CN117957401A - A body constructed for use in a radiant tube - Google Patents

Abstract

A body to be installed into a radiant tube for reducing contaminants, the body comprising a body having a tubular shape, the body having a length, an outer diameter, and an inner diameter, the body further comprising a proximal surface, a distal surface, and a circumferential surface extending between the proximal surface and the distal surface, and the body being configured to be disposed at an axial distance from a distal end of a burner, wherein the Axial Distance (AD) is at least 0.1% of the length of the body.

Description

A body constructed for use in a radiant tube

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a body for use in or with a radiant tube. The combustion of fossil fuels introduces emissions such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere. For example, NOx emissions come from nitrogen present in the combustion air and fuel-bound nitrogen in coal or fuel oil. The conversion of fuel-bound nitrogen to NOx depends on the amount and reactivity of nitrogen compounds in the fuel and the amount of oxygen in the combustion zone. The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen _N2 present in the combustion air to NOx is temperature dependent; the higher the flame temperature in the combustion zone, the higher the resulting NOx content in the emissions. Growing environmental concerns have led to even stricter regulation of NOx emissions.

Improvements to furnace systems are needed to reduce pollutants and increase heat exchange efficiency.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 includes an illustration of a system including a subject and an exchange subject according to one embodiment.

2A-2E include illustrations of a body according to one embodiment.

3A-3F include illustrations of a positioning device according to one embodiment.

4A-4E include illustrations of exchange subjects according to one embodiment.

Detailed ways

As used herein, the terms "comprises," "including," "having," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

As used herein, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive or, not an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

In addition, "a" or "an" is used to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. The description should be understood to include one, at least one or the singular, as well as the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clearly indicated otherwise.

The present disclosure relates to components that can be used in furnaces such as radiant tubes and/or heat exchangers. The components herein can be applicable to radiant tubes of any size or shape, such as U-tubes or W-tubes, including, for example, for use in steel annealing furnaces, coating furnaces, or heat treatment furnaces. A particular use of the heat exchanger inserts of the present disclosure can be for use in large diameter heat exchangers to recover waste energy.

FIG1 provides a non-limiting embodiment of a system. FIG1 includes a system 100 that includes a radiant tube 101 and a burner 103 at least partially disposed in the radiant tube. In one embodiment, the system 100 may include an optional body 105 that is disposed in the radiant tube and is configured to reduce the content of pollutants. In another embodiment, the system 100 may include an exchange body 107 having multiple flow paths for exchanging heat between two or more different fluid streams (e.g., gases) flowing through the exchange body 107.

FIG. 2A includes a side view of a body 105, which is configured to be arranged in a radiant tube near a burner 103 and is configured to reduce the content of pollutants formed during combustion. FIG. 2B includes a cross-sectional illustration of a body 105 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2C includes an illustration of a body 105 and a burner 103 according to an embodiment. According to an embodiment, compared with a prior art system that does not use such a body 105, or alternatively uses a body made of a metal mesh material, or has other less desirable structures, the body 105 can reduce the content of pollutants (e.g., NOx) by at least 10%, such as at least 12%, or at least 15%, or at least 18%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%. In a non-limiting embodiment, the body 105 can reduce the content of pollutants by no more than 100%, or no more than 80%, or no more than 60%. It should be understood that the rate of decline of the pollutant content can be within the range of including any of the above-mentioned minimum percentages and any of the maximum percentages.

In one embodiment, the body 105 can have a generally tubular shape. The body 105 can have a length (L), an outer diameter (OD), and an inner diameter (ID). The outer diameter can be defined by a maximum diameter value, which can include an extension of a radial member from the body 105. The inner diameter can be defined by a minimum dimension within the central axial opening 207, which can be defined by an inner annular surface 209. The inner diameter can be the minimum dimension between any optional radial members within the central axial opening 207. In one embodiment, the body 105 can include a proximal surface 201, a terminal surface 203, and a circumferential surface 205 extending between the proximal surface 201 and the terminal surface 203. In another embodiment, the body 105 can include a central axial opening that can extend the full length (L) of the body 105.

According to one embodiment, the body 105 can be a unitary body. In a specific embodiment, the body 105 can have a solid sidewall surrounding a central axial opening. Such a configuration can be suitable for defining and distinguishing two discrete flow streams between the central axial opening 207 and the flow path along the outer circumferential surface 205 along the outside of the tube shape.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the body 105 can include a ceramic material. In a specific example, the body can include an oxide, a carbide, a nitride, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the body can include a carbide, such as silicon carbide. In a specific embodiment, the body consists essentially of ceramic, such as consisting essentially of carbide, and more specifically, can consist essentially of silicon carbide.

In another embodiment, the material of the body 105 can have a particular density that can facilitate improved manufacturing and/or operation. For example, the average density of the material of the body 105 can be at least 2.50 g/cm ³ , such as at least 2.55 g/cm ³ , or at least 2.57 g/cm ³ , or at least 2.60 g/cm ³ , or at least 2.70 g/cm ³ . In another embodiment, the average density of the material of the body 105 can be no greater than 2.9 g/cm ³ , or no greater than 2.8 g/cm ³ , or no greater than 2.75 g/cm ³ . Furthermore, the average density of the material of the body can be within a range including any of the minimum percentages and any of the maximum percentages described above.

In one embodiment, the body of the heat exchanger component can be manufactured by a powder pressing process, such as described in, for example, US 8,162,040, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, the body can be formed by conventional powder or slurry manufacturing methods, including, for example, but not limited to, mixing, casting, molding, pressing, drying, sintering, or any combination thereof.

According to one embodiment, the body 105 can be configured to be arranged in a specific position relative to the burner. More specifically, as shown in Figure 2C, the proximal end 201 of the body 105 can be arranged at a specific axial distance (AD) from the terminal end 211 of the burner, which can promote the reduction of improved pollutants. In a more specific embodiment, through empirical research, it has been found that the relationship between controlling the axial distance (AD) relative to the length (L) of the body 105 can be suitable for reducing pollutants. In one embodiment, the use of a body 105 with a solid wall opposite to another structure (e.g., a mesh tube) can benefit from a specific spacing between the axial distance relative to the length of the body 105, which can be suitable for reducing pollutants. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance (AD) can be at least 0.1% of the length (L) of the body 105 [(AD/L)×100%], such as at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 3%, or at least 4%, or at least 5%, or at least 6%, or at least 7%, or at least 8%, or at least 9%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance may be no greater than 900% of the length of the body, such as no greater than 500%, or no greater than 200%, or no greater than 100%, or no greater than 90%, or no greater than 85%, or no greater than 80%, or no greater than 75%, or no greater than 70%, or no greater than 65%, or no greater than 60%, or no greater than 55%, or no greater than 50%, or no greater than 45%, or no greater than 40%, or no greater than 35%. In another non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance may be in the range of at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the length of the body 105. In another embodiment, it should be understood that the axial distance may be in the range of any percentage between at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the length of the body 105.

In another non-limiting embodiment, it has been found through some studies that it may be appropriate to control the axial distance relative to the wall thickness of the body. The wall thickness may be defined as the difference between the outer diameter and the inner diameter of the body 105, such as wall thickness (T) = OD-ID. According to one embodiment, the axial distance (AD) may be at least 0.1% of the wall thickness (T) [(AD/T)×100%] of the body 105, such as at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 3%, or at least 4%, or at least 5%, or at least 6%, or at least 7%, or at least 8%, or at least 9%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%. In another non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance can be no greater than 900% of the wall thickness (T) of the body 105, such as no greater than 500%, or no greater than 200%, or no greater than 100%, or no greater than 90%, or no greater than 85%, or no greater than 80%, or no greater than 75%, or no greater than 70%, or no greater than 65%, or no greater than 60%, or no greater than 55%, or no greater than 50%, or no greater than 45%, or no greater than 40%, or no greater than 35%. In another embodiment, it should be understood that the axial distance can be within a range of any percentage between at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the wall thickness of the body 105.

According to one embodiment, the body 105 can include one or more optional radial members, which extend radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 205. Referring to the non-limiting embodiment of Fig. 2A, the body 105 includes radial members 221, 222 and 223 (221-223), which extend along the outer circumferential surface 205 of the body 105. The radial members 221-223 can extend along the outer circumferential surface 205 in a non-linear path, and the outer circumferential surface has both an axial component and a circumferential component that define the path. According to a specific embodiment, one or more radial members of the radial members 221-223 can extend along the circumferential surface 205 in a spiral path. In another non-limiting embodiment, the one or more radial members 221-223 can extend in a spiral path with a variable twist, so that the angle of twist can be changed along the length of the body 105.

Although not shown, in another embodiment, one or more optional radial members may extend radially inward from the inner annular surface 209 such that the one or more radial members extend into the central axial opening 207. The one or more radial members may assist in controlling the flow of fluid through and around the body 105, which may promote the reduction of contaminants.

According to one embodiment, the body 105 may have at least one radial member extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 205, and the radial distance (RD) extending from the outer circumferential surface is at least 0.1% of the inner diameter (ID) of the body 105 [(RD/ID)×100%], such as at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 3%, or at least 4%, or at least 5%, or at least 6%, or at least 7%, or at least 8%, or at least 9%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the radial distance may be no greater than 900% of the inner diameter (ID) of the body 105, such as no greater than 500%, or no greater than 200%, or no greater than 100%, or no greater than 90%, or no greater than 85%, or no greater than 80%, or no greater than 75%, or no greater than 70%, or no greater than 65%, or no greater than 60%, or no greater than 55%, or no greater than 50%, or no greater than 45%, or no greater than 40%, or no greater than 35%. In another embodiment, it should be understood that the radial distance may be within a range of any percentage between at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the inner diameter of the body 105.

In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the body 105 may have at least one radial member extending radially inward from the inner annular surface 209, the radial distance (RD) of which the inner annular surface extends being at least 0.1% of the inner diameter (ID) of the body 105 [(RD/ID)×100%], such as at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 3%, or at least 4%, or at least 5%, or at least 6%, or at least 7%, or at least 8%, or at least 9%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the radial distance may be no greater than 900% of the inner diameter (ID) of the body 105, such as no greater than 500%, or no greater than 200%, or no greater than 100%, or no greater than 90%, or no greater than 85%, or no greater than 80%, or no greater than 75%, or no greater than 70%, or no greater than 65%, or no greater than 60%, or no greater than 55%, or no greater than 50%, or no greater than 45%, or no greater than 40%, or no greater than 35%. In another embodiment, it should be understood that the radial distance may be within a range of any percentage between at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the inner diameter of the body 105.

In some non-limiting examples, at least one radial member can extend a given distance as measured in degrees around the outer circumferential surface 205 and/or the inner annular surface 209 of the body 105, and the at least one radial member extends through the given distance between the proximal end of the radial member and the terminal end of the radial member. For example, a full circle of the entire circumference of the radial member around the body will be measured as an angle of 360 degrees. According to one embodiment, at least one radial member extends a circumferential distance of at least 1 degree on the inner annular surface or the outer circumferential surface of the body 105. In other non-limiting examples, the circumferential distance can be larger, such as at least 10 degrees, or at least 30 degrees, or at least 60 degrees, or at least 90 degrees, or at least 180 degrees, or at least 270 degrees, or at least 360 degrees. In a non-limiting example, the body 105 can have one or more radial members, and the distance of the one or more radial members extending is at least 1 degree and not more than 3600 degrees.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the one or more radial members can be solid members. That is, the one or more radial members do not necessarily contain an inner cavity configured for a fluid (eg, a gas) to flow therethrough.

Without being bound by a particular theory, it should be noted that the position of the body 105 relative to the burner 103 can be suitable for isolating the flame from the burner, which can assist in controlling the temperature and formation of pollutants in the combustion zone. FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E illustrate different positions of the body 105 relative to the burner 103, wherein the position of the body 105 in FIG. 2E isolates the flame, as shown by the color surrounding the body, while in FIG. 2D , the position of the body 105 relative to the burner 103 effectively forces all flames from the burner 103 to pass through the body 105.

In another embodiment, control of the position of the axial distance between the burner 103 and the body 105 can be facilitated by using a positioning device. FIGS. 3A and 3B include illustrations of a positioning device 301 according to one embodiment. FIGS. 3C and 3D include illustrations of a positioning device 331. FIGS. 3E and 3F include illustrations of a body 105 including a recess 337 configured to engage the positioning device 331. In one example, the positioning device can be configured to engage the body 105 and fix the position of the body 105 within the radiant tube 101, and more specifically, fix the position of the body 105 relative to the burner 103.

According to one embodiment, the positioning device 301 may include a positioning element 302 configured to change the size of the positioning device 301. In one embodiment, the positioning device 302 may include a first positioning element 303 and a second positioning element 304, wherein the first positioning element 303 includes a terminal end 311, the terminal end includes a coupling structure 312 configured to engage the main body 105, and wherein the second positioning element 304 includes a terminal end 312, the terminal end includes a coupling structure 313 configured to engage the main body 105. The first positioning element 303 and the second positioning element 304 can move relative to each other, such as sliding relative to each other. In a specific embodiment, the relative movement between the positioning element 303 and the positioning element 304 can facilitate the main body 105 to be accommodated between the coupling structure 312 and the coupling structure 313 at the proximal end 201 and the terminal end 203 of the main body 105. In one embodiment, the main body 105 can be configured to directly or indirectly engage the coupling structure 312 and the coupling structure 313.

As further shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the positioning device may include a fixing element configured to couple with the radiant tube and fix the positioning device 301 relative to the radiant tube 101. In one embodiment, the first positioning element 303 has a first fixing element 321 that may be semicircular in shape and configured to couple with a portion of the radiant tube 101. It should be understood that the first fixing element 321 may include other coupling mechanisms for coupling the positioning device 302 and the body 105, including, for example, but not limited to, a removable coupling element or a permanent coupling element. The removable coupling element may include an attachment mechanism that can be selectively removed from one or both of the positioning device 302 and/or the body 105. The removable coupling element may include a coupling element that can be configured to selectively release the coupling between the body 105 and the positioning device 302 and avoid damaging the body 105 and the positioning device 302 during disengagement. In a non-limiting embodiment, the removable coupling element may include, but is not limited to, a complementary engagement structure, an interference fit connection between a portion of the body 105 and the positioning device 302, a fastener, and the like. It should be understood that in any embodiment, more than one coupling element or a combination of different coupling elements may be used. In yet another embodiment, a permanent coupling element may include an attachment technique that is not intended to cause detachment between the positioning device 302 and the body 105. An example of a permanent coupling element may include cement, a weld, etc. between the body 105 and the positioning device 302.

In another embodiment, the second positioning element 304 may include a second fixing element 322, which may be semicircular in shape and configured to couple with a portion of the radiant tube 101, such as a flange 341 of the radiant tube 101. It should be understood that other shapes of the first fixing element 321 and the second fixing element 322 may be used. In a non-limiting embodiment, the first fixing element 321 and the second fixing element 322 may include one or more openings 351 and 352, respectively. The one or more openings 351 and 352 may facilitate coupling the first fixing element 321 and the second fixing element 322 to the flange 341 via one or more fasteners.

According to another embodiment, the positioning device 331 may include a terminal end 333 and a proximal end 332, wherein the proximal end 332 terminates closest to the burner 103. In a specific embodiment, the terminal end 333 terminates within the radiation tube 101. In another embodiment, the terminal end 333 terminates outside the radiation tube 101, so that the terminal end can be easily accessible by an external user. In another embodiment, the terminal end 333 terminates outside the radiation tube 101, so that the terminal end can be easily accessible by an external user at a safe distance from the combustion source (i.e., the burner 103). In a non-limiting embodiment, the positioning device 331 may include a first crossbar 334, a second crossbar 335, and a third crossbar 336 between the terminal end 333 and the proximal end 332. In other embodiments, the positioning device may include a plurality of crossbars extending between the terminal end 333 and the proximal end 332, such as at least two crossbars, such as at least three crossbars, or at least four crossbars, or at least five crossbars, or even at least six crossbars. In one specific embodiment, the crossbars (334, 335, 336) are configured to engage the notches 337 in the radial members 222 of the body 105. In one non-limiting embodiment, the notches 337 of the body 105 are configured to engage the first crossbar 334. It should be understood that in any embodiment, the body 105 can have multiple notches that extend through the body 105 to engage the multiple crossbars of the positioning device 331, such as at least two notches, or at least three notches, or at least four notches, at least five notches, or even at least six notches. Although not shown, the positioning device 331 can include a locking mechanism that is configured to lock the position of the crossbars (334, 335, 336) to the body 105. The locking mechanism is configured to prevent the positioning device 331 from being decoupled from the notches of the body 105.

According to another embodiment, the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to adjust the axial distance between the body and the combustion source (i.e., the burner). In a specific embodiment, the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to adjust the body between a first position and a second position along the axial length of the radiant tube 101. In a non-limiting embodiment, the first position is at least 0.01 cm, or at least 0.1 cm, or at least 0.2 cm, or at least 0.5 cm, or at least 1.0 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm from the combustion source. In another embodiment, the first position is no more than 100 cm, or no more than 90 cm, or no more than 80 cm, or no more than 70 cm, or no more than 60 cm, or no more than 50 cm, or no more than 40 cm, or no more than 30 cm from the combustion source. It should be understood that the distance can be within a range including any minimum value and any maximum value described above. In yet another embodiment, the second position is at least 0.02 cm, or at least 0.1 cm, or at least 0.2 cm, or at least 0.5 cm, or at least 1.0 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm from the combustion source. In yet another embodiment, the second position is no more than 100 cm, or no more than 90 cm, or no more than 80 cm, or no more than 70 cm, or no more than 60 cm, or no more than 50 cm, or no more than 40 cm, or no more than 30 cm from the combustion source. It should be understood that the distance can be within a range including any of the above minimum values and any of the maximum values.

In another embodiment, the first position and the second position are separated from each other by at least 0.01 cm, or at least 0.02 cm, or at least 0.05 cm, or at least 1 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm, or at least 11 cm, or at least 12 cm, or at least 13 cm, or at least 14 cm, or at least 15 cm, or at least 16 cm, or at least 17 cm, or at least 18 cm, or at least 19 cm, or at least 20 cm. In another embodiment, the first position and the second position are separated from each other by no more than 100 cm, or no more than 90 cm, or no more than 80 cm, or no more than 70 cm, or no more than 60 cm, or no more than 50 cm, or no more than 40 cm, or no more than 30 cm. It should be understood that the distance can be within the range including any minimum value and any maximum value mentioned above. In a non-limiting embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 can be configured to adapt between the first position and the second position without changing the state of the combustion source, wherein the state of the combustion source can include the temperature of the heat source. In a specific embodiment, the heat source includes a flame.

Although not shown, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user at a safe distance from the combustion source. The safe distance can be defined as a distance far enough away that the user's health will not be affected by excessive heat from the combustion source. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user from a position behind the combustion source. In yet another embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user from an outer wall behind the combustion source.

According to one embodiment, the positioning device 301, 331 may comprise a metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic, or any combination thereof. In a specific embodiment, the positioning device 301, 331 may comprise or be made of any of the same materials as the materials used in the body 105. In certain embodiments, it should be understood that the positioning device 301, 331 is a separate object from the body 105. In addition, while some systems may use a solid material surrounding the body 105 to control the position of the body 105 in the radiation tube 101, the positioning device is a separate object and does not have to surround the body 105 in the radiation tube 101, thus allowing some fluid to flow around the outside of the body 105, which can promote improvements in the operation and performance of the body 105 and/or the system 100.

A non-limiting embodiment of a method for reducing pollutants of a combustion assembly is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the method includes: measuring pollutants from a combustion reaction within a combustion assembly, the combustion assembly including at least one combustion source 103 contained within a radiation tube 101; and when the combustion source 103 is burning, changing the position of a body 105 within the radiation tube 101 relative to the combustion source 103. In another embodiment, the body 105 includes a length (L), an outer diameter (OD) and an inner diameter (ID), a proximal surface 201, a terminal surface 203, and a circumferential surface 205 extending between the proximal surface 201 and the terminal surface 203. In another embodiment, changing the position of the body 105 includes adjusting the position without interrupting the combustion source. In one embodiment, the combustion source 103 may include a burner. In another embodiment, the burner remains in a fully assembled state. In another embodiment, the combustion source 103 may include a terminal end 211, which is configured to burn gas and form a flame in the radiation tube.

In another embodiment, the body 105 is configured to be disposed at an axial distance from the terminal end 211 of the combustion source 103. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance (AD) can be at least 0.1% of the length (L) of the body 105 [(AD/L)×100%], such as at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 35%, or at least 104%, or at least 5%, or at least 6%, or at least 7%, or at least 8%, or at least 9%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the axial distance can be no greater than 900% of the length of the body, such as no greater than 500%, or no greater than 200%, or no greater than 100%, or no greater than 90%, or no greater than 85%, or no greater than 80%, or no greater than 75%, or no greater than 70%, or no greater than 65%, or no greater than 60%, or no greater than 55%, or no greater than 50%, or no greater than 45%, or no greater than 40%, or no greater than 35%. In another embodiment, it should be understood that the axial distance can be within a range of any percentage between at least 0.1% and no greater than 900% of the length of the body 105.

In yet another embodiment, changing the position of the body 105 may include adjusting the body between a first position and a second position along the axial length of the radiant tube 101. In a non-limiting embodiment, the first position is at least 0.01 cm, or at least 0.1 cm, or at least 0.2 cm, or at least 0.5 cm, or at least 1.0 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm from the combustion source 103. In yet another embodiment, the second position is at least 0.02 cm, or at least 0.1 cm, or at least 0.2 cm, or at least 0.5 cm, or at least 1.0 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm from the combustion source 103. In another embodiment, the first position and the second position are separated from each other by at least 0.01 cm, or at least 0.02 cm, or at least 0.05 cm, or at least 1 cm, or at least 2 cm, or at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 6 cm, or at least 7 cm, or at least 8 cm, or at least 9 cm, or at least 10 cm, or at least 11 cm, or at least 12 cm, or at least 13 cm, or at least 14 cm, or at least 15 cm, or at least 16 cm, or at least 17 cm, or at least 18 cm, or at least 19 cm, or at least 20 cm. In another embodiment, the first position and the second position are separated from each other by no more than 100 cm, or no more than 90 cm, or no more than 80 cm, or no more than 70 cm, or no more than 60 cm, or no more than 50 cm, or no more than 40 cm, or no more than 30 cm. It should be understood that the distance can be within the range including any minimum value and any maximum value mentioned above.

In one non-limiting embodiment, changing the position of the body 105 may include using a positioning device 301, 331. The positioning device 301, 331 may include any of the features disclosed herein. In yet another embodiment, the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user at a safe distance from the combustion source (i.e., the burner). The safe distance may be defined as a distance far enough away that the user's health is not affected by excessive heat from the combustion source. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user from a position behind the combustion source. In yet another embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning device 301, 331 is configured to be accessible by a user from an outer wall behind the combustion source.

In yet another embodiment, measuring pollutants may include measuring the content of nitrogen oxides (NOx). It should be appreciated that methods known to those skilled in the art may be used to measure the content of nitrogen oxides (NOx). In another non-limiting embodiment, the method for reducing the pollutants of a combustion assembly may also include: reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) content by at least 10%, such as at least 12%, or at least 15%, or at least 18%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%.

Figures 4A-4C include illustrations of an exchange body according to one embodiment. Figure 4A includes a side view of an exchange body according to one embodiment. Figure 4B includes a cross-sectional view of the exchange body of Figure 4A. Figure 4C includes a cross-sectional view of the exchange body of Figure 4A in a plane perpendicular to the view of Figure 4B. According to one embodiment, the exchange body 107 can be housed in the radiant tube 101 and is configured to facilitate heat exchange between multiple flow paths of a fluid flowing through and around the exchange body 107.

In one embodiment, the exchange body 107 can include a central cavity 401 extending along the length (L) of the exchange body 107, a plurality of spirals 403 extending around the central cavity 401, and a plurality of inter-spiral channels 405 disposed between the plurality of spirals 403. As shown, the plurality of spirals 403 and the plurality of inter-spiral channels 405 can extend in a non-linear path along the length (L) of the exchange body 107. According to one specific embodiment, the plurality of spirals 403 can extend in a spiral path around the exchange body 107 and the central cavity 401. In another non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of spirals 403 can extend in a spiral path with a variable twist, such that the angle of twist can be changed along the length of the exchange body 107.

In another embodiment, the exchange body 107 may also include an intra-spiral channel 407 extending within the spiral 403. The intra-spiral cavity 407 may be completely isolated from the inter-spiral channel by a sidewall 409, which allows fluids to be separated along separate flow paths defined by the inter-spiral channel 405 and the intra-spiral cavity 407.

As shown, the spiral inner channel 407 can extend in a non-linear path along the length (L) of the exchange body 107. According to one specific embodiment, the spiral inner channel 407 can extend in a spiral path around the exchange body 107 and the central cavity 401. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the spiral inner channel 407 can extend in a spiral path with a variable twist, such that the angle of the twist can be changed along the length of the exchange body 107.

According to one embodiment, the exchange body 107 can have a specific exchange ratio, as defined by surface area (mm ² )/volume (mm ³ ), that promotes improved heat exchange between fluids flowing through the exchange body 107. For example, in one embodiment, the exchange ratio can be at least 0.09 mm ^-1 , such as at least 0.10 mm ^-1 , or at least 0.11 mm -1 , or at least 0.12 mm ^-1 , or at least 0.13 mm ^-1 . Further, in non-limiting embodiments, the exchange ratio can be no greater than 0.5 mm ^-1 , or no greater than 0.4 mm ^-1 , or no greater than 0.3 mm ^-1 . It should be understood ^that the exchange ratio can be within a range including any of the minimum values and any of the maximum values noted above.

In another embodiment, the exchange body 107 can have a specific hot/cold flow path area (HCFA) ratio, which can promote improved heat exchange between fluids flowing through the exchange body 107. For example, in one embodiment, the HCFA ratio can be at least 1, such as at least 1.05, or at least 1.10, or at least 1.15, or at least 1.2, or at least 1.25. In addition, in another embodiment, the HCFA ratio can be no greater than 5, such as no greater than 4, or no greater than 3, or no greater than 2.8, or no greater than 2.5. It should be understood that the HCFA ratio can be within a range including any of the minimum values and any of the maximum values described above.

The HCFA ratio is measured by evaluating the cross-sectional areas of the hot and cold paths observed in the cross section. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C , the exchange body 107 may have a hot flow path defined by a central cavity 401 and a spiral inter-channel 405. The cold flow path may be defined by a spiral intra-cavity 407. The ratio is calculated using the cross-sectional areas of all channels and/or cavities as observed in a cross section at the midpoint of the exchange body 107 (i.e., along the bisector axis of the length). More specifically, the cross-sectional areas of all channels and/or cavities for hot fluid flow (as observed in the cross section) are divided by the surface areas of the channels and/or cavities for cold fluid flow to calculate the HCFA ratio. The HCFA ratio of the embodiments herein can promote improvements in heat exchange between the hot fluid path and the cold fluid path by controlling the pressure drop using the exchange body 107.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the central cavity 401 of the exchange body 107 can include at least one groove 431 that extends along the inner annular surface 432 in a non-linear path, such as extending along the inner annular surface 432 that defines the central cavity 401 in a spiral path. In one non-limiting embodiment, the at least one groove 431 can extend circumferentially a distance of at least 1 degree (as measured by the angle of the circumferential distance extending through the exchange body 107). In other non-limiting examples, the circumferential distance can be greater, such as at least 10 degrees, or at least 30 degrees, or at least 60 degrees, or at least 90 degrees, or at least 180 degrees, or at least 270 degrees, or at least 360 degrees. In one non-limiting example, the circumferential distance can be in the range of at least 1 degree and no greater than 3600 degrees (i.e., 10 full turns around the circumference of the exchange body 107). For example, one full turn of the at least one groove 431 through the entire circumference of the exchange body 107 would be measured as an angle of 360 degrees.

According to one embodiment, the at least one groove 431 can extend into the body to a radial depth 435 of at least 0.1% and no more than 49% of the inner diameter (ID) of the exchange body 107. In another embodiment, the radial depth 435 can be within a range of any percentage including at least 0.1% and no more than 49% of the ID.

According to one embodiment, the at least one groove 431 can extend into the body to a radial depth 435 that is at least 0.1% and no more than 100% of the length of the exchange body 107. In another embodiment, the radial depth 435 can be within a range that includes any percentage between at least 0.1% and no more than 100% of the length of the exchange body 107.

FIG4D includes a cross-sectional view of the exchange body 107 in the radiant tube 101. As shown, a radial gap 441 can exist between the inner surface of the radiant tube 101 and the outer circumferential surface of the exchange body 107, which is defined by the outer surface of the spiral 403. In one embodiment, the radial gap 441 can define a gap distance 442, which is measured radially between the objects and can be in the range of at least 0.1% and no more than 1000% of the inter-spiral channel width 443. When viewed in cross section, the inter-spiral channel width 443 is measured as the maximum gap between immediately adjacent spirals. In another embodiment, the gap distance 442 can be in the range of at least 0.1% and no more than 400% of the inter-spiral channel width 443.

In one non-limiting embodiment, it may be suitable that the radial gap 441 defining the gap distance 442 is free of any solid material, which may allow for increased fluid flow and may promote improved heat exchange between the flow paths. In one specific embodiment, the radial gap 441 may be free of solid material. In another embodiment, the radial gap 441 may be unobstructed and define an opening or open space between the radiant tube 101 and the exchange body 107.

According to one embodiment, the exchange body can be made of a ceramic material, such as an oxide, carbide, nitride, boride, or any combination thereof. In a specific embodiment, exchange body 107 can include and can consist essentially of silicon carbide. Exchange body 107 can be made using any of the same techniques described herein for making body 105.

The exchange body 107 may have a flange 451 that is fastened or coupled to the radiant tube 101 to fix the relative position between the radiant tube 101 and the exchange body 107. In some examples, one or more gaskets may be coupled to the surface of the flange 451. The gasket may be a compressible member that seals the system and prevents fluid leakage. In one embodiment, the gasket may have a maximum compression of at least 10% of its initial thickness (i.e., a reduction in thickness compared to the initial thickness), such as at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 60% of the initial thickness.

In the foregoing description, concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Therefore, the description and drawings should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

1. A body configured to be mounted into a radiant tube for reducing contaminants, the body comprising:

A body having a tubular shape, the body having a length, an outer diameter, and an inner diameter, wherein the body further comprises a proximal surface, a distal surface, and a circumferential surface extending between the proximal surface and the distal surface; and

Wherein the body is configured to be disposed at an Axial Distance (AD) from a terminal end of a burner, wherein the axial distance is at least 0.1% of the length of the body.

2. The body of claim 1, wherein the axial distance is in the range of at least 0.1% and no more than 1000% of the length of the body, or any percentage therebetween.

3. The body of claim 1, wherein the axial distance is in the range of at least 0.1% and no more than 100% of a wall thickness of the body, or any percentage therebetween, wherein the wall thickness is a difference of the outer diameter relative to the inner diameter of the body.

4. A system configured to be installed into a radiant tube for reducing contaminants, the system comprising:

a body having a tubular shape, the body having a length, a width, an outer diameter, and an inner diameter, wherein the body further comprises a proximal surface, a distal surface, and a circumferential surface extending between the proximal surface and the distal surface; and

A positioning device configured to engage the body, wherein the positioning device is configured to adjust an axial distance between the body and a combustion source.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the positioning device comprises a first positioning element and a second positioning element, wherein the first positioning element comprises a terminal end comprising an engagement structure configured to engage the body, and wherein the second positioning element comprises a terminal end comprising an engagement structure configured to engage the body.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the positioning device comprises a proximal end and a distal end and a first rail between the proximal end and the distal end, the first rail configured to engage the body.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the body comprises a recess configured to engage the first rail of the positioning device.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the terminal end of the positioning device terminates outside of the radiant tube.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the terminal end of the positioning device is accessible to an external user.

10. The system of claim 4, wherein the positioning device is configured to adjust the body between a first position and a second position along an axial length of the radiant tube.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first location and the second location are at least 1cm, or at least 2cm, or at least 3cm, or at least 4cm, or at least 5cm, or at least 6cm, or at least 7cm, or at least 8cm, or at least 9cm, or at least 10cm, or at least 11cm, or at least 12cm, or at least 13cm, or at least 14cm, or at least 15cm, or at least 16cm, or at least 17cm, or at least 18cm, or at least 19cm, or at least 20cm from each other.

12. A method for reducing pollutants of a combustion assembly, the method comprising:

Measuring contaminants from a combustion reaction within a combustion assembly, the combustion assembly including at least one combustion source housed within a radiant tube; and

Changing the position of the body within the radiant tube relative to the combustion source while the combustion source is burning; wherein the body has a length, an outer diameter, and an inner diameter, wherein the body further comprises a proximal surface, a distal surface, and a circumferential surface extending between the proximal surface and the distal surface.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein changing the position of the body comprises adjusting the position without interrupting the combustion source.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein changing the position of the body comprises adjusting the body between a first position and a second position along an axial length of the radiant tube.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein changing the position of the body comprises using a positioning device.