Modular Plate Heat Exchanger for In-Line Phase Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat exchangers are costly to adapt to different applications and do not efficiently facilitate phase separation within fluids, while facing material shortages and thermodynamic inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger design comprising superimposed exchange modules with separation plates and shaped plates or stacks, allowing for easy adaptation and maintenance, with fluid circulation systems defined by hollowed areas and surrounding solid areas, enabling phase separation and efficient heat exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If complex geometric adaptations are implemented to optimize heat exchanger performance for specific applications, then thermal efficiency is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and adaptability to other applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is divided into multiple exchange modules that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each module contains standardized components (frames, plates, seals) that can be reconfigured for different applications, while allowing optimization of specific modules for particular thermal efficiency requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchanger design allows dynamic reconfiguration by adding or removing exchange modules based on application requirements. The modular architecture enables the system to adapt its size and configuration without requiring complete redesign, balancing thermal efficiency optimization with versatility.
2Strength
If more material is used in heat exchanger construction, then structural strength and durability are improved, but material consumption increases and cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger uses thin plate structures with optimized geometries that provide sufficient structural strength while minimizing material consumption. The plates are designed with reinforced regions only where structurally necessary, allowing extensive use of thinner materials overall.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchanger employs composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties - such as combining high-strength frame materials with high-conductivity plate materials - to achieve optimal strength-to-weight ratio and minimize overall material consumption while maintaining structural integrity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the separating plate thickness is reduced to decrease thermal resistance, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but mechanical strength and sealing reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The separating plates use composite material construction combining thin high-conductivity metal layers with supporting structural layers or reinforcement patterns, achieving low thermal resistance while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength and sealing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating plates feature variable thickness or localized reinforcement at critical sealing and high-stress regions, while maintaining minimal thickness in areas where thermal conductivity is most important, optimizing both heat transfer efficiency and sealing reliability.
4Use of energy by moving object
If welded plate heat exchangers are used to achieve high heat exchange coefficients, then thermal efficiency is improved, but maintenance difficulty and adaptability increase due to non-disassemblable structure
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger uses mechanically connected modular plates instead of welded constructions, allowing individual plates or modules to be removed, inspected, cleaned, or replaced without affecting the entire structure, thereby maintaining high heat exchange coefficients while enabling easy maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical connection system allows dynamic assembly and disassembly of plates, providing the flexibility needed for maintenance and adaptation while maintaining the tight seals and efficient thermal contact required for high heat exchange coefficients.
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 allows for easy adaptation to various applications, reduces material usage, and enhances thermal efficiency with phase separation capabilities, while being cost-effective and maintaining mechanical strength.
Implementation Method 1
phase separation within at least one of the fluids
Implementation Method 2
heat exchange between fluids
Implementation Method 3
fluid circulation system being formed in the hollowed-out area
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5d
AI summary
Heat exchanger (1) comprising: - first (13) and second (15) modules comprising first (21) and second (23) circulation systems of first and second fluids respectively, the first fluid comprising first and second different fluid components, - separation plates (19) in contact with adjacent modules, each fluidly disconnecting the first and second circulation systems, each of the second modules (15) comprising a third circulation system (145), fluidly disconnected from the second circulation system (23), the first (21) and third (145) circulation systems being fluidly connected through the separation plate (19), the exchanger inducing a phase change of the second component by heat exchange between the first and second fluids, and directing the first and second components out of the exchanger through the first and third circulation systems.