Cooler

Abstract

The present invention provides a desuperheater capable of inertially separating a liquid from superheated steam. [Solution] The inner cylinder 10 defines an inner flow path Pi through which superheated steam flows from top to bottom, and has an open end 11 as the outlet of the inner flow path Pi from which the superheated steam is ejected. The liquid supply unit 30 is configured to spray liquid into the inner flow path Pi. The outer cylinder 20 houses at least a part of the inner cylinder 10 including the open end 11, and has a bottom surface 21 below the open end 11 that faces the open end 11. The outer cylinder 20 defines an outer flow path Po between the outer surface of the inner cylinder 10 through which at least the superheated steam flows from bottom to top, among the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end 11.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a desuperheater.

Background Art

[0002] A desuperheater may be used as a means for cooling superheated steam. There is a type of desuperheater that directly sprays a liquid onto superheated steam (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The desuperheater of Patent Document 1 is configured to mix the water sprayed from the nozzle with the superheated steam so that the water is completely evaporated. In addition, in the desuperheater of Patent Document 1, in order to prevent the condensed water adhering to the circumferential side wall of the inner pipe from dripping downward, superheated steam is flowed from the lower side to the upper side of the inner pipe.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] When water is completely evaporated as in Patent Document 1, depending on the water quality, impurities contained in the water may precipitate, and the precipitates may scatter to downstream equipment.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a desuperheater capable of inertial separation of a liquid from superheated steam.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the desuperheater employs the following means. <00000A desuperheater according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an inner cylinder, an outer cylinder, and a liquid supply unit, wherein the inner cylinder defines an inner flow path through which superheated steam flows from top to bottom and has an open end as an outlet for the inner flow path from which the superheated steam is ejected, the liquid supply unit is configured to spray liquid into the inner flow path, the outer cylinder houses at least a portion of the inner cylinder including the open end, has a bottom surface below the open end and facing the open end, and defines an outer flow path between the outer surface of the inner cylinder through which at least the superheated steam flows from bottom to top, of the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, a liquid can be inertially separated from superheated vapor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a side view of the inner cylinder of a desuperheater according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a magnified view of section F shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line VIII-VIII, as shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a desuperheater according to the eighth embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 12] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to the eighth embodiment of the present disclosure (modified example). [Figure 13] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to the ninth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to the tenth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to the eleventh embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to the twelfth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] Partial enlarged view of the Q part shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] Vertical sectional view of the desuperheater according to other embodiments. [Figure 19] Cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line XIX-XIX shown in FIG. 18.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, the desuperheater according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the desuperheater of the present embodiment serves as the basis for the desuperheaters from the second embodiment to the thirteenth embodiment.

[0011] The desuperheater 1 is a device for reducing the temperature of superheated steam to a desired temperature by spraying a liquid onto the superheated steam. Examples of the liquid include water. In the following description, the fluid in which the superheated steam and the sprayed liquid are mixed is collectively referred to as "mixed fluid". Also, the sprayed granular or mist-like liquid is also referred to as "liquid droplet".

[0012] <Regarding the configuration of the desuperheater> As shown in FIG. 1, the desuperheater 1 includes an inner cylinder 10, an outer cylinder 20, and a liquid supply unit 30.

[0013] The inner cylinder 10 is a cylindrical (for example, cylindrical or rectangular tubular) portion that extends in the vertical direction and has at least an open lower end. The inner cylinder 10 defines the internal flow path Pi within itself. Since the inner cylinder 10 extends in the vertical direction, the internal flow path Pi also extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the inner cylinder 10 is an open end 11 bordered by a lower edge 12. This open end 11 serves as the outlet for the inner flow path Pi. At least a portion of the inner cylinder 10, including the open end 11 (in the case of Figure 1, the lower part of the inner cylinder 10), is housed in the outer cylinder 20.

[0014] The outer cylinder 20 is a cylindrical (e.g., cylindrical or rectangular) portion that extends vertically and has at least its lower end closed. The outer cylinder 20 defines an outer flow path Po between itself and the inner cylinder 10. Since both the outer cylinder 20 and the inner cylinder 10 extend in the vertical direction, the outer flow path Po also extends in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the outer flow path Po forms an annular shape around the inner cylinder 10. The lower end of the outer cylinder 20 is closed. The surface facing the open end 11 of the inner cylinder 10 in this closed portion is the bottom surface 21. A gap is provided between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11 (lower edge 12) in the vertical direction. This gap forms a channel connecting the inner channel Pi and the outer channel Po. The bottom surface 21 may be, for example, a conical surface that slopes downwards toward the center. The upper end of the outer cylinder 20 is configured to close the gap between it and the inner cylinder 10. A port 22 is provided on the uppermost side of the outer cylinder 20. The port 22 defines a flow path that connects the outer flow path Po to the outside of the outer cylinder 20. In Figure 1, the port 22 extends horizontally. This port 22 is the outlet of the outer flow path Po.

[0015] A drain pipe 25 is provided at the lower end of the outer cylinder 20. The drain pipe 25 is connected, for example, to the center (lowest part) of the conical base 21, defining a flow path that connects the inside and outside of the outer cylinder 20.

[0016] The liquid supply unit 30 is a device configured to spray liquid into the inner flow path Pi. The liquid supply unit 30 has a nozzle 31 and a supply pipe 32. The nozzle 31 is the part that sprays the liquid and is located in the inner flow path Pi. Preferably, the nozzle 31 is located in the upstream part of the inner flow path Pi. Preferably, the nozzle 31 is configured to spray the liquid downwards. The supply pipe 32 is a pipe that penetrates the outer cylinder 20 and the inner cylinder 10 and supplies liquid to the nozzle 31 from outside the outer cylinder 20.

[0017] <Regarding the flow of superheated steam and liquids> The superheated steam supplied from the outside, before de-cooling, is guided into the inner channel Pi. The superheated steam that is introduced flows from top to bottom through the inner channel Pi.

[0018] The liquid supplied via the supply pipe 32 is sprayed from the nozzle 31 into the inner flow path Pi. The sprayed liquid mixes with the superheated steam flowing through the inner channel Pi. This lowers the temperature of the superheated steam. The degree of temperature reduction (the degree to which the degree of superheating to be reduced) is adjusted, for example, by the amount of liquid sprayed. The amount of liquid sprayed may be adjusted by changing the spray pressure at the nozzle 31, or by changing the spraying time without changing the spray pressure (for example, spraying intermittently like a pulse). The degree of temperature reduction is predetermined. Therefore, the minimum required spray amount is determined based on that degree. It is preferable to spray more liquid than the minimum required amount.

[0019] The mixed fluid eventually reaches the outlet of the inner flow path Pi, i.e., the open end 11 of the inner cylinder 10, and is ejected downward from the open end 11. Of the ejected mixed fluid, droplets with a density greater than the superheated steam travel in a straight line and collide with and adhere to the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20. On the other hand, of the ejected mixed fluid, the superheated steam, which has a density less than the liquid, turns to pass through the gap (flow channel) between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11 and heads towards the outer flow channel Po. This separates the droplets from the superheated steam (inertial separation).

[0020] In the inertial separation of mixed fluids, separation is facilitated by increasing the linearity of the droplets (for example, by increasing the droplet velocity). In this embodiment, the straight-line movement of the droplets is enhanced by directing the direction of liquid flow downwards (aligning the direction of liquid flow with the direction in which gravity acts). Furthermore, the straight-line movement of the droplets is further enhanced by spraying the liquid downwards.

[0021] The liquid adhering to the bottom surface 21 flows towards the center and is discharged from the outer cylinder 20 via the drain pipe 25.

[0022] The de-cooled superheated steam (which may also include wet or dry steam) that flows into the outer channel Po flows from bottom to top through the outer channel Po and is discharged from the outer cylinder 20 via port 22. The discharged superheated steam flows through piping (not shown) and is supplied to downstream equipment.

[0023] <Effects> Of the mixed fluid ejected from the opening 11, droplets with a density greater than that of the superheated steam travel in a straight line and collide with and adhere to the bottom surface 21, while the superheated steam, which has a density less than that of the liquid, turns and heads towards the outer flow path Po. This allows the droplets to be separated from the superheated steam (inertial separation).

[0024] Furthermore, since the direction of droplet movement is directed downwards (i.e., the direction of droplet movement coincides with the direction in which gravity acts), the straightness of the droplets sprayed from the liquid supply unit 30 is increased, and the separation of the droplets from the superheated steam is promoted.

[0025] Furthermore, if precipitates generated by the evaporation of some droplets are transported by superheated steam, the transport direction in the outer channel Po will be against gravity, making it easier for the precipitates to fall. Therefore, the precipitates are less likely to scatter to downstream equipment.

[0026] [Second Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, the desuperheater 1 includes a receiving section 41 and a discharge section 42.

[0028] The receiving portion 41 is a part configured to receive droplets traveling along the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10 (the circumferential surface in contact with the inner flow path Pi). The receiving portion 41 is positioned near the open end 11 and is, for example, dish-shaped with an upward-facing opening. The shape of the receiving portion 41 is not particularly limited, as long as it is configured to receive droplets flowing down the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10. The receiving portion 41 may be integrally formed as part of the inner cylinder 10, or it may be a separate part from the inner cylinder 10.

[0029] The discharge section 42 is configured to guide the liquid received by the receiving section 41 to the outside of the outer cylinder 20. The discharge section 42 is, for example, a pipe with one end connected to the bottom of the dish-shaped receiving section 41. The other end of the pipe serving as the discharge section 42 is located outside the outer cylinder 20 and is connected to, for example, a drain pipe 25. This allows the liquid received in the receiving section 41 to be guided to the drain pipe 25 via the discharge section 42.

[0030] <Effects> The droplets flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder 10 will no longer drip from the inner surface of the inner cylinder 10, and consequently, the dripped liquid will be less likely to scatter. If droplets were to drip from the inner surface of the inner cylinder 10, there is a risk that the droplets would be carried away by the superheated steam and scatter. Furthermore, the receiving portion 41 reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path Pi along the flow direction of the mixed fluid, thereby accelerating the flow of the mixed fluid. This increases the straightness of the droplets and promotes the separation of the droplets from the superheated steam.

[0031] [Third Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the third embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a reduction section 43. The reduction section 43 is a portion configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path Pi along the flow direction of the mixed fluid. The reducing portion 43 is located near the open end 11 and may be, for example, a constriction as shown in Figure 3, or a frustoconical surface (tapered surface) as shown in Figure 4. The shape of the reducing portion 43 is not particularly limited, as long as it is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path Pi.

[0033] <Effects> Near the open end 11, the flow of the mixed fluid is accelerated. This increases the straightness of the droplets' movement and promotes the separation of the droplets from the superheated vapor.

[0034] [Fourth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0035] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the inner cylinder 10 of the desuperheater 1 has a plurality of sharpened portions 13. As shown in Figure 6, each pointed portion 13 is a piece with a downward-facing tip 13a. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the multiple sharpened portions 13 are provided along the lower end edge 12 of the inner cylinder 10. Preferably, the multiple sharpened portions 13 are provided continuously along the entire circumference of the lower end edge 12 of the inner cylinder 10.

[0036] <Effects> The liquid flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder 10 collects at the tips 13a of each pointed portion 13. This increases the size of the droplets dripping from the inner surface of the inner cylinder 10 (i.e., increases the mass of the droplets), which promotes the separation of the droplets from the superheated steam.

[0037] [Fifth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0038] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a swirling section 44. The swirling section 44 is configured to swirl the mixed fluid flowing through the inner channel Pi around the direction of flow. In this embodiment, the mixed fluid swirls around a central axis along the vertical direction. The swirling section 44 is located in the inner flow path Pi and is, for example, a plurality of vanes provided around the entire circumference along the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10. The lower end of each vane is in contact with, for example, the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20. The shape of the swirling section 44 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to swirl the mixed fluid. For example, it may be a spiral groove formed on the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10.

[0039] <Effects> Of the mixed fluid ejected from the open end 11, liquid droplets with a density greater than that of the superheated steam collide with and adhere to the inner surface of the outer cylinder 20 due to the inertial force generated by the swirling motion. This allows the droplets to be separated from the superheated steam. Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0040] [Sixth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0041] As shown in Figure 9, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a throttling section 45. The aperture portion 45 is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the inner flow path Pi to the outer flow path Po. Therefore, the aperture portion 45 functions as an aperture in the flow path. The throttling portion 45 is positioned in the flow path between the inner flow path Pi and the outer flow path Po (for example, the gap between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11), and is, for example, a porous member (a member with many holes formed therein). The shape and material of the throttling portion 45 are not particularly limited, as long as it is configured to reduce the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the inner flow path Pi to the outer flow path Po.

[0042] <Effects> The flow of the mixed fluid from the inner channel Pi to the outer channel Po is accelerated. This makes it easier for droplets to collide with and adhere to the inner surface of the outer cylinder 20, thereby promoting the separation of droplets from superheated steam. Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0043] [Seventh Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0044] As shown in Figure 10, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a return section 46. The return portion 46 is a part configured to receive droplets (droplets moving upwards) that travel along the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder 20. The return portion 46 is located in the outer flow path Po and is, for example, a plate-shaped portion extending from the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder 20 toward the center and toward downward. The shape of the return portion 46 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to receive droplets flowing along the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder 20.

[0045] <Effects> The liquid adhering to the inner surface of the outer cylinder 20 is less likely to scatter. If the return portion 46 were absent, there would be a risk of the liquid droplets being scattered by the superheated steam. Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0046] [Eighth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the eighth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0047] As shown in Figure 11, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a lower resistance section 47. The downward resistance section 47 is configured to provide resistance to the mixed fluid ejected from the open end 11 and directed toward the bottom surface 21. The lower resistance section 47 is positioned between the open end 11 and the bottom surface 21 in the vertical direction, and is, for example, a plate-shaped component made of a porous material (a material with many holes formed in it) or a porous material. The shape and material of the lower resistance section 47 are not particularly limited, as long as it is configured to provide resistance to the mixed fluid.

[0048] <Effects> The flow velocity of the mixed fluid decreases as it passes through the lower resistance section 47. As a result, the liquid in the region below the lower resistance section 47 is less likely to be torn apart by the vapor flow or the mixed fluid flow, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being scattered again.

[0049] <Variation> As shown in Figure 12, the desuperheater 1 may further include a lateral resistance section 48. The lateral resistance portion 48 is, for example, a cylindrical component extending upward from the periphery of a disc-shaped lateral resistance portion 48. The lateral resistance portion 48 is made of the same material as the lower resistance portion 47. By providing the lateral resistance portion 48, the liquid in the region outside the lateral resistance portion 48 is less likely to be torn apart by the influence of the vapor flow or the flow of the mixed fluid, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being scattered again.

[0050] [Ninth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the ninth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0051] As shown in Figure 13, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a packed bed 49. The packed layer 49 is a layer filled with multiple granular materials and is positioned on the bottom surface 21. In other words, the packed layer 49 is stacked on the bottom surface 21. Examples of granular materials include metal spheres, sand, and stones.

[0052] <Effects> The flow velocity of the mixed fluid decreases inside the packed bed 49. This makes it less likely for the vapor to collide with the liquid adhering to the bottom surface 21, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being scattered again.

[0053] [Tenth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the tenth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0054] As shown in Figure 14, it is equipped with two types of filters 51 and 52 with different mesh sizes. Filters 51 and 52 are components that remove droplets from superheated steam and are located in the outer flow path Po. Filter 52 has a finer mesh than filter 51 and is positioned downstream of filter 51 in the flow direction of the mixed fluid.

[0055] <Effects> Any remaining liquid (droplets) that could not be separated can be removed by filters 51 and 52. Furthermore, the use of two types of filters 51 and 52 allows for efficient capture of droplets, and prevents clogging caused by large droplets scattering onto the fine-mesh filter 52. Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0056] The desuperheater 1 may be equipped with one type of filter or three or more types of filters. When using multiple types of filters, the filters installed downstream should have finer mesh.

[0057] [Embodiment No. 11] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the 11th embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0058] As shown in Figure 15, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a collision section 53. The collision section 53 is a portion having multiple collision surfaces 53a that intersect in the flow direction of the mixed fluid, and is located in the outer flow path Po. In Figure 15, the collision section 53 is made up of multiple plates stacked horizontally with gaps between them. The plates are bent at multiple points, and each surface is a collision surface 53a. These collision surfaces 53a intersect the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing through the outer channel Po. Therefore, the mixed fluid attempting to travel in a straight line through the outer channel Po will collide with the collision surfaces 53a.

[0059] The collision portion 53 may also be placed in the flow path between the inner flow path Pi and the outer flow path Po (for example, the gap between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11). Furthermore, the collision portion 53 only needs to have a plurality of collision surfaces 53a that intersect in the flow direction of the mixed fluid, and its shape is not particularly limited.

[0060] <Effects> The impact section 53 is located outside the inner cylinder 10 and has multiple impact surfaces 53a that intersect in the flow direction of the mixed fluid, so that droplets collide with and adhere to the impact surfaces 53a. This allows the droplets to be separated from the superheated steam. Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0061] [Twelfth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to the 12th embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components identical to those in the desuperheater of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0062] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the desuperheater 1 is equipped with a meandering section 54. The meandering section 54 is a part configured to cause the flow of the mixed fluid flowing through the outer channel Po to meander. The meandering section 54 is located in the outer channel Po. The meandering section 54 is composed of, for example, a plurality of plate-like portions (not in contact with the inner cylinder 10) extending from the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder 20 toward the outer circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10, and a plurality of plate-like portions (not in contact with the outer cylinder 20) extending from the outer circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10 toward the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder 20, which are arranged alternately at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction. The shape of the meandering section 54 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to cause the flow of the mixed fluid flowing through the outer channel Po to meander.

[0063] <Effects> Of the mixed fluid flowing through the outer channel Po, droplets with a density greater than that of the superheated steam collide with and adhere to the outer surface of the inner cylinder 10 or the inner surface of the outer cylinder 20 during the meandering process, while the superheated steam, which has a density less than that of the liquid, continues downstream through the outer channel Po, albeit meandering. This allows the droplets to be separated from the superheated steam (inertial separation). Furthermore, even if the mixed fluid is brought into contact with the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20, there is a possibility that the droplets may not be completely separated, and this embodiment also serves as a countermeasure to that concern.

[0064] [Combinations of each example] The second to twelfth embodiments can be combined as appropriate. Examples of combinations of embodiments are shown in the table below. In the table, "OK" indicates that a combination is possible.

[0065] [Table 1]

[0066] [Other embodiments] Hereinafter, a desuperheater according to other embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0067] As shown in Figure 18, the desuperheater 1' comprises an inner cylinder 10, an outer cylinder 20, and a liquid supply unit 30.

[0068] The inner cylinder 10 is a cylindrical (for example, cylindrical or rectangular) portion that extends vertically and has an open lower end. The inner cylinder 10 defines the internal flow path Pi within itself. Since the inner cylinder 10 extends in the vertical direction, the internal flow path Pi also extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the inner cylinder 10 is an open end 11 bordered by a lower edge 12. This open end 11 serves as the entrance to the inner flow path Pi. At least a portion of the inner cylinder 10, including the open end 11 (in the case of Figure 1, the lower part of the inner cylinder 10), is housed in the outer cylinder 20.

[0069] The outer cylinder 20 is a cylindrical (e.g., cylindrical or rectangular) portion that extends vertically and has at least its lower end closed. The outer cylinder 20 defines an outer flow path Po between itself and the inner cylinder 10. Since both the outer cylinder 20 and the inner cylinder 10 extend in the vertical direction, the outer flow path Po also extends in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the outer flow path Po forms an annular shape around the inner cylinder 10. The lower end of the outer cylinder 20 is closed. The surface facing the open end 11 of the inner cylinder 10 in this closed portion is the bottom surface 21. A gap is provided between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11 (lower edge 12) in the vertical direction. This gap forms a channel connecting the inner channel Pi and the outer channel Po. The bottom surface 21 may be, for example, a conical surface that slopes downwards toward the center. The upper end of the outer cylinder 20 is configured to close the gap between it and the inner cylinder 10. A port 22 is provided on the uppermost side surface of the outer cylinder 20. The port 22 defines a flow path connecting the outer flow path Po to the outside of the outer cylinder 20. In Figure 18, the port 22 extends horizontally. Also, as shown in Figure 19, the port 22 is radially offset from the central axis of the cylindrical inner cylinder 10 and outer cylinder 20. This port 22 serves as the inlet for the outer flow path Po.

[0070] A drain pipe 25 is provided at the lower end of the outer cylinder 20. The drain pipe 25 is connected, for example, to the center (lowest part) of the conical base 21, defining a flow path that connects the inside and outside of the outer cylinder 20.

[0071] The liquid supply unit 30 is a device configured to spray liquid into the outer flow path Po. The liquid supply unit 30 has a nozzle 31 and a supply pipe 32. The nozzle 31 is the part that sprays the liquid and is located in the outer flow path Po. Preferably, the nozzle 31 is located in the upstream part of the outer flow path Po. Preferably, the nozzle 31 is configured to spray the liquid downwards. The supply pipe 32 is a pipe that penetrates the outer cylinder 20 and the inner cylinder 10 and supplies liquid to the nozzle 31 from outside the outer cylinder 20.

[0072] <Regarding the flow of superheated steam and liquids> Superheated steam supplied from an external source, before de-cooling, is guided to the outer flow path Po via port 22. The superheated steam that is introduced flows through the outer channel Po, swirling around the inner cylinder 10 from top to bottom.

[0073] The liquid supplied via the supply pipe 32 is sprayed from the nozzle 31 into the outer flow path Po. The sprayed liquid mixes with the superheated steam flowing through the outer channel Po. This lowers the temperature of the superheated steam.

[0074] Liquid droplets (liquid particles) with a density greater than that of the superheated steam in the outer flow path Po collide with and adhere to the inner surface of the outer cylinder 20 due to the inertial force generated by the swirling motion. This allows the droplets to be separated from the superheated steam (inertial separation). Furthermore, droplets of the mixed fluid flowing through the outer channel Po, which have a higher density than the superheated steam, travel in a straight line and collide with and adhere to the bottom surface 21 of the outer cylinder 20. On the other hand, the superheated steam, which has a lower density than the liquid in the ejected mixed fluid, turns to pass through the gap (flow channel) between the bottom surface 21 and the open end 11 and heads towards the inner channel Pi. This separates the droplets from the superheated steam (inertial separation).

[0075] In the inertial separation of mixed fluids, separation is facilitated by increasing the linearity of the droplets (for example, by increasing the droplet velocity). In this embodiment, the straight-line movement of the droplets is enhanced by directing the direction of liquid flow downwards (aligning the direction of liquid flow with the direction in which gravity acts). Furthermore, the straight-line movement of the droplets is further enhanced by spraying the liquid downwards.

[0076] The liquid adhering to the bottom surface 21 flows towards the center and is discharged from the outer cylinder 20 via the drain pipe 25.

[0077] The de-cooled superheated steam (or wet or dry steam) that flows into the inner channel Pi flows from bottom to top through the inner channel Pi and is discharged from the inner cylinder 10. The discharged superheated steam flows through piping (not shown) and is supplied to downstream equipment.

[0078] The desuperheater 1' according to this embodiment may be configured with at least one of the third embodiment or the seventh to twelfth embodiments.

[0079] In this case, the reduction section 43 is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the outer flow path Po along the flow direction of the mixed fluid. Furthermore, the throttling section 45 is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the outer flow path Po to the inner flow path Pi. Furthermore, the return portion 46 is configured to receive droplets (droplets moving upwards) that travel along the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder 10. Furthermore, the downward resistance section 47 is configured to provide resistance to the mixed fluid flowing toward the bottom surface 21. Furthermore, filters 51 and 52 are placed in the inner channel Pi. Furthermore, the collision section 53 is positioned in the inner flow path Pi. Furthermore, the meandering section 54 is positioned in the inner channel Pi.

[0080] [Note] The desuperheater according to this embodiment, as described above, can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0081] A desuperheater (1) according to a first aspect of the present disclosure comprises an inner cylinder (10), an outer cylinder (20), and a liquid supply unit (30), wherein the inner cylinder defines an inner flow path (Pi) through which superheated steam flows from top to bottom, and has an open end (11) as an outlet for the inner flow path from which the superheated steam is ejected, the liquid supply unit is configured to spray liquid into the inner flow path, the outer cylinder houses at least a part of the inner cylinder including the open end, has a bottom surface (21) below the open end and facing the open end, and defines an outer flow path (Po) between the outer surface of the inner cylinder through which at least the superheated steam flows from bottom to top, of the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end.

[0082] The inner cylinder defines an internal flow path through which superheated steam flows from top to bottom and has an open end as the outlet for the internal flow path from which the superheated steam is ejected. The liquid supply unit is configured to spray liquid into the internal flow path. The outer cylinder houses at least a portion of the inner cylinder, including the open end, and has a bottom surface below the open end that faces the open end. An external flow path is defined between the outer surface of the inner cylinder and the outer surface of the inner cylinder through which at least the superheated steam flows from bottom to top. As a result, among the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end, liquid (droplets) which are denser than the superheated steam travel straight and collide with and adhere to the bottom surface, while superheated steam which is less dense than the liquid turns and heads towards the external flow path. This allows the liquid to be separated from the superheated steam (inertial separation). Furthermore, because the direction of liquid flow is directed downwards (i.e., the direction of liquid flow coincides with the direction in which gravity acts), the straightness of the liquid sprayed from the liquid supply unit is increased, promoting the separation of the liquid from the superheated steam. Furthermore, if precipitates generated by the evaporation of some liquids are transported by superheated steam, the transport direction in the outer channel will be against gravity, making it easier for the precipitates to fall. Therefore, the precipitates are less likely to scatter to downstream equipment.

[0083] In the first embodiment, a desuperheater according to a second aspect of the present disclosure comprises a receiving portion (41) and a discharge portion (42), wherein the receiving portion is positioned near the open end of the inner cylinder and is configured to receive liquid flowing along the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder, and the discharge portion is configured to guide the liquid received by the receiving portion to the outside of the outer cylinder.

[0084] The receiving section is positioned near the open end of the inner cylinder and is configured to receive liquid flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder. The discharge section is configured to guide the liquid received by the receiving section to the outside of the outer cylinder. This allows the liquid flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder to be discharged to the outside. As a result, the liquid flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder will not drip from the inner surface of the inner cylinder, and consequently, any dripped liquid will be less likely to splash.

[0085] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to a third aspect of the present disclosure includes a reduction section (43), the reduction section being located near the open end of the inner cylinder and configured to reduce the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path in the direction of flow of superheated steam and liquid.

[0086] The reduction section is positioned near the open end of the inner cylinder and is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path along the flow direction of the superheated steam and liquid. As a result, the flow of the superheated steam and liquid is accelerated near the open end. This increases the straightness of the liquid's flow and promotes the separation of the liquid from the superheated steam.

[0087] In the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the desuperheater, in the first aspect, has an inner cylinder having a plurality of pointed portions (13) with downward-facing tips (13a) formed thereon, and the plurality of pointed portions are provided along the lower end edge (12) of the inner cylinder.

[0088] The inner cylinder has multiple pointed sections with downward-facing tips, and these pointed sections are arranged along the lower edge of the inner cylinder. As a result, the liquid flowing down the inner surface of the inner cylinder collects at the tips of each pointed section. This increases the size of the droplets dripping from the inner surface of the inner cylinder, promoting the separation of the liquid from the superheated steam.

[0089] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure includes a swirling section (44), the swirling section being positioned in the inner flow path and configured to swirl the superheated steam and liquid flowing through the inner flow path around the direction of flow.

[0090] The swirling section is positioned in the inner flow path and is configured to swirl the superheated steam and liquid flowing through the inner flow path around the direction of flow. As a result, the liquid (droplets) which are denser than the superheated steam, ejected from the opening end, collides with and adheres to the inner surface of the outer cylinder due to the inertial force generated by the swirling. This allows the liquid to be separated from the superheated steam.

[0091] In the first embodiment, a desuperheater according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure includes a throttling portion (45), the throttling portion being positioned between the inner flow path and the outer flow path, and configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the inner flow path to the outer flow path.

[0092] The throttling section is positioned between the inner and outer flow paths and is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the inner to the outer flow path, thereby accelerating the flow of superheated steam and liquid from the inner to the outer flow path. As a result, the liquid is more likely to collide with and adhere to the inner surface of the outer cylinder, promoting the separation of the liquid and superheated steam.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure includes a return portion (46), the return portion being positioned in the outer flow path and configured to receive the liquid flowing along the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder.

[0094] The return section is positioned in the outer flow path and is configured to receive the liquid flowing along the inner surface of the outer cylinder, thus preventing the liquid adhering to the inner surface of the outer cylinder from splashing.

[0095] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure includes a downward resistance portion (47), which is provided in the vertical direction between the open end of the inner cylinder and the bottom surface of the outer cylinder and is configured to provide resistance to superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end toward the bottom surface.

[0096] The lower resistance section is provided in the vertical direction between the open end of the inner cylinder and the bottom surface of the outer cylinder, and is configured to provide resistance to the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the open end and directed toward the bottom surface. As a result, the flow velocity of the superheated steam and liquid decreases as they pass through the lower resistance section. This makes it less likely for the liquid in the region below the lower resistance section to be torn apart by the steam flow or the flow of the mixed fluid, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being scattered again.

[0097] In the eighth embodiment, the desuperheater according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure includes a lateral resistance portion (48), the lateral resistance portion being positioned on the periphery of the lower resistance portion and configured to provide resistance to superheated steam and liquid flowing from the inner flow path to the outer flow path.

[0098] The lateral resistance section is positioned around the periphery of the lower resistance section and is configured to provide resistance to the superheated steam and liquid flowing from the inner flow path to the outer flow path. As a result, the flow velocity of the superheated steam and liquid decreases as they pass through the lateral resistance section. This makes it less likely for the liquid in the region outside the lateral resistance section to be torn apart by the steam flow or the flow of the mixed fluid, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being re-scattered.

[0099] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises a packed layer (49), the packed layer being disposed on the bottom surface and filled with a plurality of granular materials.

[0100] The packed bed is positioned above the bottom surface and is a layer filled with multiple granules. As a result, the flow velocity of superheated steam and liquid decreases inside the packed bed. This makes it less likely for the steam to collide with the liquid adhering to the bottom surface, thus reducing the likelihood of the liquid being scattered again.

[0101] In the first embodiment, the desuperheater according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure comprises at least one filter (51, 52) for removing liquid from superheated steam, the filter being located in the outer flow path.

[0102] Since the filter is located in the outer channel, it can remove any liquid (droplets) that could not be completely separated.

[0103] In the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the desuperheater, in the eleventh aspect, has a plurality of filters, with those installed downstream in the direction of flow of superheated steam and liquid having finer mesh.

[0104] Multiple filters are arranged so that those installed downstream in the direction of superheated steam and liquid flow have finer mesh, allowing for efficient capture of liquid droplets and preventing clogging caused by large liquid droplets scattering onto the finer-mesh filters.

[0105] In the first embodiment, a desuperheater according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes an impact section (53), the impact section being located outside the inner cylinder and having a plurality of impact surfaces (53a) intersecting the flow directions of the superheated steam and liquid.

[0106] The impact section is located outside the inner cylinder and has multiple impact surfaces that intersect the flow directions of the superheated steam and liquid, so that the liquid collides with and adheres to the impact surfaces. This allows the liquid to be separated from the superheated steam.

[0107] In the first embodiment, a desuperheater according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes a meandering section (54), the meandering section being located in the outer flow path and configured to cause the flow of superheated steam and liquid flowing through the outer flow path to meander.

[0108] The meandering section is located in the outer channel and is configured to cause the flow of superheated steam and liquid in the outer channel to meander. As a result, the liquid (droplets), which are denser than the superheated steam, collides with and adheres to the outer surface of the inner cylinder or the inner surface of the outer cylinder during the meandering process, while the superheated steam, which is less dense than the liquid, continues downstream in the outer channel while meandering. This allows for the separation of the liquid from the superheated steam (inertial separation).

[0109] In the desuperheater according to the 15th aspect of this disclosure, in any of the 1st to 14th aspects, the liquid supply unit is configured to spray the liquid in the same direction as the superheated steam flowing through the inner channel.

[0110] The liquid supply unit is configured to spray the liquid in the same direction as the superheated steam flowing through the inner channel, which increases the straightness of the liquid sprayed from the liquid supply unit and promotes the separation of the liquid from the superheated steam. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 1,1' desuperheater 10 Inner cylinder 11 Open end 12 Lower edge 13. Sharp section 13a Tip 20 Outer cylinder 21 Bottom 22 ports 25 Drain pipe 30 Liquid supply section 31 nozzles 32 Supply pipe 41 Receiving part 42 Discharge section 43 Reduced section 44 Swivel section 45 Aperture section 46 Return section 47 Lower resistance part 48 Lateral resistance section 49 Filled bed 51 Filters 52 Filters 53 Collision part 53a Collision surface 54. Meandering section Pi internal flow channel Po outer channel

Claims

1. Inner cylinder and Outer cylinder and Liquid supply unit, Equipped with, The inner cylinder is Define the inner flow path through which superheated steam flows from top to bottom. It has an open end that serves as the outlet for the inner flow path from which superheated steam is ejected, The aforementioned liquid supply unit is The internal channel is configured to spray liquid, The outer cylinder is, It accommodates at least a portion of the inner cylinder including the open end, It has a bottom surface below the open end that faces the open end, An outer flow path is defined between the outer surface of the inner cylinder and the outer surface of the cylinder, in which at least the superheated steam flows from below to above, among the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the aforementioned open end. Desuperheater.

2. Receiving part and, Discharge section, Equipped with, The receiving portion is, Displaced near the open end of the inner cylinder, It is configured to receive the liquid flowing along the inner surface of the inner cylinder, The aforementioned discharge section is The receiving portion is configured to guide the liquid received by the receiving portion to the outside of the outer cylinder. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

3. Equipped with a reduction section, The reduced portion is, Displaced near the open end of the inner cylinder, The system is configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner flow path along the flow direction of superheated steam and liquid. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

4. The inner cylinder has a plurality of pointed portions with downward-facing tips, Multiple of the aforementioned sharpened portions are provided along the lower edge of the inner cylinder. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

5. Equipped with a rotating section, The aforementioned rotating section is Arranged in the aforementioned inner channel, The system is configured to cause the superheated steam and liquid flowing through the inner channel to swirl around the direction of flow. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

6. Equipped with an aperture section, The aforementioned aperture portion is Displaced between the inner channel and the outer channel, The configuration is designed to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path from the inner flow path to the outer flow path. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

7. Equipped with a return section, The aforementioned return portion is Arranged in the outer channel, It is configured to receive liquid flowing along the inner surface of the outer cylinder. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

8. Equipped with a downward resistance section, The aforementioned lower resistance section is In the vertical direction, it is provided between the open end of the inner cylinder and the bottom surface of the outer cylinder, It is configured to provide resistance to the superheated steam and liquid ejected from the opening towards the bottom surface. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

9. Equipped with a lateral resistance section, The aforementioned lateral resistance portion is Displaced around the periphery of the lower resistance portion, It is configured to provide resistance to superheated steam and liquid flowing from the inner channel to the outer channel. The desuperheater according to claim 8.

10. Equipped with a packed bed, The aforementioned packed layer is Placed on the aforementioned bottom surface, It is considered to be a layer filled with multiple granular materials. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

11. It includes at least one filter to remove liquid from the superheated steam, The filter is located in the outer flow path. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

12. The filters have finer meshes, with those installed downstream in the direction of flow of superheated steam and liquid having finer meshes. The desuperheater according to claim 11.

13. Equipped with a collision section, The aforementioned collision part is Displaced outside the inner cylinder, It has multiple collision surfaces that intersect the flow direction of superheated steam and liquid. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

14. Equipped with a meandering section, The aforementioned meandering section is Arranged in the outer channel, The configuration is designed to cause the flow of superheated steam and liquid through the outer channel to meander. The desuperheater according to claim 1.

15. The liquid supply unit is configured to spray the liquid in the same direction as the superheated steam flowing through the inner channel. A desuperheater according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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