Alternating offset U-bend support arrangement
US11699532B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2020 |
| Grant date | Jul 11, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 4, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/00
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Arrangement for supporting U-bend tube sections in the high heat environment of steam generators using flat bars. The invention uses a combination of thicker and thinner flat bars to impart a serpentine path to the arc of the normally curvilinear U-tubes. The support system accommodates the dilation and contraction of coolant tubes and other elements caused by the extreme and varying conditions inside a steam generator, and which can cause gaps between coolant tubes and prior art tube support bars. Bars of alternating thickness provide alternating offsets to tensionally push and support each tube on multiple sides and in multiple locations, and this tension keeps the tubes in contact with at least some flat bars on multiple sides regardless of size and shape changes. Support arrangement includes a set of fan bars, each fan bar including thick and thin flat bars projecting up and out from a collector bar.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.