Cooling unit, installation and process

Abstract

Cooling unit in which the first and second heat exchangers [13], [16] are suspended along one of their longitudinal edges respectively to one of the suspension pipes selected from first, second and third pipes, [10], [11], [12], and are capable of undergoing a substantially free elongation and/or expansion curvature below the level of the pipe suspension.

Claims

1. An installation for the cooling and at least partial condensing a first at least partly condensable fluid by a second fluid not in direct contact with the first at least partly condensable fluid, said installation comprising a supporting structure designed to carry at least one series of cooling units for the cooling and the at least partial condensing, as well at least partial condensation of the said first at least partly condensable fluid, whereby said at least one series of cooling units are connected between them and to a feeding system for the feeding of the first at least partly condensable fluid to said at least one series of cooling units, whereby the units of said at least one series of cooling units are each a cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure, said cooling unit comprising at least: one first metallic pipe with a first central axis, one second metallic pipe with a second central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis one third metallic pipe element selected from the group consisting of a simple metallic pipe and a multiple metallic pipe element, said third metallic pipe element having a third central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis and to said second central axis, said third metallic pipe element being distant from the first pipe and the second pipe by a distance of at least 2 meters, one first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to said first longitudinal edge and being distant from said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the first pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with said first metallic pipe and said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger for directing the first fluid according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid from said first metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid from said third metallic pipe element towards said first metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, one second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to the said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the second metallic pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with the said second metallic pipe and the said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said second metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said third metallic pipe element towards said second metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, whereby each of said cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure is adapted to ensure: (i) that the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof, and (ii) that the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said expansion being selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof; whereby the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element means able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, in which several units of the said at least one series of cooling units have each one metallic suspension pipe which is provided at its two opposite ends respectively with a first connection element and a second connection element, whereby the supporting structure is comprising a series of substantially vertical supporting pipes, and whereby, for each of said several units, the first connection element is associated to one substantially vertical supporting pipe of said series of substantially vertical supporting pipes, while the second connection element is associated to another substantially vertical supporting pipe of said series of substantially vertical supporting pipe.

2. The installation of claim 1, in which the supporting structure comprises at least a series of substantially vertical pipes associated, in their upper section, with an element connecting with at least one metallic suspension pipe of several cooling units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

3. The installation of claim 2, in which the at least a series of said substantially vertical pipe are serving as part of the supporting structure for supporting units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

4. The installation of claim 1, in which the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each the heat exchangers located at a level above a predetermined level for each considered cooling unit of the said series of cooling units, in which the installation further comprise (i) a supply network with supply pipes for the first fluid to the be condensed, said supply network being located for each cooling unit of said cooling units of the said series under the said predetermined level for the cooling unit in consideration, (ii) a series of substantially vertical supply pipes connected to metallic suspension pipes of the cooling units of said series, and (iii) a collecting network to collect the at least partially condensed first fluid flowing out of the heat exchangers of the cooling units of the said series.

5. The installation of claim 4, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an outer face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

6. The installation of claim 4, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an inner face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

7. The installation of claim 1, which is at least partly dismountable form, whereby at least one element selected from the group consisting of the cooling units of the said series, platforms with fan bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series, fans bearing on platforms bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series can be removed from the installation.

8. The installation of claim 1, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to at most 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with at 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour.

9. The installation of claim 1, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the cooling unit further comprises at least two distinct control spacing elements extending between the first metallic pipe and the second metallic pipe for ensuring the first metallic pipe to be distant from the second metallic pipe by a distance comprised between a minimum distance and a maximum distance.

10. The installation of claim 1, in which at least one metallic suspension pipe of a first cooling unit of the said series of cooling units is connected to at least one metallic suspension pipe of a second cooling unit of the said series of cooling units different from the first, by a connection system selected from the group consisting of a mobile connection system which has at least a portion mobile with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, an extensible connection system which has at least a portion extensible with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, and combination thereof.

11. The installation of claim 1, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, a median plane is defined between the first central axis and the second central axis, and goes through said third central axis, in which the unit extends between a first lateral end and a second lateral end opposite to said first lateral end, whereby the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each a centre of gravity extending substantially in the said median plane, said centre of gravity located between the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end being offset relative to the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end.

12. The installation of claim 1, in which, for at least some cooling units of the said series of cooling units, at least one pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe, the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element is associated with a valve for connecting said pipe to another pipe.

13. An installation for the cooling and at least partial condensing a first at least partly condensable fluid by a second fluid not in direct contact with the first at least partly condensable fluid, said installation comprising a supporting structure designed to carry at least one series of cooling units for the cooling and the at least partial condensing, as well at least partial condensation of the said first at least partly condensable fluid, whereby said at least one series of cooling units are connected between them and to a feeding system for the feeding of the first at least partly condensable fluid to said at least one series of cooling units, whereby the units of said at least one series of cooling units are each a cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure, said cooling unit comprising at least: one first metallic pipe with a first central axis, one second metallic pipe with a second central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis one third metallic pipe element selected from the group consisting of a simple metallic pipe and a multiple metallic pipe element, said third metallic pipe element having a third central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis and to said second central axis, said third metallic pipe element being distant from the first pipe and the second pipe by a distance of at least 2 meters, one first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to said first longitudinal edge and being distant from said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the first pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with said first metallic pipe and said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger for directing the first fluid according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid from said first metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid from said third metallic pipe element towards said first metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, one second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to the said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the second metallic pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with the said second metallic pipe and the said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said second metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said third metallic pipe element towards said second metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, whereby each of said cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure is adapted to ensure: (i) that the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof, and (ii) that the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said expansion being selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof; whereby the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element means able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, in which several units of the said at least one series of cooling units have each (i) a first metallic suspension pipe which is provided at its two opposite ends respectively with a first connection element and a second connection element, and second metallic suspension pipe which is provided at its opposite ends respectively with a third connection element and a fourth connection element, whereby the supporting structure is comprising a series of substantially vertical supporting pipes, and whereby, for each of said several units, each connection element selected among the group consisting of said first connection element, second connection element, third connection element and fourth connection element, is respectively associated to a substantially vertical supporting pipe of said series of substantially vertical supporting pipes.

14. The installation of claim 13, in which the supporting structure comprises at least a series of substantially vertical pipes associated, in their upper section, with an element connecting with at least one metallic suspension pipe of several cooling units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

15. The installation of claim 14, in which the said substantially vertical pipe are serving as part of the supporting structure for supporting units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

16. The installation of claim 13, which is at least partly dismountable form, whereby at least one element selected from the group consisting of the cooling units of the said series, platforms with fan bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series, fans bearing on platforms bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series can be removed from the installation.

17. The installation of claim 13, in which the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each the heat exchangers located at a level above a predetermined level for each considered cooling unit of the said series of cooling units, in which the installation further comprise (i) a supply network with supply pipes for the first fluid to the be condensed, said supply network being located for each cooling unit of said cooling units of the said series under the said predetermined level for the cooling unit in consideration, (ii) a series of substantially vertical supply pipes connected to metallic suspension pipes of the cooling units of said series, and (iii) a collecting network to collect the at least partially condensed first fluid flowing out of the heat exchangers of the cooling units of the said series.

18. The installation of claim 17, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an outer face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

19. The installation of claim 17, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an inner face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

20. The installation of claim 13, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to at most 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with at 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour.

21. The installation of claim 13, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the cooling unit further comprises at least two distinct control spacing elements extending between the first metallic pipe and the second metallic pipe for ensuring the first metallic pipe to be distant from the second metallic pipe by a distance comprised between a minimum distance and a maximum distance.

22. The installation of claim 13, in which at least one metallic suspension pipe of a first cooling unit of the said series of cooling units is connected to at least one metallic suspension pipe of a second cooling unit of the said series of cooling units different from the first, by a connection system selected from the group consisting of a mobile connection system which has at least a portion mobile with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, an extensible connection system which has at least a portion extensible with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, and combination thereof.

23. The installation of claim 22, in which the said substantially vertical pipe are serving as part of the supporting structure for supporting units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

24. The installation of claim 13, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, a median plane is defined between the first central axis and the second central axis, and goes through said third central axis, in which the unit extends between a first lateral end and a second lateral end opposite to said first lateral end, whereby the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each a centre of gravity extending substantially in the said median plane, said centre of gravity located between the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end being offset relative to the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end.

25. The installation of claim 13, in which, for at least some cooling units of the said series of cooling units, at least one pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe, the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element is associated with a valve for connecting said pipe to another pipe.

26. An installation for the cooling and at least partial condensing a first at least partly condensable fluid by a second fluid not in direct contact with the first at least partly condensable fluid, said installation comprising a supporting structure designed to carry at least one series of cooling units for the cooling and the at least partial condensing, as well at least partial condensation of the said first at least partly condensable fluid, whereby said at least one series of cooling units are connected between them and to a feeding system for the feeding of the first at least partly condensable fluid to said at least one series of cooling units, whereby the units of said at least one series of cooling units are each a cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure, said cooling unit comprising at least: one first metallic pipe with a first central axis, one second metallic pipe with a second central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis one third metallic pipe element selected among the group consisting of a simple metallic pipe and a multiple metallic pipe element, said third metallic pipe element having a third central axis substantially parallel to said first central axis and to said second central axis, said third metallic pipe element being distant from the first pipe and the second pipe by a distance of at least 2 meters, one first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to said first longitudinal edge and being distant from said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the first pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with said first metallic pipe and said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger for directing the first fluid according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid from said first metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid from said third metallic pipe element towards said first metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, one second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge opposite to the said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said first longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extending adjacent to the second metallic pipe, while the said second longitudinal edge of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger extends adjacent to the third metallic pipe element, said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having an external side adapted to be in contact with said second fluid [F2] and defining an inner chamber communicating with the said second metallic pipe and the said third metallic pipe element, allowing the first fluid [F1] to flow through said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger according to a flow selected from the group consisting of a first flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said second metallic pipe towards said third metallic pipe element through at least a first portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, a second flow for directing the first fluid [F1] from said third metallic pipe element towards said second metallic pipe through at least a second portion of the said inner chamber of said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and combinations thereof, whereby each of said cooling unit forming an integral assembly adapted to be moved and mounted on the supporting structure is adapted to ensure: (i) that the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof, and (ii) that the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended to one metallic suspension pipe bearing on the supporting structure, said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element respectively along the first longitudinal edge and along the second longitudinal edge of the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger is suspended at a level below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger and is capable of being submitted to an expansion below the said one metallic suspension pipe of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, said expansion being selected among the group consisting of substantially free elongation, substantially free expansion curvature and combinations thereof; whereby the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element means able to bear at least substantially totally the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger, whereby said installation comprises a series of platforms associated with at least one fan, said platforms each bearing on at least (i) a first metallic suspension pipe of one cooling unit of the said series of cooling unit, and (ii) a second metallic suspension pipe distant from the first metallic suspension pipe, said second metallic suspension pipe being selected from another metallic suspension pipe of the said one cooling unit in consideration and a metallic suspension pipe of a cooling unit of the said series different from the said one metallic suspension pipe of the cooling unit in consideration.

27. The installation of claim 26, in which the fan associated to a platform is selected from the group consisting of fans generating an induced air draw contacting at least one heat exchanger of at least one cooling unit of the said series of cooling units, and fans generating a forced air draw contacting at least one heat exchanger of at least one cooling unit of the said series of cooling units.

28. The installation of claim 26, in which the supporting structure comprises at least a series of substantially vertical pipes associated, in their upper section, with an element connecting with at least one metallic suspension pipe of several cooling units of the said at least one series of cooling units.

29. The installation of claim 26, which is at least partly dismountable form, whereby at least one element selected from the group consisting of the cooling units of the said series, platforms with fan bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series, fans bearing on platforms bearing on metallic suspension pipes of cooling units of the said series can be removed from the installation.

30. The installation of claim 26, in which the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each the heat exchangers located at a level above a predetermined level for each considered cooling unit of the said series of cooling units, in which the installation further comprise (i) a supply network with supply pipes for the first fluid to the be condensed, said supply network being located for each cooling unit of said cooling units of the said series under the said predetermined level for the cooling unit in consideration, (ii) a series of substantially vertical supply pipes connected to metallic suspension pipes of the cooling units of said series, and (iii) a collecting network to collect the at least partially condensed first fluid flowing out of the heat exchangers of the cooling units of the said series.

31. The installation of claim 30, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an outer face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

32. The installation of claim 30, in which the said substantially vertical supply pipes have each an inner face, and in which at least some of the said substantially vertical supply pipes are provided along their outer face with at least one reinforcing elements selected from the group consisting of substantially vertical reinforcements, substantially horizontal reinforcements, and combinations thereof.

33. The installation of claim 26, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said first at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the first at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour, and whereby the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with 5% to at most 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour has a weight generating a traction force on the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element, the said second at least partially metallic heat exchanger being attached to the said one metallic suspension pipe selected from the group consisting of the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element by at least an element able to bear at least substantially totally at least 1.1 times the traction force generated by the weight of the second at least partially metallic heat exchanger having its inner chamber filled with at 5% to 30% in volume by the liquid medium issued from the condensation of said at least partly condensable vapour and with 70% to 95% in volume by the at least partly condensable vapour.

34. The installation of claim 26, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, the cooling unit further comprises at least two distinct control spacing elements extending between the first metallic pipe and the second metallic pipe for ensuring the first metallic pipe to be distant from the second metallic pipe by a distance comprised between a minimum distance and a maximum distance.

35. The installation of claim 26, in which at least one metallic suspension pipe of a first cooling unit of the said series of cooling units is connected to at least one metallic suspension pipe of a second cooling unit of the said series of cooling units different from the first, by a connection system selected from the group consisting of a mobile connection system which has at least a portion mobile with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, an extensible connection system which has at least a portion extensible with respect to the metallic suspension pipe considered, and combination thereof.

36. The installation of claim 26, in which for the cooling units of the said series of cooling units, a median plane is defined between the first central axis and the second central axis, and goes through said third central axis, in which the unit extends between a first lateral end and a second lateral end opposite to said first lateral end, whereby the cooling units of the said series of cooling units have each a centre of gravity extending substantially in the said median plane, said centre of gravity located between the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end being offset relative to the said first lateral end and the said second lateral end.

37. The installation of claim 26, in which, for at least some cooling units of the said series of cooling units, at least one pipe selected from the group consisting of the first metallic pipe, the second metallic pipe and the third metallic pipe element is associated with a valve for connecting said pipe to another pipe.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) In these figures,

(2) FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a unit according to the invention;

(3) FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of a unit according to the invention;

(4) FIG. 3 is a front view of part of an installation comprising a series of units according to FIG. 2;

(5) FIG. 4 is another view of part of an installation comprising a series of units according to FIG. 2, showing the main vapor feed pipe of the various vertical segments bringing vapor to the suspension pipes 12 of various units 1;

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a platform with fan,

(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a lateral wall for a unit according to the invention;

(8) FIG. 7 is a front view of an installation according to the invention;

(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the installation of FIG. 7;

(10) FIG. 9 is a view of the various placements possible for units according to the invention placed next to each other, or possible arrangements of units forming distinct groups interconnected by one or more supply pipes located near the ground; and

(11) FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a structure known for bearing heat exchangers and distribution pipes (figure from DE20 2014 104 666).

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(12) FIG. 1 shows a first type of embodiment for a cooling unit 1 according to the invention for cooling a condensable or partially condensable first fluid F1 by means of a second fluid F2 not in direct contact with each other. The unit is in particular a unit for partially condensing the first fluid F1 in the heat exchangers [13], [16] of the unit. The second fluid is, for example, air and/or a liquid (water) sprayed on the heat exchangers [13], [16], the second fluid advantageously crossing the heat exchangers.

(13) Said unit forms an integral assembly capable of being displaced and mounted on a supporting structure and able to be connected or not to one or more other units to form a cooling assembly.

(14) The embodiment of FIG. 1 is a form for which each unit 1 is independent of the others or can be used independently of one another. It is also possible to combine units with each other.

(15) In this form of embodiment of the figure, the use of an intermediary building structure is not indispensable, although desired, since the vertical pipes [34] serve as supporting legs.

(16) The embodiment in FIG. 2 is similar to that in FIG. 1, but units are not independent of each other, and are adapted to form a series of units connected to each other. The mounting of such a unit at ground level or near the ground advantageously requires an intermediate structure, advantageously mobile.

(17) The cooling or partial condensation unit of the first fluid F1 (through calorie transfer from the Fluid F1 to a Fluid F2) comprises at least: one first metallic pipe [10] with a first central axis [A10], one second metallic pipe [11] with a second central axis [A11] substantially parallel to said first central axis [A10], one third metallic pipe (simple [12] or multiple [12a] and [12b]), possibly with separate or distinct flow channels, said third metallic pipe [12] having a third central axis [A12] substantially parallel to said first central axis [A10] and to said second central axis [A11], said third pipe [12] being distant (Distance D measured perpendicular to the axis [A12]) of the first pipe and the second pipe of, ideally, 2 m or more than 2 m. one first advantageously at least partially metallic heat exchanger [13] extending from a first longitudinal edge [14] adjacent to the first pipe [10] to a second longitudinal edge [15] adjacent to the third pipe [12], said heat exchanger [13] having an outer face adapted to be in contact with said second fluid (for instance air) and defining an inner chamber communicating with said pipe [10] and said third pipe [12] or a channel of the latter, allowing the first Fluid F1 to flow through said first metallic heat exchanger [13] between said first pipe [10] and said third pipe [12] or the channel of the latter or the other way around, (for example, it flows from top to bottom, thus from the pipe [10] to the pipe [12], in order to take advantage of the gravity). This heat exchanger has the shape of a series of tubes spaced from one another, for example of the flat tubes, the ends of which are welded to the pipes [10], [12], while ensuring a communication between the heat exchanger and said pipes. one second advantageously at least partially metallic heat exchanger [16] (similar to the heat exchanger [13]) extends between a first longitudinal edge [17] adjacent to the second pipe [11] and a second longitudinal edge [18] adjacent to the third pipe [12], said second heat exchanger having an outer face adapted to be in contact with said second Fluid F2 and defining an inner chamber in communication with said second pipe [11] and said third pipe [12] or channel of the latter, allowing the first Fluid F1 to flow through said second metallic heat exchanger [16] between said second pipe [11] and said third pipe [12] or a channel of the latter or inversely.

(18) The units according to FIGS. 1 and 2 are adapted to be pre-assembled and tested in the workshop or on the ground (in particular on site) before being installed in an installation. This allows a better quality control of the units before mounting them in the installation, to accelerate the overall assembly speed, and to avoid any repair work on units mounted on an often important height structure.

(19) The unit 1 is adapted to ensure that the first and second heat exchangers [13], [16] are suspended along one of their upper longitudinal edges [14], [17] to a suspension pipe [12] (embodiment of FIG. 2) or to two suspension pipes [10], [11] (embodiment of FIG. 1). Heat exchangers [13], [16] are capable of undergoing, under the suspension pipe(s), a substantially free elongation and/or expansion curvature.

(20) In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first fluid to be partially condensed is brought in the form of vapor to the heat exchangers [13], [16] through pipes [10] and [11]. This first fluid is partially condensed in the heat exchangers [13], [16]. For example, between 70 and 95% of the volume of vapor introduced in the heat exchangers is condensed. The partially condensed Fluid F1 (in the form of liquid and vapor) flows out of the heat exchangers towards the multi-channel pipe [12], a channel collecting the Fluid F1 flowing out of the heat exchanger [13], while another channel collects the Fluid F1 flowing out of the heat exchanger [16]. In this form of embodiment, pipes [10] and [11] form suspension pipes.

(21) In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first fluid to be partially condensed enters in the form of vapor through pipe [12], in the heat exchangers [13], [16]. After partial condensation in the heat exchangers, the fluid F1 (in the form of liquid and vapor) flows out through pipes [10] and [11]. Here, pipe [12] is the suspension pipe.

(22) The heat exchanger heat [13], [16] may have the form of a set of tubes placed in parallel, and bonded via a set comprising two plates welded at their ends to define a series of internal channels, said plates being perforated or pierced to form passages for the flow of the second fluid, etc. The set of heat exchanger tubes advantageously form a single piece, which can then be welded to a supply and suspension pipe.

(23) Said suspension pipe [12] of the embodiment in FIG. 2 or said suspension pipes [10], [11] of the embodiment in FIG. 1 are attached to the first metallic heat exchanger [13] and/or to the second metallic exchanger heat [16] by reinforced means [19] able to bear completely, at least substantially, the tensile force generated by the weight of the heat exchanger considered on the suspension pipe of the heat exchanger in question. These reinforced means could be suitable welds between the suspension pipe and the first and/or second heat exchanger, and/or the use of one or more metallic tubes and/or thicker, brazed metallic fins, for example tube(s) adapted to be attached by welding to the suspension pipe, these tubes being advantageously thicker than 1.53 mm, in particular more than 1.55 mm, more than 1.6 mm, more than 2 mm, for example between 1.6 mm and 3 mm, in particular between 2 mm and 3 mm, and/or the use of one or more metallic tube(s), less thick or thicker than 1.53 mm, but associated with one or more brazed fin(s) with an installed thickness of more than 0.3 mm, for example with a thickness between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm, such as 0.3 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.4 mm and 0.5 mm

(24) Advantageously, the reinforced means [19] are adapted to bear completely, at least substantially the tensile force generated by the weight of the heat exchanger considered filled with said partially condensed first fluid (in case of partial condensation of the first fluid, the weight of the heat exchanger filled with the first fluid in liquid form at 5 to 20% of the internal volume of the heat exchanger and in vapor form at 80 to 95% of the internal volume of the heat exchanger, the weight of the first fluid in the heat exchanger being for example determined or estimated at the temperature of 20° C. and at a given pressure, for example at atmospheric pressure) on the suspension pipe [10], [11] or [12] of the heat exchanger in question. This makes it possible to have a unit forming an assembly that can be moved, for example by lifting means. The assembly then has advantageously systems or loops [20] for the hooks of one or more lifting gears. These attachment systems are advantageously secured to one or several suspension pipes, for example via an intermediate element such as the reinforcing device. [19].

(25) In particular, said one or more suspension pipes are attached to the first metallic heat exchanger and/or the second metallic heat exchanger by reinforced means [19] capable bearing at least 1.1 times, for example 1.2 times, or even 1.5 or more times, the maximum tensile stress generated by the weight of the heat exchanger considered filled with said partially condensed first fluid and/or cooled in the heat exchanger in partially vapor and partially liquid form (weight measured at 20° C.) on the suspension pipe of the heat exchanger considered. The reinforced means [19] are for example metal plates partially surrounding a suspension pipe and partially attached to a heat exchanger (or a flat element connecting the tubes thereof). The part surrounding the suspension pipe forms a kind of loop integral with the suspension pipe

(26) The unit may comprise at least two distinct means, for example in the form of bars [22] (extending for example between the reinforcements [19] of FIG. 1, one or more bars may be associated with a side wall or partition wall [23] shown only partly in FIG. 1) to at least ensure a gap ranging from a minimum gap and a maximum gap between the first metallic pipe [10] and the second metallic pipe [11]. These distinct means [22] contribute to the reinforcement of the assembly as such, and to its rigidity, which is very useful when the unit is lifted.

(27) In the embodiment of FIG. 2, one or more bar(s) [22] extend between pipes [10] and [11], these bars serve as a stabilizer when lifting the unit. These bars [22] can also serve as support means for a partition wall [23] (shown in part) extending below the heat exchangers [13], [16].

(28) When units according to FIG. 2 are mounted in parallel, pipe [11] of a unit can be connected to pipe [10] of an adjacent unit.

(29) In the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2, the suspension pipe(s) is (are) associated with a vertical segment serving as support legs. However, in case an intermediary mounting structure is used, units can be built without these segments, which makes the unit lighter and makes it easier to mount.

(30) To make the best use of the space available on the ground, it is possible to use simplified units (with only one heat exchanger), for example at the ends of the installation.

(31) The suspension pipe(s) of the embodiments are advantageously adapted to bear at least 50% of the weight of a platform [24] (shown in perspective in FIG. 5) and of a fan [24a] (said fan being either mounted as removable from the platform, either fixed on the platform), said platform [24] bearing on two adjacent suspension pipes (either from the same unit—this is the case illustrated in FIG. 1, or from two adjacent units—this is the case illustrated in FIG. 2). The suspension pipe(s) is (are) advantageously adapted to resist crushing by the weight of one or platforms with fan(s). Advantageously, a fan is fixed on a platform using a fast fastening/release system, this allowing an easy placement or removal of the fan. Advantageously also, the connection between a platform and the suspension pipes is adapted to allow easy disassembly, as well as relative movements, for example in case of different dilation movements between the suspension pipe(s) and the platform(s). For example, the platform [24] could comprise arms [25] along the two opposed edges, these arms [25] being for instance the extremities of profiles. The location of the arms [25] along the first edge does not correspond with the location of the arms [25] along the opposed edge, in order to avoid an overlapping of the arms [25] of two platforms [24] partially bearing on the same segment of a suspension pipe.

(32) Similarly, the lateral or partitioning or confinement wall(s) [23] (see FIG. 6) intended to form independent or substantially independent cells advantageously comprise a quick-fastening system [26] allowing easy assembly/disassembly on two suspension pipes of one unit or two adjacent units. The wall may advantageously have an opening with a door [27] adapted to give access to a bridge bearing on the pipe collecting the first fluid (vapor and liquid) flowing out of the heat exchanger [13] or [16].

(33) Partitioning or confinement walls [23] can be provided with attachment points [28] for the attachment of walkway extending between two adjacent or successive partitioning or confinement walls [23], as illustrated in FIG. 4. The walkways are advantageously mounted in a removable way between two walls [23].

(34) In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the unit comprises two upper suspension pipes [10], [11], while the third lower pipe [12] comprises two adjacent pipes. Pipes [10] and [11] are intended for the distribution of vapor in the heat exchangers [13], [16], while the third pipe, formed by two adjacent pipes [12a] & [12b] is intended to collect the first fluid cooled and/or partially condensed in heat exchangers [13], [16].

(35) In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 comprising one single upper suspension pipe [12], the suspension pipe may present, at one of its ends at least, a mobile or extensible connection [30] with regard to the suspension pipe in question, adapted to compensate for the gap between the suspension pipe in question [12] and an adjacent suspension pipe from another unit. Such are valuable to ensure some space between the adjacent units, the suspension pipes of which must be connected together, this spacing being necessary for the easy placement or the easy removal of one unit in the vicinity of another, without damaging it.

(36) The unit is advantageously adapted for cooling and/or partial condensing a first fluid in said first and second heat exchangers [13], [16].

(37) Suspension pipes [10], [11] in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 are supply pipes of the first fluid F1 to be cooled/condensed (for example vapor, like steam), while pipes [12a], [12b] are intended to collect the first fluid cooled/partially condensed (steam+ hot liquid water, for example), said pipes [12a], [12b] having a flow cross-section at the most 10 times smaller than the flow cross-section of supply pipes [10] or [11]. The second fluid F2 is for example air flowing through the heat exchangers [13], [16] in which the first fluid F1 is partially condensed.

(38) According to a possible embodiment, the unit presents a gravity center extending substantially in a median plane between the first central axis [A10] and the second central axis [A11], and passing through said third central axis [A12], said gravity center being slightly offset relative to both lateral ends [32], [33] of the unit. This makes it possible to position one end of one or more suspension pipe(s) in front of the end(s) of the suspension pipes of another unit, before positioning the other end(s) relative to the structure, before connecting between them the adjacent end(s) of the suspension pipes of two adjacent units

(39) In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the unit presents suspension pipe(s) prolonged at the bottom by a supply pipe section [34] each serving as a supporting leg when the unit is bearing on the ground. This or these segment(s) thus serve (s) as supporting leg(s) for the unit on the ground, these supporting legs can also participate in the suspension of the unit mounted on the main supply pipes. These legs may have a lower flange to facilitate their support at ground level. Each segment [34] is connected to an extremity of a suspension pipe by an intermediate connection element, elbow or a T [36].

(40) One or more or all of said first, second and third metallic pipes [10], [11], [12] may or may not be associated with a longitudinal expansion compensator. Such an expansion compensator may be present at a connector for connecting one suspension pipe to another. The connector 30 can serve as a longitudinal compensator between two suspension pipes connected to one another.

(41) The heat exchangers [13], [16] can be associated with an expansion compensator. Such compensators make it possible for example to limit strain at the points/zones of connection between two heat exchangers of the same unit, for example at the level of the pipe [12] in the embodiment type illustrated in FIG. 1.

(42) One or more or the entire aforementioned first, second and third metallic pipes is/are/may be associated with a connection device to another pipe, said connecting device possibly comprising a valve. Such a coupling device may be a flange. However, valves or gates are preferably mounted in the distribution network and not on the removable units

(43) As shown in FIG. 1, the unit is in the form of a substantially longitudinal assembly with two longitudinal faces inclined between them defined by the sides (advantageously perforated or pierced) of the heat exchangers [13], [16] (the openings are for instance defined between the different tubes), at least one outer lateral side of the unit being closed by a lateral or confinement wall [23] advantageously associated with an opening comprising a door. The third pipe [12] (formed by two distinct parallel pipes) extends advantageously to the junction between the sloped longitudinal faces ([13], [16]) and may possibly, but advantageously, be associated with a walkway. Sidewalls of adjacent units define separate cells for separate induced or forced airflows.

(44) The suspension pipe(s) may have one or more longitudinal reinforcements [35], which may have one or more passages that can serve as anchoring or attachment points for lifting devices, for example to lifting bars.

(45) When positioned for use in the supporting structure of the installation, the distribution (suspension) or collection pipe(s) is (are) advantageously substantially horizontal, even slightly inclined.

(46) Suspension pipes are intended for the distribution of the first fluid F1 (in vapor form) in heat exchangers [13], [16], the extremities of each suspension pipe being adapted to be connected via an intermediary element [36] to a substantially vertical supply pipe [34], used to feed each suspension pipe and thus the unit through one or both of its extremities, or by one specific extremity when using one or more gate(s) [53].

(47) The platform [24] may comprise a set of beams and profiles connected between them to form a support for the fan [24a] and its peripheral guide [24b]. The platform [24] is perforated or has pierced grids allowing persons to circulate during maintenance works. The fan [24a] and its peripheral guide are advantageously mounted on the platform in such a way that it can be removed.

(48) FIGS. 3 and 4 show a series of units according to FIG. 2 positioned next to each other.

(49) In FIG. 3, each unit is fed from a lower general vapor supply network [50] close to the ground and located under the heat exchangers [13], [16] of units 1. Moreover, the network comprises a series of substantially vertical supply pipes [51], which may be associated, totally or partially, to an isolation valve [52]. The supply pipes [51] serve as support pillars for the segments [34] of units 1. In this way, units 1 are connected to the distribution network [50]. Once connected to the supply network, units are associated with sidewalls [23] (the legs of the latter resting on two adjacent suspension pipes [10], [11]). The platform is then placed with the fan (to generate an air flow) on top of each unit, the arms of the platform thus resting on the suspension pipes.

(50) FIG. 4 shows that the support structure [55] comprises a series of vertical supporting pipe [51] (possibly with one or more isolation valves [52]) destined to be connected to a vapor feed network [50] via a connecting element [54]. The upper section of each vertical supporting pipe [34] is associated through an intermediate connecting element [32], [36] to the suspension pipe [12], which is also a distribution pipe for vapor in the heat exchangers [13], [16].

(51) Lateral or confinement walls [23] are placed between two sloping faces of two adjacent units, while platforms [24] with fan are positioned so they can bear on two suspension pipes of two adjacent units.

(52) The collecting pipes [10], [11] of two adjacent units are connected between them, which ensures a better stability to the structure.

(53) FIG. 7 shows the embodiment of FIG. 4 with the lateral or containment walls to define a series of distinct cells, as well as the lower distribution network [50] connected to the different vertical pipes [51] for bringing the vapor to different units 1. As seen in this figure, the supply ducts of the network [55] are of large section, but this section is reduced towards the ends remote from the central intake. The distribution network is then connected to the different vertical support pipes [51] via an intermediate element [56] able to compensate for relative expansion displacements and advantageously associated with a valve.

(54) FIG. 8 is a view of FIG. 7, partially in perspective.

(55) The installation shown in the figures, by way of example only, is an installation for cooling or partial condensation of a first fluid (for example a first fluid that is at least partially condensed, for example steam). A second fluid (for example water sprayed on one side of the heat exchanger, or air, or an air-water mixture) is provided, said installation comprising at least one supporting structure intended to carry or to allow the suspension at least one series of cooling units or (partial) condensation units according to the invention and connected to each other at least for supplying the first fluid to different first and second heat exchangers, or the suspension pipes bearing on the support structure, while heat exchangers are suspended to the suspension pipe(s). This limits the size and bulk of structures built with beams and other metallic profiles. The support structure [55] may, in a valuable embodiment, be built with vertical supply pipes [51] and [34].

(56) The installation according to the invention results, for the same efficiency of cooling and vapor condensation by air, in less steel consumption (the fact of having a lighter installation also requires smaller pillars or foundations), a better use of space since it is possible to have the distribution network below the heat exchangers, greater layout flexibility, limited load loss, better access, etc.

(57) In the embodiment illustrated, the supporting structure of the units is substantially only or mainly made of substantially vertical vapor supply pipes associated with, in their upper section, a connecting element and at least one suspension pipe according to the invention, said substantially vertical pipe used advantageously as supporting structure for at least one part of the unit in question.

(58) The installation comprises a series of units according to the invention, of which the suspension pipe(s) are each associated with at least two substantially vertical pipes with interposition of a connecting element, said at least substantially vertical pipes used as supporting structure for at least one part of the unit in question, advantageously of the unit in question. According to a possible embodiment, each suspension pipe of a unit is suspended on three elements, namely two substantially vertical pipes to bring the first fluid to be cooled and an intermediate pillar supporting a central zone of the suspension pipe in question.

(59) The installation is advantageously used for the condensation, at least partial, of a first partially condensed fluid using a second fluid in contact with the heat exchangers. It comprises a network of supply pipes of the first fluid to be partially condensed located under the lower level of the heat exchangers of the different units, a series of substantially vertical pipes connected with suspension pipes of said units, and advantageously a network to collect the first, partially condensed fluid (the first fluid flowing out of the heat exchangers in the form of a vapor-liquid mix, the pressurized vapor pushing the liquid into the ducts [12a], [12b] of the pipe [12]) from the heat exchangers [13], [16].

(60) Said substantially vertical supporting pipes can present one or more vertical and/or horizontal reinforcements, advantageously at least substantially vertical/vertical, preferably located at least outside the substantially vertical pipes. Such vertical pipes serve advantageously, at least partially as structure to bear one extremity of a suspension pipe.

(61) Said at least two substantially vertical supply pipes bearing a suspension pipe can present one or more vertical and/or horizontal reinforcement(s), advantageously at least substantially vertical, preferably located at least outside the supply pipes. When the vertical pipe is extended via an elbow to a substantially horizontal vapor distribution pipe of a unit, one or more reinforcement(s) extends advantageously at least close to the elbow between the vertical pipe and the horizontal pipe. When the substantially vertical supply pipe comprises one or more substantially vertical reinforcement(s) and when the substantially horizontal distribution pipe presents one or more horizontal reinforcement(s), one or more sloping reinforcement(s) extends advantageously between one or more vertical reinforcement(s) vertical and one or more horizontal reinforcement(s).

(62) According to the embodiment, the substantially vertical supply pipe presents a section that extends at a level above the substantially horizontal distribution and suspension pipe of the unit, and one or more sloping reinforcement(s) or a plane advantageously extending between one or more vertical reinforcement(s) of the vertical pipe and one or more horizontal reinforcement(s) of the distribution pipe. To ensure better strain distribution, rings or collars can link the reinforcements between them, for example close to their free extremities.

(63) The vertical pillars can be associated at their base with an expansion compensator, for instance to ensure that the suspension pipes of a unit remain substantially horizontal.

(64) The installation comprises a distribution network for the first fluid extending at ground level or close to the ground and connected to a series of supply and supporting pipes for the units according to the invention.

(65) The distribution network advantageously comprises valves and/or diverting pipes to isolate one or more unit(s) according to the invention of a distribution network. The distribution network comprises one or more means to absorb, at least partially, dilatation movements.

(66) The installation advantageously comprises a collecting network for the first fluid after its passage and its condensation in the heat exchangers.

(67) This network comprises a series of downpipes each associated with one or more drains for the first fluid outside the heat exchangers. Downpipes are advantageously associated with said drains via an intermediate element able to compensate distortion, particularly an expansion joint. This network is then advantageously connected with a collecting basin or tank. Advantageously, downpipes are not used as devices to support the suspended heat exchangers.

(68) The installation is advantageously in an at least partially removable form, with removable elements and able to be replaced by new or repaired elements.

(69) Removable elements, for example to allow an exchange of a defective element by another or to allow the repair of a defective element at ground level, are for example, the units according to the invention, the lateral or containment walls, and the platforms with or without fan(s), and the fans. The installation according to the invention can thus be in the form of a series of modules pre-assembled and welded to the ground (or near the ground, for example on an intermediate supporting structure), on the site of the building site, or in a factory. The modules can thus be pre-tested (for example to check their tightness) before mounting. The installation can thus have the form of a series of modules ready to be mounted and to be connected together. Such an installation can then be more an installation for emergency work or emergency repair work, for example before reconstruction or repair of the original installation.

(70) The supply pipes are associated at their base with a device allowing their connection to a source of vapor in different directions. This then makes it possible to connect separate modules or units in different directions, and then makes it possible to best adapt to the free space or the layout of the free space for the placement of modules or units. The pipes are advantageously equipped with valves to control the flow of vapor to the different units. The supply pipes advantageously define a basic circuit in one loop or with several loops so as to be able to feed the same unit by at least two distinct paths.

(71) The installation comprises one or more means for associating it with one or more other units according to the invention or even with heat exchanger units not according to the invention.

(72) Said two substantially vertical supply pipes may be associated along their internal/external surface with one or more substantially vertical fin(s) serving as internal and/or external reinforcement. Such internal and/or external reinforcements may for example be I beams welded on the internal and/or external wall of the pipe, possibly one or more cross-beam(s) extending between beams diametrically opposed to the central axis of the pipe.

(73) The installation according to the invention makes it possible to reduce the necessary size of the structures with beams and profiles, and reduces the bulk. This also makes it possible to support platforms with fan(s) on a structure less subject to the strain generated in heat exchangers and pipes. In one possible embodiment, the installation comprises two independent structures, one bearing the platforms with fan(s), and a second bearing the heat exchangers.

(74) The distribution network may comprise one or more expansion joints allowing to compensate for the dilation effects, fixed supports, movable supports, and any combinations of such devices.

(75) FIG. 9 shows thee possible forms of embodiment of the installations according to the invention.

(76) In layout A, the installation comprises three parts I1, I2 and I3 separated from each other, but built with units according to the invention, the three parts being connected to the same distribution circuit [50], comprising a segment defining a loop.

(77) In layout B, the installation has a non-rectangular outline, this to match the available space as well as possible. The vapor distribution circuit [50] of the installation comprises two loops interconnected and possibly comprising valves.

(78) In layout C, the installation follows an even more complex outline than in layout B. The distribution circuit comprises four distribution loops connected between them to feed the different units.

(79) The invention further relates to the use of an installation following the invention for cooling, in particular condensing a first fluid by means of a second fluid, particularly air.

(80) The method according to the invention is therefore a cooling method for first fluid by means of a second fluid, in an installation according to the invention, in which the first fluid is fed into heat exchangers of units according to the invention and wherein said heat exchangers are in contact with a second fluid.

(81) The first fluid flows inside the heat exchangers, while the second fluid flows outside the heat exchangers.

(82) In this process, an installation comprising platforms is advantageously used in in association with one or more motor-fan group(s) bearing on two suspension pipes. In this process, when a significant problem is detected or a major maintenance must be performed in one or more motor-fan group(s) of a platform or in a unit according to the invention, the defective motor-fan group(s) and/or the platform with the motor-fan group(s) with significant problem is lifted to be replaced by one or more new motor-fan group(s) or one or more moto-fan group(s) in working order and/or at platform or to move at ground level for its repair, before its replacement on the platform and/or before positioning the platform to make it bear on the two suspension pipes of one or more units according to the invention, and/or

(83) after having lifted one or more motor-fan group(s) and/or one or more platforms with motor-fan group(s) bearing on one or more of the suspension pipes, the unit with the problem or requiring major maintenance is lifted, for replacing it by another unit and/or to move it at ground level or at the level of a temporary and/or mobile supporting structure for its maintenance or its repair before its replacement, and the platform(s) with or without motor-fan group(s) is (are) repositioned so it (they) can bear on at least one of the suspension pipes of the replaced or maintained unit, and a motor-fan group is put again on the repositioned platform(s), if the motor-fan group had been removed for this or these platforms.

(84) In this process, the replacement can be done rapidly after having interrupted the operation of the installation. Preferably, however, the installation comprises means adapted to isolate one or more units according to the invention, so as to be able to perform the replacement without having to stop the operation of any installation according to the invention. To isolate one or more units, it is possible to close one or more valves of a network distribution, and/or to transfer part of the first fluid to other units by means of branch pipes.

(85) The subject of the invention is also a method for constructing an installation according to the invention, comprising at least the following steps: establishing a supporting structure on a selected site; building units of the invention at ground level, close to the site, or transport of units according to the invention close to the site; lifting of the units for their placement on the supporting structure, so that units can bear on the supporting structure, in order to be suspended via their suspension pipe(s).

(86) Platforms with fans can also be assembled at ground level or in the workshop before being mounted in one piece in the installation according to the invention. Fans can also be mounted after placing platforms.

(87) By way of comparison, FIG. 10 schematically shows a structure of the known type. This structure consisting of profiles is complex, cumbersome, and must bear all the strain generated by distribution pipes, heat exchangers and fans. Such structures require significant time for their embodiment.

NOMENCLATURE OF THE FIGURES

(88) [1] unit according to the invention

(89) F1 first fluid to be cooled and/or at least partially condensable, for instance superheated steam

(90) F2 second fluid, for instance air

(91) [10] first metallic pipe

(92) [A10] central axis of the first pipe

(93) [11] second metallic pipe

(94) [A11] central axis of the second pipe

(95) [12] third metallic pipe ([12a], [12b]: conduits or channels of the third pipe [12])

(96) [A12] central axis of the third pipe

(97) [13] first heat exchanger

(98) [14], [15] longitudinal edges du first heat exchanger

(99) [16] second heat exchanger

(100) [17], [18] longitudinal edges du second heat exchanger

(101) D Distance between two pipes

(102) [19] reinforcement device

(103) [20] hanging loops, possibly removable

(104) [22] bars

(105) [23] lateral or confinement wall

(106) [24] platform

(107) [24a] fan

(108) [24b] fan guide to guide the at least outgoing air flow

(109) [25] platform arms

(110) [26] confinement wall legs

(111) [27] door or opening of the confinement wall

(112) [28] attachment points for walkway

(113) [30] mobile/extensible connection

(114) [32], [33] lateral ends of the unit

(115) [34] segment of substantially vertical supply pipe

(116) [35] suspension pipe reinforcement,

(117) [36] connection element or elbow, intermediate element

(118) [50] supply network

(119) [51] vertical supporting pipe

(120) [52] valve

(121) [54] intermediate linking or connection element

(122) [55] structure =[51]+[54]+[34]

(123) [56] intermediate element or diverting element

(124) I1, I2, I3 parts of the installation comprising units according to the invention