EP0634607B1 - Steam generator with removable cyclone separators - Google Patents

Steam generator with removable cyclone separators Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0634607B1
EP0634607B1 EP94401583A EP94401583A EP0634607B1 EP 0634607 B1 EP0634607 B1 EP 0634607B1 EP 94401583 A EP94401583 A EP 94401583A EP 94401583 A EP94401583 A EP 94401583A EP 0634607 B1 EP0634607 B1 EP 0634607B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
steam generator
roof
cyclone
vaporization enclosure
enclosure
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP94401583A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0634607A1 (en
Inventor
Benoît Giraud
Christophe Poussin
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Areva NP SAS
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Framatome SA
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
    • B04C—APPARATUS USING FREE VORTEX FLOW, e.g. CYCLONES
    • B04C3/00—Apparatus in which the axial direction of the vortex flow following a screw-thread type line remains unchanged ; Devices in which one of the two discharge ducts returns centrally through the vortex chamber, a reverse-flow vortex being prevented by bulkheads in the central discharge duct
    • B04C3/04—Multiple arrangement thereof
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B37/00—Component parts or details of steam boilers
    • F22B37/02—Component parts or details of steam boilers applicable to more than one kind or type of steam boiler
    • F22B37/26—Steam-separating arrangements
    • F22B37/268—Steam-separating arrangements specially adapted for steam generators of nuclear power plants
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B37/00—Component parts or details of steam boilers
    • F22B37/02—Component parts or details of steam boilers applicable to more than one kind or type of steam boiler
    • F22B37/26—Steam-separating arrangements
    • F22B37/32—Steam-separating arrangements using centrifugal force
    • F22B37/327—Steam-separating arrangements using centrifugal force specially adapted for steam generators of nuclear power plants

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a steam generator with removable cyclones of the recirculation type used in nuclear power plants.
  • the hot water leaving the reactor (water from the primary circuit) is sent to a heat exchanger, the steam generator, where it transfers its heat to another water circuit (secondary circuit ) without direct contact with the reactor water.
  • the water in the secondary circuit vaporizes during the heat exchange and feeds a turbine.
  • Such a steam generator is generally constituted by an external pressure-resistant envelope, of great height and inside which is disposed a secondary enclosure (or vaporization enclosure) covering a bundle of tubes traversed by the primary water under pressure.
  • the secondary circuit is supplied with water in the steam generator usually at the top of the steam generator. This edible water circulates down the steam generator, outside the vaporization enclosure before entering it through its lower part to come into contact with the tube bundle and be vaporized.
  • the steam dome is provided with water and steam separation devices, allowing dry the steam before it leaves the generator.
  • These devices generally include a first stage disposed at the outlet of the vaporization enclosure and consisting of cyclone separators where a large part of the water is removed by centrifugation. They also include a second stage located above the first and formed for example of herringbone sheets.
  • Cyclones are cylindrical tubes with a spiral deflector fixed to the ends of tubular columns themselves fixed on the roof of the vaporization enclosure and communicating with this enclosure.
  • the mixture of water and steam coming from the vaporization enclosure therefore passes through the tubular columns before undergoing a first separation in the cyclones.
  • the tubular columns are partially submerged by secondary water.
  • cyclone separators of small diameter. This decrease in the diameter of the cyclones is however accompanied by an increase in their number. For example, for a steam generator with 1000 MW of thermal power operating at 75 bar, approximately 120 to 140 separators with a diameter of 200 mm are required. Furthermore, for reasons of motive load in the recirculation loop or water reserve in the steam generators, it may be necessary to set the free level of the secondary water in the steam dome at approximately 2 or 3 meters above the tube bundle. Since the cyclones must be located above this level, the tubular columns connecting the cyclones to the roof of the vaporization enclosure must be very high.
  • Cyclone separators whether each formed of a cyclone attached to the end of a tubular column welded to the roof of the vaporization enclosure or of several cyclones attached to the end of a tubular column of larger diameter welded to the roof of this enclosure (see document FR-A-2 480 905) pose maintenance problems. Indeed, such a set of separators does not allow easy access to the various cyclones to repair or simply inspect them.
  • the invention overcomes this drawback by proposing detachable cyclone separators.
  • Another aspect of the invention is to allow, thanks to the disassembly of the cyclone separators, access to the roof of the vaporization enclosure. This allows the installation of a large inspection hatch to access the bun (that is to say the curved part of the tubes) of the tube bundle.
  • the subject of the invention is therefore a steam generator of the recirculation type ensuring heat transfer between a fluid circulating in a primary circuit and a fluid circulating in a secondary circuit, consisting of a pressure envelope containing a vaporization enclosure provided a roof and covering a bundle of tubes traversed by the primary fluid, the generator comprising means allowing the introduction of the secondary fluid, its circulation in the vaporization enclosure and the extraction of the vapor generated by the secondary fluid during of this circulation, steam drying means being disposed between the roof of the vaporization enclosure and the steam extraction means, these drying means comprising cyclone separators made up of cyclones fixed to first ends of tubular columns whose second ends are fixed to the roof of the vaporization enclosure by communicating with the vaporization enclosure, characterized in that each tubular column comprises a foot integral with the roof of the vaporization enclosure and a spacer tube fixed by one of its ends and detachably to said foot, the other end of the spacer tube being fixed to at least one cyclone. Said foot can
  • the cyclones are detachably attached to the tubular columns.
  • Removable fasteners can be made using cable ties. This allows rapid assembly and disassembly.
  • the steam generator may include means for supporting the cyclone separators, these support means being fixed on the roof of the vaporization enclosure.
  • the support means and the cyclone separators may have complementary elements allowing the guidance of the cyclone separators during their installation.
  • They may include a mast for receiving a tool for handling cyclone separators.
  • the roof of the vaporization enclosure can advantageously be provided with an access hatch allowing the passage of a person.
  • Figure 1 which is an axial sectional view, we see a steam generator whose external envelope 1, resistant to pressure, contains in its lower part of smaller diameter a tubular bundle 2 comprising a set of bent tubes in the shape of an inverted U. These tubes are traversed by pressurized water forming part of the primary circuit and introduced into the steam generator under the tube plate 3 through an inlet port 4. The pressurized water runs through the tubes of the tube bundle 2 then returns under the tube plate 3 to exit through the port 5.
  • the tubular bundle 2 is surrounded, up to the vicinity of its lower part, by a secondary envelope 6 constituting the vaporization enclosure inside which the mixture of secondary water and edible water in contact with the tubular bundle 2, traversed by high temperature water coming from the reactor core, gradually vaporizes while rising inside the enclosure 6.
  • the highest part of the vapor dome is provided with an orifice 7 steam outlet to the turbine.
  • a feed water supply device (not shown) makes it possible to maintain the level 8 of the secondary water in the steam generator at a certain distance above the tube bundle 2 and below the cyclones 10 communicating with the top of the 'vaporization enclosure 6 by means of tubular columns 11. These tubular columns are welded to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure 6 and allow communication with the interior of this enclosure. A mixture of secondary water and drinking water first passes through the space existing between the external envelope 1 and the enclosure 6 to reach the lower end of this enclosure.
  • the vapor which has left most of the entrained water, passes through the secondary separators 12 constituted by baffles allowing a more complete drying of the vapor before it exits through the orifice 7.
  • the cyclone separator shown in FIG. 2, and bearing the general reference 20, comprises a cyclone 21, a spacer tube 22 and a foot 23. Clamps 24 and 25 make it possible to ensure the removable fixing respectively between the cyclone 21 and the spacer tube 22 on the one hand, the spacer tube 22 and the tubular leg 23 on the other.
  • the lower part of the cyclone 21 has four pins 26 welded to the body of the cyclone and arranged at 90 ° from each other relative to the axis of the cyclone.
  • FIG 3 shows, in section, the lower part of the tubular column connecting a cyclone to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure.
  • the tubular base 23 penetrating into the roof 9 and welded to this roof by a weld bead 27 made on the internal side of the vaporization enclosure.
  • the foot 23 is detachably attached to the spacer tube 22 by the clamp 25.
  • This clamp can be a removable link of the type sold under the brand CEFILAC®. It is then composed of two conical end pieces 28 and 29, respectively welded to the spacer tube 22 and to the foot 23, of a joint and of an articulated collar shown under the common reference 30.
  • Figure 4 shows the separators with cyclones 20 installed on the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure 6. This figure makes it possible to show the inlet orifice 13 for drinking water to which the food torus 14 is connected. Two holes 15 and 16 in the external envelope 1 allow the passage of a person in the area between the two devices for separating water and steam.
  • a support structure comprising a grid 31 itself maintained at a certain distance from the roof 9 by uprights 32 integral with this roof.
  • the support grid 31 is arranged in the lower part of the cyclones, at the level of the pins 26.
  • This support structure can also include a central mast 33 and ladders 34 allowing a person to engaging one of the holes 15 or 16 to descend to the support grid 31 and to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates an assembly or disassembly operation of the cyclone separators after partial or total emptying of the external envelope 1.
  • the loosening of the collar 24 just below the support grid 31 allows the removal of a cyclone 21 by the operator 17 placed on this grid.
  • the cyclone is removed using a handling tool carried by the central mast.
  • FIG. 6 shows the entire support structure.
  • the support grid 31 has a honeycomb structure. It consists of cells 35 for receiving the lower parts of the cyclones, these cells being mechanically connected together to form the grid 31.
  • the pins 26 (see FIG. 4) allow the cyclone separators to be centered in the cells.
  • Stops 36 facing outwards from the support structure, ensure the radial maintenance of the structure in the external envelope of the steam generator.
  • the grid 31 also supports upper uprights 37, placed approximately in alignment with the uprights 32, to which a crown 38 is fixed. This crown is located below the level of the manholes 15 and 16 (see FIG. 4) and allows the fixing of the ladders 34 and the possible installation of floors authorizing the movement of an operator for the inspection of the cyclone separator heads. It also supports stops 39 for radially holding the structure in the external envelope of the steam generator.
  • FIG. 7 corresponds to section VII-VII of Figure 4. We therefore see the spacer tubes 22 in cross section and the lower clamps 25. These clamps have been shown in more detail in several cases.
  • the part of the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure shown in FIG. 7 includes a hatch 40 allowing a person to have access to the interior of the vaporization enclosure.
  • This hatch 40 supports in this embodiment twelve feet of tubular columns and has an area of approximately 1 m 2 . It can be fixed by screw connection on the roof 9.
  • the support structure may include a temporary cyclone storage area in order to free up sufficient space at the point of tilting.
  • spacer tubes allow disassembly and reassembly of these tubes independently of that of the cyclones. These can then remain supported on the support grid.
  • the spacer tubes are manually translated on the roof of the spray enclosure and in the areas of the ladders before being turned over and taken out through the manholes. This allows the spacer tubes to be removed without removing the cyclones which may remain in position.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • High Energy & Nuclear Physics (AREA)
  • Cyclones (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un générateur de vapeur à cyclones démontables du type à recirculation utilisé dans les centrales nucléaires.The present invention relates to a steam generator with removable cyclones of the recirculation type used in nuclear power plants.

Dans un réacteur nucléaire à eau sous pression, l'eau chaude sortant du réacteur (eau du circuit primaire) est envoyée dans un échangeur de chaleur, le générateur de vapeur, où elle transfère sa chaleur à un autre circuit d'eau (circuit secondaire) sans contact direct avec l'eau du réacteur. L'eau du circuit secondaire se vaporise au cours de l'échange de chaleur et va alimenter une turbine.In a pressurized water nuclear reactor, the hot water leaving the reactor (water from the primary circuit) is sent to a heat exchanger, the steam generator, where it transfers its heat to another water circuit (secondary circuit ) without direct contact with the reactor water. The water in the secondary circuit vaporizes during the heat exchange and feeds a turbine.

Un tel générateur de vapeur est généralement constitué par une enveloppe externe résistant à la pression, de grande hauteur et à l'intérieur de laquelle est disposée une enceinte secondaire (ou enceinte de vaporisation) coiffant un faisceau de tubes parcourus par l'eau primaire sous pression. Le circuit secondaire est alimenté en eau dans le générateur de vapeur habituellement dans la partie supérieure du générateur de vapeur. Cette eau alimentaire circule vers le bas du générateur de vapeur, à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de vaporisation avant d'y pénétrer par sa partie inférieure pour entrer en contact avec le faisceau tubulaire et être vaporisée.Such a steam generator is generally constituted by an external pressure-resistant envelope, of great height and inside which is disposed a secondary enclosure (or vaporization enclosure) covering a bundle of tubes traversed by the primary water under pressure. The secondary circuit is supplied with water in the steam generator usually at the top of the steam generator. This edible water circulates down the steam generator, outside the vaporization enclosure before entering it through its lower part to come into contact with the tube bundle and be vaporized.

Un mélange d'eau et de vapeur, de plus en plus riche en vapeur, circule à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de vaporisation vers le haut et sort par la partie supérieure de cette enceinte pour pénétrer dans le dôme de vapeur du générateur, ce dôme étant compris entre la partie supérieure de l'enceinte de vaporisation et la partie supérieure de l'enveloppe externe.A mixture of water and steam, more and more rich in steam, circulates inside the vaporization enclosure upwards and exits through the upper part of this enclosure to penetrate the steam dome of the generator, this dome being comprised between the upper part of the vaporization enclosure and the upper part of the external envelope.

Le dôme de vapeur est pourvu de dispositifs de séparation de l'eau et de la vapeur, permettant de sécher la vapeur avant sa sortie du générateur. Ces dispositifs comprennent généralement un premier étage disposé en sortie de l'enceinte de vaporisation et constitué de séparateurs à cyclones où une grande partie de l'eau est éliminée par centrifugation. Ils comprennent aussi un second étage situé au-dessus du premier et formé par exemple de tôles à chevrons.The steam dome is provided with water and steam separation devices, allowing dry the steam before it leaves the generator. These devices generally include a first stage disposed at the outlet of the vaporization enclosure and consisting of cyclone separators where a large part of the water is removed by centrifugation. They also include a second stage located above the first and formed for example of herringbone sheets.

Les cyclones sont des tubes cylindriques à déflecteur en spirale fixés aux extrémités de colonnes tubulaires elles-mêmes fixées sur le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation et communiquant avec cette enceinte. Le mélange d'eau et de vapeur venant de l'enceinte de vaporisation transite donc par les colonnes tubulaires avant de subir une premiere séparation dans les cyclones. En marche normale, les colonnes tubulaires sont partiellement noyées par l'eau secondaire.Cyclones are cylindrical tubes with a spiral deflector fixed to the ends of tubular columns themselves fixed on the roof of the vaporization enclosure and communicating with this enclosure. The mixture of water and steam coming from the vaporization enclosure therefore passes through the tubular columns before undergoing a first separation in the cyclones. In normal operation, the tubular columns are partially submerged by secondary water.

Pour accroître les performances du séparateur et mieux utiliser le volume disponible dans le dôme de vapeur, il est avantageux d'utiliser des séparateurs à cyclones de faible diamètre. Cette diminution du diamètre des cyclones s'accompagne cependant d'une augmentation de leur nombre. Par exemple, pour un générateur de vapeur de 1000 MW de puissance thermique fonctionnant à 75 bars, il faut environ 120 à 140 séparateurs de 200 mm de diamètre. Par ailleurs, pour des considérations de charge motrice dans la boucle de recirculation ou de réserve d'eau dans les générateurs de vapeur, on peut être amené à fixer le niveau libre de l'eau secondaire dans le dôme de vapeur à environ 2 ou 3 mètres au-dessus du faisceau tubulaire. Les cyclones devant être situés au-dessus de ce niveau, les colonnes tubulaires reliant les cyclones au toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation doivent être de grande hauteur.To increase the performance of the separator and make better use of the volume available in the vapor dome, it is advantageous to use cyclone separators of small diameter. This decrease in the diameter of the cyclones is however accompanied by an increase in their number. For example, for a steam generator with 1000 MW of thermal power operating at 75 bar, approximately 120 to 140 separators with a diameter of 200 mm are required. Furthermore, for reasons of motive load in the recirculation loop or water reserve in the steam generators, it may be necessary to set the free level of the secondary water in the steam dome at approximately 2 or 3 meters above the tube bundle. Since the cyclones must be located above this level, the tubular columns connecting the cyclones to the roof of the vaporization enclosure must be very high.

Les séparateurs à cyclones, qu'ils soient formés chacun d'un cyclone fixé à l'extrémité d'une colonne tubulaire soudée sur le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation ou de plusieurs cyclones fixés à l'extrémité d'une colonne tubulaire de plus gros diamètre soudée sur le toit de cette enceinte (voir le document FR-A-2 480 905) posent des problèmes de maintenance. En effet, un tel ensemble de séparateurs ne permet pas un accès facile aux différents cyclones pour les réparer ou simplement les inspecter.Cyclone separators, whether each formed of a cyclone attached to the end of a tubular column welded to the roof of the vaporization enclosure or of several cyclones attached to the end of a tubular column of larger diameter welded to the roof of this enclosure (see document FR-A-2 480 905) pose maintenance problems. Indeed, such a set of separators does not allow easy access to the various cyclones to repair or simply inspect them.

L'invention permet de remédier à cet inconvénient en proposant des séparateurs à cyclones démontables.The invention overcomes this drawback by proposing detachable cyclone separators.

Un autre aspect de l'invention est de permettre, grâce à la démontabilité des séparateurs cylones, l'accès au toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation. Ceci permet l'installation d'une trappe de visite de grande dimension pour accéder au chignon (c'est-à-dire la partie cintrée des tubes) du faisceau tubulaire.Another aspect of the invention is to allow, thanks to the disassembly of the cyclone separators, access to the roof of the vaporization enclosure. This allows the installation of a large inspection hatch to access the bun (that is to say the curved part of the tubes) of the tube bundle.

L'invention a donc pour objet un générateur de vapeur du type à recirculation assurant un transfert de chaleur entre un fluide circulant dans un circuit primaire et un fluide circulant dans un circuit secondaire, constitué d'une enveloppe de pression contenant une enceinte de vaporisation pourvue d'un toit et coiffant un faisceau de tubes parcourus par le fluide primaire, le générateur comprenant des moyens permettant l'introduction du fluide secondaire, sa circulation dans l'enceinte de vaporisation et l'extraction de la vapeur générée par le fluide secondaire lors de cette circulation, des moyens de séchage de la vapeur étant disposés entre le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation et les moyens d'extraction de la vapeur, ces moyens de séchage comprenant des séparateurs à cyclones constitués de cyclones fixés à des premières extrémités de colonnes tubulaires dont les secondes extrémités sont fixées sur le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation en communiquant avec l'enceinte de vaporisation, caractérisé en ce que chaque colonne tubulaire comprend un pied solidaire du toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation et un tube entretoise fixé par l'une de ses extrémités et de manière démontable audit pied, l'autre extrémité du tube entretoise étant fixée à au moins un cyclone. Ledit pied peut être d'une longueur très faible et même être réduit à une simple bride solidaire du toit de l'enveloppe de faisceau.The subject of the invention is therefore a steam generator of the recirculation type ensuring heat transfer between a fluid circulating in a primary circuit and a fluid circulating in a secondary circuit, consisting of a pressure envelope containing a vaporization enclosure provided a roof and covering a bundle of tubes traversed by the primary fluid, the generator comprising means allowing the introduction of the secondary fluid, its circulation in the vaporization enclosure and the extraction of the vapor generated by the secondary fluid during of this circulation, steam drying means being disposed between the roof of the vaporization enclosure and the steam extraction means, these drying means comprising cyclone separators made up of cyclones fixed to first ends of tubular columns whose second ends are fixed to the roof of the vaporization enclosure by communicating with the vaporization enclosure, characterized in that each tubular column comprises a foot integral with the roof of the vaporization enclosure and a spacer tube fixed by one of its ends and detachably to said foot, the other end of the spacer tube being fixed to at least one cyclone. Said foot can be of a very short length and even be reduced to a simple flange secured to the roof of the bundle envelope.

De préférence les cyclones sont fixés de manière démontable sur les colonnes tubulaires.Preferably the cyclones are detachably attached to the tubular columns.

Les fixations démontables peuvent être réalisées par des colliers de serrage. Ceci permet un montage et un démontage rapide.Removable fasteners can be made using cable ties. This allows rapid assembly and disassembly.

Le générateur de vapeur peut comprendre des moyens de supportage des séparateurs à cyclones, ces moyens de supportage étant fixés sur le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation.The steam generator may include means for supporting the cyclone separators, these support means being fixed on the roof of the vaporization enclosure.

Les moyens de supportage et les séparateurs à cyclones peuvent posséder des éléments complémentaires permettant le guidage des séparateurs à cyclones lors de leur installation.The support means and the cyclone separators may have complementary elements allowing the guidance of the cyclone separators during their installation.

Ils peuvent comporter un mât de réception d'un outil de manutention des séparateurs à cyclones.They may include a mast for receiving a tool for handling cyclone separators.

Le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation peut avantageusement être pourvu d'une trappe d'accès permettant le passage d'une personne.The roof of the vaporization enclosure can advantageously be provided with an access hatch allowing the passage of a person.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres détails et particularités apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée à titre d'exemple non limitatif, accompagnée des dessins annexés parmi lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente une vue en coupe verticale d'un générateur de vapeur selon l'art antérieur ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en perspective d'un séparateur à cyclone pris isolément et conforme à l'invention ;
  • la figure 3 illustre une fixation démontable pour séparateur à cyclone selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe verticale de la partie supérieure d'un générateur de vapeur selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 5 correspond à la vue de la figure 4 mais au cours d'une opération de montage ou de démontage des opérateurs à cyclone ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en perspective d'une structure de supportage de l'ensemble des séparateurs à cyclones, utilisée dans le générateur de vapeur selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 7 représente, vue de dessus, une partie du toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation du générateur de vapeur selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood and other details and particularities will appear on reading the description which follows, given by way of nonlimiting example, accompanied by the appended drawings among which:
  • Figure 1 shows a vertical sectional view of a steam generator according to the prior art;
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of a cyclone separator taken in isolation and according to the invention;
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a removable attachment for a cyclone separator according to the invention;
  • Figure 4 is a vertical sectional view of the upper part of a steam generator according to the invention;
  • Figure 5 corresponds to the view of Figure 4 but during an assembly or disassembly of cyclone operators;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a support structure for all of the cyclone separators used in the steam generator according to the invention;
  • FIG. 7 represents, seen from above, part of the roof of the vaporization enclosure of the steam generator according to the invention.

Sur la figure 1, qui est une vue en coupe axiale, on voit un générateur de vapeur dont l'enveloppe externe 1, résistant à la pression, renferme dans sa partie inférieure de plus faible diamètre un faisceau tubulaire 2 comportant un ensemble de tubes coudés en forme de U renversé. Ces tubes sont parcourus par de l'eau sous pression faisant partie du circuit primaire et introduite dans le générateur de vapeur sous la plaque tubulaire 3 par un orifice d'entrée 4. L'eau sous pression parcourt les tubes du faisceau tubulaire 2 puis revient sous la plaque tubulaire 3 pour sortir par l'orifice 5.In Figure 1, which is an axial sectional view, we see a steam generator whose external envelope 1, resistant to pressure, contains in its lower part of smaller diameter a tubular bundle 2 comprising a set of bent tubes in the shape of an inverted U. These tubes are traversed by pressurized water forming part of the primary circuit and introduced into the steam generator under the tube plate 3 through an inlet port 4. The pressurized water runs through the tubes of the tube bundle 2 then returns under the tube plate 3 to exit through the port 5.

Le faisceau tubulaire 2 est entouré, jusqu'au voisinage de sa partie inférieure, par une enveloppe secondaire 6 constituant l'enceinte de vaporisation à l'intérieur de laquelle le mélange d'eau secondaire et d'eau alimentaire en contact avec le faisceau tubulaire 2, parcouru par de l'eau à haute température venant du coeur du réacteur, se vaporise progressivement en s'élévant à l'intérieur de l'enceinte 6. La partie la plus haute du dôme de vapeur est pourvue d'un orifice 7 de sortie de la vapeur vers la turbine.The tubular bundle 2 is surrounded, up to the vicinity of its lower part, by a secondary envelope 6 constituting the vaporization enclosure inside which the mixture of secondary water and edible water in contact with the tubular bundle 2, traversed by high temperature water coming from the reactor core, gradually vaporizes while rising inside the enclosure 6. The highest part of the vapor dome is provided with an orifice 7 steam outlet to the turbine.

Un dispositif d'amenée d'eau alimentaire non représenté permet de maintenir le niveau 8 de l'eau secondaire dans le générateur de vapeur à une certaine distance au-dessus du faisceau tubulaire 2 et en dessous des cyclones 10 communiquant avec le haut de l'enceinte de vaporisation 6 par l'intermédiaire des colonnes tubulaires 11. Ces colonnes tubulaires sont soudées sur le toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation 6 et permettent la communication avec l'intérieur de cette enceinte. Un mélange d'eau secondaire et d'eau alimentaire passe d'abord dans l'espace existant entre l'enveloppe externe 1 et l'enceinte 6 pour atteindre l'extrémité inférieure de cette enceinte.A feed water supply device (not shown) makes it possible to maintain the level 8 of the secondary water in the steam generator at a certain distance above the tube bundle 2 and below the cyclones 10 communicating with the top of the 'vaporization enclosure 6 by means of tubular columns 11. These tubular columns are welded to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure 6 and allow communication with the interior of this enclosure. A mixture of secondary water and drinking water first passes through the space existing between the external envelope 1 and the enclosure 6 to reach the lower end of this enclosure.

A la sortie des cyclones 10, la vapeur, qui a abandonné la plus grande partie de l'eau entraînée, passe dans les séparateurs secondaires 12 constitués par des chicanes permettant un séchage plus complet de la vapeur avant sa sortie par l'orifice 7.At the outlet of the cyclones 10, the vapor, which has left most of the entrained water, passes through the secondary separators 12 constituted by baffles allowing a more complete drying of the vapor before it exits through the orifice 7.

Sur la figure 1, il apparaît tout à fait clairement que l'accessibilité des colonnes tubulaires Il disposées en très grand nombre les unes au voisinage des autres est mauvaise et qu'en conséquence les opérations de montage, d'entretien et de réparation de ces colonnes tubulaires sont assez difficiles. De même, la construction de cette partie du générateur de vapeur suppose un grand nombre d'opérations de mise en place et de fixation par soudage.In FIG. 1, it is quite clear that the accessibility of the tubular columns II arranged in very large numbers in the vicinity of the others is poor and that consequently the assembly, maintenance and repair operations of these tubular columns are quite difficult. Likewise, the construction of this part of the steam generator requires a large number of positioning and fixing operations by welding.

Le séparateur à cyclone représenté à la figure 2, et portant la référence générale 20, comprend un cyclone 21, un tube entretoise 22 et un pied 23. Des colliers de serrage 24 et 25 permettent d'assurer la fixation démontable respectivement entre le cyclone 21 et le tube entretoise 22 d'une part, le tube entretoise 22 et le pied tubulaire 23 d'autre part.The cyclone separator shown in FIG. 2, and bearing the general reference 20, comprises a cyclone 21, a spacer tube 22 and a foot 23. Clamps 24 and 25 make it possible to ensure the removable fixing respectively between the cyclone 21 and the spacer tube 22 on the one hand, the spacer tube 22 and the tubular leg 23 on the other.

La partie inférieure du cyclone 21 possède quatre pions 26 soudés sur le corps du cyclone et disposés à 90° les uns des autres par rapport à l'axe du cyclone.The lower part of the cyclone 21 has four pins 26 welded to the body of the cyclone and arranged at 90 ° from each other relative to the axis of the cyclone.

La figure 3 montre, en coupe, la partie basse de la colonne tubulaire reliant un cyclone au toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation. On voit le pied tubulaire 23 pénétrant dans le toit 9 et soudé à ce toit par un cordon de soudure 27 effectué côté interne à l'enceinte de vaporisation. Le pied 23 est fixé de manière démontable au tube entretoise 22 par le collier de serrage 25. Ce collier de serrage peut être une liaison démontable du type commercialisé sous la marque CEFILAC®. Il est alors composé de deux embouts coniques 28 et 29, respectivement soudés au tube entretoise 22 et au pied 23, d'un joint et d'un collier articulé représentés sous la référence commune 30.Figure 3 shows, in section, the lower part of the tubular column connecting a cyclone to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure. We see the tubular base 23 penetrating into the roof 9 and welded to this roof by a weld bead 27 made on the internal side of the vaporization enclosure. The foot 23 is detachably attached to the spacer tube 22 by the clamp 25. This clamp can be a removable link of the type sold under the brand CEFILAC®. It is then composed of two conical end pieces 28 and 29, respectively welded to the spacer tube 22 and to the foot 23, of a joint and of an articulated collar shown under the common reference 30.

La figure 4 permet de voir les séparateurs à cyclones 20 installés sur le toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation 6. Cette figure permet de montrer l'orifice d'arrivée 13 d'eau alimentaire auquel est relié le tore alimentaire 14. Deux trous 15 et 16 dans l'enveloppe externe 1 permettent le passage d'une personne dans la zone située entre les deux dispositifs de séparation de l'eau et de la vapeur.Figure 4 shows the separators with cyclones 20 installed on the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure 6. This figure makes it possible to show the inlet orifice 13 for drinking water to which the food torus 14 is connected. Two holes 15 and 16 in the external envelope 1 allow the passage of a person in the area between the two devices for separating water and steam.

Pour assurer le bon maintien des séparateurs à cyclones 20 qui font plusieurs mètres de haut, il est prévu une structure de supportage comprenant une grille 31 elle-même maintenue à une certaine distance du toit 9 par des montants 32 solidaires de ce toit. Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 4, la grille de supportage 31 est disposée en partie basse des cyclones, au niveau des pions 26. Cette structure de supportage peut comprendre également un mât central 33 et des échelles 34 permettant à une personne s'engageant dans l'un des trous 15 ou 16 de descendre jusqu'à la grille de supportage 31 et jusqu'au toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation.To ensure proper maintenance of the cyclone separators 20 which are several meters high, there is provided a support structure comprising a grid 31 itself maintained at a certain distance from the roof 9 by uprights 32 integral with this roof. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the support grid 31 is arranged in the lower part of the cyclones, at the level of the pins 26. This support structure can also include a central mast 33 and ladders 34 allowing a person to engaging one of the holes 15 or 16 to descend to the support grid 31 and to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure.

La figure 5 illustre une opération de montage ou de démontage des séparateurs à cyclones après vidange partielle ou totale de l'enveloppe externe 1. Le desserrage du collier 24 juste en-dessous de la grille de supportage 31 permet l'enlèvement d'un cyclone 21 par l'opérateur 17 placé sur cette grille. L'enlèvement du cyclone est effectué grâce à un outil de manutention porté par le mât central.FIG. 5 illustrates an assembly or disassembly operation of the cyclone separators after partial or total emptying of the external envelope 1. The loosening of the collar 24 just below the support grid 31 allows the removal of a cyclone 21 by the operator 17 placed on this grid. The cyclone is removed using a handling tool carried by the central mast.

En descendant ensuite jusqu'au toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation, l'opérateur peut desserrer le collier inférieur 25 et retirer le tube entretoise 22.Then, going down to the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure, the operator can loosen the lower collar 25 and remove the spacer tube 22.

La figure 6 montre la structure de supportage dans son intégralité. On reconnaît les éléments déjà présentés dans les figures précédentes : la grille 31, les montants 32, le mât central 33 et les échelles 34. La grille de supportage 31 a une structure alvéolée. Elle est constituée d'alvéoles 35 de réception des parties basses des cyclones, ces alvéoles étant reliées mécaniquement entre elles pour constituer la grille 31. Les pions 26 (voir la figure 4) permettent le centrage des séparateurs à cyclones dans les alvéoles.Figure 6 shows the entire support structure. We recognize the elements already presented in the previous figures: the grid 31, the uprights 32, the central mast 33 and the scales 34. The support grid 31 has a honeycomb structure. It consists of cells 35 for receiving the lower parts of the cyclones, these cells being mechanically connected together to form the grid 31. The pins 26 (see FIG. 4) allow the cyclone separators to be centered in the cells.

Des butées 36, tournées vers l'extérieur de la structure de supportage, assurent le maintien radial de la structure dans l'enveloppe externe du générateur de vapeur.Stops 36, facing outwards from the support structure, ensure the radial maintenance of the structure in the external envelope of the steam generator.

La grille 31 supporte également des montants supérieurs 37, placés approximativement dans l'alignement des montants 32, auxquels est fixée une couronne 38. Cette couronne se situe en dessous du niveau des trous d'homme 15 et 16 (voir la figure 4) et permet la fixation des échelles 34 et la mise en place éventuelle de planchers autorisant le déplacement d'un opérateur pour l'inspection des têtes de séparateur à cyclones. Elle supporte également des butées 39 de maintien radial de la structure dans l'enveloppe externe du générateur de vapeur.The grid 31 also supports upper uprights 37, placed approximately in alignment with the uprights 32, to which a crown 38 is fixed. This crown is located below the level of the manholes 15 and 16 (see FIG. 4) and allows the fixing of the ladders 34 and the possible installation of floors authorizing the movement of an operator for the inspection of the cyclone separator heads. It also supports stops 39 for radially holding the structure in the external envelope of the steam generator.

La figure 7 correspond à la coupe VII-VII de la figure 4. On voit donc les tubes entretoises 22 en coupe transversale et les colliers de serrage inférieurs 25. Ces colliers de serrage ont été représentés de façon plus détaillée dans plusieurs cas. La partie du toit 9 de l'enceinte de vaporisation représentée à la figure 7 comporte une trappe 40 permettant à une personne d'avoir accès à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de vaporisation. Cette trappe 40 supporte dans cet exemple de réalisation douze pieds de colonnes tubulaires et a une superficie d'environ 1 m2. Elle peut être fixée par liaison vissée sur le toit 9.Figure 7 corresponds to section VII-VII of Figure 4. We therefore see the spacer tubes 22 in cross section and the lower clamps 25. These clamps have been shown in more detail in several cases. The part of the roof 9 of the vaporization enclosure shown in FIG. 7 includes a hatch 40 allowing a person to have access to the interior of the vaporization enclosure. This hatch 40 supports in this embodiment twelve feet of tubular columns and has an area of approximately 1 m 2 . It can be fixed by screw connection on the roof 9.

Il suffit donc de démonter les douze tubes entretoises, et éventuellement les cyclones, correspondant à la trappe 40, laquelle est prévue en bordure du toit 9 et près d'une échelle 34, pour pouvoir ôter la trappe. L'outil de manutention (palan, bras) porté par le mât central permet de soulever la trappe.It therefore suffices to dismantle the twelve spacer tubes, and possibly the cyclones, corresponding to the hatch 40, which is provided at the edge of the roof 9 and near a ladder 34, in order to be able to remove the hatch. The handling tool (hoist, arm) carried by the central mast allows the hatch to be lifted.

Grâce à l'invention, il est possible d'abaisser la masse d'un tube entretoise en deçà de 20 kg afin de permettre la manutention manuelle. Cet avantage est très important pour le démontage, car il permet un démontage partiel.Thanks to the invention, it is possible to lower the mass of a spacer tube below 20 kg in order to allow manual handling. This advantage is very important for disassembly, because it allows partial disassembly.

Il se peut que, lors du démontage du ou des premiers cyclones, il n'y ait pas assez d'espace pour assurer leur basculement en vue de leur sortie du générateur. Dans ce cas la structure de supportage peut comporter une aire de stockage provisoire de cyclones afin de libérer suffisamment d'espace à l'endroit du basculement.When disassembling the first cyclone (s), it may be that there is not enough space to allow them to tip over for exit from the generator. In this case, the support structure may include a temporary cyclone storage area in order to free up sufficient space at the point of tilting.

La possibilité de manutention manuelle des tubes entretoises autorise le démontage et le remontage de ces tubes indépendamment de celui des cyclones. Ceux-ci peuvent alors rester en appui sur la grille de supportage. Dans ce cas, les tubes entretoises sont translatés manuellement sur le toit de l'enceinte de vaporisation et dans les zones des échelles avant d'être retournés et sortis par les trous d'homme. Ceci permet de démonter les tubes entretoises sans extraire les cyclones qui peuvent rester en position.The possibility of manual handling of the spacer tubes allows disassembly and reassembly of these tubes independently of that of the cyclones. These can then remain supported on the support grid. In this case, the spacer tubes are manually translated on the roof of the spray enclosure and in the areas of the ladders before being turned over and taken out through the manholes. This allows the spacer tubes to be removed without removing the cyclones which may remain in position.

Claims (8)

  1. Recirculation-type steam generator ensuring a heat transfer between a fluid circulating in a primary circuit and a fluid circulating in a secondary circuit, constituted by a pressure envelope (1) containing a vaporization enclosure (6) having a roof (9) and covering a bundle of tubes (2) traversed by the primary fluid, the generator having means permitting the introduction of the secondary fluid, its circulation within the vaporization enclosure and the extraction of the steam produced by the secondary fluid during said circulation, drying means for the steam being placed between the roof (9) vaporization enclosure (6) and the steam extraction means (7), said drying means incorporating cyclone separators constituted by cyclones fixed to first ends of the tubular columns, whereof the second ends are fixed to the vaporization enclosure roof communicating with said vaporization enclosure, characterized in that each tubular column comprises a base (23) integral with the roof (9) of the vaporization enclosure and a spacer tube (22) fixed by one of its ends and in detachable manner to the said base, the other end of the spacer tube being fixed to at least one cyclone (21).
  2. Steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cyclones (21) are detachably fitted to the tubular columns (22).
  3. Steam generator according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the dismantlable fastenings are constituted by clamps (24, 25).
  4. Steam generator according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises means for supporting the cyclone separators, said supporting means being fixed to the roof of the vaporization enclosure.
  5. Steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that the supporting means and the cyclone separators have complementary elements (35, 26) permitting the guidance of the cyclone separators during their installation.
  6. Steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that the cyclone separator supporting means incorporate a ring (38) and abutments (36) permitting the radial holding of the structure in the outer envelope of the steam generator.
  7. Steam generator according to any one of the claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the supporting means include a reception mast (33) for a cyclone separator handling tool.
  8. Steam generator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vaporization enclosure roof is provided with a trap door (40) permitting the passage of a person.
EP94401583A 1993-07-12 1994-07-08 Steam generator with removable cyclone separators Expired - Lifetime EP0634607B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9308559 1993-07-12
FR9308559A FR2707733B1 (en) 1993-07-12 1993-07-12 Steam generator with removable cyclones.

Publications (2)

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EP0634607A1 EP0634607A1 (en) 1995-01-18
EP0634607B1 true EP0634607B1 (en) 1997-12-17

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EP (1) EP0634607B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3574183B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100323145B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1044280C (en)
DE (1) DE69407353T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2707733B1 (en)
TW (1) TW301393U (en)

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EP1153653A1 (en) * 2000-05-11 2001-11-14 Methanol Casale S.A. Reactor for exothermic or endothermic heterogeneous reactions
EP1221339A1 (en) * 2001-01-05 2002-07-10 Methanol Casale S.A. Catalytic reactor with heat exchanger for exothermic and endothermic heterogeneous chemical reactions
US8670514B2 (en) * 2007-12-14 2014-03-11 Westinghouse Electric Company Llc Hatch mechanical locking system
DE102009050087B4 (en) * 2009-10-20 2011-12-22 Areva Np Gmbh Cyclone separator for the phase separation of a multiphase fluid flow, steam turbine plant with a cyclone separator and associated operating method
DE102010030438A1 (en) * 2010-06-23 2011-12-29 Robert Bosch Gmbh Device for detecting property e.g. velocity of air mass in motor car, has suction apparatus partly sucking flow barrier layer at fluid medium rush overable surface area, and sensor device detecting property of flowing fluid medium
FR3002274B1 (en) * 2013-02-15 2015-02-20 Commissariat Energie Atomique ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION PLANT COMPRISING A DEVICE FOR PRODUCING WATER VAPOR OF REDUCED HEIGHT, APPLICATION TO REP AND REB REACTORS
CN104014202B (en) * 2014-05-15 2016-02-03 华东理工大学 Vapour-liquid separation method and device is combined in pressurized water reactor nuclear power station steam generator
CN106369582B (en) * 2016-08-29 2019-02-12 东方电气(广州)重型机器有限公司 A kind of drier
FR3100920B1 (en) * 2019-09-16 2021-10-01 Framatome Sa Method and repair kit for a steam generator of a nuclear reactor

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GB1233347A (en) * 1967-04-24 1971-05-26
GB1227128A (en) * 1967-04-24 1971-04-07
DE2259076C3 (en) * 1972-12-02 1975-10-30 Gutehoffnungshuette Sterkrade Ag, 4200 Oberhausen Steam generator
FR2394750A1 (en) * 1977-06-15 1979-01-12 Commissariat Energie Atomique STEAM GENERATOR
GB2064734B (en) * 1979-12-04 1982-10-13 Breda Termomeccanica Spa Steam generator
FR2480905A1 (en) * 1980-04-18 1981-10-23 Framatome Sa DEVICE FOR SEPARATING WATER AND STEAM FROM THE VAPORIZATION SPEAKER OUTPUT OF A STEAM GENERATOR
US4783204A (en) * 1986-08-05 1988-11-08 Westinghouse Electric Corp. Apparatus and method for drying steam

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DE69407353D1 (en) 1998-01-29
KR950003687A (en) 1995-02-17
EP0634607A1 (en) 1995-01-18
FR2707733A1 (en) 1995-01-20
JPH07174302A (en) 1995-07-14
FR2707733B1 (en) 1995-09-01
TW301393U (en) 1997-03-21
CN1044280C (en) 1999-07-21
KR100323145B1 (en) 2002-05-13
JP3574183B2 (en) 2004-10-06
DE69407353T2 (en) 1998-06-18
CN1123449A (en) 1996-05-29
US5564370A (en) 1996-10-15

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