Gasket-Free Tongue-Groove Grid Modules for Catalyst Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of gaskets in catalyst support grid systems is cumbersome, leading to time-consuming and risky maintenance operations due to sticking issues during disassembly and slipping during reassembly, especially in confined spaces with heavy modules, and results in increased exposure to hazards.
Innovation Solution
A gasket-free tongue/groove connection system between grid modules and external structures, allowing for efficient installation and maintenance by forming a tight seal without the need for gaskets, which simplifies the handling and reduces the time operators spend in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gaskets are used to ensure tightness between grid modules and external structures, then sealing reliability is improved, but maintenance time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the gasket component from the sealing system, replacing it with a gasket-free tongue/groove connection mechanism. This eliminates the time-consuming operations of gasket installation, positioning, and removal while maintaining sealing reliability through the interlocking geometry of the tongue and groove structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a tongue/groove connection structure as an intermediary mechanism between grid modules and external structures. This intermediary system provides both mechanical support and sealing functionality, replacing the traditional gasket-based approach and enabling quick assembly and disassembly operations.
2Reliability
If gaskets are used to ensure tight connection, then sealing performance is improved, but ease of operation during maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket component is completely removed from the system, eliminating all operational difficulties associated with gasket handling such as sticking during disassembly and slipping during reassembly. The tongue/groove connection provides inherent positioning and sealing without requiring operator skill or experience with gasket manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tongue/groove connection structure is designed to be self-aligning and self-sealing. The geometry of the tongue and groove automatically ensures proper positioning and tight connection during assembly, eliminating the need for operator intervention to position or secure gaskets, thereby greatly improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If gaskets are used for tight connection, then prevention of particle leakage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the gasket component and its associated complexity from the connection system. The tongue/groove connection provides particle leakage prevention through its interlocking geometry and tight fit, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the mechanical connection function and the sealing function into a single integrated tongue/groove structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate gaskets and fastening mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining effective particle leakage prevention through the unified connection design.
Data Source
AI summary
A grid module (2a, 2b) for a catalyst support comprising one or more sides arranged with a module connecting part (11) to engage in a tongue/groove connection with a matching receiving connecting part (8a, 8b) on an external structure (7a, 7b).