Exhaust gas aftertreatment device

The exhaust gas treatment system for large internal combustion engines addresses handling and reliability issues by using a parallel flow design with a bypass outlet and removable catalyst modules, achieving reduced pressure loss and simplified maintenance.

JP2026105825APending Publication Date: 2026-06-26ヴィンゲーデー リミテッド

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
ヴィンゲーデー リミテッド
Filing Date
2025-10-29
Publication Date
2026-06-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing exhaust gas treatment systems for large internal combustion engines, particularly those with two-stroke crosshead engines, face challenges in handling and reliability, often requiring complex modifications and risking leakage due to the need for multiple valves within the exhaust gas aftertreatment device.

Method used

The system features an elongated exhaust manifold with parallel catalyst units and a bypass outlet, allowing exhaust gases to flow in a single direction, reducing pressure drop and enabling a slim design with fewer valves, facilitating easy maintenance and retrofitting by using catalyst modules that can be inserted or removed.

Benefits of technology

This configuration reduces pressure loss, allows for a compact and lightweight design, enhances handling, and simplifies maintenance by eliminating the need for internal valves, while ensuring reliable exhaust gas treatment.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide an exhaust gas treatment system, an internal combustion engine, and a catalyst module that enable easy handling and reliable after-treatment. [Solution] The exhaust gas treatment device comprises an elongated exhaust manifold extending in the longitudinal direction L and having at least one inlet for exhaust gas from each cylinder. The exhaust gas treatment device comprises a catalyst vessel containing at least two SCR catalyst elements. The exhaust manifold is fluid-connectable to the catalyst vessel, and the exhaust gas flows through the catalyst elements. The catalyst elements are arranged in at least two units parallel to the direction of exhaust gas flow and capable of flowing in the same direction, and are arranged so as not to overlap at least completely in the direction of flow. The exhaust gas treatment device comprises a main outlet pipe located at a first longitudinal end and fluid-connectable to the catalyst vessel. The exhaust gas treatment device comprises a bypass outlet pipe located at a first longitudinal end and fluid-connectable to the elongated exhaust manifold.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an exhaust gas aftertreatment device for an internal combustion engine and an internal combustion engine.

[0002] The present invention preferably relates to an internal combustion engine such as a large ship, or a marine internal combustion engine, or a stationary engine having a cylinder inner diameter of at least 200 mm.

Background Art

[0003] The engine is preferably a two-stroke engine or a two-stroke crosshead engine. The engine can be a diesel engine, a gas engine, a dual-fuel engine or a multi-fuel engine. Combustion of liquid fuel and / or gaseous fuel in such an engine can be achieved as well as self-ignition or forced ignition.

[0004] The internal combustion engine can be a two-stroke engine scavenged in the longitudinal direction.

[0005] The term internal combustion engine also refers to a large engine that can operate not only in a diesel mode characterized by self-ignition of fuel, but also in an Otto mode characterized by forced ignition of fuel, or a mixed mode of these two. Furthermore, the term internal combustion engine specifically includes a dual-fuel engine and a large engine in which self-ignition of fuel is used for forced ignition of another fuel. Forced ignition can be achieved using a prechamber, a spark plug, and / or pilot fuel.

[0006] The engine speed is preferably less than 800 RPM, particularly for a four-stroke engine, and more preferably less than 200 RPM, particularly for a two-stroke engine, which indicates the name of a low-speed engine.

[0007] The fuel may be diesel oil or marine diesel oil, or heavy fuel oil, or emulsion or slurry, or methanol or ethanol, or gases such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied gasoline and gas (LPG), natural gas (NG), or gasoline and gas (PG).

[0008] Further feasible fuels include LBG (Liquefied Biogas), biofuels (e.g., oils made from algae or seaweed), ammonia, hydrogen, and synthetic fuels from CO2 (e.g., produced by power-to-gas or power-to-liquid).

[0009] Large vessels, specifically large cargo ships, are typically powered by internal combustion engines, specifically diesel and / or gas engines, mainly two-stroke crosshead engines.

[0010] Typically, exhaust gases from combustion processes need to be purified to comply with existing regulations, such as IMO Tier III.

[0011] Typically, IMO emission standards, known as Tier I...III standards, specify NOx emission standards for existing and new marine engines. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology is used to reduce the level of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the exhaust gases of combustion engines.

[0012] EP2527611A1 discloses an exhaust gas aftertreatment device for a large diesel engine, comprising an elongated exhaust manifold having multiple inlets and a catalytic converter vessel. The exhaust manifold and catalytic converter vessel are arranged substantially parallel to each other and, in each case, separated from each other by at least one longitudinally extending partition. During operation, the exhaust manifold is connected to the catalytic converter vessel via one or more orifices provided in the partition to guide exhaust gases through catalytic elements to their respective outlets.

[0013] The catalytic converter may contain two groups of catalysts arranged in parallel, with the catalyst flowing from the sides of the converter to the center. An additional orifice is present in the center of the partition, allowing the catalytic elements to bypass. The exhaust gas is supplied from the center of the catalytic converter to one or two turbochargers.

[0014] Each group of catalysts is required to reside within an individual orifice, each having its own valve.

[0015] Typically, an exhaust gas aftertreatment system must be installed between the cylinder and the turbocharger. The central outlet of the catalytic converter may create extra space and piping in the engine compartment. Replacing the aftertreatment system, or modifying an engine equipped with one, can be extremely difficult or even impossible.

[0016] In one alternative embodiment according to CN215907943U, the passage of exhaust gas through the catalyst occurs in only one flow direction. The catalytic elements may be arranged in an alternating configuration to compensate for high pressure drops. The catalyst vessel may include a manifold, and the exhaust gas may be guided directly from the exhaust manifold to the manifold, bypassing the catalyst. This configuration offers a compact design, but it carries a risk of leakage because various valves must be placed within the exhaust gas aftertreatment device. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0017] Patent Document 1 EP2527611A1 Patent Document 2 CN215907943U Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0018] The present invention is based on the problem of providing an exhaust gas treatment device, an internal combustion engine, and a catalyst module that at least partially avoid the drawbacks of prior art solutions and, in particular, achieve easy handling and reliable post-treatment. Means for Solving the Problems

[0019] According to a first aspect of the present invention, this object is achieved by the features of independent claim 1.

[0020] According to the present invention, the exhaust gas treatment device is for an internal combustion engine having at least two cylinders, preferably each with an inner diameter of at least 200 mm, specifically a dual-fuel internal combustion engine.

[0021] The exhaust gas treatment device comprises an elongated exhaust manifold that extends in the longitudinal direction and has at least one inlet for the exhaust gas from each cylinder, preferably one inlet per cylinder.

[0022] The at least two cylinders preferably have their axial directions parallel and are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0023] The plurality of inlets are preferably arranged adjacent to each other along the length of the exhaust manifold, thereby defining the direction of the elongated extension and thereby the longitudinal direction.

[0024] This longitudinal direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylinders.

[0025] The exhaust gas treatment device comprises a catalyst container containing at least two catalyst elements, specifically an SCR catalyst element.

[0026] The discharge manifold is fluidly connected to or can be fluidly connected to the catalyst container to enable the flow of exhaust gas from the discharge manifold through the catalyst element during operation.

[0027] The discharge manifold may be fluidly connected to or can be fluidly connected to the catalyst container near one of the longitudinal ends.

[0028] The catalyst elements are arranged in at least two units of the catalyst element. These units can flow in parallel and in the same flow direction by the exhaust gas.

[0029] When the exhaust gas is routed in parallel, the pressure drop may be reduced.

[0030] The flow direction preferably corresponds to the longitudinal direction.

[0031] Each unit contains at least one catalyst element. Each unit may contain at least two catalyst elements arranged in series and / or in parallel with respect to the flow direction.

[0032] This unit is arranged so as not to at least completely overlap in the flow direction. This unit preferably does not overlap in the flow direction.

[0033] This unit may be arranged such that while a first portion of the exhaust gas passes through the first unit, a second portion of the exhaust gas flows around at least a portion of the first unit and then enters the second unit.

[0034] The first unit and the second unit may be arranged such that their protrusions into the plane perpendicular to the flow direction overlap.

[0035] This allows for a slimmer design of the exhaust gas treatment system. As mentioned earlier, in the case of two units arranged in parallel, the width and / or height of the catalyst container must be shorter than the sum of the width and / or height of these units.

[0036] The slim design allows for a relatively narrower reactor housing width, resulting in reduced weight and less steel.

[0037] It is preferable that the catalyst container used is capable of flowing in only one direction.

[0038] The exhaust gas treatment device is equipped with a main outlet pipe that is fluid-connected to or fluid-connectable to a catalyst container.

[0039] The exhaust gas treatment device is fluid-connected to an elongated exhaust manifold, or comprises a fluid-connectable bypass outlet pipe. This bypass outlet pipe may be used for exhaust gases discharged from the exhaust gas treatment device without passing through catalytic elements.

[0040] The main outlet pipe is preferably located at the first longitudinal end of the exhaust gas treatment device, and more preferably at the opposite longitudinal end from where the fluid connection between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container is located. Thus, the exhaust gas may flow from one longitudinal end to the opposite longitudinal end as it passes through the catalyst container.

[0041] The bypass outlet pipe is preferably located at the first longitudinal end of the exhaust gas treatment device, where the main outlet pipe is located.

[0042] The main outlet pipe may be located at the end face of the catalyst container.

[0043] The bypass outlet pipe may be located at the end face of the discharge manifold.

[0044] Therefore, exhaust gas may be released from one end of the exhaust gas treatment device in the longitudinal direction.

[0045] The exhaust gas may be supplied to the turbocharger from this longitudinal end. In particular, this arrangement facilitates gas connection when an exhaust gas aftertreatment device is retrofitted to the combustion engine.

[0046] The exhaust manifold and the catalyst container are preferably arranged adjacent to each other and separated from each other by at least one partition. The exhaust manifold may be fluidly connected to the catalyst container via an orifice provided in at least one partition, or it may be fluidly connectable. Thus, the partition has one opening for guiding the exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold to the catalyst element.

[0047] During operation, exhaust gases may be guided through an orifice to a catalytic element and a main outlet pipe.

[0048] The orifice is preferably positioned close to one of the longitudinal ends of the elongated exhaust manifold, and more preferably at the other longitudinal end where the main outlet pipe and bypass outlet pipe are located. The exhaust gas may flow from one longitudinal end to the other as it passes through the catalytic converter.

[0049] In this application, "close to the longitudinal end" means that the distance to this longitudinal end is shorter than the distance between this longitudinal end and the entrance located closest to that longitudinal end.

[0050] Since all units can flow in parallel and in the same direction due to the exhaust gas, there is no longer any need for openings in the bulkheads.

[0051] The partition wall may be formed by a plate or sheet metal that separates the internal space of the discharge manifold from the internal space of the catalyst container. Alternatively, the discharge manifold and the catalyst container may each have walls that form the partition wall together.

[0052] A bypass outlet valve, preferably a butterfly valve, may be located in the bypass outlet pipe.

[0053] A main outlet valve, preferably a butterfly valve, may be located in the main outlet pipe.

[0054] Valves positioned in the pipes allow for reliable opening and closing, preventing the leakage of exhaust gases, especially bypassed exhaust gases.

[0055] The main outlet pipe and the bypass outlet pipe may preferably merge into the discharge line downstream of the bypass outlet valve and / or downstream of the main outlet valve. The main outlet pipe may be fluid-connected to or capable of fluid-connecting to a turbocharger.

[0056] Each unit is functionally arranged in parallel, but geometrically, each unit may be arranged sequentially.

[0057] At least the first unit may be positioned closer to the first side wall of the catalyst container than to the opposite side wall of the catalyst container, and a bypass passage for the first unit may be located between this first unit and the opposite side wall. At least the second unit may be positioned closer to the opposite side wall than to the first side wall, and a bypass passage for the second unit may be located between this second unit and the first side wall. When the first portion of the exhaust gas passes through the first unit, the second portion is guided through the bypass passage for the first unit before entering the second unit. When the first portion exits the first unit, it is guided through the bypass passage for the second unit.

[0058] Alternatively, at least the first unit may be positioned closer to the upper wall of the catalyst container than to the bottom wall, and a bypass passage for the first unit may be positioned between the first unit and the bottom wall, and at least the second unit may be positioned closer to the bottom wall than to the top wall, and a bypass passage for the second unit may be positioned between the second unit and the top wall.

[0059] Alternatively, a concentric arrangement is also possible, in which the bypass passage of the first unit is located within the first unit, the bypass passage of the second unit is located around the second unit, or vice versa.

[0060] At least one unit of the catalyst element may be arranged within a frame to form a catalyst module. This catalyst module may be insertable into or removable from the catalyst vessel, thereby facilitating handling during maintenance and catalyst element replacement.

[0061] The exhaust gas treatment device may include multiple catalyst modules, and these multiple catalyst modules may be arranged in series.

[0062] The exhaust gas treatment device comprises at least one catalyst module, wherein a first unit and a second unit of catalytic elements are arranged within a common frame. The first and second units of such a catalyst module are arranged within the frame such that they can flow in parallel and in the same direction of flow due to the exhaust gas. The first and second units are arranged in this catalyst module such that they do not completely overlap in the direction of flow.

[0063] The frame may provide spaces for the first and second units, as well as spaces for bypasses for the first unit and the second unit.

[0064] The first unit may be positioned closer to the first side wall defined by the frame than to the opposite side wall defined by the frame, and a bypass passage for the first unit may be located between the first unit and the opposite side wall. The second unit may be positioned closer to the side wall opposite to the first side wall, and a bypass passage for the second unit may be located between this second unit and the first side wall. The first side wall may be the left side wall or the right side wall, or the upper side wall or the lower side wall. Alternatively, the first unit and the second unit may be positioned concentrically within the frame.

[0065] The catalyst module may be assembled outside the catalyst container. This simplifies handling during maintenance and repair.

[0066] The exhaust gas treatment device may comprise multiple units, each consisting of a first unit and a second unit arranged in pairs within its respective frame, forming multiple catalyst modules. These modules may be arranged in series.

[0067] Individual catalyst modules may support each other within the catalyst container.

[0068] The catalyst vessel may comprise a housing having a support for guiding and supporting at least one catalyst module. The frame of at least one catalyst module may include a complementary profile for engaging with this support.

[0069] Preferably, all catalyst modules are guided and supported by the profile of the catalyst vessel.

[0070] The support preferably comprises at least one rail and / or at least one retaining rib. This at least one rail may extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0071] The catalyst module may be moved along its longitudinal direction on at least one rail until it reaches a desired position.

[0072] In this position, the catalyst module may be fixed to the retaining rib.

[0073] The frame may be provided with sealing for sealing against the housing of adjacent catalyst modules and / or catalyst containers.

[0074] Alternatively, a seal may be placed on the support.

[0075] The catalyst vessel may have a closable opening for inserting and removing a catalyst module. Specifically, this closable opening is located at a second longitudinal end opposite to a first longitudinal end, where the main outlet pipe and / or bypass outlet pipe are located.

[0076] The catalyst vessel may be equipped with a closing element such as a flap, door, or simply a lid for closing a closable opening.

[0077] Since the turbocharger may be located near the first longitudinal end, sufficient space is provided at the second longitudinal end for inserting and removing the catalytic converter module.

[0078] The catalyst container may include a mounting frame for securing a catalyst module within the catalyst container.

[0079] The mounting frame preferably includes a profile that complements the support for the catalyst vessel.

[0080] Several catalyst modules may be arranged in series. Each catalyst module may be secured by a mounting frame. Alternatively, a series of catalyst modules can be arranged in parallel, with the mounting frame securing only the last catalyst module to the catalyst container, thereby securing the entire series.

[0081] The mounting frame may be provided with fastening elements, preferably holes for screws, for connecting to the catalyst container, for example, retaining ribs, and / or to the frame of the catalyst module.

[0082] The mounting frame may include a seal, specifically a metal mesh seal, that seals the mounting frame to the catalyst container when the mounting frame is fixed in place. A sealing mat may be placed between the catalyst modules.

[0083] The catalyst vessel may include a stop element that is attached to or can be attached to a support and has a stop surface for contacting one of the frames. Preferably, this stop element has a profile that is complementary to the support of the catalyst vessel.

[0084] The stopping element preferably includes a fixing element for connecting to the catalyst container, and more preferably a hole for receiving a screw.

[0085] The catalyst container may comprise at least one catalyst module having a first unit and a second unit of catalyst elements, arranged in parallel within a common frame, specifically as described above, and the catalyst container may comprise at least one additional unit of catalyst elements, arranged downstream of this at least one catalyst module and configured so as not to bypass the additional unit.

[0086] The exhaust gas treatment device is advantageous to specifically include a connecting pipe located outside the exhaust manifold and / or catalyst container, and a mixing pipe specifically located at least partially inside the exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold is then fluid-coupled to the catalyst container via the connecting pipe, or may be fluid-coupled.

[0087] The connecting pipe may also be fluid-connected to, or capable of fluid-connecting to, a mixing pipe that protrudes at least partially into the discharge manifold.

[0088] During operation, exhaust gases may be guided through a mixing pipe, a connecting pipe, and then to the catalytic element and the main outlet pipe. An orifice is not required.

[0089] The mixing pipe may have an inlet for introducing a reducing agent such as urea, and its length may be set to ensure proper mixing of the reducing agent and exhaust gas. An active or passive mixing device may be placed inside the mixing pipe.

[0090] According to a second aspect of the present invention, this objective is achieved by an internal combustion engine. According to the present invention, the internal combustion engine comprises at least two cylinders, specifically up to eight cylinders, and preferably up to six cylinders, and at least one exhaust gas treatment device as described above.

[0091] The internal combustion engine may include a turbocharger that is fluid-connectable to or fluid-connected to the bypass outlet pipe and / or the main outlet pipe. The turbocharger may be fluid-connectable to or fluid-connected to the exhaust line, which itself is fluid-connectable to or fluid-connected to the bypass outlet pipe and / or the main outlet pipe.

[0092] Specifically, the turbocharger is located at the first longitudinal end of the exhaust gas treatment device, and the bypass outlet pipe and / or main outlet pipe may be connected to the exhaust gas treatment device.

[0093] According to a third aspect of the present invention, this objective is achieved by a catalyst module for insertion into the housing of the exhaust gas treatment device, as described above.

[0094] According to the present invention, the catalyst module comprises a frame, at least a first unit of catalytic elements, and at least a second unit of catalytic elements. The first and second units are arranged such that they can flow in parallel and in the same direction of flow by the exhaust gas. The first and second units are arranged in the catalyst module such that they do not completely overlap in the direction of flow.

[0095] The first and second units preferably include catalyst elements arranged in series and / or parallel, as described above.

[0096] As mentioned above, each unit is preferably placed within the catalyst module.

[0097] The catalyst module is preferably a catalyst module as described above, and specifically comprises a frame having a profile complementary to the support of the catalyst container housing.

[0098] Further advantageous aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to exemplary embodiments and figures. Functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numeral. The schematics in each figure are as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0099] [Figure 1] This is a schematic side view of the first example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 2] This is a schematic side view of a second example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram in perspective view of a third example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 4] This is a schematic top view of a third example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 5] This is a schematic top view of the fourth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 6] This is a schematic top view of a second example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 7]This is a detailed perspective view of the fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 8] This is a detailed perspective view of the fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 9] This is a detailed perspective view of the fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 10] This is a detailed perspective view of the fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 11] This is a detailed perspective view of the fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Figure 12] This is a schematic side view of the sixth example of an exhaust gas treatment device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0100] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, in a side view.

[0101] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 includes an elongated exhaust manifold 10 extending in the longitudinal direction L, and has five inlets 11 for exhaust gas from cylinders (not shown in each figure).

[0102] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 further comprises a catalyst container 20 which includes four catalyst modules 40 having catalyst units 23, 24 containing catalyst elements 21 (see Figure 5).

[0103] During use, all catalyst modules 40 flow in the same direction.

[0104] The exhaust manifold 10 is fluid-connectable to the catalyst container 20 to allow exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold 10 to flow through the catalyst element 21 in the catalyst module 40 during operation.

[0105] The discharge manifold 10 and the catalyst container 20 are positioned adjacent to each other and separated by a partition wall 30. The discharge manifold 10 is fluid-connected to, or can be fluid-connected to, the catalyst container 20 via an orifice 31 provided in at least one of the partition walls 30. The orifice 31 may be opened and closed using an orifice valve 34.

[0106] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 includes a main outlet pipe 2 located at the first longitudinal end 5 of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, which is fluid-connected to or can be fluid-connected to the catalyst container 20. The exhaust gas treatment device 100 further includes a bypass outlet pipe 32, also located at the first longitudinal end 5 of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, which is fluid-connected to or can be fluid-connected to the elongated discharge manifold 10.

[0107] A bypass outlet valve 33 is located in the bypass outlet pipe 32. A main outlet valve 6 is located in the main outlet pipe 2. Each valve may be, for example, a butterfly valve.

[0108] When the orifice valve 34 and the main outlet valve 6 are open, the exhaust gas may flow through the orifice 31 to the catalytic converter container 20 and through the catalytic converter module 40. The exhaust gas exits the catalytic converter container 20 via the main outlet pipe 2.

[0109] When the bypass outlet valve 33 is open, exhaust gases may exit the exhaust manifold 10 through the bypass outlet pipe 32. At the same time, when the orifice valve 34 is closed, all exhaust gases are guided through the bypass outlet pipe 32.

[0110] Valves 33, 34, and 6 may be controllable valves so that their opening degree can be set, and the percentage of exhaust gas passing through the orifice 31 and bypass pipe 32 can be controlled by a control unit.

[0111] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 may include control units (not shown in the figures) for setting valves 33, 34, and 6.

[0112] Downstream of the bypass outlet valve 33 and the main outlet valve 6, the bypass outlet pipe 32 and the main outlet pipe merge into the discharge line 7.

[0113] At the second lateral end 8, the catalyst container 20 is provided with a closable opening 28 for inserting and removing a catalyst module 40, which is guided on rails 22.1 within the catalyst container 40 (see Figure 7). This opening may be closed using a closing element 52, such as a sealing cap or a hinged door.

[0114] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a second example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, in a side view.

[0115] The exhaust manifold 10 is equipped with an inlet 11 for receiving exhaust gas and is connected to the catalyst container 20 via an orifice 31 provided in the partition wall 30 to guide the exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold 10 through the catalyst element 21 to the collection section 22 during operation.

[0116] The catalytic element 21 is arranged in two units 23 and 24 of the catalytic element 21, which are parallel to each other and can flow in the same flow direction F by the exhaust gas. The exhaust gas that enters the catalytic container 20 through the orifice 31 passes through either of the two units 23 or 24.

[0117] In this example, several catalyst elements 21 are arranged in series with respect to the flow direction F within a single unit 23, 24. Alternatively, the catalyst elements 21 may be arranged in parallel.

[0118] Figure 3 shows a perspective view detailing a third example of the exhaust gas aftertreatment device 100.

[0119] The first unit 23 is positioned closer to the first side wall 25 of the catalyst container 20 than to the opposite side wall 26 of the catalyst container 20.

[0120] A bypass passage 27 for the first unit is located between the first unit 23 and the opposite side wall 26.

[0121] Exhaust gas flowing in the flow direction F enters the first unit 23 or the bypass passage 27 of the first unit.

[0122] Figure 4 shows a top view detailing a third example of the exhaust gas aftertreatment device 100. The second unit 24 is positioned closer to the opposite side wall 26 of the catalyst container 20 than to the first side wall 25 of the catalyst container 20, and a bypass passage 29 for the second unit is positioned between the second unit 24 and the first side wall 25.

[0123] The exhaust gas exiting the bypass passage 27 of the first unit is guided to the second unit 24, and the exhaust gas that has passed through the first unit 23 enters the bypass passage 29 of the second unit.

[0124] The bypass passages 27 and 29 of the units allow for the parallel arrangement of units 23 and 24, which are arranged geometrically in series.

[0125] The catalyst units 23 and 24 are arranged geometrically in series, i.e., sequentially, but functionally in parallel. Therefore, the pressure drop along the flow direction is only slight compared to a functional arrangement in series.

[0126] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, along with cross-sectional views in plan views AA, BB, and CC, in a plan view.

[0127] In this example, the catalyst container 40 comprises three catalyst modules 40 arranged in series, each of which includes two catalyst units 23, 24 functionally arranged in parallel, as well as bypass passages 27, 29 for the first and second units, respectively.

[0128] Within each catalyst module 40, catalyst elements 21 are arranged in a pair of units 23 and 24. These units 23 and 24 are capable of flowing in parallel and in the same flow direction F by the exhaust gas. The units 23 and 24 are arranged so as not to overlap in the flow direction F.

[0129] The units 23 and 24 located within the catalyst module 40 contain six catalyst elements 21 arranged functionally in parallel.

[0130] Downstream of the three catalyst modules 40, an additional catalyst unit 51 containing catalyst elements 21 arranged in parallel is positioned so that the exhaust gas entering the catalyst container 40 through the orifice 31 cannot bypass this additional catalyst unit 51.

[0131] Figure 6 shows a schematic top view of an example of a combustion engine 1.

[0132] The catalyst vessel comprises two catalyst units 23 and 24 functionally arranged in parallel. In this example, each catalyst unit 23 and 24 contains a catalyst element 21 arranged in series.

[0133] In this example, the main outlet pipe 2 is located on the side wall 25 of the catalyst container 20. The main outlet pipe 2 and the bypass outlet pipe 32 merge into an exhaust line 7, which is fluidly connected to a turbocharger 3 located adjacent to the side wall 25 of the catalyst container 20.

[0134] Alternatively, the turbocharger 3 may be arranged in parallel with the first longitudinal end 5 of the catalyst container 20.

[0135] Figure 7 shows a perspective view detailing the fifth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100.

[0136] The catalyst container 20 includes a support 22 having rails 22.1 for guiding the catalyst module 40.

[0137] Each catalyst module 40 comprises a frame 41 and catalyst elements 21 arranged in units 23 and 24 (see the figures above).

[0138] The frame 41 has a profile complementary to the support 22 of the catalyst container 20. The frame 41 may be guided along the rail 22.1.

[0139] The frame 41 may be fixed to the profile 22 of the catalyst container 20 with the help of the mounting frame 43.

[0140] Figure 8 shows a perspective view detailing a fifth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100.

[0141] The mounting frame 43 is fixed to the catalyst container 20 using screws 46.

[0142] Figure 9 shows a perspective view detailing a fifth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100.

[0143] The mounting frame 43 includes a profile 44 that is complementary to the support 22 of the catalyst container 20.

[0144] The mounting frame 43 is provided with holes 45 for receiving retaining ribs 22.2 of the catalyst container 20 and fixing elements 46 for connecting to the frame 41 of the catalyst module 40.

[0145] Figure 10 shows a perspective view detailing a fifth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100.

[0146] The mounting frame 43 is further equipped with a sealing 47.

[0147] Figure 11 shows a perspective view detailing a fifth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100.

[0148] The catalyst container 20 (see the figures above) includes a stopping element 48 having a stopping surface 49.

[0149] The stopping element 48 is fixedly attached to the rail 22.1 of the catalyst container 20. The catalyst module 40 may be pushed along the rail 22.1 and then come into contact with the stopping surface 49.

[0150] The stopping element provides the precise position of the catalyst module 40 within the catalyst container 20 and ensures a predetermined distance between each module.

[0151] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram of the sixth example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100, in a side view.

[0152] For example, instead of the orifice 31 shown in Figure 1, this example of the exhaust gas treatment device 100 includes a connecting pipe 53 for fluidly connecting the exhaust manifold 10 and the catalyst container 20.

[0153] Since the fluid connection via the connecting pipe 53 is located outside the discharge manifold 10 and catalyst container 20, more catalyst modules 40 can be placed inside the catalyst container 20 of a given length. In principle, an internal connecting pipe 53 is also conceivable (not shown).

[0154] The connecting pipe 53 is fluid-connected to, or can be fluid-connected to, the mixing pipe 54 that protrudes into the discharge manifold 10.

[0155] Valves not shown in the diagram may be located within the mixing pipe 54, within the connecting pipe 53, or between the mixing pipe 54 and the connecting pipe 53, and these valves have the same function as the orifice valve 34 in each of the examples described above (see, for example, Figure 1).

[0156] The mixing pipe 54 may have at least one inlet 55 for introducing a reducing agent such as urea. This reducing agent may be mixed with the exhaust gas in the mixing pipe 54 on its way to the catalyst units 23, 24, and specifically includes an SCR catalyst. The length of the mixing pipe 54 is set to allow sufficient mixing time.

Claims

1. An exhaust gas treatment device (100) for an internal combustion engine (1) having at least two cylinders, preferably each having a bore diameter of at least 200 mm, specifically for a dual-fuel internal combustion engine, - An elongated exhaust manifold (10) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) and having at least one inlet (11) for exhaust gas from each cylinder, - A catalyst vessel (20) comprising at least two catalyst elements (21), specifically SCR catalyst elements, wherein during operation, the exhaust manifold (10) is fluidly coupled to or can be fluidly coupled to the catalyst vessel (20) to allow the flow of exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold (10) through the catalyst elements (21), and the catalyst vessel (20) is arranged within at least two units (23, 24) of the catalyst elements (21), the units being fluidizable by the exhaust gas in parallel and in the same flow direction (F) Equipped with, The units (23, 24) are arranged such that they do not overlap at least completely in the flow direction (F). The exhaust gas treatment device (100) is preferably located at the first longitudinal end (5) of the exhaust gas treatment device and is fluidly connected to the catalyst container (20), or has a main outlet pipe (2) to which it can be fluidly connected. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) is preferably located at the first longitudinal end (5) of the exhaust gas treatment device and is fluidly connected to the elongated discharge manifold (10), or is equipped with a bypass outlet pipe (32) to which it can be fluidly connected. An exhaust gas treatment device (100) characterized by the above.

2. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the exhaust manifold (10) and the catalyst container (20) are arranged adjacent to each other and separated from each other by at least one partition wall (30), and the exhaust manifold (10) is fluidly connected to or can fluidly connect to the catalyst container (20) via an orifice (31) provided in the at least one partition wall (30).

3. An exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a bypass outlet valve (33), preferably a butterfly valve, is disposed within the bypass outlet pipe (32).

4. An exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a main outlet valve (6), preferably a butterfly valve, is disposed within the main outlet pipe (2).

5. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main outlet pipe (2) and the bypass outlet pipe (32) preferably merge into the discharge line (7) downstream of the bypass outlet valve (33) and / or downstream of the main outlet valve (6).

6. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the units (23, 24) include a catalyst element (21) arranged in series and / or in parallel with respect to the flow direction (F).

7. - At least the first unit (23) is positioned closer to the first side wall (25) of the catalyst container (20) than to the opposite side wall (26) of the catalyst container (20), and the bypass passage (27) of the first unit is positioned between the first unit (23) and the opposite side wall (26), - An exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least a second unit (24) is positioned closer to the opposite side wall (26) than to the first side wall (25), and a bypass passage (29) of the second unit is positioned between the second unit (24) and the first side wall (25).

8. An exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one unit (23, 24) of a catalytic element (21) is arranged within a frame (41) and thus forms a catalytic module (40).

9. The exhaust gas treatment device comprises at least one catalyst module (40), and a first unit (23) and a second unit (24) of a catalyst element (21) are arranged on a single common frame (41). The first unit (23) and the second unit (24) are arranged on the frame (41) such that they can flow in parallel and in the same flow direction (F) by the exhaust gas. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 8, wherein the first and second units (23, 24) are arranged within the catalyst module (40) such that they do not completely overlap in the flow direction (F).

10. The catalyst container (20) comprises a housing having a support (22) for guiding and supporting at least one catalyst module (40), and the frame (41) of the at least one catalyst module (4) includes a complementary profile (42) for engaging with the support (22). Preferably, the exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the support (22) comprises at least one rail (22.1) and / or retaining rib.

11. The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the catalyst container (20) is provided with a closable opening (28) for inserting and removing the catalyst module (40), specifically located at a second longitudinal end (8) opposite to the first longitudinal end (5).

12. The catalyst container (20) comprises at least one catalyst module (40) having a first unit (23) and a second unit (24) of a catalyst element (21) arranged within a common frame (41), The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, specifically, any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the catalyst container (20) comprises at least one additional unit (51) of catalyst element (21) positioned downstream of the at least one catalyst module (40) and configured so as not to bypass the additional unit (51).

13. The discharge manifold (10) is fluidly connected to the catalyst container (20) via a connecting pipe (53), or is fluidly connectable, and specifically is located outside the discharge manifold (10) and / or the catalyst container (20), The exhaust gas treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the connecting pipe (53) is fluidly connected to or can be fluidly connected to a mixing pipe (54) that protrudes into the discharge manifold (10) and has an inlet 55 for introducing a reducing agent.

14. An internal combustion engine (1) comprising at least two cylinders, specifically up to eight cylinders, preferably up to six cylinders, and at least one exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The internal combustion engine (1) according to claim 14, comprising a turbocharger (3) that is fluid-connectable to or fluid-connected to the bypass outlet pipe (32) and / or the main outlet pipe (2) and / or the exhaust line (7), specifically, the turbocharger (3) is located at the first longitudinal end (5) of the exhaust gas treatment device (100).

16. A catalyst module (40) for insertion into the housing of an exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a frame (41), at least a first unit (23) of a catalyst element (21), and at least a second unit (24) of a catalyst element (21) Equipped with, The first unit (23) and the second unit (24) are arranged so that they can flow in parallel and in the same flow direction (F) by the exhaust gas. A catalyst module (40) in which the first and second units (23, 24) are arranged within the catalyst module (40) such that they do not completely overlap in the flow direction (F).