Distributor and buffer tank equipped with same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a buffer tank installed in an air conditioning system of a data center and a distributor provided in the buffer tank. The buffer tank comprises: a case that has a first space formed therein and an inlet through which fluid flows into the first space from the outside, wherein a first surface, which is one of the surfaces surrounding the first space, is at least partially open; a first wall portion that covers the open first surface and has a plurality of first through-holes; and a second wall portion that is formed, inside the case, in a direction intersecting the first surface, and divides the first space into a first region and a second region. The first region is a region surrounded by the second wall portion, and the second region is a region outside the second wall portion. Accordingly, the present invention provides the effect of preventing the destruction of a thermocline and thus sufficiently satisfying the time required for stratification.

Description

Distributor and buffer tank equipped therewith

[0001] The present invention relates to a buffer tank provided in an air conditioning system of a data center and a distributor provided in the buffer tank.

[0002] In the air conditioning system of a data center, it is important for the buffer tank, which continuously supplies chilled water to the heat exchanger during the time until the emergency power is restarted after a power outage or other abnormal operating conditions, and during the time until the water in the chiller becomes chilled after the emergency power is restarted, to suppress the temperature rise of the tank outlet pipe for a certain period of time required under abnormal operating conditions.

[0003] Referring to Fig. 1, a data center is essential to have an air conditioning system to keep the servers below an appropriate temperature. Here, the air conditioning system cools the hot air in the server room (100) using chilled water. At this time, the water heated through heat exchange with the air is cooled through a chiller (400) provided in the air conditioning system, and then moves to the heat exchanger (200) of the server room (100) and circulates. The air conditioning system is equipped with a buffer tank (300) separately from the chiller (400). The buffer tank (300) is installed for the purpose of supplying chilled water to the heat exchanger (200) of the server room (100) in the event that the chiller (400) stops due to an unexpected power outage.

[0004] Figure 1 (a) illustrates a normal operation. During normal operation, cold water supplied from the cooler (400) flows in and is stored in the internal space of the buffer tank (300), and at the same time, the stored cold water constantly serves as an intermediary that is supplied again to the heat exchanger (200). Alternatively, when the cooler (400) is in operation, cold water is periodically supplied to and discharged from the buffer tank (300), so that the water in the internal space of the buffer tank (300) is maintained at the same temperature as the cold water.

[0005] Figure 1 (b) illustrates an abnormal operation. During abnormal operation, the cooler (400) stops and is restarted by the emergency power generator (500) after a certain period of time. However, immediately after restarting, the cooler (400) cannot supply cold water as in normal operation. That is, high temperature water may be supplied to the heat exchanger (200) for a short period of time after restarting. At this time, hot water must be supplied to the buffer tank (300). Therefore, time is required for the buffer tank (300) to discharge cold water without passing through the cooler (400). If this time is defined as the stratification requirement time, the stratification requirement time is the sum of the time from the power outage until the emergency power is restarted and the time from the restart until the water in the cooler (400) becomes cold water. Sufficient stratification requirement time is an essential function required for the buffer tank (300).

[0006] As high temperature water, i.e. hot water, flows in through the inlet pipe of the buffer tank (300), and cold water, which has a relatively low temperature, flows out through the outlet pipe of the buffer tank (300), the hot water and cold water form upper and lower temperature separation layers inside the buffer tank (300) and are stratified. As time passes, the inflow of hot water causes the cold water to decrease. Therefore, due to the inflow of hot water, a water flow, i.e. a streamline, is formed inside the buffer tank (300). If hot water with a high flow rate mixes with cold water that is still at rest, there is a high possibility that the temperature separation layer will be destroyed, causing the temperature of the cold water to rise, or that the hot water will leak out even though there is still sufficient cold water remaining inside the buffer tank (300). In other words, the buffer tank (300) cannot satisfy the stratification requirement time.

[0007] A buffer tank capable of sufficiently providing such stratification requirements and a distributor equipped therewith are required.

[0008] (Patent Document 1) KR 10-2424334 B1 (2022.07.19)

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a distributor capable of preventing destruction of a water temperature separation layer and a buffer tank having the distributor can be provided.

[0010] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to the above-described scope. Those skilled in the art will have no difficulty understanding the additional objectives of the present invention from the overall content of this specification.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a distributor for a buffer tank comprises: a case in which a first space is formed, at least a portion of a first surface, which is one of surfaces surrounding the first space, is open, and includes an inlet for introducing fluid into the first space from the outside; a first wall portion covering the open first surface and having a plurality of first through holes; and a second wall portion connected to the inlet portion and extending inside the case in a direction intersecting the first surface, the second wall portion dividing the first space into a first region and a second region, the first region being a region surrounded by the second wall portion, and the second region being a region outside the second wall portion.

[0012] Additionally, it may include a first flow path that is connected to the inlet and intersects the second wall portion.

[0013] In addition, the case includes a second surface intersecting the first surface and not in contact with the second wall portion, and a third surface intersecting the second surface and not in contact with the first surface and the second wall portion, and is connected to the first flow path, and a fluid introduced through the inlet can flow into the second region through a second flow path formed between the second wall portion and the second surface.

[0014] In addition, it may include a third wall portion that forms a second space that does not overlap with the first space and extends in a direction intersecting the first wall portion, and a fourth wall portion that is parallel to the first wall portion and intersects the third wall portion and includes a plurality of second through holes.

[0015] Additionally, it may include a protruding guide that is not positioned on the second space and extends from the third wall portion.

[0016] Additionally, the size of the second through hole may be smaller than that of the first through hole.

[0017] Additionally, the volume of the second space may be formed smaller than that of the first space.

[0018] Additionally, at least one of the first wall portion or the fourth wall portion may be a plate perforated at regular intervals.

[0019] Additionally, a fluid pipe connected to the inlet port and through which fluid is introduced or withdrawn from the outside may be formed integrally with the case.

[0020] In addition, the fluid flowing in from the inlet passes through the first space to the second space through the second flow path formed between the first flow path and the second flow path connected to the first flow path, the second wall portion and the second surface included in the case, intersecting the first surface and not in contact with the second wall portion, and the fluid in the second region forms a first flow like a vortex, and in the second space, the fluid forms a second flow parallel to the first wall portion toward the fourth wall portion, and the fluid can be discharged by passing through the fourth wall portion.

[0021] A buffer tank installed in an air conditioning system of a data center according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a cylindrical storage container storing fluid therein, and a distributor for the buffer tank according to any one of claims 1 to 10 connected to an inlet pipe connecting the inside and the outside of the storage container.

[0022] Additionally, the fluid discharged from the distributor may be arranged to face the inner wall of the storage container.

[0023] Additionally, at least one fluid shielding plate may be provided inside the storage container.

[0024] Additionally, a distributor for a buffer tank connected to an outlet pipe that connects the inside and outside of the storage container and through which the fluid of the buffer tank is discharged, and a distributor for another buffer tank connected to the inlet pipe and in which the fluid flow inside the distributor is opposite may be included.

[0025] In addition, if the storage container is a cylinder having a first diameter and a first height, and a first direction is defined as a direction parallel to the first height of the cylinder and a second direction intersecting the first direction, the flow shielding plate may extend in the second direction by 60 to 90% of the first diameter.

[0026] Additionally, a plurality of the fluid shielding plates may be arranged at positions that evenly divide the first height.

[0027] In addition, a distributor for the buffer tank is connected to the inlet pipe and the distributor for another buffer tank in which the fluid flow inside the distributor is opposite, and the distributor is connected to the outlet pipe through which the fluid of the buffer tank is discharged, and the distributor is connected to the inside and outside of the storage container.

[0028] A plurality of the above flow shielding plates are provided, and when comparing the distance between the flow shielding plates that are closest in the first direction among the plurality of flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container or the distance between the flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container, the distance between the flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container may be greater than the distance between the flow shielding plates.

[0029] Additionally, the length of the plurality of flow shielding plates in the second direction may gradually decrease in order from the inlet pipe to the flow shielding plate that is closer to the first direction.

[0030] The present invention provides an effect of sufficiently satisfying the stratification requirement time by lowering the flow rate of hot water when the fluid entering from the inlet pipe is hot water in order to suppress the temperature rise of the outlet pipe of the buffer tank under abnormal operating conditions such as a power outage, thereby preventing the destruction of the water temperature separation layer inside the tank.

[0031] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a data center air conditioning system, where (a) shows a normal operation state and (b) shows an abnormal operation state.

[0032] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a vertical buffer tank equipped with a conventional fluid shielding plate.

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a horizontal buffer tank equipped with a conventional fluid shielding plate.

[0034] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a distributor for a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion AA' of a distributor for a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view of a BB' portion of a distributor for a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view of a BB' portion of a distributor for a buffer tank according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 is a flow diagram of a case where fluid flows in the same cross-section as Figure 5.

[0039] Figure 8a is a schematic diagram of a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8b is a schematic diagram of a buffer tank according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram (a) of a buffer tank without a conventional fluid barrier plate and (b) a drawing showing the fluid flow and pressure distribution inside the tank over time.

[0042] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram (a) of a buffer tank equipped with a conventional fluid barrier plate and (b) a drawing showing the fluid flow and pressure distribution inside the tank over time.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram (a) of the flow of fluid inside a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention and (b) a diagram showing the flow of fluid inside the tank over time.

[0044] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram (a) of a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention and a drawing (b) showing the fluid flow inside the tank over time.

[0045] Fig. 13 is a graph comparing the temperature change over time in the outlet pipe of the tank illustrated in (a) of Fig. 9, Fig. 10, and Fig. 12.

[0046] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. However, the embodiments of the present invention may be modified in various other forms, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0047] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more completely explain the present invention to a person having average knowledge in the relevant technical field.

[0048] The shape and size of elements in the drawing may be exaggerated for clearer explanation.

[0049] In describing the embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention is judged to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the terms described below are terms defined in consideration of their functions in the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intention or custom of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions should be made based on the contents throughout this specification. The terminology used in the detailed description is only for the purpose of describing the embodiments of the present invention and should in no way be limiting. Unless clearly defined otherwise, expressions in the singular form include plural meanings.

[0050] In this description, expressions such as "including" or "having" are intended to indicate certain features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, portions or combinations thereof, and should not be construed to exclude the presence or possibility of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, portions or combinations thereof other than those described.

[0051] Unless otherwise specified in the specification of the present invention, the % unit means weight %.

[0052] In this specification, terms such as 'top', 'upper part', 'top surface', 'bottom', 'lower part', 'bottom', 'side', etc. are based on the drawings, and in reality, they may vary depending on the direction in which the elements or components are arranged.

[0053] Additionally, throughout the specification, when we say that a part is 'connected' to another part, this includes not only cases where it is 'directly connected', but also cases where it is 'indirectly connected' with other elements in between.

[0054] Below, the present invention will be described in detail through each embodiment or example of the present invention. It should be noted that each embodiment or example described in this specification is not limited to a single embodiment or example, but may be combined with other embodiments or examples. Therefore, the citation of a claim in the patent claims is only an example of an embodiment, and the technical concept of the present invention should not be interpreted solely as a combination with the cited claim, and combinations with various claims also fall within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 illustrates a buffer tank having a fluid shielding plate inside for a stratification function.

[0056] This is a schematic diagram of a commercial buffer tank (301) having a fluid blocking plate (330) vertically installed in the center of a vertically positioned buffer tank (301) and having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, or an inlet pipe (310) and an outlet pipe (320) on the upper left and right sides.

[0057] The fluid entering the inlet pipe (310) descends along the flow shield plate (330), then rises and then exits through the outlet pipe (320). At this time, if the location of the inlet pipe (310) is as shown in the figure, the upper part of the inlet pipe (310) and the lower part of the tank are unrelated to the flow of the fluid, so there are stagnant flow regions (A1, A2, A3) where the velocity is very slow or eddies occur. At this time, the hot water quickly descends due to gravity, and the flow velocity slows down as it rises in the direction opposite to gravity. Therefore, gravity increases the stagnant flow region of the descending region (A2) and decreases the stagnant flow region (A1, A3) of the rising region. In particular, when the flow velocity is fast, only heat conduction with the hot water occurs in the cold water in the stagnant flow regions (A1, A2, A3), so the actual volume within the tank that is responsible for the cooling function of the buffer tank (300) is likely to decrease.

[0058] Figure 3 illustrates a conventional buffer tank in which flow shields are installed horizontally and are arranged vertically in an alternating manner to divide the tank volume into three equal parts.

[0059] This is a schematic diagram of a buffer tank (302) having a water inlet pipe (310) and an outlet pipe (320) on the lower left and right sides.

[0060] When the incoming fluid is hot water, the hot water slowly rises along the first flow blocking plate (330), then quickly descends in the area between the first and second flow blocking plates (330), slowly rises in the area between the second and third flow blocking plates (330), and then quickly descends along the third flow blocking plate (330) and exits through the outlet pipe (320). That is, a fluid flow that repeats up and down is formed. In this case as well, stagnant flow regions (A4, A5, A6, A7) exist due to the positions of the inlet pipe (310) and the outlet pipe (320) and gravity. In particular, although the volume within the tank between the third flow blocking plate (330) and the outlet pipe (320) is the largest, the stagnant flow region (A7) is likely to be the largest because the flow velocity is high due to gravity.

[0061] Therefore, a problem also arises in that it may become practically difficult to provide a sufficient amount of fluid, which is one of the important roles of the buffer tank.

[0062] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail through examples. However, it should be noted that the examples described below are intended only to illustrate and concretize the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This is because the scope of the invention is determined by the matters set forth in the patent claims and matters reasonably inferred therefrom.

[0063] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a distributor provided in a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of a distributor provided in a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] A distributor (350) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a case (10), a first wall portion (20), and a second wall portion (30).

[0065] The case (10) includes a first space (S1) formed therein and one or more surfaces surrounding the first space (S1), a first surface (11) of which at least a portion of the one or more surfaces is open, and an inlet (E) through which a fluid is introduced into the first space (S1) from the outside.

[0066] For example, the case (10) may have a first space (S1) formed therein as an empty space, and may have a polyhedral shape surrounding the first space (S1).

[0067] For example, let's explain based on a hexahedron among polyhedron shapes. Among the six faces forming a hexahedron, based on one face, the first face (11), the four faces intersecting the first face (11) can be defined as the second face (12), and the third face (13), which is a parallel face that does not intersect the first face (11), can be defined. However, a polyhedron is not limited to a hexahedron, and may be a shape that includes a face forming a curved surface, and includes all shapes that can be easily deformed by a person skilled in the art.

[0068] The first wall portion (20) covers the open first surface (11) and has a plurality of first through holes (22).

[0069] The first wall portion (20) may cover the open portion of the first surface (11), and may include, for example, a cover surface (21) parallel to the third surface (13) and a through hole. The cover surface (21) covers at least the open portion of the first surface (11), and may cover the first surface (11) beyond the open portion for ease of manufacturing and joining.

[0070] For example, the cover surface (21) may have a step (23). This may provide convenience in joining the case (10) and the cover surface (21). Alternatively, it may provide an effect in which the fluid passing through the first through hole (22) flows along the wall surface without flowing backward while moving to the second space (S2) described below.

[0071] For example, the first wall portion (20) may be a plate formed by punching holes at regular intervals to form first through-holes (22). For manufacturing convenience, the first wall portion (20) may be a plate formed by punching holes at regular intervals. In addition, when formed of a metal plate, processing may be easier since a plurality of first through-holes (22) are processed through a single process.

[0072] The second wall portion (30) is formed inside the case (10) in a direction intersecting the first surface (11) without touching the inlet (E), and divides the first space (S1) into a first region (D1) and a second region (D2).

[0073] The second wall portion (30) is located within the first space (S1), which is a space divided by the case (10), and can divide the first space (S1) into a first region (D1) and a second region (D2). The first space (S1) is a region directly connected to the inlet (E), and fluid can move from the inlet (E) to the second region (D2) and the first region (D1).

[0074] For example, the second wall portion (30) may extend in a direction intersecting the first surface (11) without contacting the second surface (12). In addition, it may be positioned with a certain gap (G) from the third surface (13) so as to move from the first region (D1) to the second region (D2) through the gap (G).

[0075] Among the first region (D1) and the second region (D2) of the first space (S1), the first region (D1) may be an inner region surrounded by the second wall (30), and the second region (D2) may be an outer region of the second wall (30), which is a space other than the first region (D1) in the first space (S1) and is an region between the second wall (30) and the second surface (12) of the case (10).

[0076] The fluid drawn in through the inlet (E) undergoes a change in its flow as it passes through the second region (D2), and in the first region (D1), the fluid moves to a relatively wide region, significantly slowing down its flow velocity. In addition, in the second region (D2), a flow that rotates like a whirlpool occurs internally, rapidly reducing the energy of the high-speed fluid drawn in through the inlet (E).

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it may include a first flow path (14) that is connected to the inlet (E) and intersects with the second wall portion (30).

[0078] For example, the first flow path (14) may form a constant surface, and the second wall portion (30) may intersect the virtual surface defined by the first flow path (14).

[0079] The second wall portion (30) may be extended to be in contact with the first wall portion (20). In addition, the first flow path (14) may be connected to the inlet (E) and surrounded by a portion of the second wall portion (30), and may be formed as a flow path that intersects the second wall portion (30) by being formed along the second surface (12).

[0080] For example, a fluid introduced into the inlet (E) in the shape of a ring can flow in two directions when it meets the first flow path (14).

[0081] As the fluid flows through the first flow path (14), the direction of the fluid introduced through the inlet (E) is changed and the velocity is initially reduced. As the fluid flows along the first flow path (14), the fluid has a rotating flow.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the case (10) includes a second surface (12) that intersects the first surface (11) and does not contact the second wall portion (30), and a third surface (13) that intersects the second surface (12) and does not contact the first surface (11) and the second wall portion (30). In addition, the case (10) may include a second passage (15) that is connected to the first passage (14) and formed between the second wall portion (30) and the second surface (12). A fluid introduced through the inlet (E) may flow to the second region (D2) while passing through the second passage (15).

[0083] The first flow path (14) and the second flow path (15) are connected by the second wall portion (30) connected to the first flow path (14). The second flow path (15) is formed between the open portion of the first surface (11) and the second wall portion (30), and the second surface (12) that does not contact the second wall portion (30).

[0084] For example, the third surface (13) may be formed to intersect the second surface (12) and not to be in contact with the first surface (11) and the second wall portion (30). A gap (G) is formed between the end of the second wall portion (30) and the third surface (13), and the first region (D1) and the second region (D2) are connected through the gap (G) so that fluid can flow from the second region (D2) to the first region (D1).

[0085] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a second space (S2) that does not overlap with the first space (S1) may be formed, and may include a third wall portion (40) extending in a direction intersecting the first wall portion (20), and a fourth wall portion (50) that is parallel to the first wall portion (20), intersects the third wall portion (40), and includes a plurality of second through holes (52). The second space (S2) may be a space surrounded by the first wall portion (20), the third wall portion (40), and the fourth wall portion (50).

[0086] The fluid can move from the first space (S1) to the second space (S2), and as it moves to the second space (S2) by passing through the first through hole (22), the flow changes from turbulent to laminar.

[0087] For example, the fourth wall portion (50) may be a plate with holes punched at regular intervals. For manufacturing convenience, the fourth wall portion (50) may be a plate with holes punched at regular intervals. In addition, when made of a metal plate, the convenience of processing is enhanced because a plurality of second through holes (52) are processed through a single process.

[0088] In addition, the fourth wall portion (50) may include a discharge surface (51) and second through holes (52), so that second through holes (52) may be formed on the discharge surface (51).

[0089] For example, the size of the second through hole (52) may be formed smaller than that of the first through hole (22).

[0090] Since the size of the second through hole (52) is smaller than that of the first through hole (22), a high pressure is formed in the second through hole (52), and thus the phenomenon of the fluid discharged through the second through hole (52) being re-absorbed through the second through hole (52) can be prevented.

[0091] For example, the volume of the second space (S2) may be formed smaller than that of the first space (S1).

[0092] A vortex-like fluid flow is formed in the first region (D1) of the first space (S1). Due to the difference in the reach of the fluid moving along the first flow path (14), a flow with different velocities occurs depending on the location where it enters the first region (D1) from the second flow path (15), thereby forming a vortex-like flow. This flow is formed in a relatively wide space, so that when it enters the second space (S2) through the first through-holes (22) of the first wall portion (20), the velocity decreases rapidly and becomes laminar. Therefore, the second space (S2) may not require a wide area such as the first space (S1).

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it may include a protruding guide (60) that is not positioned on the second space (S2) and extends from the third wall portion (40).

[0094] The protruding guide (60) extending from the third wall (40) to guide the fluid passing through the fourth wall (50) can serve to facilitate the discharge of the fluid by extending in the discharge direction from the third wall (40). If there is no protruding guide (60), a flow may be formed in which the fluid hits the inner wall of the buffer tank and re-enters the interior of the distributor (350), and thus, the protruding guide (60) can serve to prevent this.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a fluid pipe (310) connected to the inlet (E) and through which fluid is introduced or withdrawn from the outside may be formed integrally with the case (10).

[0096] The fluid pipe (310) through which the fluid is introduced or withdrawn may be formed integrally with the case (10) and have a predetermined length so as to be easily connected to the pipe through which the fluid to be connected in the air conditioning system moves. These pipes may be connected to each other using a general connection method such as welding or connection with a flare socket.

[0097] The case (10) and the fluid pipe (310) do not have to be formed as one piece, and may be formed differently depending on design and installation advantages.

[0098] FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of a distributor provided in a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 6a, the relationship between the first euro (14) and the second euro (15) or the second surface (12) and the second wall (30) can be further understood.

[0100] For example, the first flow path (14) and the second flow path (15) are connected, and the fluid introduced through the inlet (E) can flow in both directions along the first flow path (14). The fluid flows in a closed flow path along the first flow path (14), but a portion of the fluid moves from the first flow path (14) to the second flow path (15), and the remaining fluid continues to flow along the first flow path (14).

[0101] For example, the first euro (14) and the second euro (15) can be opened only at the 2-1 surface (12a) connected to the inlet (E) and the 2-3 surface (12c) which is parallel to the 2-1 surface (12a).

[0102] The second surface (12) of the case (10) may be composed of a 2-1 surface (12a), a 2-2 surface (12b), a 2-3 surface (12c), and a 2-4 surface (12d) in the case of a hexahedron. In this case, it will be described that the 2-1 surface (12a) and the inlet (E) are positioned closest to each other. In addition, the second wall portion (30) may also be formed of a 2-1 wall (31), a 2-2 wall (32), a 2-3 wall (33), and a 2-4 wall (34), and only the 2-1 surface (12a) and the 2-1 wall (31) and the 2-3 surface (12c) and the 2-3 wall (33) may not be in contact with each other, and a second flow path (15) may be formed.

[0103] In this case, the fluids are introduced facing each other, and since the amount of fluid introduced from each direction is different, the fluids can form a first flow such as a vortex in the first region (D1).

[0104] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path (15) may be formed smaller than that of the first flow path (14). Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path (14) is formed larger, the fluid may not flow from the first flow path (14) to the second flow path (15) and may flow along the first flow path (14).

[0105] FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of a distributor provided in a buffer tank according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] For example, the first flow path (14) and the second flow path (15) may be open on all sides. Accordingly, the fluid may flow along all the second surfaces (12) and the fluid may be drawn into the first region (D1) at 360° to form a first flow like a vortex.

[0107] As shown in Fig. 6a or Fig. 6b, how the first euro (14) and the second euro (15) are connected can depend on the design.

[0108] Figure 7 illustrates the fluid flow when fluid is introduced through the inlet in Figure 5.

[0109] The fluid moved to the inlet (E) through the fluid pipe (310) may be a fluid having a high velocity. As it flows along the first flow path (14) connected to the inlet (E), it flows in a closed annular flow path, and the fluid flows from the first flow path (14) to the second flow path (15). Therefore, the fluid passes through the second flow path (15) to the second area (D2), which is a relatively narrow area than the first area (D1). And when moving from the second area (D2) to the first area (D1) through the gap (G), the fluid is introduced from all directions in the first area (D1) or is introduced while facing each other at an angle of 180°.

[0110] As described in the preceding Figure 6a, the incoming fluids have different flow rates and velocities, so they do not cancel each other out but instead form a first flow (not shown) like a vortex. Furthermore, in the second space (S2), the fluid forms a second flow (not shown) that is a parallel flow from the first wall (20) toward the fourth wall (50). The fluid then passes through the fourth wall (50) and is discharged to the outside of the distributor.

[0111] Hereinafter, the inventors of the present invention will describe the results of analyzing the fluid introduced into the distributor according to one embodiment of the present invention through simulation, for example, the flow velocity, streamline, and pressure distribution of the fluid inside the distributor.

[0112] A distributor for a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention converts the flow characteristics of a discharged fluid exiting the distributor from a vortex or turbulent flow in an input pipe to a laminar flow so as to suppress the occurrence of mixed flow or vortex within the tank in order to prevent destruction of a water temperature separation layer during a stratification requirement time.

[0113] For example, a technical means is needed to lower the Reynolds number of laminar flow from a turbulent Reynolds number greater than 4000 to a laminar Reynolds number of 2000 or less. In addition, since the pump is stopped during a power outage, the pressure loss of the fluid passing through the distributor must be small, so the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the distributor and the maximum pressure difference inside the distributor must be small. To this end, a structure that can utilize the Coanda phenomenon, in which the fluid naturally flows along a surface when it flows over that surface, provides the effect of enabling the above-mentioned conversion even with a small pressure difference.

[0114] The simulation conditions are as follows. The fluid type is water, and for example, 24℃ hot water is introduced. The velocity of the fluid passing through the fluid pipe connected to the inlet is assumed to be 3.61 m / s, the Reynolds number in this case is 256000, and the flow rate is 612 L / min. The streamline distribution and pressure distribution inside the distributor according to one embodiment of the present invention, and whether there is re-entrainment after discharge, were confirmed.

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the speed changes in the direction of slowing down. The decrease in speed occurs in the first flow path (14) and the second flow path (15), and a first flow like a whirlpool is formed in the first region (D1) of the first space (S1). In addition, the flow velocity of the fluid passing through the first wall portion (20) is 0.0346 m / s, and the Reynolds number is 743, which is lower than the laminar flow reference value of 2000, so a laminar flow is formed. In addition, the average velocity of the fluid passing through the second through hole (52) of the fourth wall portion (50) is 0.024 m / s, which is a significant decrease of 0.67% of the flow velocity of the input pipe. In addition, it was confirmed that there was no discharged flow in which the fluid was re-entrained among the fluid discharged through the fourth wall portion (50).

[0116] The maximum pressure difference inside the distributor is 20.3 kPa, which is small compared to the atmospheric pressure of 101.3 kPa, indicating that the pressure loss through the distributor is not large. Therefore, it can be seen that the fluid is discharged in a laminar flow while passing through the distributor, and the pressure loss of the fluid passing through the distributor is sufficiently small.

[0117] Hereinafter, a buffer tank equipped with a distributor for the above buffer tank will be described. In this case, the distributor will be referred to as the description of the distributor for the buffer tank described above, unless otherwise specified.

[0118] Figures 8a and 8b schematically illustrate a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] A buffer tank installed in an air conditioning system of a data center according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a storage container (340) and a distributor (350). The description of the fluid pipe (310) in the distributor (350) is replaced with the description of the inlet pipe (310) below, but if there is a different description, it shall be followed.

[0120] The storage container (340) can be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0121] However, as shown in Fig. 8b, the shape of the storage container (340) is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and the upper and lower parts may further include a dome shape. Hereinafter, a buffer tank having a cylindrical appearance as shown in Fig. 8a will be described.

[0122] Fluid can be introduced into the interior of the storage container (340) through the inlet pipe (310).

[0123] The distributor (350) for the buffer tank may be connected to the inlet port (E) described above and an inlet pipe (310) that connects the inside and outside of the storage container (340). Accordingly, the fluid drawn in through the inlet pipe (310) can be directly drawn into the inside of the distributor (350).

[0124] For example, the fluid discharged from the distributor (350) may be arranged to face the inner wall (341) of the storage container (340). In order to maximize the path of movement of the fluid passing through the buffer tank, the discharge direction of the distributor (350) may be arranged to face the inner wall (341), and the discharged fluid that hits the inner wall (341) of the storage container (340) may be formed to surround the distributor (350) and come out.

[0125] For example, at least one fluid shielding plate (330) may be provided inside the storage container (340).

[0126] A single fluid blocking plate (330) may be provided, but in the case of multiple fluid blocking plates (330), the fluid blocking plates (330) may be provided in an alternating manner so that the fluid can move from the top to the bottom of the buffer tank (300) along the fluid blocking plates (330). In this case as well, the effect of lengthening the movement path of the flowing fluid can be provided.

[0127] In addition, the introduced fluid primarily flows due to the flow barrier plate (330), thereby reducing the size of the stagnant flow area stagnating inside the tank and increasing the movement trajectory of the fluid, thereby having the effect of slowing down the movement speed of the water temperature separation layer inside the tank.

[0128] For example, in the case where a plurality of flow shielding plates (330) are provided, the spacing between the flow shielding plates (330) may be equally spaced relative to the height, which is the distance between the upper and lower parts of the tank, or among the areas separated by the flow shielding plates (330), the inlet area of ​​the tank, which is the area where the inlet pipe (310) is connected, and the outlet area, which is the area where the outlet pipe (320) is connected, may be spaced relatively large, while the other intermediate areas may be spaced with a small orifice structure. In this case, the effect of slowing down the outlet flow rate can be provided, thereby slowing down the movement speed of the water temperature separation layer.

[0129] For example, the horizontal (X-direction) length of the flow shielding plate (330) may be in the range of 60 to 90% of the cylindrical diameter of the buffer tank (300). Accordingly, the flow velocity can be formed in a range that reduces the stagnant flow area. In addition, when a plurality of flow shielding plates (330) are provided, the horizontal length can gradually become shorter from the top to the bottom. Through this, the effect of reducing the size of the stagnant flow area can be provided.

[0130] For example, a case will be described in which a storage container (340) has a cylindrical shape with a first diameter (do) and a first height (ho), a first direction (Z direction) that is parallel to the first height (ho) in the cylindrical shape, and a second direction (X direction) that intersects the first direction (Z direction), and three flow shielding plates (330) are provided inside the storage container (340).

[0131] At this time, the first flow shielding plate (331), the second flow shielding plate (332) and the third flow shielding plate (333) are arranged in the order of proximity to the inlet pipe (310), and the first length (which is the length of the first flow shielding plate (331) in the second direction (X direction) 1), the second length of the second fluid shielding plate (332) 2) and the third length of the third fluid shielding plate (333) 3). In addition, the distance between the highest part of the storage container (340) close to the inlet pipe (310) in the first direction (Z direction) and the first flow shielding plate (331) may be referred to as a first distance (h1), the distance between the first flow shielding plate (331) and the second flow shielding plate (332) may be referred to as a second distance (h2), the distance between the second flow shielding plate (332) and the third flow shielding plate (333) may be referred to as a third distance (h3), and the distance between the third flow shielding plate (333) and the lowest part of the storage container (340) close to the outlet pipe (320) may be referred to as a fourth distance (h4).

[0132] First, a plurality of fluid shielding plates (330) can be placed at positions that evenly divide the first height (ho). In this case, the first distance (h1), the second distance (h2), the third distance (h3), and the fourth distance (h4) are the same, which is equivalent to dividing the first height (ho) equally into four.

[0133] Alternatively, when comparing the distance between the closest flow shielding plate (330) in the first direction (Z direction) among a plurality of flow shielding plates (330) and the inner wall of the storage container (340) or the distance between the flow shielding plate (330) and the inner wall of the storage container (340), the distance between the flow shielding plates (330) and the inner wall of the storage container (340) may be formed to be greater than the distance between the flow shielding plates (330). Accordingly, the first distance (h1) is formed to be greater than the second distance (h2) and the third distance (h3), and the fourth distance (h4) is formed to be greater than the second distance (h2) and the third distance (h3).

[0134] And, the length of the plurality of flow shielding plates (330) in the second direction (X direction) can be gradually reduced in the order of distance from the flow shielding plate (330) that is closer to the inlet pipe in the first direction (Z direction). According to this, the first diameter (do) is the largest, and the first length of the first flow shielding plate (331) 1) from the third length ( 3) It becomes smaller as it goes up. And the first length ( 1) to 3rd length ( 3) exists within 60 to 90% of the first diameter (do).

[0135] Although the description is limited to the case where three fluid shielding plates (330) are installed, the number is not limited thereto and may vary depending on the design.

[0136] For example, a distributor (350) for a buffer tank that connects the inside and outside of the storage container (340) and is connected to an outlet pipe (320) through which the fluid of the buffer tank (300) is discharged, and is connected to the inlet pipe (310), and a distributor (360) for another buffer tank in which the fluid flow inside is opposite may be included.

[0137] In this case, the fluid is introduced into the fourth wall portion (50) of the distributor (360), and the inlet (E) of another distributor and the outlet pipe (320) may be connected. That is, the fluid flow is in the opposite direction to the case where it is installed in the inlet pipe (310). In this case, the fourth wall portion (50) may be formed to be positioned toward the lower wall (342) of the storage container (340), and in this case, the longest fluid movement flow within the tank may be formed.

[0138] By providing such a buffer tank, it is possible to have a buffer tank that maintains stratification without destroying the water temperature separation layer and has sufficient stratification time.

[0139] FIGS. 9 and 10 are (a) a schematic diagram of a conventional buffer tank and (b) a diagram showing the fluid flow and pressure distribution inside the tank over time, and FIG. 11 shows (a) the overall flow of fluid inside the buffer tank according to an embodiment of the present invention and (b) the fluid flow inside the tank over time. And FIG. 12 is (a) a schematic diagram of a buffer tank according to an embodiment of the present invention and (b) a diagram showing the pressure distribution over time.

[0140] Figures 9 to 12 show the same conditions except for the structural differences in the location of the inlet and outlet pipes within the buffer tank and the presence or absence of a flow shield (330) or a distributor. Specifically, the temperature of the incoming fluid is 24°C, the temperature of the existing fluid is 20°C, and the stratification time is 8 minutes, i.e., 480 seconds. When the flow velocity of the inlet pipe is 3.61 m / s, the flow of the fluid within the tank and the temperature and pressure distribution are depicted over time.

[0141] In the case of the buffer tank of Fig. 9, the fluid blocking plate (330) is not provided inside the storage container (340), and the introduced hot water vertically descends along the upper and lower inner walls of the storage container (340) near the upper inlet pipe, then moves to the inner wall of the storage container (340) at the bottom, and exits through the lower outlet pipe. At this time, a vortex is formed throughout the tank, and the pattern of the vortex changes over time. As a result, it can be seen that the water temperature separation layer is destroyed in a very short period of time, as can be seen in the table after 1 minute.

[0142] In the case of the buffer tank of Fig. 10, a vertical flow shielding plate (330) is provided inside the storage container (340), and it has an upper inlet pipe (310) and an upper outlet pipe (320) that make the flow path the longest. The fluid moving along the inner wall formed upper and lower of the storage container (340) creates two vortex regions by the flow shielding plate (330), and due to the position of the outlet pipe (320) located at the upper part of the storage container (340), the water temperature separation layer is destroyed more slowly than in the case of Fig. 9, but as can be seen in the table after 4 minutes, the stratification requirement time is not satisfied.

[0143] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are cases according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which a flow shielding plate is provided and only a distributor connected to an inlet pipe is provided.

[0144] The flow exiting the distributor (350) changes into a flow surrounding the distributor (350) and then moves downward. Therefore, it can be seen that the distributor (350) is provided in the buffer tank, thereby suppressing the possibility of mixed flow or vortex generation. In addition, the movement of the water temperature separation layer over time is very slow compared to the case of FIG. 9 or FIG. 10. At this time, the pressure difference from the inlet pipe (310) to the outlet pipe (320), including the inside of the tank, is a maximum of 34 kPa, which is small compared to the atmospheric pressure of 101.3 kPa, and thus the pressure loss can be seen to be small.

[0145] Additionally, even when the stratification requirement time of 8 minutes has passed, the low temperature water layer is maintained regardless of the distributor (360) connected to the outlet pipe (320), thereby satisfying the stratification requirement time. Additionally, if the distributor (360) connected to the outlet pipe (320) is provided, it can be seen that low temperature fluid can still be discharged even after 11 minutes have passed.

[0146] Figure 13 illustrates the increase in outlet temperature in an outlet pipe over time when a high-temperature fluid is introduced into a buffer tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. The dashed line represents the case of Figure 9, the dotted line represents the case of Figure 10, and the solid line represents the case of Figure 12 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] As can be seen in Fig. 13, when looking at the stratification requirement time of 480 seconds, it can be seen that the time in Figs. 9 and 10 is much shorter than that in the present invention. And it can be seen that the present invention sufficiently satisfies the requirement time.

Claims

1. A case in which a first space is formed, at least a portion of a first surface surrounding the first space is open, and an inlet port is provided through which a fluid is introduced into the first space from the outside; A first wall portion covering the open first surface and having a plurality of first through holes; and A second wall portion formed inside the case in a direction intersecting the first surface and dividing the first space into a first region and a second region; A distributor for a buffer tank, wherein the first region is an region surrounded by a second wall, and the second region is an outer region of the second wall.

2. In paragraph 1, A distributor for a buffer tank including a first flow path connected to the above inlet and formed by intersecting the second wall portion.

3. In paragraph 2, The above case is, A second surface intersecting the first surface and not in contact with the second wall, A third surface intersecting the second surface and not in contact with the first surface and the second wall portion, A distributor for a buffer tank, which is connected to the first flow path and allows fluid introduced through the inlet to flow into the second region through the second flow path formed between the second wall portion and the second surface.

4. In paragraph 2, A third wall portion forming a second space that does not overlap with the first space and extending in a direction intersecting the first wall portion; A distributor for a buffer tank comprising a fourth wall portion that is parallel to the first wall portion and intersects the third wall portion and includes a plurality of second through holes.

5. In paragraph 4, A distributor for a buffer tank including a protruding guide extending from the third wall portion and not positioned on the second space.

6. In paragraph 4, A distributor for a buffer tank, wherein the size of the second through hole is smaller than that of the first through hole.

7. In paragraph 4, A distributor for a buffer tank in which the volume of the second space is formed smaller than that of the first space.

8. In paragraph 4, A distributor for a buffer tank, wherein at least one of the first wall portion or the fourth wall portion is a plate perforated at regular intervals.

9. In paragraph 1, A distributor for a buffer tank, in which a fluid pipe connected to the above inlet and through which fluid is introduced or withdrawn from the outside is formed integrally with the case.

10. In paragraph 4, The fluid flowing in from the inlet passes through the first space and moves to the second space through the second flow path formed between the first flow path and the second flow path connected to the first flow path, the second wall portion and the second surface included in the case, intersecting the first surface and not in contact with the second wall portion, In the second region, the fluid forms a first flow like a vortex, and in the second space, the fluid forms a second flow parallel to the first wall portion toward the fourth wall portion. A distributor for a buffer tank through which the fluid is discharged by passing through the fourth wall portion.

11. In a buffer tank installed in the air conditioning system of a data center, A cylindrical storage vessel in which a fluid is stored; and A buffer tank comprising a distributor for a buffer tank according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is connected to an inlet pipe connecting the inside and the outside of the storage container.

12. In paragraph 11, A buffer tank arranged so that the fluid discharged from the above distributor faces the inner wall of the above storage container.

13. In paragraph 11, A buffer tank having at least one fluid barrier plate inside the storage container.

14. In paragraph 11, A buffer tank that connects the inside and outside of the storage container and is connected to an outlet pipe through which the fluid of the buffer tank is discharged, and includes a distributor for the buffer tank connected to the inlet pipe and a distributor for another buffer tank in which the fluid flow inside the distributor is opposite.

15. In paragraph 13, If the storage container is a cylinder having a first diameter and a first height, and the first direction is defined as a direction parallel to the first height of the cylinder, and a second direction intersecting the first direction, The fluid shielding plate is a buffer tank extending in the second direction by 60 to 90% of the first diameter.

16. In paragraph 15, A buffer tank in which a plurality of the above flow shielding plates are arranged at positions that evenly divide the above first height.

17. In paragraph 15, A distributor for a buffer tank connected to the inlet pipe and a distributor for another buffer tank in which the fluid flow inside the distributor is opposite is included, and the distributor is connected to the outlet pipe through which the fluid of the buffer tank is discharged, and the distributor is connected to the inside and outside of the storage container. A plurality of the above fluid shielding plates are provided, A buffer tank in which, when comparing the distance between the plurality of flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container, the flow shielding plate that is closest in the first direction or the distance between the flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container, the distance between the flow shielding plates and the inner wall of the storage container is greater than the distance between the flow shielding plates.

18. In paragraph 15, The length of the plurality of fluid shielding plates in the second direction is A buffer tank that gradually decreases in order from the inlet pipe and the flow shield plate closer to the first direction.

Images