Apparatus and methods for permanently assembling tubes in a heat exchanger
US8667683B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 2006 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 11, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53117
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for use with a baffle support fixture for a machine assembly of the tubes and baffles in a bundle assembly of a shell and tube type heat exchanger. The bundle comprises tubes inserted through baffles. The bundle is assembled using a holding fixture that includes anti-rotational features to secure baffles in a desired orientation. Following assembly, the bundle assembly is temporarily fixtured using pressure applying means such as plates and rods, and is then permanently affixed using an adhesive composition. After adhesive is applied, bundles, with the pressure applying means still attached, are preserved on racks and heat treated to cure and permanently set the adhesive.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.