Heat exchange module for a plate heat exchanger and heat exchanger comprising the heat exchange module

Abstract

Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1 ) comprising the following successively six abutting elements: a first heat exchange plate (13), a first sealing gasket (17) having a first internal cavity (18) for a first medium, a second heat exchange plate (21), a second sealing gasket (25) having a second internal cavity (26) containing a phase change material (PCM) (28), a third heat exchange plate (29), a third sealing gasket (33) having a third internal cavity (34) for a second medium wherein the heat exchange module is arranged for transfer of thermal energy between the first medium in the first internal cavity (18), the second medium in the third internal cavity (34) and the PCM (28) in the second internal cavity (26).

Description

[0001] Title: Heat exchange module for a plate heat exchanger and heat exchanger comprising the heat exchange module

[0002] Description:

[0003] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a heat exchange module for a plate heat exchanger.

[0004] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a plate heat exchanger comprising two or more heat exchange modules.

[0005] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a system for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building, the system comprising:

[0006] - a first distribution circuit for a first thermal energy transport medium, the first distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units arranged for collecting or releasing thermal energy and transferring the thermal energy to and from the first thermal energy transport medium,

[0007] - a second distribution circuit for a second thermal energy transport medium, the second distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units arranged for distributing and collecting thermal energy within a building, - a plate heat exchanger for transferring thermal energy between the first thermal energy transport medium of the first distribution circuit and the second thermal energy transport medium of the second distribution circuit.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building using the system according to the third aspect.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to energy storage systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to thermal energy storage and exchange systems and the use of energy-storable material such as phase change materials (PCMs), in heat exchangers and in heating and / or cooling systems for applications like domestic dwellings.Space heating and hot water are essential in homes, offices, factories, hotels, and shops worldwide. The prevalent approach has been to deliver heat on demand by burning storable energy sources (e.g., oil, gas) or using electricity, typically generated from gas or coal, in heating elements.

[0010] Efforts to reduce dependency on fossil fuels focus on shifting energy production from fossil sunlight to current sunlight. Renewable sources include:

[0011] Photovoltaics converting sunlight to electricity with efficiencies of 10-20% for cost-effective panels;

[0012] Wind Turbines harnessing wind energy, though viable sites for generation and use often differ;

[0013] Despite these advancements, renewable energy sources like solar and wind are intermittent, generating energy only under favourable conditions. Energy storage solutions are essential for balancing supply and demand on the electricity grid, which currently lacks substantial storage capacity. One approach involves pumped-storage hydropower, which converts surplus electricity into gravitational potential energy. While efficient, suitable sites for such systems are limited.

[0014] The present disclosure proposes an alternative approach: converting surplus electricity from renewable sources into heat or cooling energy, storing it in a thermal energy system in buildings, and releasing it on demand. Thermal energy storage technologies can store heat from solar collectors for later use in space heating, hot water, or electricity generation.

[0015] Phase change materials (PCMs) have been employed in energy storage systems, particularly using the solid-liquid phase change. These materials absorb significant amounts of heat at their melting point without a substantial temperature rise. When temperatures drop, they solidify, releasing stored heat. PCMs can store 5-14 times more heat per unit volume than conventional materials like water or rock. PCMs fall into two main categories:

[0016] Organic Compounds, examples include paraffins, fatty acids, and polyethylene glycol. These are air-stable and water-free.

[0017] Salt-Based Products, examples include salt hydrates and eutectic salts. These require encapsulation to prevent water evaporation.The scope of these thermal energy applications are wide ranging such as solar heating, hot water, heating rejection, air conditioning and thermal energy storage applications. However, there are a number of problems with practical use of phase change materials in plate heat exchangers including achieving suitable rates of heat transfer in and out and acceptable levels of thermodynamic efficiency.

[0018] German patent application 10 2022 112 039 A1 discloses a plate heat exchanger comprising a stack of heat exchange plates arranged between two end plates. A first heat exchange plate defines a first medium chamber for the passage of a first medium, and a second heat exchange plate defines a second medium chamber for the passage of a second medium. A leakage chamber is arranged between the first medium chamber and the second medium chamber by means of a third heat exchange plate. The leakage chambers may be filled with phase change material (PCM).

[0019] In this known configuration, each medium chamber is positioned between two leakage chambers (with PCM), such that direct heat exchange between the first medium and the second medium is prevented. This configuration is disadvantageous, as direct heat transfer between the media is not possible, which limits the thermal efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0020] Furthermore, sealing gaskets are provided only locally around openings in the heat exchange plates in order to prevent mixing of the first and second media. No gaskets are provided to prevent leakage of the first and second media to the external environment of the plate heat exchanger. In order to ensure containment of the media within the heat exchanger, each heat exchange plate is formed with a concavely curved edge extending out of the plane of the plate. In the stacked assemble state, overlapping edge regions of adjacent heat exchange plates must be soldered together to prevent leakage of the media to the external environment through the gap between adjacent heat exchange plates. This results in a rigid, permanently joined plate stack.

[0021] Such a construction is disadvantageous, as it prevents disassembly of the heat exchanger and significantly reduces flexibility in assembly and maintenance. Moreover, the soldering of each heat exchange plate to an adjacent heat exchange plate is labour-intensive and therefore cost-intensive.American patent application US 11,125,510 B2 discloses schematically a plate heat exchanger comprising a stack of heat exchange plates with a first heat exchange plate defining a first medium chamber for the passage of a first medium, and a second heat exchange plate defining a second medium chamber for the passage of a second medium, and a third heat exchange plate defining a third chamber comprising a plurality of different PCM’s. In this known configuration, each medium chamber is in contact with the other medium chamber and with a PCM chamber, allowing for direct heat exchange between the first medium and the second medium and between both of the media and the PCM. However, the disclosure is silent with respect to constructional solutions for achieving flexibility and cost efficiency in assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of the heat exchanger.

[0022] In view of the above, the objective technical problem is to provide a plate heat exchanger that enables efficient heat transfer between two media and intermediate thermal energy storage, while ensuring reliable sealing to the environment; that provides protection of the PCM by avoiding direct contact with the media; that allows for flexible, cost-efficient assembly and disassembly; and that has improved structural rigidity and pressure stability of the plate heat exchanger so as to accommodate expansion and contraction of the PCM.

[0023] It is an object of at least one aspect of the present disclosure to overcome or at least mitigate one or more of the aforementioned drawbacks. It is a further object of the present disclosure to provide an improved plate heat exchanger resulting in improved thermal energy store.

[0024] A further object of the present disclosure is to provide an improved heating and / or cooling system for buildings comprising such a plate heat exchanger and phase change material. Another object is to provide a flexible system for supplying and extracting thermal energy within a building, which enables thermal energy to be stored during periods of lower energy cost and subsequently recovered and used for space heating and / or cooling during periods of higher energy cost.

[0025] According to a first aspect of the current disclosure there is provided a heat exchange module for a plate heat exchanger, the module comprising the following successively six abutting elements:- a first heat exchange plate provided with four openings of four channels for the inlet and outlet of a first medium and a second medium;

[0026] - a first sealing gasket defining a first internal cavity for the first medium with an inlet and an outlet for the first medium, the first sealing gasket comprising two channel parts for the passage of the second medium, wherein the first sealing gasket seals the gap between the first heat exchange plate and the second heat exchange plate to ensure containment of the first medium within the first internal cavity;

[0027] - a second heat exchange plate with four openings of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;

[0028] - a second sealing gasket defining a second internal cavity containing a phase change material (PCM), the second sealing gasket comprising four channel parts for the passage of the first medium and the second medium, wherein the second sealing gasket seals the gap between the second heat exchange plate and the third heat exchange plate to ensure containment of the PCM within the second internal cavity (26);

[0029] - a third heat exchange plate with four openings of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;

[0030] - a third sealing gasket defining a third internal cavity for the second medium with an inlet and an outlet for the second medium, the third sealing gasket comprising two channel parts for the passage of the first medium, wherein the third sealing gasket seals the gap between the third heat exchange plate and the first heat exchange plate of an adjacent heat exchange module to ensure containment of the second medium within third internal cavity;

[0031] wherein the heat exchange module is arranged for transfer of thermal energy between the first medium in the first internal cavity, the second medium in the third internal cavity and the PCM in the second internal cavity.

[0032] By providing a heat exchange module for a plate heat exchanger having sealing gaskets between the heat exchange plates instead of soldering the gap between the heat exchange plates to ensure containment of the media, the plate heat exchanger can be configured and assembled by adding the necessary number of heat exchange modules between two pressure plates. Heat exchange modules can now be added, removed, or replaced without disassembling the entire plate heat exchanger, thereby reducing maintenance costs and enhancing long-term system adaptability.Furthermore, by providing the PCM within an internal cavity of a sealing gasket, direct contact between the PCM and the media is prevented.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment one or more edges of the first heat exchange plate are provided with plate walls which extend substantially perpendicular from the plane of the plate for forming a plate housing for receiving and enclosing the first sealing gasket, the second heat exchange plate, the second sealing gasket, the third heat exchange plate, and the third sealing gasket of the heat exchange module. Thereby, the heat exchanger is easily assembled, loss of energy is reduced, heat exchange is enhanced between both media, and the gaskets are prevented from displacing between the heat exchange plates. The plate walls (optional as folded edges of the heat exchange plate) impart structural rigidity and pressure stability to the heat exchange module, which is particularly relevant during expansion and contraction of the PCM.

[0034] Typically, the plate walls form a continuous upright wall of the housing, completely enclosing the six abutting elements. Now, the consecutive elements of the heat exchange module are all enclosed within the housing, thereby further enhancing heat exchange and also preventing displacement of the gaskets.

[0035] In particular a first portion of the plate walls extends out of the plane of the plate, the first portion being essentially straight;

[0036] a middle portion of the plate walls is provided with a widened portion; and

[0037] an end portion of the plate walls extends out of the middle portion of the plate walls, the end portion being essentially straight or concavely curved;

[0038] the middle portion and the end portion being configured to receive and engage the plate housing of the first heat exchange plate of an adjacent heat exchange module. This allows the various modules to be easily slid into one another, enabling the easy and flexible assembly of a large package of modules.

[0039] Advantageously, the first sealing gasket and the third sealing gasket are identical and mounted upside down with respect to each other. This reduces the costs of the heat exchanger, by requiring less different parts and elements.

[0040] Typically, the first internal cavity of the first sealing gasket and the third internal cavity of the third sealing gasket are provided with baffles or flow-directing elements. These measures improve heat transfer by reducing zones with diminished flow within the internal cavities.In a particular embodiment, the second heat exchange plate and the third heat exchange plate are identical, thereby reducing costs by requiring less different parts and elements.

[0041] In another embodiment is / are the first heat exchange plate and / or the second heat exchange plate and / or third heat exchange plate provided with a circle of small cams or protrusions around the openings for preventing local over-compression of the sealing gaskets. With these measures, over-compression of the gaskets at the inlet / outlet portion, where less material is available then at the channel parts, is prevented.

[0042] Typically, the two channel parts of the first sealing gasket, the four channel parts of the second sealing gasket, and the two channel parts of the third sealing gasket have a diameter larger than the circle of spaced apart small cams or protrusions around the openings of the first or second or third heat exchange plate to prevent contact of the cams with the sealing gasket leading to leakage of the sealing gaskets.

[0043] Preferably, the PCM in the second internal cavity of the second sealing gasket is a salt, more preferably a salt packed in a bag. When packed in a bag, moisture or liquids cannot deactivate the functionality of the PCM salt.

[0044] Typically, the PCM has a melting point in a range of 50 °C to 70 °C so that thermal energy can be stored and released at temperatures suitable for use in a distribution system for thermal energy in buildings.

[0045] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a plate heat exchanger comprising two or more heat exchange modules according to the first aspect, wherein the first heat exchange plate of a second heat exchange module of the two or more heat exchange modules abuts against the third sealing gasket of the first heat exchange module.

[0046] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a system for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building, the system comprising: - a first distribution circuit for a circulating first thermal energy transport medium, the first distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units arranged for collecting or releasing thermal energy and transferring the thermal energy to and from the first thermal energy transport medium,- a second distribution circuit for a circulating second thermal energy transport medium, the second distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units arranged for distributing and / or collecting thermal energy within a building,

[0047] - a plate heat exchanger for transferring thermal energy between the first thermal energy transport medium of the first distribution circuit and the second thermal energy transport medium of the second distribution circuit;

[0048] wherein the plate heat exchanger is a plate heat exchanger according to the second aspect of the disclosure.

[0049] Typically, the thermal energy exchange units comprised in the first distribution circuit are preferably chosen from: a solar heating unit using a solar thermal collector, a fireplace, geothermal energy unit, an air to water heat pump.

[0050] Typically, the thermal energy exchange units comprised in the second distribution circuit are preferably chosen from: panel convector radiators, an underfloor heating assembly of a central heating system, a tap water heating unit.

[0051] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building using the system according to the third aspect, comprising the steps:

[0052] exchanging heat directly between the first medium in the first internal cavity of the first sealing gasket of a second heat exchange module and the second medium in the third internal cavity of the third sealing gasket of the first heat exchange module; exchanging heat within a heat exchange module between the first medium in the first internal cavity of the first sealing gasket and the second medium in the third internal cavity of the third sealing gasket by means of the intermediate second sealing gasket containing a PCM.

[0053] The present disclosure will be discussed in more detail with reference to the figure description below.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a plate heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;Figure 2 shows in an explode view the plate heat exchanger of Figure 1 configured from a row of individual heat exchange modules;

[0055] Figure 3 shows in an exploded view a heat exchange module from Figure 2 with six successive elements;

[0056] Figure 4A shows a front view of the heat exchange module from Figure 3;

[0057] Figure 4B shows a side view of the heat exchange module from Figure 3;

[0058] Figure 4C shows detail C from the heat exchange module from Figure 4B

[0059] Figure 5 shows a system with two distribution circuits and the plate heat exchanger of Figure 1.

[0060] Figure 1 shows a plate heat exchanger 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The plate heat exchanger 1 is assembled from a number of heat exchange modules 10, 10’ compressed together between two front pates 2 connected to each other by a number of rods 3. In the embodiment shown, the rods 3 are provided with nuts 4 so that tie rods are formed. In the embodiment shown, the visible front plate is provided with two inlet ports and two outlet ports for a first medium and a second medium for transferring thermal energy between the two media.

[0061] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the plate heat exchanger 1 comprising a plurality of heat exchange modules 10, 10’. The inlet ports and the outlet ports on the front plate 2 for the first medium and the second medium are aligned with the openings provided in the elements of the heat exchange module. In the embodiment shown the inlet ports and outlet ports of both media are all located on the front plate 2. It is also possible to position one or more of the inlet ports and / or the outlet ports on the rear plate.

[0062] Figure 3 shows more in detail an exploded view of the heat exchange module 10 of the present disclosure. From left to right in Figure 3 in the length direction L, or from the rear side to the front side, the six elements of the heat exchange module are shown:a first heat exchange plate 13 provided with four openings 15 of four channels for the inlet and outlet of a first medium and a second medium;

[0063] a first sealing gasket 17 defining a first internal cavity 18 for the first medium with an inlet and an outlet for the first medium, the first sealing gasket comprising two channel parts 19 for the passage of the second medium, wherein the first sealing gasket 17 seals the gap in the length direction L between the first heat exchange plate 13 and the second heat exchange plate 21 to ensure containment of the first medium within the first internal cavity 18;

[0064] a second heat exchange plate 21 with four openings 23 of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;

[0065] a second sealing gasket 25 defining a second internal cavity 26 containing a phase change material (PCM) 28, the second sealing gasket comprising four channel parts 27 for the passage of the first medium and the second medium, wherein the second sealing gasket 25 seals the gap in the length direction L between the second heat exchange plate 21 and the third heat exchange plate 29 to ensure containment of the PCM 28 within the second internal cavity 26;

[0066] a third heat exchange plate 29 with four openings 31 of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;

[0067] a third sealing gasket 33 defining a third internal cavity 34 for the second medium with an inlet and an outlet for the second medium, the third sealing gasket comprising two channel parts 35 for the passage of the first medium, wherein the third sealing gasket 33 seals the gap between the third heat exchange plate 29 and the first heat exchange plate 13’ of an adjacent heat exchange module 10’ to ensure containment of the second medium within third internal cavity 34.

[0068] In the embodiment shown in figures 1 - 3, the first medium flows through two channel parts 35 of the third sealing gasket 33, through two of the four openings 31 of the third heat exchange plate 29, through two of the four channel parts 27 of the second sealing gasket 25, through two of the four openings 23 of the second heat exchange plate 21 and through first internal cavity 18 of first sealing gasket 17. The first medium flows in contact with the surface of the second heat exchange plate 21 and with the surface of the first heat exchange plate 13. In the mounted position of the plate heat exchanger the first internal cavity 18 is defined by the thickness of the first sealing gasket and the first 13 and second 21 heat exchange plate. The gap in thelength direction L between two adjacent heat exchange plates, such as the first heat exchange plate 13 and the second heat exchange plate 21 , is defined by the thickness of the sealing gasket, such as the first sealing gasket. Preferably, the sealing gasket comprises a closed-loop rib-shaped sealing body having a preferably rectangular cross-section, ensuring containment of the media within the internal cavity in mounted position without soldering the gap between the heat exchange plates. The sealing body may comprise rounded corner regions corresponding to the rounded corners of the heat exchange plates.

[0069] In the mounted position of the plate heat exchanger the third internal cavity 34 for the second medium is defined by the thickness of the third sealing gasket 33 and the third heat exchange plate 29 of the heat exchange module 10 and the first heat exchange plate 13’ of an abutting heat exchange module 10’. The second medium flows through two of the four openings 31 of the third heat exchange plate 29, through two of the four channel parts 27 of the second sealing gasket 25, through two of the four openings 23 of the second heat exchange plate 21 , through two channel parts 19 of the first sealing gasket 17 and through two of the four openings 15 of the first heat exchange plate 13, when a further heat exchange module is arranged behind and coupled to the heat exchange module 10 shown. The first medium and the second medium can flow counter current or co-current through the heat exchange modules 10, 10’.

[0070] In the second internal cavity 26 of the second sealing gasket 25 a phase change material (PCM) 28 is provided. Good results have been obtained with a PCM 28 being a salt packed in a bag; the salt having a melting point in a range of 50 °C to 70 °C.

[0071] Accordingly, the heat exchange module 10, 10’ is arranged for transfer of thermal energy between the first medium flowing through the first internal cavity 18, the second medium flowing through the third internal cavity 34 and the PCM 28 in the second internal cavity 26.

[0072] In the embodiment shown in figure 3 the first sealing gasket 17 and the third sealing gasket 33 are identical and mounted upside down with respect to each other. As a result, only one type of sealing gasket needs to be designed and manufactured leading to reduced costs for design and construction of the plate heat exchanger.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in figure 3 the first internal cavity 18 of the first sealing gasket 17 and the third internal cavity 34 of the third sealing gasket 33 areprovided with baffles 36 or flow-directing elements. These elements provide an improved distribution of the media over the abutting heat exchange plates reducing preferent flow through the middle of the cavity and enhancing flow in the width direction of the cavity, thereby increasing heat transfer. Preferably, the closed-loop rib-shaped sealing body having a preferably rectangular cross-section, is provided with rib-shaped baffles 36 extending inwards into the internal cavity from the closed-loop rib-shaped sealing body.

[0074] In order to further obtain a cost reduction for the design and construction of the plate heat exchanger, the second heat exchange plate 21 and the third heat exchange plate 29 are identical.

[0075] In an advantageous embodiment, the first heat exchange plate 13 and / or the second heat exchange plate 21 and / or third heat exchange plate 29 is / are provided with a circle of small cams 12 or protrusions around the openings 15, 23, 31 for preventing local over-compression of the sealing gaskets 17, 25. The corners forming the two channel parts 19 of the sealing gaskets 17, 25 are provided with additional material, compared to the other two corners which form the inlet and outlet for the medium flowing through the internal cavities 18, 34. When a compressing force is applied to the heat exchange module, the corner with the least amount of material will be compressed to a greater extent, leading to uneven and not symmetrical packed and compressed heat exchange module, thereby increasing the risk on leakage of a medium out of the plate heat exchanger. By providing small cams 12, the corner with the least amount of material cannot be compressed further than the height of the small cams.

[0076] In order to prevent contact of the cams 12 with the sealing gasket the two channel parts 19 of the first sealing gasket 17 and the two channel parts 35 of the second first sealing gasket 33 have a diameter larger than the circle of spaced apart small cams 12 or protrusions around the openings 15, 23, 31 of the first 13 or second 21 or third 29 heat exchange plate. As a result all openings of the first 13 and second 21 heat exchange plate are provided with cams 12, so that the second heat exchange plate 21 and the third heat exchange plate 29 can be identical and a reduction of costs is obtained. Also the first sealing gasket 17 and the third sealing gasket 33 can be identical, leading to a further reduction in costs.In figures 4A, 4B and 4C parts of the heat exchange module 10 of figure 3 are shown in more detail. One or more edges of the first heat exchange plate 13 is provided with plate walls 14 which extend substantially perpendicular from the plane of the plate for forming a plate housing for receiving and enclosing the other five elements 17, 21, 25, 29, 33 of the heat exchange module 10. Preferably, the plate walls 14 form a continuous upright wall of the housing. This has the advantage that all elements of the heat exchange module are enclosed within the housing, improving heat transfer and reducing heat loss. Additionally, the housing prevents the sealing gaskets from shifting relative to the plates, thereby reducing the risk of leakage and similar issues.

[0077] Preferably, a first portion 14-1 of the plate walls 14 extends out of the plane of the plate, the first portion 14-1 being essentially straight; wherein a middle portion 14-2 of the plate walls 14 is provided with a widened portion 16; and wherein an end portion 14-3 of the plate walls 14 extends out of the middle portion 14-2 of the plate walls 14, the end portion 14-3 being essentially straight or concavely curved; the middle portion 14-2 and the end portion 14-2 being configured to receive and engage the plate housing of the first heat exchange plate 13’ of an adjacent heat exchange module 10’. This allows the various modules to be easily slid into one another, enabling the easy and flexible assembly of a large package of modules. This makes it furthermore easy and cost-effective to create a plate heat exchanger tailored to specific requirements and specifications.

[0078] Advantageously, the plate housing provides for a more even distribution of heat during both charging and discharging of the disclosed plate heat exchanger. Without this plate housing or shell, individual heat exchange modules charge or discharge unevenly, as heat naturally flows along the path of least resistance. This could lead to variations in the charging or discharging rates among the different heat exchange modules, resulting in inefficiencies and potentially in performance reduction.

[0079] By incorporating the plate housing, this inefficiency is reduced, ensuring that the entire plate heat exchanger can be charged and discharged simultaneously and uniformly.

[0080] Accordingly, the plate heat exchanger 1 is assembled from two or more heat exchange modules 10, each module comprising the phase change material (PCM). The heat exchange modules 10 are provided with heat exchange plates 13, 21, 29having a large heat exchange surface, thereby maximizing thermal energy transfer. This allows to add and remove thermal energy quickly and effectively, enabling the plate heat exchanger to be charged and discharged fast without incurring notable thermal energy losses.

[0081] Fast thermal energy discharge of the plate heat exchanger is advantageous in situations with high peak loads and increased heat demand. As a result, the plate heat exchanger is not only suitable for energy storage but also for applications where quick and powerful peak output is required. For example, this makes it possible to rapidly heat a building upon arrival, after the night, or during periods of increased heat demand such as during showering or filling a bathtub.

[0082] Figure 4B shows the side view of the heat exchange module 10 in figure 4A. In the embodiment shown the PCM 28 package in second internal cavity 26 has a thickness greater than the thickness of the first internal cavity 18 and third internal cavity 34. This allows for easy adaptation of the thickness of the PCM when specifications of the plate heat exchanger are adjusted to confirm with a new design.

[0083] Figure 4C shows detail C of the side view of the heat exchange module 10 in figure 4B. The second sealing gasket 25 is enclosed by the second heat exchange plate 21 , the third heat exchange plate 29 and on top by the plate wall 14 of first heat exchange plate 13 so that displacement of the sealing gasket is prevented when the plate heat exchanger is compressed. Furthermore with respect to the media, reliable sealing to the environment is now ensured, and protection of the PCM positioned within the second internal cavity 26 of the second sealing gasket 25 thereby avoiding direct contact with the media. The plate heat exchanger exhibits improved structural rigidity and pressure stability, thereby accommodating expansion and contraction of the PCM.

[0084] Figure 5 shows a system for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building, by using the plate heat exchanger 1 , T according to the second aspect of the present disclosure comprising heat exchange modules 10, 10’ according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0085] In a first distribution circuit 101 a first thermal energy transport medium is circulating through three thermal energy exchange units arranged for collecting or releasing thermal energy and transferring the thermal energy to and from the first thermal energytransport medium. In the embodiment of the system in figure 5 a solar heating unit 103 using a solar thermal collector, a fireplace 105, a geothermal energy unit 107, and an air to water heat pump 109 are shown as examples.

[0086] In a second distribution circuit 111 a second thermal energy transport medium is circulating through thermal energy exchange units arranged for distributing and / or collecting thermal energy within a building. In the embodiment of the system in figure 5 panel convector radiators 115 and an underfloor heating assembly 117 of a central heating system are shown, and a tap water heating unit 113.

[0087] The air to water heat pump 109 is preferably connected to the public power grid, as well as to an inverter 120 for solar panels 121 and an electric battery 122 so that electrical energy can be converted into thermal energy when the price of electricity is low and / or when the sun is shining and the solar panels 121 produce a surplus of electrical energy.

[0088] The first and second thermal energy transport media are circulating as first and second media through the plate heat exchangers 1 , T for transferring thermal energy between the two distribution circuits. For example thermal energy collected by the solar heating unit 103 and / or by the air to water heat pump 109 converting electrical energy originating from the solar panels 121, is transferred by the second distribution circuit 111 to the first distribution circuit 101 in the plate heat exchanger 10, 10’ and then to the convector radiators 115 to heat the spaces in the building. The surplus of thermal energy from the second distribution circuit 111 is stored in the PCM 28 within the plate heat exchanger 10, 10’ for later use, like in the evening when the ambient temperature drops after sunset and the amount of thermal energy transferred to the second distribution circuit 111 originating from the sun is nihil.

[0089] This system enables the disclosed plate heat exchanger 1 to be charged efficiently and in a controlled manner using relatively low-power thermal energy exchange units like e.g. a solar heating unit using a solar thermal collector, a fireplace, geothermal energy unit, an air to water heat pump.

[0090] Preferable the system is provided with a smart control unit, which controls all the thermal energy streams and the liquid streams in the system and optimizes the system based on the wishes and requirements of the occupant(s) of the spaces in the building depending on the energy prices and the available quantities of thermal energy.To further increase the efficiency of the system for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building, the smart control of the thermal energy exchange units can be optimized for use at the most advantageous periods of the day:

[0091] • Control during periods when the air to water heat pump 109 operates at the highest coefficient of performance (COP) in combination with the lowest possible electricity price.

[0092] • Taking advantage of periods when free electricity is available, for example when the solar panels 121 produce a surplus.

[0093] • Utilizing alternative heat sources, such as waste heat from industrial processes or a fireplace that is optimally used during ‘prime burning moments’.

[0094] Due to the smart control, the system can not only operate cost-effectively but also make maximum use of sustainable and renewable energy sources.

[0095] The optimized system also makes it possible to size a smaller heat pump based on high-COP efficiency periods instead of on the peak heat demand, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective system.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1), the module comprising the following successively six abutting elements:- a first heat exchange plate (13) provided with four openings (15) of four channels for the inlet and outlet of a first medium and a second medium;- a first sealing gasket (17) defining a first internal cavity (18) for the first medium with an inlet and an outlet for the first medium, the first sealing gasket comprising two channel parts (19) for the passage of the second medium, wherein the first sealing gasket (17) seals the gap between the first heat exchange plate (13) and the second heat exchange plate (21) to ensure containment of the first medium within the first internal cavity (18);- a second heat exchange plate (21) with four openings (23) of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;- a second sealing gasket (25) defining a second internal cavity (26) containing a phase change material (PCM) (28), the second sealing gasket comprising four channel parts (27) for the passage of the first medium and the second medium, wherein the second sealing gasket (25) seals the gap between the second heat exchange plate (21) and the third heat exchange plate (29) to ensure containment of the PCM (28) within the second internal cavity (26); - a third heat exchange plate (29) with four openings (31) of the four channels for the inlet and outlet of the first medium and the second medium;- a third sealing gasket (33) defining a third internal cavity (34) for the second medium with an inlet and an outlet for the second medium, the third sealing gasket comprising two channel parts (35) for the passage of the first medium, wherein the third sealing gasket (33) seals the gap between the third heat exchange plate (29) and the first heat exchange plate (13’) of an adjacent heat exchange module (10’) to ensure containment of the second medium within third internal cavity (34);wherein the heat exchange module is arranged for transfer of thermal energy between the first medium in the first internal cavity (18), the second medium in the third internal cavity (34) and the PCM (28) in the second internal cavity (26).

2. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claim 1, wherein one or more edges of the first heat exchange plate (13) are provided with plate walls (14) which extend substantially perpendicular from the plane of the plate for forming a plate housing for receiving and enclosing the first sealing gasket (17), the second heat exchange plate (21), the second sealing gasket (25), the third heat exchange plate (29), and the third sealing gasket (33) of the heat exchange module (10).

3. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claim 2, wherein the plate walls (14) form a continuous upright wall of the housing.

4. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 2 - 3,wherein a first portion (14-1 ) of the plate walls (14) extends out of the plane of the plate, the first portion (14-1) being essentially straight;wherein a middle portion (14-2) of the plate walls (14) is provided with a widened portion (16); andwherein an end portion (14-3) of the plate walls (14) extends out of the middle portion (14-2) of the plate walls (14), the end portion (14-3) being essentially straight or concavely curved;the middle portion (14-2) and the end portion (14-2) being configured to receive and engage the plate housing of the first heat exchange plate (13’) of an adjacent heat exchange module (10’).

5. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 4, wherein the first sealing gasket (17) and the third sealing gasket (33) are identical and mounted upside down with respect to each other.

6. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 5, wherein the first internal cavity (18) of the first sealing gasket (17) and the third internal cavity (34) of the third sealing gasket (33) are provided with baffles (36) or flow-directing elements.

7. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 6, wherein the second heat exchange plate (21) and the third heat exchange plate (29) are identical.

8. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 7, wherein the first heat exchange plate (13) and / or the second heat exchange plate (21) and / or third heat exchange plate (29) is / are provided with a circle of small cams (12) or protrusions around the openings (15, 23, 31) for preventing local overcompression of the sealing gaskets (17, 25, 33).

9. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claim 8, wherein the two channel parts (19) of the first sealing gasket (17), the four channel parts (27) of the second sealing gasket (25) and the two channel parts (35) of the third sealing gasket (33) have a diameter larger than the circle of spaced apart small cams (12) or protrusions around the openings (15, 23, 31) of the first (13) or second (21) or third (29) heat exchange plate to prevent contact of the cams (12) with the sealing gasket.

10. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 9, wherein the PCM (28) in the second internal cavity (26) of the second sealing gasket (25) is a salt, preferably packed in a bag.

11. Heat exchange module (10) for a plate heat exchanger (1) according to claims 1 - 10, wherein the PCM (28) has a melting point in a range of 50 °C to 70 °C.

12. Plate heat exchanger (1) comprising two or more heat exchange modules (10) according to claims 1 - 11, wherein the first heat exchange plate (13’) of a second heat exchange module (10’) of the two or more heat exchange modules abuts against the third sealing gasket (33) of the first heat exchange module (10).

13. System for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building, the system comprising:- a first distribution circuit (101) for a circulating first thermal energy transport medium, the first distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units (103, 105, 107, 109) arranged for collecting or releasing thermal energy and transferring the thermal energy to and from the first thermal energy transport medium,- a second distribution circuit (111) for a circulating second thermal energy transport medium, the second distribution circuit comprising one or more thermal energy exchange units (113, 115, 117) arranged for distributing and / or collecting thermal energy within a building,- a plate heat exchanger (1 , 1 ’) for transferring thermal energy between the first thermal energy transport medium of the first distribution circuit (101) and the second thermal energy transport medium of the second distribution circuit (111);characterized, in thatthe plate heat exchanger (1 , 1 ’) is a plate heat exchanger according to claim 12.

14. System according to claim 13, wherein the thermal energy exchange units (103, 105, 107, 109) comprised in the first distribution circuit are preferably chosen from: a solar heating unit (103) using a solar thermal collector, a fireplace (105), a geothermal energy unit (107), an air to water heat pump (109).

15. System according to claim 13 - 14, wherein the thermal energy exchange units (113, 115, 117) comprised in the second distribution circuit (111) are preferably chosen from: panel convector radiators (115), an underfloor heating assembly (117) of a central heating system, a tap water heating unit (113).

16. Method for providing and removing thermal energy to / from a building using the system according to claims 13 - 15, comprising the steps:exchanging heat directly between the first medium in the first internal cavity (18’) of the first sealing gasket (17’) of a second heat exchange module (10’) and the second medium in the third internal cavity (34) of the third sealing gasket (33) of the first heat exchange module (10);exchanging heat within a heat exchange module (10, 10’) between the first medium in the first internal cavity (18, 18’) of the first sealing gasket (17, 17’) and the second medium in the third internal cavity (34, 34’) of the third sealing gasket (33, 33’) by means of the intermediate second sealing gasket (25, 25’) containing a PCM (28, 28’).

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