Multi-pass and multi-slab folded microchannel heat exchanger

Abstract

A heat exchanger is provided including a first manifold and a second manifold separated from one another. A plurality of tube segments arranged in a spaced parallel relationship fluidly couple the first and second manifold. The plurality of tube segments includes a bend defining a first slab and a second slab. The second slab is arranged at an angle to the first slab. The heat exchanger has a multi-pass configuration relative to an air flow including at least a first pass and a second pass. The first pass has a first flow orientation and the second pass has a second flow orientation. The second flow orientation is different from the first flow orientation.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]This invention relates generally to heat pump and refrigeration applications and, more particularly, to a microchannel heat exchanger configured for use in a heat pump or refrigeration system.[0002]Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems include heat exchangers to reject or accept heat between the refrigerant circulating within the system and surroundings. One type of heat exchanger that has become increasingly popular due to its compactness, lower weight, structural rigidity, and superior performance, is a microchannel or minichannel heat exchanger. As compared to conventional plate-and-fin heat exchangers, microchannel heat exchangers are also more environmentally friendly as they utilize less refrigerant charge which typically are synthetic fluids with high GWP (global warming potential). A microchannel heat exchanger includes two or more containment forms, such as tubes, through which a cooling or heating fluid (i.e. refrigerant ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text proposes a method to prevent frost formation on a heat exchanger by adding more tube segments in the first and second passes. This will increase the surface area in contact with the air, reducing the likelihood of frost formation.

Problems solved by technology

The ice or frost formed may block the flow of air through the heat exchanger, thereby reducing the efficiency and functionality of the heat exchanger and HVAC&R system.

Microchannel heat exchangers tend to freeze faster than the round tube and plate fin heat exchangers and therefore require more frequent defrosts, reducing useful heat exchanger utilization time and overall performance.

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