Heat exchanger and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of fin tubes in which a heat transfer fin and a tube through which a refrigerant flows are integrally formed; and a header coupled to one end of the plurality of fin tubes, wherein the header comprises: a header body having one side open; and a sheet disposed on the open side of the header body, having a plurality of slits formed therein into which each end of the plurality of fin tubes is inserted, and being folded into a corrugated shape to form a plurality of corrugated portions. Accordingly, after inserting one end of a fin tube into the corrugated sheet, the corrugated portion of the sheet can be compressed to narrow the gap between the fin tube and the header, thereby increasing the degree of contact between the fin tube and the sheet, reducing tolerances, and reducing refrigerant leakage. Additionally, when inserting the fin tube, the spacing between the corrugated portions formed in the sheet can be increased to facilitate the insertion of the fin tube, thus providing the advantage of facilitating product assembly.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, and more specifically, to a heat exchanger and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger comprising a header having a sheet into which a plurality of corrugated portions are formed and into which a fin tube is inserted, thereby improving the assemblability of the product and reducing the brazing defect rate. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, heat exchangers can be used as a condenser or evaporator in a refrigeration cycle device consisting of a compressor, condenser, expansion mechanism, and evaporator. Additionally, heat exchangers can be installed in air conditioners, refrigerators, etc., to exchange heat between refrigerant and air.

[0003] Heat exchangers can be classified into fin-tube type heat exchangers, microchannel type heat exchangers, etc. A heat exchanger may include a plurality of tubes through which refrigerant flows to exchange heat with external air, fins that are connected to the plurality of tubes to improve heat exchange capacity, and headers that communicate with the plurality of tubes to supply refrigerant.

[0004] Meanwhile, in the conventional case, an insertion port was formed on one side of the header through slotting or wire cutting, and then a tube was inserted into the insertion port.

[0005] For example, the prior art Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-0644135 discloses a header having a plurality of insertion holes formed therein and an end of a tube connected to said insertion hole.

[0006] However, conventional heat exchangers had a problem in which the gap between the header and the fin tube widened due to tolerances occurring during fin tube manufacturing and tolerances occurring during the machining of the insertion port corresponding to the fin tube shape, resulting in a high defect rate during brazing.

[0007] In addition, conventional heat exchangers had a problem with poor structural stability of the connections between components.

[0008] In addition, conventional heat exchangers had a problem in that the number of fin tubes penetrating the insertion port was large and the spacing between the insertion sections was narrow, making it difficult to assemble the header and the fin tubes. Prior art literature

[0010] Republic of Korea Registered Patent Publication No. 10-0644135 (Publication Date: November 10, 2006) Republic of Korea Published Utility Model Publication No. 20-2007-0017024 (Publication Date: April 27, 2009) Republic of Korea Registered Utility Model Publication No. 20-0432601 (Publication Date: December 5, 2006) Republic of Korea Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1447072 (Publication Date: October 6, 2014) Republic of Korea Published Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0097632 (Publication Date: August 21, 2019) The problem to be solved

[0011] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a heat exchanger with a reduced gap between the fin tube and the header and a reduced defect rate during brazing.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger with improved structural stability of the coupling structure between the fin tube and the header.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger in which the assembly of the fin tube and the header is easy.

[0014] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0015] To achieve the above objective, a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of fin tubes in which a heat transfer fin and a tube through which a refrigerant flows are integrally formed, and a header coupled to one end of the plurality of fin tubes, wherein the header may comprise a header body having one side open, and a sheet disposed on the open side of the header body, having a plurality of slits formed therein into which each end of the plurality of fin tubes is inserted, and being folded into a corrugated shape to form a plurality of corrugated portions.

[0016] Accordingly, by inserting one end of the fin tube into the corrugated sheet and compressing the corrugations of the sheet to narrow the gap between the fin tube and the header, the airtightness between the fin tube and the sheet can be increased, thereby reducing tolerances and minimizing refrigerant leakage. Additionally, when inserting the fin tube, the spacing between the corrugations formed in the sheet can be increased to facilitate insertion, which offers the advantage of easier product assembly.

[0017] The plurality of slits may be formed by extending in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged.

[0018] The plurality of slits may be formed by extending perpendicularly to the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged.

[0019] The plurality of corrugated portions include a plurality of crest portions arranged alternately with one another, a plurality of valley portions, and a plurality of flat portions formed at an angle between each of the plurality of crest portions and the plurality of valley portions, and the slit may be formed by extending along the crest portions and / or valley portions.

[0020] Accordingly, the fin tube inserted into the slit receives pressure in the direction in which the sheet is compressed, thereby increasing the degree of contact between the fin tube and the sheet, ensuring airtightness, preventing leakage of refrigerant, and ensuring structural stability.

[0021] A pair of flat sections formed adjacent to the slit may face both sides of one end of the fin tube inserted into the slit.

[0022] The above slit is formed in the crest portion, and if the portion between the valley portion and the flat portion is defined as the boundary portion, the boundary portion can come into contact with one end of the fin tube inserted into the slit.

[0023] The above sheet is formed to be compressible in the direction in which the plurality of corrugations are arranged, and when the sheet is compressed, the pitch between the plurality of grooves can be narrowed.

[0024] One end of the above fin tube can be inserted to a depth equal to the thickness of the sheet.

[0025] The above slit may include a pin slit portion into which the pin is inserted and a tube slit portion into which the tube is inserted.

[0026] The sheet is formed by extending from the tube slit portion along the corrugated shape of the sheet and may include a recessed groove to surround the tube inserted into the tube slit portion.

[0027] At least a portion of the above groove can be in close contact with the tube.

[0028] The header body may have a first groove formed therein that is recessed from the inner surface of the header body and extends in a first direction, guiding the sheet to be inserted in the first direction.

[0029] The first direction above may be the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged.

[0030] Accordingly, the sheet is inserted into the first groove and can be compressed in a direction in which a plurality of corrugations are arranged, and it is preferable that the sheet be inserted into the first groove in a direction in which a plurality of corrugations are arranged.

[0031] The first groove may include a sheet insertion opening connected to the outside so that the sheet is inserted from the outside, and a sheet guide groove extending from the sheet insertion opening in the first direction and guiding the insertion of the sheet.

[0032] The above sheet insertion opening may include a shape that gradually narrows as it moves toward the direction in which the sheet is inserted.

[0033] Accordingly, even if the sheet is inserted into the first groove while it is not in the correct position, the sheet can be guided to the correct position and easily inserted into the first groove.

[0034] The header may include a header cover that is coupled to one end of the header body and contacts one end of the sheet.

[0035] The header body may have a second groove formed therein that is recessed from the inner surface of the header body and extends in a second direction, guiding the header cover to be inserted in the second direction.

[0036] The second direction above may be a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged.

[0037] Accordingly, even if a sheet compressed in one direction is tensioned in the other direction and pressure is applied to the header cover, the header cover is stably fixed, thereby ensuring structural stability.

[0038] The side and bottom surfaces of the header cover extend in the second direction, and the header cover may include a cover edge portion formed between the side and bottom surfaces of the header cover and extended roundly from the bottom surface of the header cover to the side surface of the header cover.

[0039] The second groove may include a cover insertion opening connected to the outside so that the header cover is inserted from the outside, and a cover guide groove extending in the second direction from the cover insertion opening and guiding the insertion of the header cover.

[0040] The above cover insertion opening may include a shape that gradually narrows as it faces the direction in which the header cover is inserted.

[0041] Accordingly, even if the header cover is inserted into the second groove while it is not in the correct position, the header cover can be guided to the correct position and easily inserted into the second groove.

[0042] The gap between the fin tube and the sheet can be brazed with filler metal.

[0043] To achieve the above objective, a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention may include the steps of: forming a plurality of corrugated portions and forming a plurality of slits along the corrugated portions, and arranging a sheet having the plurality of corrugated portions on an open side of a header body with a length greater than that of the header body; inserting one end of a plurality of fin tubes into the plurality of slits; and compressing the corrugated portions in the longitudinal direction of the sheet to bring the sheet into the interior of the header body.

[0044] A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include the step of introducing the sheet into the interior of the header body and then attaching a header cover to the side portion of the header body.

[0045] A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include the step of brazing the gap between the sheet and the fin tube with filler metal.

[0046] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0047] According to the heat exchanger and the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention, one or more of the following effects are provided.

[0048] First, by inserting one end of the fin tube into the corrugated sheet and then compressing the corrugated section of the sheet to narrow the gap between the fin tube and the header, there is an advantage of improving quality during brazing and preventing refrigerant leakage.

[0049] Second, the structural stability of the joint structure can be improved by compressing the sheet with the inserted fin tube and applying pressure to the fin tube.

[0050] Third, by manufacturing the sheet with the corrugated portion formed with a relatively large pitch (P), the insertion of the fin tube into the sheet is easy, which has the advantage of improving assembly.

[0051] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a header according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a header and the components of the header according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a part of the header components shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a sheet according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a drawing showing a part of the sheet. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a sheet before and after compression according to an embodiment of the present invention, where FIG. 7(a) shows the appearance of the sheet before compression and FIG. 7(b) shows the appearance of the sheet after compression. FIG. 8 is a side view showing the appearance of another sheet before and after compression in one embodiment of the present invention, where FIG. 8(a) is a side view of FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(b) is a side view of FIG. 7(b). Figure 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8(b). FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken from above by cutting along the cutting lines of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8. FIG. 10(a) is a view taken by cutting along the A1-A2 cutting line of FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(a), and FIG. 10(b) is a view taken by cutting along the B1-B2 cutting line of FIG. 7(b) and FIG. 8(b). FIGS. 11 to 13 are flowcharts illustrating a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0053] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0054] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used to facilitate the description of the relationship between one component and another, as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms should be understood as encompassing different orientations of the component during use or operation, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings. For example, if a component depicted in a drawing is inverted, a component described as "below" or "beneath" of another component may be placed "above" of that other component. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both the lower and upper directions. Components may also be oriented in other directions, and accordingly, spatially relative terms may be interpreted according to the orientation.

[0055] The terms used herein are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text. As used herein, "comprises" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, and / or actions to the mentioned components, steps, and / or actions.

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) may be used in a meaning commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Additionally, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise.

[0057] In the drawings, the thickness or size of each component is exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for the convenience and clarity of explanation. Additionally, the size and area of ​​each component do not entirely reflect their actual size or area.

[0058] Hereinafter, a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0059] Hereinafter, with respect to FIGS. 1 to 14, all parts that are inserted, joined, fitted, contacted, bonded, or assembled between heat exchanger components may be joined by a brazing method. Filler metal may be introduced into all parts that are inserted, joined, fitted, contacted, bonded, or assembled between heat exchanger components. The heat exchanger may be brazed by being introduced into a furnace with the filler metal introduced and exposed to high-temperature conditions for a certain period of time. The description of the brazing may be omitted below.

[0060] Hereinafter, directions for a heat exchanger and its components according to an embodiment of the present invention are defined based on the coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 13.

[0061] The direction in which the x-axis points can be defined as the forward-backward direction. From the origin, the direction in which the +x-axis points can be called the forward direction, and the direction in which the -x-axis points can be called the backward direction. The direction in which the y-axis points can be defined as the left-right direction. From the origin, the direction in which the +y-axis points can be called the right direction, and the direction in which the -y-axis points can be called the left direction. The direction in which the z-axis points can be defined as the up-down direction. The direction in which the +z-axis points can be called the upward direction, and the direction in which the -z-axis points can be called the downward direction.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1 below, a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a fin tube (10) and a header (20).

[0063] The fin tube (10) can be extended in the vertical direction. The fin tube (10) may be integrally formed with a heat transfer fin (101) and a tube (102) through which a refrigerant flows (see FIG. 7). The fin tube (10) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged in one direction. Multiple fin tubes (100) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged side by side. Multiple fin tubes (100) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the header (20) and combined with the header (20).

[0064] The header (20) may be coupled to at least one end of a plurality of fin tubes (100). The header (20) may be coupled to both ends of a plurality of fin tubes (100). The header (20) may be formed hollow and may have a space (301, see FIG. 3) through which a refrigerant flows. The space (301) formed inside the header (20) may be in communication with a plurality of fin tubes (100). The header (20) may have a refrigerant inlet (not shown) through which a refrigerant flows in and a refrigerant outlet (not shown) through which a refrigerant is discharged.

[0065] The header (20) may include a second header (20b) coupled to one end of a plurality of fin tubes (100) and a first header (20a) coupled to the other end of a plurality of fin tubes (100).

[0066] The first header (20a) is positioned below a plurality of fin tubes (100) and can be coupled to one end of a plurality of fin tubes (100). The first header (20a) can be connected to a refrigerant discharge port (not shown).

[0067] The second header (20b) is positioned on the upper side of a plurality of fin tubes (100) and can be coupled to the other end of a plurality of fin tubes (100). The second header (20b) can be connected to a refrigerant inlet (not shown).

[0068] The refrigerant can be introduced into the space (301) inside the second header (20b) through a refrigerant inlet (not shown). The refrigerant introduced into the second header (20b) can be introduced into the space (301) of the first header (20a) through a plurality of fin tubes (100). The refrigerant introduced into the first header (20a) can be discharged to the outside through a refrigerant discharge port (not shown).

[0069] While the refrigerant flows through the plurality of fin tubes (100), air can pass between the plurality of fin tubes (100) and exchange heat with the refrigerant.

[0070] Hereinafter, the header (20) is described based on the first header (20a) for convenience, and the second header (20b) may have the same shape, structure, and configuration as the first header (20a).

[0071] Referring to FIG. 2 below, the header (20) may include a header body (30), a header cover (50), and a sheet (40).

[0072] The header body (30) has a hollow shape and may have a space (301, see FIG. 3) inside through which refrigerant flows. One side of the header body (30) may be open (see FIG. 3). The upper side of the header body (30) may be open. The front and rear sides of the header body (30) may be open. The open side of the header body (30) may be in communication with the space (301). The header body (30) may have a shape extended in one direction. The header body (30) may have a shape extended in the front-rear direction.

[0073] The sheet (40) may be placed on an open side of the header body (30). The sheet (40) may be placed on an open upper side of the header body (30). The sheet (40) may cover an open side of the header body (30). The sheet (40) may be formed in a corrugated shape. The sheet (40) may have a shape that extends long in the longitudinal direction of the header body (30). A plurality of fin tubes (100) may be inserted into the sheet (40) (see FIG. 1).

[0074] The header cover (50) may form one side of the header body (30). The header cover (50) may be attached to one end of the header body (30). The header cover (50) may be attached to the front end and / or rear end of the header body (30). The header cover (50) may shield the open front and / or rear of the header body (30).

[0075] The space (301) formed inside the header (200) can be enclosed and sealed from the outside by the header body (30), the sheet (40), and the header cover (50).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4 below, the header body (30) may have two sides (31) and a bottom surface (32) surrounding the space (301). The upper side of the header body (30) may be open. The front and / or rear of the header body (30) may be open.

[0077] The sheet (40) can be folded into a corrugated shape. The sheet (40) can be folded into a corrugated shape to form a plurality of corrugated sections (41). The plurality of corrugated sections (41) can be arranged continuously in one direction to form a corrugated shape. The one direction can be named the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated sections (41) are arranged or the direction (CD) in which the corrugations are formed. The sheet (40) can be formed long in the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated sections (41) are arranged.

[0078] The sheet (40) can be deformed in length in the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The sheet (40) can be compressed or stretched along the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The sheet (40) can be manufactured from an elastic metal material.

[0079] The first groove (340) may be formed inside (hereinafter, inner side) the side (31) of the header body (30). The first groove (340) may be formed on the upper part of the inner side of the header body (30). The first groove (340) may be recessed from the inner side of the header body (30) and extend in a first direction. The first groove (340) may be formed as a pair on both sides of the header body (30).

[0080] The sheet (40) can be inserted into a first groove (340) formed in the header body (30). The first groove (340) can guide the sheet (40) to be inserted in the first direction.

[0081] The first direction above may be a direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The first groove (340) may extend in the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The first groove (340) may guide the sheet (40) to be inserted in the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged.

[0082] Accordingly, the sheet (40) is inserted into the first groove (340) and can be compressed in the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged, and it is preferable that the sheet (40) be inserted into the first groove (340) in the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged.

[0083] As another example, the sheet (40) may be inserted into the first groove (340) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The sheet (40) may be inserted into the first groove (340) in a direction in which the slit (42, see FIG. 5 and FIG. 6) extends.

[0084] The first groove (340) may include a sheet insertion opening (341) connected to the outside and a sheet guide groove (343) extending in a first direction from the sheet insertion opening (341). The sheet insertion opening (341) may be formed at the front end (311) and / or rear end (not shown) of the side (31) of the header body (30) and may be connected to the outside. The sheet guide groove (343) is connected to the sheet insertion opening (341) and may extend in the longitudinal direction of the header body (30).

[0085] The sheet (40) can be inserted from the outside into the interior of the header body (30) through the sheet insertion opening (341). After the sheet (40) is inserted from the outside into the sheet insertion opening (341), it can be guided to be inserted along the sheet guide groove (343).

[0086] The sheet insertion opening (341) may include a shape that gradually narrows as it moves toward the direction in which the sheet (40) is inserted. The vertical width of the sheet insertion opening (341) may gradually narrow toward the direction in which the sheet (40) is inserted.

[0087] At least a portion of the surface forming the sheet insertion opening (341) may be formed at an angle so that the sheet insertion opening (341) gradually narrows. At least a portion of the surface forming the sheet insertion opening (341) may be extended in a rounded manner so that the sheet insertion opening (341) gradually narrows.

[0088] The sheet (40) can be inserted sequentially from the outside of the sheet insertion opening (341) to the inside of the sheet insertion opening (341). The inner width (w1) of the sheet insertion opening (341) may be narrower than the outer width (w2) of the sheet insertion opening (341). The inner width (w1) of the sheet insertion opening (341) may be formed to be approximately equal to the thickness (t1) of the sheet (40). The outer width (w2) of the sheet insertion opening (341) may be formed to be larger than the thickness (t1) of the sheet (40). The width (w10) of the sheet guide groove (343) may be formed to be approximately equal to the inner width (w1) of the sheet insertion opening (341).

[0089] A header cover (50) can be coupled to one end of a header body (30). A header cover (50) can be in contact with one end of a sheet (40). Multiple header covers (50) may be provided and coupled to both ends of a header body (30). A pair of header covers (50) may be in contact with both ends of a sheet (40). A header cover (50) can be coupled to the front end and / or rear end of a header body (30).

[0090] The second groove (350) may be formed on the inner surface of the header body (30). The second groove (350) may be recessed from the inner surface of the header body (30) and extend in a second direction. The second groove (350) may be formed as a pair on both sides of the header body (30).

[0091] The second direction may be a direction perpendicular to the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. For example, if the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged in the front-rear direction, the second direction may be the up-down direction or the left-right direction.

[0092] The second groove (350) may include a cover insertion groove (354) formed on the lower surface of the header body (30). The cover insertion groove (354) may be connected to a cover guide groove (353). The cover insertion groove (354) may contact the lower surface (52) of the header cover (50) guided by the cover guide groove (353) to limit the depth to which the header cover (50) is inserted.

[0093] The header cover (50) can be inserted into a second groove (350) formed in the header body (30). The second groove (350) can guide the header cover (50) to be inserted in the second direction.

[0094] The header cover (50) may have a plate shape that extends in a second direction. The side (51) and bottom (52) of the header cover (50) may extend in the second direction. The side (51) and bottom (52) of the header cover (50) may be arranged perpendicular to each other. Both side (51) of the header cover (50) may extend in the up-down direction. The bottom (52) of the header cover (50) may extend in the left-right direction.

[0095] The header cover (50) may include a cover edge portion (53). The cover edge portion (53) may be formed between the side surface (51) and the bottom surface (52) of the header cover (50). The cover edge portion (53) may be rounded and extended from the bottom surface (52) of the header cover (50) to the side surface (51) of the header cover (50).

[0096] The second groove (350) may include a cover insertion opening (351) connected to the outside and a cover guide groove (353) extending in a second direction from the cover insertion opening (351). The cover insertion opening (351) may be formed on the upper end (312) of the side (31) of the header body (30) and may be connected to the outside. The cover guide groove (353) is connected to the cover insertion opening (351) and may extend in an upward and downward direction.

[0097] The header cover (50) can be inserted from the outside into the interior of the header body (30) through the cover insertion opening (351). After the header cover (50) is inserted from the outside into the cover insertion opening (351), it can be guided to be inserted along the cover guide groove (353).

[0098] The cover insertion opening (351) may include a shape that gradually narrows as it moves toward the direction in which the header cover (50) is inserted. The width of the cover insertion opening (351) in the front-rear direction may gradually narrow toward the direction in which the header cover (50) is inserted.

[0099] At least a portion of the surface forming the cover insertion opening (351) may be formed at an angle so that the cover insertion opening (351) gradually narrows. At least a portion of the surface forming the cover insertion opening (351) may be extended in a rounded manner so that the cover insertion opening (351) gradually narrows.

[0100] The header cover (50) can be inserted sequentially from the outside of the cover insertion opening (351) to the inside of the cover insertion opening (351). The inner width (w3) of the cover insertion opening (351) may be narrower than the outer width (w4) of the cover insertion opening (351). The inner width (w3) of the cover insertion opening (351) may be formed to be approximately equal to the thickness (t2) of the header cover (50). The outer width (w4) of the cover insertion opening (351) may be formed to be larger than the thickness (t2) of the header cover (50). The width (w30) of the cover guide groove (353) may be formed to be approximately equal to the inner width (w3) of the cover insertion opening (351).

[0101] The sheet insertion opening (341) and the cover insertion opening (351) may be formed at adjacent positions. The first groove (340) and the second groove (350) may intersect each other. The first groove (340) and the second groove (350) may be arranged perpendicularly to each other.

[0102] Accordingly, even if the sheet (40) is inserted into the first groove (340) while the sheet (40) is not in the correct position, the sheet (40) can be guided to the correct position and easily inserted into the first groove (340).

[0103] Accordingly, even if the header cover (50) is inserted into the second groove (350) while the header cover (50) is not in the correct position, the header cover (50) can be guided to the correct position and easily inserted into the second groove (350).

[0104] Accordingly, even if the sheet (40) compressed in one direction is tensioned in the other direction and pressure is applied to the header cover (50), the header cover (50) is stably fixed, thereby ensuring structural stability.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the sheet (40) may be formed in a wrinkled manner to form a plurality of wrinkled portions (41). The plurality of wrinkled portions (41) may include a plurality of crest portions (411) and a plurality of valley portions (413) arranged alternately with one another. The plurality of wrinkled portions (41) may include a plurality of flat portions (412) formed at an angle between each of the plurality of crest portions (411) and the plurality of valley portions (413).

[0106] The crest portion (411) may be formed by extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The flat portion (412) may be formed by extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. The valley portion (413) may be formed by extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction (CD) in which the plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged.

[0107] A fin tube (10) can be inserted into a slit (42) formed in a sheet (40). A plurality of slits (42) may be provided. A plurality of slits (42) may be formed by extending in a direction intersecting the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. A plurality of slits (42) may be formed by extending perpendicularly to the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. A slit (42) may be formed by extending along a crest (411) and / or a valley (413).

[0108] The slit (42) may include a pin slit portion (421) into which a pin (101, see FIG. 7) is inserted. The slit (42) may include a tube slit portion (422) into which a tube (102, see FIG. 7) is inserted.

[0109] The pin slit portion (421) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the pin (101) of the pin tube (10). The pin slit portion (421) may have a thin slot shape. The pin slit portion (421) may have a width corresponding to the thickness of the pin (101). The pin slit portion (421) may extend along the crest portion (411) and / or the valley portion (413).

[0110] The tube slit portion (422) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the tube (102). For example, the tube slit portion (422) may have a circular shape. The tube slit portion (422) may have a diameter corresponding to the tube (102). Multiple tube slit portions (422) may be arranged along the crest portion (411) and / or valley portion (413). Multiple tube slit portions (422) may be formed between the pin slit portions (421). The width of the tube slit portion (422) may be wider than the width of the pin slit portion (421).

[0111] The slit (42) may be spaced inward by a predetermined distance from both ends of the sheet (40). The pin slit portion (421) and the tube slit portion (422) may be arranged alternately in one direction.

[0112] The corrugated portion (41) of the sheet (40) may include a groove (43). The groove (43) may be formed to be in contact with the tube slit portion (422). The groove (43) may be formed extending from the tube slit portion (422) along the corrugated shape of the sheet (40).

[0113] The groove (43) can be formed to be continuous in the front-rear direction from the crest (411) of the corrugated section (41), through the flat section (412) and the valley section (413), to the crest (411) of the adjacent corrugated section (41).

[0114] The groove (43) may have an extended shape in which the sheet (40) is concavely recessed in a semicircular shape. The groove (43) may have a recessed shape to surround the tube (102) inserted into the tube slit portion (422) (see FIG. 10).

[0115] Accordingly, the fin tube (10) inserted into the slit (42) receives pressure in the direction in which the sheet (40) is compressed, thereby increasing the degree of contact between the fin tube (10) and the sheet (40), ensuring airtightness, preventing leakage of refrigerant, and ensuring structural stability.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8, FIGS. 7(a) and FIGS. 8(a) show the sheet (40) before compression, and FIGS. 7(b) and FIGS. 8(b) show the sheet (40) after compression.

[0117] After the sheet (40) is compressed, the pitch (P2) between the multiple folds (41) may be greater than the pitch (P1) between the multiple folds (41) before the sheet (40) is compressed.

[0118] A pair of flat sections (412) formed adjacent to the slit (42) can face both sides of one end of the fin tube (10) inserted into the slit (42).

[0119] One end of the fin tube (10) can be inserted to a depth of at least the thickness (t1) of the sheet (40). One end of the fin tube (10) can be inserted deeper than the thickness (t1) of the sheet (40). The fin tube (10) inserted into the slit (42) formed in the crest (411) of the sheet (40) can protrude downward from the valley (413).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(a), the fin tube (10) can be inserted into a sheet (40) in a tensioned state before compression.

[0121] Accordingly, by securing a relatively wide pitch (P1) between the plurality of corrugated sections (41), a gap of the pitch (P1) is formed between one of the plurality of fin tubes (100) and another of the plurality of fin tubes (100) adjacent to the fin tube (10), so that each of the plurality of fin tubes (100) can be easily inserted into the sheet (40), thus having the advantage of facilitating the assembly of the header (20) and the fin tube (10).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7(b) and FIG. 8(b), the sheet (40) into which the fin tube (10) is inserted can be compressed in the direction (CD) in which a plurality of corrugated portions (41) are arranged. When the sheet (40) is compressed, the gap between the flat portion (412) facing both sides of the fin tube (10) and the fin tube (10) can be narrowed.

[0123] Accordingly, the pitch (P2) between the multiple corrugated sections (41) is narrowed to narrow the gap between the fin tube (10) and the sheet (40), and filler metal is injected into the gap to improve the brazing quality.

[0124] Accordingly, the fin tube (10) inserted into the sheet (40) can secure structural stability of the combined structure by receiving pressure from the sheet (40) in the direction in which the sheet (40) is compressed.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 9 below, the slit (42) may be formed in the crest portion (411). The boundary portion (414) may be defined as the portion between the flat portion (412) and the valley portion (413).

[0126] When the sheet (40) is compressed, the boundary portion (414) can come into contact with one end of the fin tube (10) inserted into the slit (42). The boundary portion (414) can press both sides of the fin tube (10).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 10 below, FIG. 10(a) shows the sheet (40) before compression, and FIG. 10(b) shows the sheet (40) after compression. The fin tube (10) can be formed by combining a first plate (11) and a second plate (12). The inner surface of the first plate (11) and the inner surface of the second plate (12) can be combined to form the fin (101) and tube (102) of the fin tube (10). A tube hole (102a) through which a refrigerant flows can be formed on the inner side of the tube (102).

[0128] The first plate (11) may include a first flat plate portion (111) formed at a position corresponding to the pin (101) and a first tube portion (112) formed at a position corresponding to the tube (102). The first flat plate portion (111) and the first tube portion (112) extend in one direction and may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged alternately with each other. The first tube portion (112) may have a semicircular cross-section.

[0129] The second plate (12) may include a second flat plate portion (121) formed at a position corresponding to the pin (101) and a second tube portion (122) formed at a position corresponding to the tube (102). The second flat plate portion (121) and the second tube portion (122) extend in one direction and may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged alternately with each other. The second tube portion (122) may have a semicircular cross-section.

[0130] The first flat plate portion (111) and the second flat plate portion (121) can be joined so as to be in contact with each other to form a pin (101). Additionally, the first tube portion (112) and the second tube portion (122) can be joined so as to be in contact with each other to form a tube (102) including a tube hole (102a).

[0131] When the sheet (40) is compressed, the boundary portion (414) can come into contact with the pin (101). When the sheet (40) is compressed, the boundary portion (414) can come into contact with the tube (102). The boundary portion (414) can press both sides of the pin tube (10). The boundary portion (414) can press the first plate (11) and the second plate (12) in a direction that joins them together. The groove (43) formed in the boundary portion (414) can come into close contact with the tube (102).

[0132] Accordingly, structural stability of the fin tube (10) and header (20) can be secured against internal pressure due to the flow of refrigerant, and the gap between the joint structures can be reduced to reduce the brazing failure rate and prevent leakage of refrigerant.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14 below, a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the present invention comprises the steps of: arranging a sheet (40), having a plurality of slits (42) (see FIG. 5) formed in a corrugated portion (41), on an open side of a header body (30) for a length greater than the length of the header body (30) (S10); inserting one end of a fin tube (10) into the slit (42) of the sheet (40) (S20); and compressing the corrugated portion (41) of the sheet (40) in the longitudinal direction of the header body (30) so that the sheet (40) is drawn into the interior of the header body (30) (S30). The order of steps S10 and S20 may be reversed.

[0134] Additionally, the method may further include a step (S40) of attaching a header cover (50) to one side of the header body (30) to seal the header (20) from the outside.

[0135] Additionally, the method may further include a step (S50) of brazing the gap between the compressed sheet (40) and the fin tube (10) with filler metal.

[0136] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the patent claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0137] 10: Fin tube 101: Fin 102: Tube 102a: Tube hole 111: First flat plate section 112: First tube section 121: Second flat plate section 122: Second tube section 20: Header 20a: 1st Header 20b: Second header 30: Header body 301: Space 31: Side 32: If so 340: 1st Home 341: Sheet insertion slot 343: Seat guide home 350: Second home 351: Cover insertion slot 353: Cover guide groove 354: Cover insertion groove 40: Sheet 41: Pleated part 411: Ridge 412: Flat section 413: Bone part 42: Slit 421: Pin slit section 422: Tube slit section 43: Groove 50: Header Cover 51: Side 52: Under 53: Cover edge

Claims

Claim 1 A heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of fin tubes integrally formed with heat transfer fins and tubes through which refrigerant flows; and a header coupled to one end of the plurality of fin tubes, wherein the header comprises: a header body having one side open; and a sheet disposed on the open side of the header body, having a plurality of slits formed therein into which each end of the plurality of fin tubes is inserted, and being folded into a corrugated shape to form a plurality of corrugated portions, wherein the slits comprise: a fin slit portion into which the fin is inserted; and a tube slit portion into which the tube is inserted; and wherein the sheet comprises a recessed groove to surround the tube inserted into the tube slit portion. Claim 2 In claim 1, the plurality of slits are formed by extending in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged. Claim 3 In claim 2, the plurality of slits are formed by extending perpendicularly to the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged. Claim 4 In claim 1, the plurality of corrugated portions comprises a plurality of crest portions and a plurality of valley portions arranged alternately with one another; and a plurality of flat portions formed obliquely between each of the plurality of crest portions and the plurality of valley portions, and the slit is formed extending along the crest portions and / or valley portions, forming a heat exchanger. Claim 5 In claim 4, a pair of flat sections formed adjacent to the slit are heat exchangers facing both sides of one end of the fin tube inserted into the slit. Claim 6 In claim 4, the slit is formed in the crest portion, and if the portion between the valley portion and the flat portion is defined as the boundary portion, the boundary portion is a heat exchanger that contacts one end of the fin tube inserted into the slit. Claim 7 In claim 4, the sheet is formed to be compressible in the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged, and when the sheet is compressed, the pitch between the plurality of grooves narrows. Claim 8 In claim 1, one end of the fin tube is a heat exchanger inserted to a depth equal to the thickness of the sheet. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 In claim 1, the sheet is a heat exchanger formed by extending from the tube slit portion along the corrugated shape of the sheet. Claim 11 In claim 1, at least a portion of the groove is a heat exchanger in close contact with the tube. Claim 12 In claim 1, the header body is recessed from the inner surface of the header body and extends in a first direction, and is a heat exchanger having a first groove formed therein to guide the sheet to be inserted in the first direction. Claim 13 In claim 12, the first direction is a heat exchanger in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged. Claim 14 In claim 12, the heat exchanger comprises: a first groove, a sheet insertion opening connected to the outside so that the sheet is inserted from the outside; and a sheet guide groove extending from the sheet insertion opening in the first direction and guiding the insertion of the sheet. Claim 15 In claim 14, the heat exchanger wherein the sheet insertion opening comprises a shape that gradually narrows as it moves toward the direction in which the sheet is inserted. Claim 16 In claim 1, the heat exchanger comprising a header cover that is coupled to one end of the header body and contacts one end of the sheet. Claim 17 In claim 16, the heat exchanger wherein the header body is recessed from the inner surface of the header body and extends in a second direction, and a second groove is formed to guide the header cover to be inserted in the second direction. Claim 18 In claim 17, the second direction is a heat exchanger in which the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged is perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of corrugated portions are arranged. Claim 19 A heat exchanger according to claim 18, wherein the side and bottom surfaces of the header cover extend in the second direction, and the header cover is formed between the side and bottom surfaces of the header cover and includes a cover edge portion that extends roundly from the bottom surface of the header cover to the side surface of the header cover. Claim 20 In claim 17, the second groove comprises: a cover insertion opening connected to the outside so that the header cover is inserted from the outside; and a cover guide groove extending from the cover insertion opening in the second direction and guiding the insertion of the header cover. Claim 21 In claim 20, the heat exchanger wherein the cover insertion opening has a shape that gradually narrows as it moves toward the direction in which the header cover is inserted. Claim 22 In claim 1, the gap between the fin tube and the sheet is a heat exchanger that is brazed with filler metal. Claim 23 A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger comprising: a step of forming a plurality of corrugated portions, a plurality of slits formed along the corrugated portions, and arranging a sheet having the plurality of corrugated portions formed therein on an open side of a header body, such that the sheet is longer than the length of the header body; a step of inserting one end of a plurality of fin tubes into the plurality of slits; and a step of compressing the corrugated portions in the longitudinal direction of the sheet to bring the sheet into the interior of the header body. Claim 24 A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 23, further comprising the step of introducing the sheet into the interior of the header body and then attaching a header cover to the side portion of the header body. Claim 25 A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 23, further comprising the step of brazing the gap between the sheet and the fin tube with filler metal.

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