units 21 is not limited to two. The steam generating unit 2 may have three or more heater units 21.

[0032] (1-1) Heater unit 21A The heater unit 21A has a plurality of tanks 211, a plurality of heaters 212, a plurality of valves 213, a float switch 214, a circulation line 215, a pump 216, and a temperature sensor 217. In this embodiment, the heater unit 21A has two tanks 211A and 211B, two heaters 212A and 212B, and four valves 213.

[0033] (1-1-2) Tanks 211A and 211B Tank 211A stores a liquid heat medium. Note that part of the heat medium in tank 211A may be gas (steam). Tank 211A has an inlet P1, an outlet P2, and an outlet P3.

[0034] The inlet P1 is capable of receiving the heat transfer medium from the supply unit 6.

[0035] The outlet P2 is capable of discharging steam from within the tank 211A.

[0036] The outlet P3 is capable of discharging the liquid heat medium inside the tank 211A.

[0037] Tank 211B stores a liquid heat medium. Note that a portion of the heat medium in tank 211B may be gas (steam). Tank 211B is connected to tank 211A. The heat medium in tank 211B can flow into tank 211A. Tank 211B has an inlet P11. Inlet P11 is connected to outlet P3 of tank 211A via circulation line 215. Inlet P11 can receive the heat medium discharged from outlet P3 via circulation line 215.

[0038] (1-1-3) Heaters 212A and 212B The heater 212A heats the heat medium in the tank 211A, and the heater 212B heats the heat medium in the tank 211B.

[0039] (1-1-4) Valve 213 Each of the plurality of valves 213 is connected to the outlet P2 of the tank 211A via a pipe. Each of the plurality of valves 213 is connected in parallel to one another with respect to the outlet P2. Furthermore, each of the plurality of valves 213 is connected to the steam supply line 4 via a pipe. Each of the plurality of valves 213 is connected in parallel to one another with respect to the steam supply line 4. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of valves 213 is an electromagnetic valve. Each of the plurality of valves 213 may be an electrically operated valve.

[0040] (1-1-5) Float switch 214 The float switch 214 is connected to the tank 211A. The float switch 214 turns off when the liquid level of the heat medium in the tank 211A drops below a predetermined level, and turns on when the liquid level of the heat medium in the tank 211A reaches or exceeds the predetermined level. The predetermined level is preferably a position where the tank 211A is full of water. When the tank 211A is full of water, the booster pump 622 of the supply unit 6 can pressurize the heat medium in the tank 211A. This makes it possible to heat the heat medium in the tank 211A above its saturation temperature at standard atmospheric pressure with a simple configuration. The booster pump 622 will be described later. Furthermore, this can prevent the pump 216 from entraining air, allowing the heat medium to circulate stably within the heater unit 21A.

[0041] (1-1-6) Circulation Line 215 The circulation line 215 allows the heat medium to pass from the tank 211A to the tank 211B. One end of the circulation line 215 is connected to the outlet P3 of the tank 211A. The other end of the circulation line 215 is connected to the inlet P11 of the tank 211B.

[0042] (1-1-7) Pump 216 The pump 216 is interposed in the middle of the circulation line 215. The pump 216 sends the heat medium from the tank 211A to the tank 211B.

[0043] (1-1-8) Temperature sensor 217 The temperature sensor 217 detects the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the discharge port P3 of the tank 211A. The temperature sensor 217 is attached to one end of the circulation line 215. The temperature sensor 217 may detect the temperature of the heat medium inside the tank 211A.

[0044] (1-2) Heater unit 21B The heater unit 21B is configured similarly to the heater unit 21A. In the heater unit 21B, the same members as those in the heater unit 21A are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted. The heater unit 21B is connected to the vapor supply line 4 in parallel with the heater unit 21A. The heater unit 21B is connected to the supply unit 6 in parallel with the heater unit 21A.

[0045] (2) Superheated Steam Generation Unit 3 The superheated steam generating unit 3 is interposed between the steam generating unit 2 and the target A. The superheated steam generating unit 3 further heats the steam generated in the steam generating unit 2 to generate superheated steam. The superheated steam generating unit 3 supplies the generated superheated steam to the target A.

[0046] The superheated steam generation unit 3 has a plurality of chambers 31, a plurality of heaters 32, a plurality of temperature sensors 33, a steam trap 34, and a drain valve 35. In this embodiment, the superheated steam generation unit 3 has two chambers 31A and 31B, two heaters 32A and 32B, and two temperature sensors 33A and 33B.

[0047] (3-1) Chambers 31A and 31B The chamber 31A stores steam and has an inlet P21, an outlet P22, and an outlet P23.

[0048] The inlet P21 is capable of receiving steam from the steam generating unit 2.

[0049] The exhaust port P22 is capable of discharging steam from within the chamber 31 A. The exhaust port P22 is disposed at the upper end of the chamber 31 A.

[0050] The outlet P23 is capable of discharging the liquid heat transfer medium in the chamber 31A. The "liquid heat transfer medium in the chamber 31A" is produced by condensing steam in the chamber 31A. The outlet P23 is disposed at the bottom end of the chamber 31A.

[0051] Chamber 31B stores steam. Chamber 31B has a similar structure to chamber 31A. Therefore, in heater unit 21B, components similar to those in heater unit 21A are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof are omitted. Chamber 31B is connected to chamber 31A. Specifically, the inlet P21 of chamber 31B is connected to the outlet P22 of chamber 31A. This allows steam in chamber 31A to flow into chamber 31B.

[0052] (3-2) Heaters 32A and 32B Heater 32A heats the steam in chamber 31 A. Heater 32B heats the steam in chamber 31 B. The steam from steam generating unit 2 is heated by heater 32A in chamber 31 A, and is further heated by heater 32B in chamber 31 B, thereby becoming superheated steam.

[0053] The upper limit of the temperature of the "steam" can be set appropriately taking into consideration the capacity of the heaters 32A and 32B, etc. From the viewpoint of energy conservation, in this embodiment, the temperature of the "steam" is preferably less than 150°C, and the temperature of the "superheated steam" is preferably 150°C or higher.

[0054] (3-3) Temperature sensors 33A and 33B The temperature sensor 33A detects the temperature near the exhaust port P23 of the chamber 31A. The temperature sensor 33B detects the temperature near the exhaust port P23 of the chamber 31B.

[0055] (3-4) Steam trap 34 The steam trap 34 is connected to the outlet P23 of the chamber 31A and the outlet P23 of the chamber 31B.

[0056] (3-5) Drain valve 35 The drain valve 35 is connected in parallel to the steam trap 34 to the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31A and the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31B.

[0057] When the drain valve 35 is open, the liquid heat transfer medium discharged from the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31A and the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31B flows through the drain valve 35 into the return line 7.

[0058] On the other hand, when the drain valve 35 is closed, the liquid heat transfer medium discharged from the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31A and the discharge port P23 of the chamber 31B flows through the steam trap 34 to the return line 7. In this embodiment, the drain valve 35 is an electromagnetic valve. The drain valve 35 may also be an electrically operated valve.

[0059] (3) Steam supply line 4 The steam supply line 4 allows the passage of steam supplied from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3. One end of the steam supply line 4 is connected to the steam generating unit 2. More specifically, one end of the steam supply line 4 is connected via piping to a plurality of valves 213 of the heater unit 21A and a plurality of valves 213 of the heater unit 21B. The other end of the steam supply line 4 is connected to the superheated steam generating unit 3. More specifically, the other end of the steam supply line 4 is connected to the inlet P21 of the chamber 31A.

[0060] The steam supply line 4 includes a drain separator 41, a steam trap 42, and a first heat exchanger 43. In other words, the temperature adjustment system 1 includes the first heat exchanger 43.

[0061] (3-1) Drain separator 41 The drain separator 41 is disposed between the steam generating unit 2 and the first heat exchanger 43. The drain separator 41 separates the steam from the liquid. The steam that passes through the drain separator 41 enters the first heat exchanger 43.

[0062] (3-2) Steam trap 42 The steam trap 42 is connected to the drain separator 41. The liquid heat transfer medium separated from the steam by the drain separator 41 passes through the steam trap 42 and flows into the return line 7.

[0063] (3-3) First heat exchanger 43 The first heat exchanger 43 is interposed between the steam generating unit 2 and the superheated steam generating unit 3. The first heat exchanger 43 is interposed between the drain separator 41 and the superheated steam generating unit 3. The first heat exchanger 43 heats the steam flowing from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3 by heat exchange with a heat medium that has passed through target A.

[0064] (4) Superheated steam supply line 5 The superheated steam supply line 5 allows the passage of superheated steam supplied from the superheated steam generating unit 3 to the target A. One end of the superheated steam supply line 5 is connected to the superheated steam generating unit 3. More specifically, one end of the superheated steam supply line 5 is connected to the exhaust port P22 of the chamber 31B. The other end of the superheated steam supply line 5 is connected to the target A.

[0065] The superheated steam supply line 5 has a temperature sensor 51 .

[0066] The temperature sensor 51 detects the temperature of the superheated steam supplied to the target A. The temperature sensor 51 is disposed at the other end of the superheated steam supply line 5.

[0067] (5) Supply Unit 6 The supply unit 6 supplies a heat medium to the steam generating unit 2. The supply unit 6 includes a supply tank 61, a supply line 62, a float switch 63, and an expansion tank 64.

[0068] (5-1) Supply Tank 61 The supply tank 61 stores a liquid heat transfer medium and has an inlet P31, an inlet P32, and an outlet P33.

[0069] The inlet P31 is capable of receiving the heat transfer medium from the expansion tank 64.

[0070] The inlet P32 is capable of receiving the heat transfer medium from the return line 7.

[0071] The heat medium in the supply tank 61 can be discharged through the outlet P33.

[0072] (5-2) Supply Line 62 The supply line 62 allows the heat medium to pass from the supply tank 61 to the steam generating unit 2. One end of the supply line 62 is connected to the outlet P33 of the supply tank 61. The other end of the supply line 62 is connected to the inlet P1 of the tank 211A of each heater unit 21 via a pipe.

[0073] The supply line 62 includes a supply pump 621 , a booster pump 622 , a first pressure switch 623 , and a second pressure switch 624 .

[0074] The supply pump 621 is interposed in the supply line 62. The supply pump 621 sends the heat medium from the supply tank 61 to the steam generating unit 2.

[0075] The booster pump 622 is interposed between the supply pump 621 and the steam generating unit 2. The booster pump 622, together with the supply pump 621, pressurizes the heat medium in the tank 211A by sending the heat medium from the supply tank 61 to the steam generating unit 2. By pressurizing the heat medium in the tank 211A, the heat medium in the tank 211A can be heated to a temperature exceeding its saturation temperature at standard atmospheric pressure.

[0076] The first pressure switch 623 detects the pressure in the supply line 62 between the supply pump 621 and the booster pump 622. The first pressure switch 623 turns off when the pressure in the supply line 62 is less than a predetermined pressure, and turns on when the pressure in the supply line 62 is equal to or greater than the predetermined pressure.

[0077] The second pressure switch 624 detects the pressure in the supply line 62 between the booster pump 622 and the steam generating unit 2. The second pressure switch 624 turns off when the pressure in the supply line 62 is less than a predetermined pressure, and turns on when the pressure in the supply line 62 is equal to or greater than the predetermined pressure.

[0078] (5-3) Float switch 63 The float switch 63 is connected to the supply tank 61. The float switch 63 turns off when the liquid level of the heat medium in the supply tank 61 drops below a predetermined level, and turns on when the liquid level of the heat medium in the supply tank 61 rises above the predetermined level. The float switch 63 is also connected to the expansion tank 64. Air in the supply tank 61 and the heat medium that exceeds the capacity of the supply tank 61 can flow into the expansion tank 64 through the float switch 63.

[0079] (5-4) Expansion tank 64 The expansion tank 64 can store a larger amount of heat medium than the supply tank 61. The expansion tank 64 is connected to the inlet P31 of the supply tank 61 via piping 65. The heat medium in the expansion tank 64 is supplied to the supply tank 61 through piping 65. Furthermore, when the supply tank 61 is full and the heat medium expands due to a temperature rise, the expansion tank 64 can store a heat medium that exceeds the capacity of the supply tank 61. The heat medium that exceeds the capacity of the supply tank 61 flows into the expansion tank 64 through at least one of the piping 65 and the float switch 63.

[0080] (6) Return line 7 The return line 7 allows the passage of the heat medium returning from the target A to the supply unit 6. One end of the return line 7 is connected to the target A. The other end of the return line 7 is connected to the supply unit 6. More specifically, the other end of the return line 7 is connected to the inlet P32 of the supply tank 61. In addition, a portion of the return line 7 passes through the first heat exchanger 43. This allows the heat medium that has passed through the target A to exchange heat with steam heading from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3.

[0081] The return line 7 includes a second heat exchanger 71 , a temperature sensor 72 and a valve 73 .

[0082] The second heat exchanger 71 cools the heat medium returning from the target A through the first heat exchanger 43 to the supply unit 6 to a temperature below the temperature at which the heat medium becomes liquid. Specifically, the "temperature at which the heat medium becomes liquid" is below the saturation temperature at standard atmospheric pressure. In this embodiment, the "temperature at which the heat medium becomes liquid" is 98°C. The second heat exchanger 71 is interposed between the first heat exchanger 43 and the supply tank 61 of the supply unit 6. Note that an example of a refrigerant for the second heat exchanger 71 is water, such as industrial water.

[0083] The temperature sensor 72 detects the temperature of the heat medium returning to the supply tank 61 through the second heat exchanger 71. The temperature sensor 72 is attached to the return line 7 between the second heat exchanger 71 and the supply tank 61.

[0084] The valve 73 is attached to the refrigerant line of the second heat exchanger 71. In this embodiment, the valve 73 is an electric valve. By controlling the opening of the valve 73, it is possible to control the temperature of the heat medium that passes through the second heat exchanger 71 and returns to the supply tank 61. A control unit, which will be described later, controls the opening of the valve 73 so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 72 becomes equal to or lower than the "temperature at which the heat medium becomes liquid." The valve 73 may also be an electromagnetic valve.

[0085] (7) Bypass Line 8 The bypass line 8 bypasses the supply line 62 and the return line 7. The bypass line 8 supplies a portion of the heat medium flowing through the supply line 62 to the return line 7. More specifically, the bypass line 8 supplies a portion of the heat medium flowing from the supply pump 621 toward the booster pump 622 to the return line 7 between the first heat exchanger 43 and the second heat exchanger 71. This allows the heat medium entering the second heat exchanger 71 to be mixed with the heat medium from the bypass line 8, thereby cooling the heat medium entering the second heat exchanger 71 and ensuring that the heat medium returning to the supply tank 61 is liquefied. One end of the bypass line 8 is connected to the supply line 62 between the supply pump 621 and the booster pump 622. The other end of the bypass line 8 is connected to the return line 7 between the first heat exchanger 43 and the second heat exchanger 71. The bypass line 8 has a valve 81.

[0086] The valve 81 is attached midway along the bypass line 8. In this embodiment, the valve 81 is a globe valve. When an operator uses the temperature regulation system 1, the valve 81 is opened by the operator as needed.

[0087] 2. Operation of Temperature Control System 1 Next, the operation of the temperature adjustment system 1 will be described.

[0088] The temperature adjustment system 1 is controlled by a control unit (not shown). By being controlled by the control unit, the temperature adjustment system 1 can execute a heat medium supply step, a temperature increase step, and a temperature adjustment step.

[0089] (1) Heat medium supply step In the heat medium supplying step, the temperature regulating system 1 supplies the heat medium from the supply unit 6 to the steam generating unit 2 .

[0090] More specifically, the control unit operates the supply pump 621 on the condition that the float switch 63 of the supply unit 6 is on.

[0091] Next, the control unit operates the booster pump 622 on the condition that the first pressure switch 623 is turned on.

[0092] Then, the supply pump 621 and the booster pump 622 send the heat medium in the supply tank 61 to the tank 211A of the heater unit 21A and the tank 211A of the heater unit 21B.

[0093] At this time, all of the valves 213 of the heater unit 21A and all of the valves 213 of the heater unit 21B are closed.

[0094] Next, on the condition that second pressure switch 624 is turned on, the control unit activates pump 216 of heater unit 21A and pump 216 of heater unit 21B.

[0095] Then, the heat medium accumulates in the tanks 211A and 211B of the heater unit 21A and the heater unit 21B, respectively.

[0096] When a sufficient amount of heat medium is accumulated in the tank 211A of the heater unit 21A and the tank 211A of the heater unit 21B, the float switch 214 of the heater unit 21A and the float switch 214 of the heater unit 21B are turned on.

[0097] This completes the supply of the heat medium from the supply unit 6 to the steam generating unit 2.

[0098] (2) Heating step Next, in the temperature increasing step, the temperature adjustment system 1 increases the temperature of the heat medium in the tanks 211A and 211B of the heater unit 21A and the heat medium in the tanks 211A and 211B of the heater unit 21B to a predetermined first temperature. The first temperature is, for example, 120°C or higher, preferably 125°C or higher, more preferably 130°C or higher, and is, for example, lower than 150°C. In this embodiment, the first temperature is 135°C.

[0099] In detail, the control unit turns on the heaters 212A and 212B of the heater unit 21A on the condition that the float switch 214 of the heater unit 21A is on, and turns on the heaters 212A and 212B of the heater unit 21B on the condition that the float switch 214 of the heater unit 21B is on.

[0100] This starts increasing the temperature of the heat medium in the tanks 211A and 211B of the heater unit 21A and the heat medium in the tanks 211A and 211B of the heater unit 21B.

[0101] The control unit controls the heaters 212A and 212B of the heater unit 21A so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 217 of the heater unit 21A becomes the first temperature.

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit controls the heaters 212A and 212B of the heater unit 21B so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 217 of the heater unit 21B becomes the first temperature.

[0103] When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 217 of the heater unit 21A reaches the first temperature, the temperature increase of the heater unit 21A is completed.

[0104] Furthermore, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 217 of the heater unit 21B reaches the first temperature, the temperature increase of the heater unit 21B is completed.

[0105] (3) Temperature adjustment step Next, in the temperature adjustment step, the temperature adjustment system 1 adjusts the temperature of the object A.

[0106] More specifically, when heating the target A, the control unit first opens all of the multiple valves 213 of the heater unit 21A. The multiple valves 213 are opened when the temperature of the heat medium in the tank 211A is equal to or higher than a first temperature. The multiple valves 213 open at the same time. Preferably, the multiple valves 213 open simultaneously. By opening the multiple valves 213 at the same time, the air pressure in the tank 211A can be lowered all at once. Therefore, a large amount of steam can be generated at a desired timing.

[0107] Steam from the heater unit 21A is supplied to the chamber 31A of the superheated steam generating unit 3 through the steam supply line 4.

[0108] Here, when all of the valves 213 of the heater unit 21A are opened, the temperature of the heat medium in the tank 211A of the heater unit 21A gradually decreases.

[0109] The control unit closes all of the multiple valves 213 of the heater unit 21A on the condition that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 217 of the heater unit 21A becomes less than a second temperature. The second temperature is lower than the first temperature. The second temperature is the temperature at which steam is generated. The second temperature is the saturation temperature at standard atmospheric pressure. The second temperature is, for example, 110°C or higher, preferably 120°C or higher, for example, lower than 130°C. In this embodiment, the second temperature is 128°C.

[0110] Next, the control unit opens all of the multiple valves 213 of heater unit 21B on the condition that the temperature detected by temperature sensor 217 of heater unit 21B is equal to or higher than the second temperature. That is, valve 213 of one heater unit 21A of the multiple heater units 21 is opened while valve 213 of another heater unit 21B of the multiple heater units 21 is closed.

[0111] Next, the control unit closes all of the multiple valves 213 of heater unit 21B on the condition that the temperature detected by temperature sensor 217 of heater unit 21B becomes less than the second temperature, and reopens all of the multiple valves 213 of heater unit 21A on the condition that the temperature detected by temperature sensor 217 of heater unit 21A is equal to or higher than the second temperature.

[0112] That is, the plurality of valves 213 are opened when the temperature of the heat medium in the tank 211A is equal to or higher than the temperature at which steam is generated (the second temperature). The control unit also alternately opens the valve 213 of the heater unit 21A and the valve 213 of the heater unit 21B. This allows steam at the second temperature or higher to be continuously supplied from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3.

[0113] Then, after starting the supply of steam from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3, the control unit turns on the heaters 32A and 32B of the superheated steam generating unit 3. As a result, the steam supplied to the superheated steam generating unit 3 is heated and becomes superheated steam. The superheated steam is supplied to the target A through the superheated steam supply line 5.

[0114] The control unit controls the heaters 32A and 32B so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 51 of the superheated steam supply line 5 becomes the third temperature. The third temperature is higher than the first temperature. In this embodiment, the third temperature is 600°C.

[0115] By supplying the superheated steam to the target A, the target A is heated.

[0116] The heat medium that has passed through target A returns to supply unit 6 through return line 7. At this time, the heat medium that has passed through target A passes through first heat exchanger 43. If the temperature of the heat medium that has passed through target A is higher than the temperature of the steam heading from steam generating unit 2 to superheated steam generating unit 3, the heat medium that has passed through target A heats the steam heading from steam generating unit 2 to superheated steam generating unit 3 in first heat exchanger 43.

[0117] As a result, the heat of the heat medium that has passed through the target A can be used to heat the steam flowing from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3 while saving energy.

[0118] Next, when the heated target A is to be cooled, the control unit turns off the heaters 32A and 32B of the superheated steam generating unit 3.

[0119] Then, the steam from the steam generating unit 2 is supplied to the target A without being heated through the superheated steam generating unit 3 and the superheated steam supply line 5. As a result, the target A that had been heated by the superheated steam is cooled.

[0120] Here, when the heaters 32A and 32B of the superheated steam generating unit 3 are turned off, the temperature in the chambers 31A and 31B of the superheated steam generating unit 3 drops, and some of the steam from the steam generating unit 2 condenses in the chambers 31A and 31B and becomes liquid.

[0121] Therefore, the control unit opens the drain valve 35 to return the liquid heat transfer medium accumulated in the chambers 31A and 31B to the return line 7.

[0122] Specifically, the control unit opens the drain valve 35 when either the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33A or the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33B becomes equal to or lower than a fourth temperature. The fourth temperature is, for example, equal to or lower than 125°C, preferably equal to or lower than 120°C. In this embodiment, the fourth temperature is 120°C.

[0123] In this embodiment, the control unit intermittently opens the drain valve 35. Specifically, the control unit opens the drain valve 35 for a first time, then closes the drain valve 35, and after a second time has elapsed, acquires the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors 33A and 33B again. If either the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33A or the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33B is equal to or lower than the fourth temperature, the control unit opens the drain valve 35 again. The first time and the second time can be set as appropriate. In this embodiment, the first time is 5 seconds, and the second time is 7 seconds.

[0124] In addition, the control unit opens the drain valve 35 even when not cooling the object A, such as at the beginning of heating the object A, if either the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33A or the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33B is equal to or lower than the fourth temperature.

[0125] 3. Effects (1) According to the temperature adjustment system 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the superheated steam generating unit 3 is interposed between the steam generating unit 2 and the object A.

[0126] Therefore, the steam generating unit 2 can be kept on standby in a state where it can generate steam, and when it is desired to supply superheated steam to the target A, the superheated steam generating unit 3 can be operated to generate superheated steam.

[0127] As a result, superheated steam at the desired temperature can be supplied to target A.

[0128] (2) According to the temperature adjustment system 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the first heat exchanger 43 can heat the steam flowing from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3 by heat exchange with the heat medium that has passed through the target A.

[0129] Therefore, by utilizing the heat of the heat medium that has passed through the target A, it is possible to heat the steam flowing from the steam generating unit 2 to the superheated steam generating unit 3 while also achieving energy conservation.

[0130] (3) According to the temperature control system 1, as shown in FIG. 1, it is provided with a supply unit 6 that supplies a heat medium to the steam generation unit 2, and a second heat exchanger 71 that cools the heat medium that returns from the target A through the first heat exchanger 43 to the supply unit 6.

[0131] Therefore, the heat medium can be circulated between the target A and the supply unit 6.

[0132] In particular, when industrial water or tap water is used as a heat transfer medium, a typical boiler replenishes the industrial water or tap water that is lost when steam or superheated steam is generated. As a result, impurities such as hard components (scale) contained in the industrial water or tap water accumulate inside the boiler. Therefore, when industrial water or tap water is used as a heat transfer medium, the boiler requires equipment such as a water softener to remove impurities.

[0133] In this regard, according to the temperature adjustment system 1, the heat medium is circulated between the target A and the supply unit 6, so that the replenishment of industrial water or tap water can be suppressed.

[0134] Therefore, even without equipment such as a water softener, the accumulation of impurities in the temperature adjustment system 1 can be suppressed.

[0135] (4) According to the temperature regulation system 1, the valve 213 of the heater unit 21 is opened when the temperature of the heat medium in the tank 211A is equal to or higher than the second temperature at which steam is generated.

[0136] Therefore, when the temperature of the heat medium in tank 211A is at or above the second temperature, valve 213 is closed and steam generating unit 2 is put into standby, and when it is desired to supply superheated steam to target A, valve 213 is opened to lower the air pressure in tank 211A, thereby generating steam.

[0137] This allows steam to be generated at a desired timing with a simple configuration.

[0138] (5) According to the temperature regulation system 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the steam generation unit 2 has a plurality of heater units 21A and 21B.

[0139] Therefore, the amount of steam generated can be ensured.

[0140] (6) According to the temperature adjustment system 1, the valve 213 of one heater unit 21A among the plurality of heater units 21 is opened while the valve 213 of another heater unit 21B among the plurality of heater units 21 is closed.

[0141] In other words, when superheated steam is supplied to the target A, the valve 213 of only one heater unit 21A among the plurality of heater units 21 is opened while the valve 213 of the other heater units 21B is closed.

[0142] This allows steam to be sent to the superheated steam generation unit while the temperature inside the other heater unit 21B is maintained at or above the second temperature.

[0143] (7) According to the temperature regulation system 1, the multiple valves 213 of each heater unit 21 open at the same time.

[0144] This allows the air pressure inside the tank 211A to be lowered all at once.

[0145] As a result, a large amount of steam can be generated at the desired timing.

[0146] 4. Variations (1) The device configuration of the temperature adjustment system 1 is not limited.

[0147] For example, the temperature adjustment system 1 may be configured as a single device.

[0148] Also, for example, the temperature adjustment system 1 may include a first device having a supply unit 6, a steam generation unit 2 and a second heat exchanger 71, and a second device having a superheated steam generation unit 3 and a first heat exchanger 43.

[0149] Also, for example, the temperature adjustment system 1 may include a first device having a supply unit 6 and a second heat exchanger 71, a second device having a steam generation unit 2, and a third device having a superheated steam generation unit 3 and a first heat exchanger 43.

[0150] (2) Each of the heater units 21 may have one large-diameter valve instead of the multiple valves 213. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1. Temperature control system 2 Steam generation unit 3 Superheated steam generation unit 6 Supply Unit 21 Heater unit 43 1st heat exchanger 71 Second heat exchanger 211 Tank 212 Heater 213 Valve A Target

Claims

[Claim 1] a steam generating unit that heats a heat medium to generate steam; a superheated steam generating unit interposed between the steam generating unit and an object, which further heats the steam generated in the steam generating unit to generate superheated steam and supplies the generated superheated steam to the object; A temperature control system comprising:

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