Flat-Frame Heat Exchanger Structure for Easier Micro-Turbine Manufacturing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturing heat exchangers for cogeneration systems with gas micro-turbines is challenging due to the complexity of metallic lattices required, which complicates the manufacturing process and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger design featuring a stack of flat distribution frames with support projections and metal sheets, eliminating the need for additional reinforcement components like metallic lattices, and incorporating features such as corrugations and metallic lattices to enhance structural integrity and heat transfer efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metallic lattices are used to reinforce distribution frames, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reinforcement function into the distribution frame itself by integrating ribs directly into the frame structure. This eliminates the need for separate metallic lattice components while maintaining structural strength, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution frame is designed to serve multiple functions: it distributes fluid, provides structural support, and incorporates ribs that act as both structural reinforcement and fluid distribution channels. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reinforcement components.
2Strength
If metallic lattices are used for reinforcement, then structural integrity is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement structure is merged with the distribution frame, allowing both components to be manufactured as a single piece. This eliminates the need for separate manufacturing and assembly steps for metallic lattices, significantly improving ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution frame is segmented into functional zones with ribs strategically positioned to provide reinforcement only where needed, rather than using a complete metallic lattice structure. This reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If support projections are added to distribution frames, then structural support is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support projections are merged into the distribution frame structure as integral ribs, eliminating the need for separate support components. This provides structural support while avoiding the complexity of additional parts and assembly steps.
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
The design is more robust, easier to manufacture, reduces production costs, and enhances heat transfer efficiency by optimizing fluid flow and structural support, facilitating standardization and economies of scale.
Implementation Method 1
metal sheets arranged alternately with the distribution frames in the stack to create thermal contact between said fluid zones
Implementation Method 2
It performs the essential function of preheating the combustion air by recovering the thermal energy still present in the exhaust gases from the turbine
Data Source
AI summary
A heat exchanger for preheating the combustion air of a micro-turbine in a cogeneration system is disclosed. The structure of this heat exchanger includes an assembly of flat distribution frames and spacer metal sheets. Each distribution frame is defined by an outline framing a fluid zone and is equipped with inlet orifices and outlet orifices for the passage of this fluid. The metal sheets are supported by support projections at the distribution frames, which simplifies the manufacture of the heat exchanger.