Heat exchanger manifold with a fluid flow distribution feature

Abstract

A heat exchanger configured to condition a flow of fluid therein. The heat exchanger includes a first manifold, a second manifold, and a conditioning assembly having a plurality of tubular elements extending between the first manifold and the second manifold. The first manifold includes a first end having an inlet formed therein and a second end formed opposite the first end. The first manifold is formed by at least one wall having at least one fluid flow distribution feature integrally formed therein. The at least one fluid flow distribution feature includes a channel extending substantially parallel to a general direction of flow of the fluid through the first manifold.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to a heat exchanger and, more particularly, to a heat exchanger manifold with a fluid flow distribution feature formed therein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Conventional radiators are usually provided with a cooling portion in which a radiator liquid is cooled, and two manifolds which are connected to the cooling portion at opposite ends. The first manifold receives the hot radiator liquid before it is led into the cooling portion. The second manifold receives the radiator liquid after it has passed through the cooling portion. The cooling portion usually includes a plurality of tubular elements arranged in parallel which lead the radiator liquid between the manifolds. Surrounding air flows in spaces between the tubular elements so that the radiator liquid is subjected to cooling within the tubular elements. Heat transfer elements of various kinds, e.g. in the form of thin folded fins, are usually arranged in the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present disclosure describes a radiator that can evenly release a liquid. The invention also includes a heat exchanger with a manifold that gradually decreases in size and a conditioning assembly with tubular elements that have a fluid flow distribution feature integrally formed therein. Additionally, a method of making the heat exchanger is also included. The technical effects of the invention include efficient heating and cooling, reduced size and complexity, and improved fluid flow distribution.

Problems solved by technology

One drawback of such conventional radiators is poor heat exchange efficiency, especially during cold start-up transients.

The back wall directs the radiator liquid downward, causing the tubular elements adjacent the inlet to receive the hot radiator liquid which leads to difficultly in introduction of the hot radiator liquid into the tubular elements adjacent an opposite end of the first manifold, especially during the cold start up.

Such non-uniform distribution of the hot radiator liquid can cause the tubular elements adjacent the opposite end of the first manifold to become obstructed by an accumulation of the radiator liquid therein resulting from a lack of use.

As a result, severe thermal stresses which can potentially damage the tubular elements adjacent the opposite end of the first manifold may occur.

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