Plate-type heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to a plate-type heat exchanger (1) comprising a heat-exchanger block (2) having an outer region (27) and at least one temperature-sensor-holding element (29) which is attached to the heat-exchanger block (2) in the outer region (27) and is designed to receive a temperature sensor (33) in a receiving portion (31, 32), the receiving portion (31, 32) being located outside the heat-exchanger block (2).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Plate heat exchangers

[0003] The invention relates to a plate heat exchanger.

[0004] A plate heat exchanger comprises a heat exchanger block made up of alternately arranged heat exchange elements, in particular so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and baffles. The heat exchange elements are made of corrugated or ribbed aluminum sheets, while the baffles can be made of smooth aluminum sheets. With the aid of the heat exchange elements and the baffles, the plate heat exchanger forms a multitude of parallel heat transfer passages in which process media can flow and indirectly transfer heat to process media flowing in adjacent heat transfer passages.

[0005] To assess component and process reliability during the operation of a plate heat exchanger as described above, the temperature of the process media flowing through the heat exchanger, as well as the temperature of the heat exchanger itself, is a crucial factor. The temperature can be measured, for example, on the outside of the heat exchanger. For this purpose, holes are drilled into the outer surface of the heat exchanger, into which temperature sensors are then placed. These holes can negatively affect the strength of the heat exchanger, and this needs to be addressed.

[0006] Against this background, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved plate heat exchanger.

[0007] Accordingly, a plate heat exchanger is proposed. The plate heat exchanger comprises a heat exchanger block with an outer region and at least one temperature sensor mounting element, which is attached to the heat exchanger block in the outer region and is configured to accommodate a temperature sensor in a receiving section, the receiving section being located outside the heat exchanger block. By arranging the receiving section outside the heat exchanger block, it is possible to attach the temperature sensor to the heat exchanger block and measure the temperature without drilling into the material of the heat exchanger block. This does not negatively affect the strength of the heat exchanger block and simplifies the strength calculation of the heat exchanger block.

[0008] The plate heat exchanger is specifically a so-called plate fin heat exchanger (PFHE), or can be described as such. The plate heat exchanger is constructed from a multitude of alternately arranged heat exchange elements and baffles. A baffle is positioned between two heat exchange elements, and vice versa. The heat exchange elements and baffles are thus stacked on top of each other, forming the heat exchanger block of the plate heat exchanger. The heat exchange elements are called fins, specifically heat transfer fins, or can simply be referred to as fins.

[0009] The heat exchange elements can be corrugated or ribbed sheets, for example, made of aluminum. The baffles are called dividers or partition plates. The dividers can also be made of aluminum. The heat exchanger block comprises any number of heat exchange elements and baffles.

[0010] The plate heat exchanger, or the aforementioned heat exchanger block, preferably has a cuboid geometry with a width direction (x-direction), a height direction (y-direction), and a depth direction (z-direction). In the height direction, the heat exchanger block preferably has a larger dimension than in the width and depth directions, resulting in an elongated cuboid geometry.

[0011] The heat exchange elements and the baffles can be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction or stacked on top of each other in the vertical direction. The plate heat exchanger differs from the heat exchanger block in that, in addition to the heat exchanger block, the plate heat exchanger has a multitude of connection devices for supplying and discharging fluids to and from the plate heat exchanger.

[0012] The heat exchange elements are preferably enclosed by means of edge strips, in particular aluminum edge strips, which are also part of the heat exchanger block. The edge strips are soldered to the partition plates and / or to the heat exchange elements. The edge strips can form a frame surrounding the respective heat exchange element. The heat exchanger block can have cover plates that close off the heat exchanger block at the top and bottom. The cover plates can be external partition plates. The cover plates can be soldered to the outermost heat exchange elements. Alternatively, partition plates can also be provided between the cover plates and the outermost heat exchange elements. The cover plates preferably differ from the partition plates only in their wall thickness.

[0013] The plate heat exchanger can be part of a process plant. This process plant could be, for example, an air separation plant, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) production plant, a plant used in the petrochemical industry, or similar. The process plant can include a large number of such plate heat exchangers. Accordingly, a process plant with one such plate heat exchanger is also proposed.

[0014] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, a plate heat exchanger is proposed comprising a heat exchanger block and a temperature sensor holding element, wherein the temperature sensor holding element is attached to the outside of the heat exchanger block, wherein the temperature sensor element has a temperature sensor receiving section for receiving a temperature sensor, and wherein the receiving section is arranged outside the heat exchanger block.

[0015] In particular, the temperature sensor mounting element is thus attached to the outside of the heat exchanger block. Outer sides of the heat exchanger block preferably delineate the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block from the heat exchanger block itself. The cover plates can each have or form one of these outer sides. Furthermore, the heat exchange elements and the partition plates can form an outer side when arranged side by side or stacked on top of each other. Preferably, the outer side formed by the heat exchange elements and the partition plates is not located in the depth or height direction. In areas where the edge strips are soldered to the partition plates and / or the heat exchange elements, the edge strips, in particular, constitute or form an outer side of the heat exchanger block.

[0016] The temperature sensor mounting element is made of metal, preferably aluminum. The temperature sensor mounting element can have a cuboid geometry. In particular, the temperature sensor mounting element can be made from a cut-to-length edge strip. Several temperature sensor mounting elements can be made from one edge strip. One side, in particular a joining surface, of the temperature sensor mounting element rests against the outer side of the heat exchanger block when installed. For example, the temperature sensor mounting element is bonded to the heat exchanger block. The temperature sensor mounting element projects from the heat exchanger block. In particular, the temperature sensor mounting element extends into the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block.

[0017] In material-bonded connections, the joined elements are held together by physical or chemical processes, particularly cohesion and adhesion. These material-bonded connections generally cannot be broken without destroying the bond or the components. Methods for creating material-bonded connections include welding, soldering, gluing, and sintering. Material-bonded connections can be created between both similar and dissimilar materials.

[0018] The temperature sensor is positioned with a specific area against a surface of the recording section. This area, which is in contact with the surface, can detect temperature differences. The temperature sensor measures the temperature, in particular, by measuring a change in its electrical resistance, by generating an electrical voltage, by measuring a temperature-dependent voltage, and / or by measuring the frequency of an oscillation.

[0019] The temperature sensor can be materially bonded and / or form-fitted within the receiving section. The receiving section can be a bore machined into the temperature sensor holder. The cross-section of the bore can correspond to that of the adjacent area of ​​the temperature sensor.

[0020] If the temperature sensor mounting element is attached to the heat exchanger block, the receiving section is located on a side of the temperature sensor mounting element that is oriented, for example, orthogonally to the outer side of the heat exchanger block to which the temperature sensor mounting element is attached. If the receiving section is designed as a bore, this bore runs parallel to the outer side of the heat exchanger block when the temperature sensor mounting element is installed.

[0021] As mentioned previously, the temperature sensor mounting element protrudes from the heat exchanger block, specifically into the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block. The receiving section of the temperature sensor mounting element is therefore also located in the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block. When the temperature sensor is inserted into this receiving section, the portion of the sensor that is inserted is also located in the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor holding element is attached to the heat exchanger block at at least one joining section.

[0023] Attaching the temperature sensor mounting element to the heat exchanger block by joining it ensures a strong and stable connection that withstands mechanical stress. If the temperature sensor mounting element rests against the outer side of the heat exchanger block, as previously described, it overlaps a portion of the outer surface. The temperature sensor mounting element and the heat exchanger block can then be joined at the resulting butt joint. In this arrangement, the joining section can correspond to the butt joint. Specifically, the joining section is the area where a material bond exists between the temperature sensor mounting element and the heat exchanger block. This material bond can occur at the butt joint. In particular, the temperature sensor mounting element is attached to the heat exchanger block with a non-removable (non-destructive) joining connection.The components are attached using joining methods such as soldering, welding, or gluing. An additional material can be used to create the joint.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the length of the joining section extends over a maximum of 50%, preferably over a maximum of 40%, more preferably over a maximum of 30%, more preferably over a maximum of 20%, more preferably over a maximum of 10%, of the length of the temperature sensor holding element.

[0025] The length of the joint section determines the transmissible loads and the heat transfer between the heat exchanger block and the temperature sensor mounting element. These properties can be scaled by adjusting the length of the joint section to match the length of the temperature sensor mounting element. For example, the temperature sensor mounting element and the heat exchanger block may be joined at multiple points or sections along the joint. In this case, the length of the joint section is the sum of the lengths of the individual points or sections. For example, the length of the temperature sensor mounting element may be less than 200 mm. If the joint section extends along the entire joint described above, its length can be greater than 100% of the length of the temperature sensor mounting element.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, at least one joining surface of the temperature sensor holding element has a geometry that tapers to a point towards the center of the joining surface, in particular a roof-shaped geometry.

[0027] The tapered geometry of the joining surface increases the usable surface area. When the joining surface is located on the outer side of the heat exchanger block in the installed state of the temperature sensor mounting element, the tapered center is situated within the joint described above. The joining section is thus located between the tapered joining surface and the outer side of the heat exchanger block. This increases the usable joining surface area and allows the connection to withstand higher mechanical loads. For example, the joining surface, with its tapered geometry, makes linear contact with the outer side of the heat exchanger block. The tapered geometry creates chamfers. These chamfers may be located on two opposing areas, or three or four chamfers may form the tapered geometry.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the temperature sensor is connected to the receiving section of the temperature sensor holding element by means of a material-bonded connection.

[0029] The bonded connection between the temperature sensor and the sensor mounting element allows for improved heat transfer, in addition to a stable connection between the two. This bonded connection creates better thermal contact by minimizing the thermal resistance between the temperature sensor and the mounting element. For example, the bonded connection between the temperature sensor and the mounting element in the mounting section is achieved by adhesive bonding. The adhesive used in this example can reduce the heat transfer coefficient between the temperature sensor and the mounting section in the bonded area. For example, a portion of the temperature sensor, representing a first region, is mounted in the mounting section.A second area of ​​the temperature sensor may protrude from the recording section; for example, this second area may protrude into the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the temperature sensor retaining element has a first receiving section and a second receiving section, each of which is configured to accommodate its own temperature sensor. Thus, a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor can be provided. The described arrangement creates a redundant method for temperature measurement. This increases the reliability and fault tolerance of the temperature measurement. Additionally, the measurement results of the temperature sensors can be validated against each other. For example, the first receiving section is located between the second receiving section and the heat exchanger block. For example, the first receiving section and the second receiving section are located in a common plane that is parallel to the outer side of the heat exchanger block.The second receiving section, as described for the first receiving section, can be designed as a bore. The bore extends, for example, parallel to the outer side of the heat exchanger block and the first receiving section. The material bond between the second temperature sensor and the temperature sensor retainer in the receiving section is achieved, for example, by adhesive bonding, as described for the first temperature sensor. The adhesive used in this example can reduce the heat transfer coefficient between the temperature sensor and the receiving section in the bonded area. For example, a portion of the second temperature sensor is embedded in the receiving section. A second portion of the second temperature sensor can protrude from the receiving section, for example, projecting into the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the first receiving section is arranged between the heat exchanger block and the second receiving section.

[0032] The arrangement of the first receiving section between the heat exchanger block and the second receiving section allows for easier mounting of the first and second temperature sensors in the first and second receiving sections, respectively. For example, the center axes of the receiving sections lie on a common line, with the line being orthogonal to the outer surface of the heat exchanger block. According to a further embodiment, a strain relief bracket is provided in the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block, which is suitable for mounting a strain relief device.

[0033] The strain relief bracket serves as a coupling element between the strain relief and the heat exchanger block. This allows for flexibility in the design of the connection between the strain relief and the bracket. For example, the strain relief bracket can be designed as a plate. In this case, one long side of the plate rests against the outer side of the heat exchanger block. The plate may extend into the outer area of ​​the heat exchanger block along the length of its short side. In this case, the strain relief is bonded to the bracket. The strain relief can be welded, brazed, or glued to the bracket. In another example, a recess is located on one surface of the strain relief bracket, resulting in a tubular geometry.The recess can, for example, be designed as a bore. For instance, the recess extends orthogonally to the outer side of the heat exchanger block to which the strain relief bracket is attached. In this case, the strain relief can be accommodated within the recess of the strain relief bracket. For example, the strain relief is positively and / or materially bonded to the strain relief bracket. For instance, a bore can be provided on a side of the strain relief bracket that is perpendicular to the outer side of the heat exchanger block. The bore can accommodate a connecting element that positively connects the strain relief and the strain relief bracket. The strain relief bracket and the temperature sensor mounting element are, in particular, located on the same outer side of the heat exchanger block.In particular, the openings of the receiving sections of the temperature sensor retaining element point towards the strain relief bracket.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the strain relief bracket and the temperature sensor retaining element have a distance from each other that is a maximum of 400%, preferably a maximum of 300%, more preferably a maximum of 200%, more preferably a maximum of 100%, more preferably a maximum of 50% of the length of the temperature sensor retaining element.

[0035] Adjusting the distance between the strain relief bracket and the temperature sensor mounting element, depending on the length of the temperature sensor mounting element, allows for flexibility in positioning the strain relief bracket and the temperature sensor mounting element relative to each other. For example, the heat exchanger block consists of two cover plates arranged on opposite sides of the heat exchanger block, forming an outer boundary of an inner area of ​​the heat exchanger block. At least one partition plate and two heat exchange elements are arranged in the inner area of ​​the heat exchanger block. The partition plate is positioned between the heat exchange elements and provides fluidic separation between them. The heat exchange elements are each suitable for guiding a fluid flow, and at least two opposing edge strips are attached to each heat exchange element, defining the outer boundary of the associated heat exchange element.The fluid flows within the heat exchange elements can, for example, have different temperatures. For instance, both fluid flows might be liquid. In another example, at least one of the fluids is gaseous. For instance, both fluids might be gaseous.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the plate heat exchanger has at least one strain relief in its outer area, which is connected to the strain relief bracket.

[0037] The strain relief integrated with the strain relief bracket allows the strain relief to absorb tensile forces on data cables, such as those of a temperature sensor. This reduces the risk of data cables being torn by external forces. The strain relief is suitable, for example, for relieving at least one data cable of the temperature sensor from tensile forces. In particular, at least one data cable is partially supported by the strain relief and thus relieved of tensile forces. The strain relief can also be designed to guide a data cable. For example, the strain relief may have a data cable support section that can accommodate at least one section of the data cable. This data cable support section may be located at one end of the strain relief.In this case, the strain relief is connected at another end to the strain relief bracket via a connecting section. The data cable receiving section is particularly suitable for absorbing the tensile force of at least one data cable. For example, the strain relief is connected to the strain relief bracket at a connecting section by a material bond and / or a positive fit. For example, the strain relief and the strain relief bracket are joined by assembly.

[0038] According to another embodiment, a data line of the temperature sensor is attached to the strain relief.

[0039] Because the temperature sensor's data cable is attached to the strain relief, tensile forces acting on the data cable during operation of the plate heat exchanger are absorbed by the strain relief. This prevents damage to the temperature sensor during operation. The data cable can be, for example, a cable such as a twisted pair cable, coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, USB cable, Ethernet cable, or Thunderbolt cable.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the strain relief bracket is attached to an edge strip and / or to a partition plate of the heat exchanger block.

[0041] By joining a strain relief bracket to an edge strip and / or a separating plate, a stable connection is created that withstands mechanical loads. In particular, the strain relief bracket is attached to the outer side of the heat exchanger block. For example, a strain relief bracket is attached to each of the opposite outer sides of the heat exchanger block. In another example, when the strain relief bracket is attached to the heat exchanger block, a butt joint is formed. The strain relief bracket can be connected to an edge strip and / or a separating plate at at least one joint section. In particular, the joint section is located within the joint. According to a further embodiment, the temperature sensor mounting element is connected to the heat exchanger block at the edge strip and / or the separating plate.

[0042] By positioning the temperature sensor holder on an edge strip and / or baffle plate, the temperatures of different fluid flows can be monitored. This allows for more precise conclusions to be drawn about the processes taking place in the inner area of ​​the heat exchanger block. For example, several temperature sensor holders are attached to one edge strip and / or to different edge strips on an outer side of the heat exchanger block. For example, several temperature sensor holders are attached to one or more edge strips in such a way that, when a temperature sensor is inserted into the receiving section of the temperature sensor holder, a temperature profile of at least one fluid flow in the respective heat exchanger element can be determined. For example, several temperature sensor holders are attached to one baffle plate and / or to different baffle plates.For example, several temperature sensor holding elements are attached to one or more edge strips in such a way that, when a temperature sensor is included in the receiving section of the temperature sensor holding element, a temperature profile of at least one fluid flow in the respective heat exchange element can be determined.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the strain relief bracket is plate-shaped.

[0044] For example, the strain relief bracket can be rectangular, especially square. However, the strain relief bracket can also be round or have any other geometry.

[0045] According to another embodiment, the temperature sensor has a temperature measuring port, wherein the temperature measuring port is included in the receiving section.

[0046] In addition to the temperature measuring port, the temperature sensor also features the aforementioned data line. For example, the temperature measuring port is cylindrical with a circular cross-section. Specifically, the temperature measuring port has the same cross-section as the receiving section of the temperature sensor mounting element. For example, the temperature measuring port is held in the receiving section of the temperature sensor mounting element by a bonded connection. This bonded connection can be achieved by adhesive bonding the temperature measuring port and the receiving section.

[0047] The term "one" here is not necessarily to be understood as restricting the number to exactly one element. Rather, it can also refer to multiple elements, such as two, three, or more. Similarly, every other counter used here should not be interpreted as restricting the number to the exact number stated. Instead, numerical deviations, both higher and lower, are possible unless otherwise specified.

[0048] Other possible implementations of the plate heat exchanger also include combinations of features or embodiments described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In such cases, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the plate heat exchanger.

[0049] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the plate heat exchanger are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the plate heat exchanger described below. The plate heat exchanger is further explained below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying figures.

[0050] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a plate heat exchanger;

[0051] Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a heat exchanger block for the plate heat exchanger according to Fig. 1;

[0052] Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a temperature sensor holding element for the heat exchanger block according to Fig. 2; Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a temperature sensor holding element for the heat exchanger block according to Fig. 2;

[0053] Fig. 5 shows a schematic perspective partial view of the heat exchanger block according to Fig. 2; and

[0054] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a temperature sensor.

[0055] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference symbols, unless otherwise indicated.

[0056] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a plate heat exchanger 1. Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a heat exchanger block 2 for the plate heat exchanger 1 according to Fig. 1. Reference is made hereafter to Figs. 1 and 2 simultaneously.

[0057] The plate heat exchanger 1 shown in Fig. 1 enables heat exchange between several different fluids A to E. The fluids A to E can also be referred to as process media or media. The plate heat exchanger 1 is, in particular, a plate fin heat exchanger (PFHE) or can be described as such. The plate heat exchanger 1 is preferably constructed from components made of aluminum and brazed together, in particular by hard brazing. The plate heat exchanger 1 can therefore also be referred to as a brazed aluminum plate fin heat exchanger.

[0058] The heat exchanger block 2 is cuboid or block-shaped and comprises a multitude of passages or heat exchange elements 3 as well as a multitude of baffles 4. The heat exchange elements 3 are so-called fins, in particular so-called heat transfer fins, or can be referred to simply as fins. The heat exchange elements 3 can be designed as corrugated or ribbed sheets, for example, as aluminum sheets. The baffles 4 are baffles or can be referred to simply as baffles. The baffles 4 can also be made of aluminum. The number of heat exchange elements 3 and the number of baffles 4 are arbitrary.

[0059] Heat exchanger block 2 is assigned a coordinate system with a first spatial direction (latitude direction x), a second spatial direction (height direction y), and a third spatial direction (depth direction z). The directions x, y, and z are oriented perpendicular to each other. The latitude direction x can also be referred to as the x-direction of heat exchanger block 2. The height direction y can also be referred to as the y-direction of heat exchanger block 2. The depth direction z can also be referred to as the z-direction of heat exchanger block 2.

[0060] The heat exchange elements 3 and the partition plates 4 are arranged alternately. That is, a partition plate 4 is positioned between each pair of heat exchange elements 3, and vice versa. The heat exchange elements 3 and the partition plates 4 can be bonded together. In bonded connections, the components are held together by atomic or molecular forces. Bonded connections are permanent connections that can only be separated by destroying the bonding agents and / or the components. In particular, the heat exchange elements 3 and the partition plates 4 can be soldered together, especially hard-soldered.

[0061] The heat exchanger block 2 further comprises cover plates 5, 6, between which the plurality of heat exchange elements 3 and the plurality of partition plates 4 are arranged. In particular, a first cover plate 5 and a second cover plate 6 are provided. The cover plates 5, 6 can be constructed identically to the partition plates 4. The cover plates 5, 6 can have a thickness of, for example, 5 mm. Preferably, the cover plates 5, 6 do not have solder plating. The partition plates 4 preferably have a thickness of 1 to 2 mm. In particular, the cover plates 5, 6 have solder plating on both sides. The cover plates 5, 6 are positioned on the outside of the outermost heat exchange element 3 and enclose the heat exchanger block 2 at the front and rear in the orientation shown in Figures 1 and 2. Furthermore, the heat exchanger block 2 comprises so-called sidebars or edge strips 7, 8, which laterally delimit the heat exchange elements 3.The edge strips 7, 8 can be materially bonded to the separating plates 4 and / or the heat exchange elements 3, for example by soldering, in particular by hard soldering. The aforementioned components of the heat exchanger block 2 are, for example, made of material 3003 (AIMnICu).

[0062] With the help of the heat exchange elements 3 and the separating plates 4, the plate heat exchanger 1 forms a multitude of parallel heat transfer passages in which the fluids A to E can flow and indirectly transfer heat to fluids A to E guided in adjacent heat transfer passages.

[0063] The individual heat transfer sections can be supplied with a respective fluid A to E by means of connection devices 9 to 18, or the respective fluid A to E can be discharged away from the plate heat exchanger 1 by means of such connection devices 9 to 18. The connection devices 9 to 18 are so-called headers or can be referred to as such. Depending on their function, the connection devices 9 to 18 can also be referred to as distributors or collectors.

[0064] For example, connection devices 11, 13, 15 are suitable for supplying fluids A, B, D to the plate heat exchanger 1, and connection devices 9, 10, 12, 14 are suitable for discharging fluids A, C, D, E from the plate heat exchanger 1. Each connection device 9 to 18 is associated with a connection port 19 to 25, by means of which the respective connection device 9 to 18 can be supplied with the corresponding fluid A to E or the corresponding fluid A to E can be discharged from the connection device 9 to 18.

[0065] The connection devices 9 to 18 are metallurgically bonded to the heat exchanger block 2. In particular, the connection devices 9 to 18 are welded to the heat exchanger block 2. The connection devices 9 to 18 can also be brazed, in particular hard-brazed, to the heat exchanger block 2. The heat exchanger block 2 comprises several, in particular six, surfaces or outer sides 26, of which only one is provided with a reference numeral in Fig. 2. For example, the connection devices 9 to 18 are each welded to one of the outer sides 26. The connection devices 9 to 11 can, for example, be provided on the outer side 26 provided with a reference numeral in Fig. 2.

[0066] The outer sides 26 delimit the plate heat exchanger 1 shown in Fig. 1 or the heat exchanger block 2 shown in Fig. 2 from an outer region 27 of the plate heat exchanger 1 or the heat exchanger block 2. For example, a cold box 28 enclosing the plate heat exchanger 1 is located in the outer region 27, which is shown in a highly abstract form as a dashed rectangle in Fig. 1. The cold box 28 contains, for example, a filling material, which is not shown in Fig. 1. The filling material can, for example, have low thermal conductivity. For example, the filling material is pearlite.

[0067] The plate heat exchanger 1 can be part of a process plant not shown in Fig. 1. The process plant could, for example, be an air separation plant, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) production plant, a plant used in the petrochemical industry, or the like. The process plant can comprise a plurality of such plate heat exchangers 1.

[0068] Figure 3 schematically shows an embodiment of a temperature sensor retaining element 29 in a side view, as well as a partial area of ​​the heat exchanger block 2. The temperature sensor retaining element 29 is arranged in the outer area 27 of the heat exchanger block 2. The temperature sensor retaining element 29 has a block-shaped or cuboid geometry. For example, the temperature sensor retaining element 29 is made of aluminum or another metal with high thermal conductivity. The temperature sensor retaining element 29 can, in particular, be made from a rim strip 7, 8 as described above, which is cut to the appropriate length. The temperature sensor retaining element 29 is attached to an outer side 26 of the heat exchanger block 2, as mentioned above, by means of a material-bonded connection.The material-bonded connection between the temperature sensor mounting element 29 and the heat exchanger block 2 is established by joining, for example by soldering or welding, at a joining section 30 of the temperature sensor mounting element 29. The joining section 30 can be a soldered seam or a welded seam.

[0069] The joining section 30 has a length L1. The length L1 extends over a maximum of 50%, preferably a maximum of 40%, preferably a maximum of 30%, more preferably a maximum of 20%, and more preferably a maximum of 10% of a length L2 of the temperature sensor holding element 29. In the embodiment of the temperature sensor holding element 29 shown in Fig. 3, the length L2 is, for example, 55 mm and the length L1 is 20 mm.

[0070] On a side of the temperature sensor retaining element 29 opposite the side shown in Fig. 3, but not shown in Fig. 3, there is another joining section which has the same length L1 as the joining section 30 shown in Fig. 3. In an embodiment not shown in Fig. 3, the joining section 30 and, correspondingly, the joining section on the opposite side can extend over the entire length L2. In this case, the length L1 corresponds to the length L2.

[0071] The temperature sensor retaining element 29 also has a first receiving section 31 and a second receiving section 32. The first receiving section 31 is located between the second receiving section 32 and the outer side 26. In a further embodiment, the first receiving section 31 and the second receiving section 32 can be arranged in a plane parallel to the outer side 26. The two receiving sections 31, 32 are designed as blind holes. As shown in Fig. 3, the receiving sections 31, 32 are located entirely within the outer area 27 and therefore do not project into the heat exchanger block 2.

[0072] The receiving sections 31 and 32 are suitable for receiving a temperature sensor 33, shown in Fig. 6 and described later, for measuring the temperature. The openings of the receiving sections 31 and 32 are located on the same side of the temperature sensor retaining element 29. In Fig. 3, the two receiving sections 31 and 32, which are designed as blind holes, are shown as dashed lines.

[0073] The recording sections 31 and 32 each have a first section 34 and a second section 35. The first section 34 has a larger diameter compared to the second section 35. The first section 34 has a length L3, which is, for example, 27 mm. The second section 35 has a length L4, which is, for example, 23 mm.

[0074] Another embodiment of a temperature sensor holding element 29 is shown in Fig. 4. This temperature sensor holding element 29 has only one receiving section 31. Otherwise, all previous descriptions relating to Fig. 3 also apply to the temperature sensor holding element 29 according to Fig. 4, and vice versa. Fig. 4 schematically shows the temperature sensor holding element 29 from a view looking at the receiving section 31. From this perspective, the temperature sensor holding element 29 is symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 36 that divides the receiving section 31.

[0075] The temperature sensor mounting element 29 shown in Fig. 4 has a mounting surface 37 which has a pointed geometry towards its center or towards the axis of symmetry 36. In particular, the geometry of the mounting surface 37 is roof-shaped. As shown in Fig. 4, the mounting surface 37 of the temperature sensor mounting element 29 rests against the outer side 26 of the heat exchanger block 2. In particular, due to its roof-shaped geometry, the mounting surface 37 only makes line contact with the outer side 26.

[0076] The previously described joining section 30 is located between inclined surface sections of the joining surface 37 of the temperature sensor retaining element 29 and the outer surface 26. If the temperature sensor retaining element 29 and the heat exchanger block 2 are joined by soldering or welding, each weld seam has a thickness of, for example, 3 mm. In particular, the joining section 30 is arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of symmetry 36 on both sides of the temperature sensor retaining element 29. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a section of a plate heat exchanger 1 as described above. A temperature sensor retaining element 29 and a strain relief bracket 38, as previously described, are attached to the plate heat exchanger 1 or its heat exchanger block 2. The temperature sensor retaining element 29 and the strain relief bracket 38 are arranged on the same cover plate 5.In another embodiment, the temperature sensor retaining element 29 and the strain relief bracket 38 are attached to the edge strips 7, 8 mentioned above (not shown). The strain relief bracket.

[0077] 38 is plate-shaped.

[0078] A temperature sensor 33 can be accommodated in the receiving section 31 of the temperature sensor retaining element 29. This sensor is shown only partially in Fig. 5 and in detail in Fig. 6. The temperature sensor 33 has a temperature measuring port.

[0079] 39 and a data line 40. The temperature measuring port 39 and the data line

[0080] 40 are located at different ends of the temperature sensor 33.

[0081] The temperature measuring port 39 also has, corresponding to the previously described first section 34 and second section 35 of the respective receiving section 31, 32, a first section 41 and a second section 42. The temperature measuring port 39 is, for example, designed as a cylinder with a circular cross-section. The first section 41 of the temperature measuring port 39 has a larger diameter compared to the second section 42. The second section 42 is, for example, located further away from the data line 40 compared to the first section 41.

[0082] The data line 40 is, for example, implemented as a cable. The data line 40 transmits a temperature measured at the temperature measuring port 39 in the form of sensor data to a data processing unit (not shown in Fig. 6). For example, the data line 40 is sheathed to protect it from damage.

[0083] Returning to Fig. 5, the temperature measuring port 39 is located in the receiving section 31 of the temperature sensor holder 29. Specifically, the temperature sensor holder 29 and the temperature measuring port 39 are bonded together. This bond is achieved, for example, by adhesive. The data line 40 runs from the temperature sensor holder 29 into the outer area 27.

[0084] As can be seen in Fig. 5, the strain relief bracket 38 is also attached to the same outer side 26 of the heat exchanger block 2 as the temperature sensor retaining element 29. The strain relief bracket 38 is attached to the heat exchanger block 2 in the outer area 27. In the embodiment shown, the strain relief bracket 38 is designed as a plate, for example made of aluminum. In other embodiments, the strain relief bracket 38 is made of a metal. For example, the plate is square and has a side length of 80 mm.

[0085] The strain relief bracket 38 is metallurgically bonded to the heat exchanger block 2, in particular to the outer side 26 of the heat exchanger block 2. For example, the metallurgical bond is created by joining, especially by soldering or welding. The strain relief bracket 38 is joined at a resulting butt joint between the heat exchanger block 2 and the strain relief bracket 38.

[0086] The strain relief bracket 38 and the temperature sensor retaining element 29 have a distance L5 between them when attached to the heat exchanger block 2. The distance L5 is at most 400%, preferably at most 300%, preferably at most 200%, more preferably at most 100%, and more preferably at most 50% of the length L2 of the temperature sensor retaining element 29. For example, the length L5 is 150 mm.

[0087] The strain relief bracket 38 is suitable for attaching a strain relief 43, which is shown in simplified form in Fig. 5 as a cylinder with a circular cross-section. The strain relief 43 has a data cable receiving section 44 in which the data cable 40 of the temperature sensor 33 is received. When received in the data cable receiving section 44, the data cable 40 is relieved of any tensile force acting on it in the area between the strain relief 43 and the temperature sensor retaining element 29. A tensile force can occur, for example, when a cold box 28, as mentioned previously, surrounds the plate heat exchanger 1. In particular, during the filling process of the cold box 28 with the filling material, dynamic forces can occur that act on the data cable 40 and can damage the temperature sensor 33.

[0088] In embodiments, the strain relief 43 can accommodate more than one data line 40 from several temperature sensors 33. For example, more than one temperature sensor mounting element 29 with more than one temperature sensor 33 is arranged on the outer side 26 of the plate heat exchanger 1, the data lines 40 of which are all accommodated by a strain relief 43. The strain relief 43 can have several articulated arm sections that allow the data line 40 to be positioned in a desired location. Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it can be modified in many ways.

[0089] Reference symbols used

[0090] 1 plate heat exchanger

[0091] 2 heat exchanger blocks

[0092] 3 Heat exchanger

[0093] 4 separating plates

[0094] 5 Cover plate

[0095] 6 Cover plate

[0096] 7 Edge strip

[0097] 8 Edge strip

[0098] 9 connection devices

[0099] 10 connection devices

[0100] 11 Connection devices

[0101] 12 connection devices

[0102] 13 connection devices

[0103] 14 connection devices

[0104] 15 connection devices

[0105] 16 connection devices

[0106] 17 connection devices

[0107] 18 connection devices

[0108] 19 connection spigots

[0109] 20 connection spigots

[0110] 21 connection spigots

[0111] 22 connection spigots

[0112] 23 connection spigots

[0113] 24 connection spigots

[0114] 25 connection spigots

[0115] 26 outer side

[0116] 27 outer area

[0117] 28 Coldbox

[0118] 29 Temperature sensor holding element

[0119] 30 Joining section

[0120] 31 Recording section

[0121] 32 Recording section

[0122] 33 Temperature sensor 34 Section

[0123] Section 35

[0124] 36 Axis of symmetry

[0125] 37 Joining surface

[0126] 38 Strain relief bracket

[0127] 39 temperature measuring ports

[0128] 40 data lines

[0129] Section 41

[0130] Section 42

[0131] 43 Strain relief

[0132] 44 Data line intake section

[0133] A Fluid

[0134] B Fluid

[0135] C Fluid

[0136] D Fluid

[0137] E Fluid

[0138] L1 length

[0139] L2 length

[0140] L3 length

[0141] L4 length

[0142] L5 Length x Latitude direction y Altitude direction z Depth direction

Claims

Patent claims 1. Plate heat exchanger (1) comprising a heat exchanger block (2) with an outer region (27) and at least one temperature sensor retaining element (29) which is attached to the heat exchanger block (2) in the outer region (27) and which is configured to receive a temperature sensor (33) in a receiving section (31, 32), wherein the receiving section (31, 32) is arranged outside the heat exchanger block (2).

2. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor retaining element (29) is attached to the heat exchanger block (2) at at least one joining section (30).

3. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein a length (L1) of the joining section (30) extends over a maximum of 50%, preferably over a maximum of 40%, more preferably over a maximum of 30%, more preferably over a maximum of 20%, more preferably over a maximum of 10%, a length (L2) of the temperature sensor retaining element (29).

4. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 1 - 3, wherein at least one joining surface (37) of the temperature sensor retaining element (29) has a geometry that tapers towards a center of the joining surface (37), in particular a roof-shaped geometry.

5. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 1 - 4, wherein the temperature sensor (33) is connected to the receiving section (31 , 32) of the temperature sensor holding element (29) by means of a material-bonded connection.

6. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 1-5, wherein the temperature sensor holding element (29) has a first receiving section (31) and a second receiving section (32), wherein each of the receiving sections (31, 32) is configured to receive its own temperature sensor (33).

7. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 6, wherein the first receiving section (31) is arranged between the heat exchanger block (2) and the second receiving section (32).

8. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 1 - 7, wherein a strain relief bracket (38) is provided in the outer area (27) of the heat exchanger block (2) which is suitable for mounting a strain relief (43).

9. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 8, wherein the strain relief bracket (38) and the temperature sensor retaining element (29) have a distance (L5) from each other which is a maximum of 400%, preferably a maximum of 300%, more preferably a maximum of 200%, more preferably a maximum of 100%, more preferably a maximum of 50% of a length (L2) of the temperature sensor retaining element (29).

10. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the plate heat exchanger (1) has at least one strain relief (43) in its outer region (27) which is connected to the strain relief bracket (38).

11. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 10, wherein a data line (40) of the temperature sensor (33) is attached to the strain relief (43).

12. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 8 - 11, wherein the strain relief bracket (38) is attached to an edge strip (7, 8) and / or to a partition plate (4) of the heat exchanger block (2).

13. Plate heat exchanger according to claim 12, wherein the temperature sensor retaining element (29) is connected to the heat exchanger block (2) at the edge strip (7, 8) and / or at the separating plate (4).

14. Plate heat exchanger according to one of claims 8 - 13, wherein the strain relief bracket (38) is plate-shaped.

15. Plate heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the temperature sensor (33) has a temperature measuring port (39), and wherein the temperature measuring port (39) is included in the recording section (31 , 32).

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