Method for operating a circulation system, and circulation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circulation systems fail to maintain water temperature below the desired level for all partial sections and times, especially in cold water networks, leading to potential microbial growth and non-compliance with temperature regulations.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates and adjusts the temperature change of water between initial and end regions using a model of axial temperature change, determining the necessary volume flow and temperature settings at the output port to ensure the water temperature remains below the desired limit throughout the circulation system, without the need for sensors, using a cooling device or heater, and adapting for both cold and hot water networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cooled circulation system is used to maintain water temperature below +25°C, then microbial growth is prevented and regulatory compliance is improved, but the system fails to maintain temperature control for all partial sections and all times
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation system is divided into multiple partial sections, each with its own temperature monitoring and control. The pipeline system is segmented into branches with nodes, allowing independent temperature management for each section. This enables targeted cooling where needed while reducing overall system complexity and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary cooling of water before it enters stagnation-prone areas by strategically positioning cooling devices at key points in the circulation loop. This proactive approach prevents temperature rise in vulnerable sections before microbial growth can occur, rather than attempting to correct overheating after it occurs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If forced flushing is performed to prevent stagnation and control temperature, then microbial growth is reduced, but energy consumption increases and temperature control during stagnation phases is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation system implements periodic flushing cycles alternating with stagnation phases. During periodic circulation, water is pumped through the system to prevent stagnation and control temperature. During stagnation phases, circulation stops to conserve energy. This periodic operation balances microbial prevention with energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the pipeline system receive different treatments based on their stagnation risk. High-risk sections undergo more frequent flushing or receive enhanced cooling, while low-risk sections can remain in energy-saving stagnation mode. This localized approach optimizes both microbial control and energy consumption.
3Reliability
If PWC pipelines are installed in rooms and equipment spaces with heat sources to ensure water availability, then water supply reliability is improved, but water temperature exceeds the desired limit due to thermal influencing
Solution Approach 1:
Thermal insulation acts as an intermediary barrier between the PWC pipelines and heat sources in the environment. The insulation layer blocks heat transfer from surrounding spaces to the cold water pipes, allowing reliable water supply in any location while maintaining temperature control. This mediates the conflict between installation flexibility and temperature maintenance.
4Temperature
If PWC pipelines are adequately insulated to prevent heat gain, then temperature control is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes insulation parameters such as thickness, material thermal conductivity, and installation coverage based on the specific thermal conditions of each pipeline section. By calculating and applying only the necessary insulation level for each area, the system achieves effective temperature control while minimizing installation complexity and material usage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively maintains the water temperature within regulatory limits, ensuring compliance and achieving greater energy efficiency in the operation of the circulation system, while reducing the risk of microbial growth and optimizing energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
A cooled circulation system is already known from EP 1 626 034 A1
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchanger, extracting heat from the water, is provided in the circulation conduit
Implementation Method 3
a circulation pump, a regulating unit, and at least two branches
Implementation Method 4
a model of the axial temperature change for the first partial section connected to the output port
Implementation Method 5
thermal influencing of the regions of the installation
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a circulation system comprising a cooling device with an input port and an output port for cooling water. The invention also relates to a circulation system for implementing said method.