Steam Generator Cleaning Device Shock Wave Sludge Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steam generator cleaning devices are inefficient due to low pressure exerted on sludge accumulated on spacer plates, leading to ineffective cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a reservoir and movable closure member that releases cleaning liquid in a controlled manner to induce shock waves, promoting the evacuation of sludge, and a system with multiple devices and a control unit for coordinated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a spray nozzle with a large diameter cleaning liquid supply conduit is used, then the cleaning device can supply a large quantity of cleaning liquid, but the pressure exerted by the cleaning fluid on the sludge is low resulting in ineffective cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs periodic action by using a movable closure member (valve) that intermittently releases cleaning liquid in controlled pulses. The valve opens to allow cleaning liquid to flow into the reservoir, then closes and builds pressure, followed by periodic release that creates high-pressure jets. This periodic operation enables both large quantity of cleaning liquid to be supplied over time and high pressure to be exerted on sludge during each release cycle, resolving the contradiction between quantity and pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies dynamics by transitioning from a static spray nozzle system to a dynamic reservoir system with a movable closure member. The closure member moves between open and closed positions, dynamically controlling the flow of cleaning liquid. This dynamic control allows the system to accumulate pressure and release it in controlled bursts, achieving both high quantity delivery over time and high instantaneous pressure on the sludge, thereby resolving the technical contradiction.
2Reliability
If the steam generator is stopped for cleaning, then sludge accumulation can be eliminated, but the cleaning process is time-consuming and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes hydraulics by employing a reservoir system that accumulates and pressurizes cleaning liquid, then releases it in high-pressure jets through controlled openings. This hydraulic approach enables rapid cleaning action that can effectively remove sludge accumulation without requiring extended cleaning periods. The high-pressure hydraulic system achieves thorough cleaning (reliability) in reduced time, thereby resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple cleaning device structure is used, then the device is economical and easy to manufacture, but it cannot ensure effective cleaning of the steam generator
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies segmentation by dividing the cleaning system into distinct functional modules: a reservoir for holding cleaning liquid, a movable closure member for flow control, and outlet openings for jet release. This segmented design maintains structural simplicity and ease of manufacture while enabling effective cleaning through coordinated operation of the segments. Each segment performs a specific function, and their integration achieves high-pressure cleaning without requiring complex overall structure, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and effectiveness.
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 solution enables efficient and effective cleaning of steam generators by releasing a large quantity of cleaning liquid to dislodge and remove sludge, improving the cleaning process.
Implementation Method 1
Such a release therefore makes it possible to induce a shock wave which promotes evacuation of a large quantity of sludge at each release cycle of the cleaning device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The cleaning device (17) comprising a cleaning fluid reservoir (18) having a lower discharge opening (20) configured to be located opposite a cyclone separator of a steam generator; a supply connection (21) which opens into the cleaning fluid reservoir (18) and which is configured to be connected to a cleaning fluid supply line so as to at least partially fill the cleaning fluid reservoir (17) with a cleaning fluid;and a movable sealing member (22) between a sealing position in which the sealing member (22) seals the lower discharge opening (20) so as to allow at least partial filling of the cleaning fluid reservoir (18) with cleaning fluid, and a release position in which the sealing member (22) releases the lower discharge opening (20) so as to allow the cleaning fluid contained in the cleaning fluid reservoir (17) to be released into the cyclone separator located opposite the lower discharge opening (20).