Plug-Connected Droplet Separator for Flue Gas Desulfurization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing droplet separators for vertical flow channels in flue gas desulfurization systems are difficult to assemble and disassemble quickly and easily, often requiring special tools and knowledge, and typically rely on fixed connections like welding or screws.

Innovation Solution

The droplet separator employs plug-in connections with protruding sections that fit into recessed areas, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without special tools, using lightweight construction materials like plastics and relying on releasable clamping engagements and latching mechanisms, with end walls and intermediate walls connected via plug-in connections to a supporting structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If welding or bolting is used to connect droplet separator layers to support structures, then connection strength is improved, but assembly complexity and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The droplet separator is divided into modular layers that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each layer is connected to the support structure through separate plug connections rather than permanent fastening, enabling rapid assembly while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Plug connections serve as intermediary elements between the droplet separator layers and support structures. These plugs provide both mechanical support and easy release mechanisms, allowing workers to quickly assemble and disassemble the separator without welding or bolting operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If welding or bolting is used to connect droplet separator layers to support structures, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The plug connections are designed to be self-aligning and self-locking during assembly. The geometry of the plugs and corresponding recesses guides proper positioning automatically, eliminating the need for specialized welding or bolting skills while ensuring reliable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The plug connections act as intermediaries that translate simple insertion motions into reliable mechanical connections. This intermediary mechanism provides both ease of operation for assembly workers and dependable connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If special fastening devices are installed on mounting plates, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plates are designed with integrated plug receiving features directly formed in the plate structure. This merging of the mounting plate and connection interface eliminates the need for separate fastening devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting plates serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, define the connection interface geometry, and guide the plug insertion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional specialized fastening components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3582874B1Droplet separator having plug connections
Publication Date: 2021.09.22 MUNTERS EUROFORM GMBH
  • EP3582874B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3582874B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3582874B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a droplet separator for a vertical flow duct, in particular a flue gas desulphurisation installation. The droplet separator comprises a droplet separator layer with a plurality of droplet separator profiles which are arranged in parallel to one another and are provided with end walls extending transversely thereto, and comprises a support structure for the droplet separator layer. The droplet separator layer is connected to the support structure via plug connections. The support structure comprises a plurality of support elements which are connected by means of plug connections. In this way, the droplet separator can be assembled and dismantled in a particularly simple and quick manner.