Improved heat transfer tube with grooved inner surface

Abstract

The inner surface of the tube (10) has a primary set of fins (12) and an intermediate sets of fins (26) positioned in the areas (24) between the primary fins (12) and at an angle relative to the primary fins (12). In a preferred embodiment of the inner surface tube design, the intermediate fins (26) are positioned relative to the primary fins (12) to result in a grid-like appearance. A first set of rollers creates the primary (12) and intermediate fin (26) designs on at least one side of a board. A second set of rollers may be used to further enhance the performance. After the desired pattern has been transferred onto the board with the rollers, the board is then formed and welded into a tube, so that, at a minimum, the inner surface design of the resulting tube includes the intermediate fins as contemplated by the present invention.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat transfer tube that can be used in heat exchangers and other components in air conditioners, refrigerators and other similar devices. The present invention more particularly relates to a heat transfer tube having a grooved inner surface along which fins are formed to improve heat transfer performance. Background technique

[0002] Heat transfer tubes with grooved inner surfaces were first used as evaporator tubes and condenser tubes in heat exchangers for air conditioners and refrigerators. It is known to provide heat transfer tubes with grooves and alternating fins on their inner surfaces. The grooves and fins cooperate to increase the turbulence of the flowing heat transfer medium, such as refrigerant, conveyed in the tubes. This turbulence will improve heat transfer performance. The grooves and fins also provide additional surface area and capillary action for additional heat exchange. This basic premise ha...

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