Coil Wound Heat Exchanger Module Frame for Unified Support and Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for assembling and installing coil wound heat exchangers are time-consuming and require multiple sets of structures for support during different stages, leading to prolonged construction timelines and outdoor installation at plant sites.
Innovation Solution
The method involves forming a coil wound mandrel, attaching a heat exchanger shell to a module frame with connecting members, telescoping the mandrel into the shell, and transporting it vertically, where the shell is suspended within the module frame, allowing for simultaneous mechanical and electrical work before installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional assembly methods are used with multiple sets of structures for support during different stages, then the heat exchanger can be supported during assembly, transport, and installation, but the construction timeline is prolonged and manufacturing duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support during assembly, acts as a transport fixture, and serves as the final support structure at the installation site. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate support structures at each stage, reducing both time and material requirements while maintaining reliability throughout the process
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the assembly fixture, transport dunnage, and final support structure into a single integrated module frame. By combining these previously separate elements into one unified structure, the construction timeline is shortened and the number of assembly/disassembly operations is reduced, directly addressing the time loss problem
2Reliability
If the heat exchanger is erected at the plant site with support frame construction, then proper support and stability are achieved, but installation must occur outdoors and construction timelines are extended
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame is pre-assembled and pre-configured at the manufacturing site before the heat exchanger is installed. This preliminary preparation allows quality control and verification to be performed in a controlled environment, making the actual site installation simpler and faster while maintaining structural reliability
3Reliability
If piping connections, electrical connections, and instrumentation are installed after erection, then proper connections are achieved, but the process requires outdoor work and extends construction timelines
Solution Approach 1:
Piping connections, electrical connections, and instrumentation are installed on the module frame before the heat exchanger is transported to the plant site. This preliminary installation allows these complex tasks to be performed in a controlled manufacturing environment with proper facilities, improving connection quality and eliminating the need for outdoor work during these installation phases
4Reliability
If three different sets of structures are used for support during various stages, then the heat exchanger is properly supported during assembly, transport, and installation, but device complexity and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame is designed as a universal support structure that performs the functions of assembly fixtures, transport dunnage, and final support structure. This single multi-functional structure replaces three separate structures, reducing device complexity and material requirements while maintaining adequate support throughout all stages
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines three separate support structures (assembly fixture, transport dunnage, final support structure) into one integrated module frame. This merging eliminates the complexity of managing multiple structures and reduces material requirements while ensuring proper support during assembly, transport, and installation
Data Source
AI summary
A method of constructing a coil wound heat exchange module and transporting and installing the coil wound heat exchange module at a plant site, such as an natural gas liquefaction plant. A module frame is constructed and attached to a heat exchanger shell prior to telescoping of a coil wound mandrel into the shell. The module frame includes a lug and two saddles that remain attached to the shell throughout the process and when the heat exchanger is operated. The lug and saddles are constructed and located to stabilize the shell during construction, telescoping and transport (when in a horizontal orientation), and when the shell is installed at the plant site (in a vertical orientation). The lugs and saddles are adapted to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the shell when it is transitioned from ambient to operating temperature and vice versa.