Heat Transfer Plate Gasket Interlock for Secure Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gasket fastening methods for plate heat exchangers, such as adhesive and mechanical solutions, are time-consuming and unreliable, leading to potential gasket displacement and compromised sealing.
Innovation Solution
An interlocking attachment means and heat transfer plate design featuring varying width connection members and fingers that engage with gasket grooves and ridges, ensuring secure fastening and preventing displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adhesive means are used to fix gaskets to heat transfer plates, then gasket positioning is improved, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical interlocking system consisting of attachment means with connection members that engage with corresponding structures on the heat transfer plate, eliminating the need for time-consuming adhesive application and curing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment means are designed to be self-fastening through the interlocking mechanism between connection members and the heat transfer plate, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations or materials
2Ease of manufacture
If projections are used to secure gaskets to heat transfer plates, then mechanical fastening is achieved, but fastening reliability deteriorates due to weak engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member features an asymmetric cross-sectional shape with a first width and a second width that are different from each other, designed to complement the asymmetric profile of the heat transfer plate structure. This asymmetric geometry creates a positive interlocking mechanism that prevents disengagement while maintaining ease of assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from simple protruding projections to a multi-dimensional interlocking system where the connection member engages with the heat transfer plate through complementary geometric profiles in multiple dimensions, creating a more reliable mechanical connection
3Ease of operation
If gaskets are not squeezed between plates, then assembly and maintenance are simplified, but gasket displacement occurs compromising sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment means are pre-installed on the heat transfer plates before assembly, creating permanent mechanical anchors that hold gaskets in position throughout operation and maintenance cycles, eliminating the need for squeezing while preventing displacement
Data Source
AI summary
To fasten a gasket to a heat transfer plate, an attachment device includes a connection member, a first finger, a second finger and a bridge. A first connection part of the connection member is arranged to engage with the gasket and a second connection part of the connection member engages with the bridge. A connection part of the first finger engages with the bridge and a connection part of the second finger engages with the bridge. The first and second fingers are arranged to extend from the bridge towards the gasket. The connection member extends between the first and second fingers. The connection member includes a first portion with a first width and a second portion with a second width. The second portion is arranged closer to the bridge than the first portion, and the second width is smaller than the first width.