Hot water supply device

Abstract

The hot water supply device (1) comprises: a heat exchanger (3) for heating hot water; and a pressure regulating unit (6) arranged at the rear section of the heat exchanger (3) and pressurizing the hot water. A collector (7) for promoting scale accumulation is arranged at the rear section of the pressure regulating unit (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water heating device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a heat pump water heater is known that outputs water heated by a water heater to a tank. Patent Document 1 proposes suppressing scale deposition in a pressurized area by pressurizing heated water using a valve mechanism located before the tank in the heat pump water heater.

[0003] In the water heater of Patent Document 1, in order to prevent rapid scale deposition caused by rapid decompression of heated water passing through a pressurized area, a valve internal structure is used that realizes a decompression behavior with a gentle gradient.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-27279 Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, the pressure reduction inclination adjustment of the valve structure of Patent Document 1 can only achieve effective effects within a very small design range. On the other hand, in reality, the water flow rate changes for various operating conditions, so it is difficult to suppress scale precipitation during pressure reduction using the water heater of Patent Document 1. In addition, since it costs money to manufacture such a special valve structure, and since it only produces effects at flow design points within a very small range as described above, it is impossible to use it in common in multiple models to achieve the cost reduction effect brought about by scale advantages, so the cost of the water heater of Patent Document 1 is very high.

[0009] In addition, Patent Document 1 considers that there is no problem with the precipitation of scale in the tank due to the rapid decompression of the heated water, and proposes decompression at the inlet of the tank. However, in reality, if scale is precipitated inside the tank, there will be a comfort problem such as the scale being mixed in the water used for hot water supply, and a reliability problem such as the scale accumulated at the bottom of the tank being discharged from the lower side of the tank and mixed into the pump provided in the flow path of the rear section of the tank, causing pump failure.

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a water heater capable of suppressing scale deposition at low cost without compromising comfort and reliability.

[0011] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0012] The first method disclosed in the present invention is a hot water supply device, characterized in that it includes: a heat exchanger 3, which heats water for hot water supply; and a pressure regulating unit 6, which is arranged at the rear section of the heat exchanger 3 and pressurizes the water for hot water supply, and a collector 7 that promotes scale accumulation is arranged at the rear section of the pressure regulating unit 6.

[0013] In the first embodiment, scale deposition can be suppressed by water pressurization of the pressure regulating unit 6, and scale deposited by depressurization at the downstream of the pressure regulating unit 6 can be captured by the collector 7. Therefore, scale deposition can be suppressed at low cost without compromising comfort and reliability.

[0014] A water heater according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to the first aspect, the inner diameter of the trap 7 is larger than the inner diameters of the water pipes 10 before and after the trap 7 .

[0015] In the second embodiment, by increasing the inner diameter of the trap 7, the water pressure is further reduced and the water flow rate is slowed down, so that scale is easily precipitated through the trap 7 and the precipitated scale is easily deposited, thereby improving the effect of capturing scale.

[0016] A third aspect of the water heater of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to the first aspect or the second aspect, the surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the trap 7 is greater than the surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7 .

[0017] In the third embodiment, the scale deposited on the inner peripheral surface of the collector 7 is more likely to be deposited, so the effect of capturing scale by the collector 7 is further improved.

[0018] A water heater according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to third aspects, the trap 7 is configured so that water can be supplied to the trap 7 from the outside and water can be discharged from the trap 7 to the outside.

[0019] In the fourth aspect, scale accumulated in the collector 7 can be discharged without any construction.

[0020] A fifth aspect of the water heater disclosed herein is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the collector (7) is configured to be removable and replaceable.

[0021] In the fifth aspect, maintenance of the water heater can be performed by a simple replacement operation of the collector 7 .

[0022] A water heater according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to fifth aspects, at least a portion of the pressure regulating unit 6 is integrally formed with the collector 7 .

[0023] In the sixth embodiment, since the trap 7 partially bears the pressure reduction, the selection of a valve or the like as the pressure regulating means 6 becomes easy.

[0024] A seventh aspect of the water heater of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to sixth aspects, a storage tank 2 is further provided after the collector 7, and the storage tank 2 stores the water for hot water supply.

[0025] In the seventh aspect, the intrusion of scale into the storage tank 2 can be suppressed.

[0026] The water heater of an eighth aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to seventh aspects, it further includes a pressure increasing mechanism 14 that pressurizes the water for hot water supply throughout the entire water circuit 5 .

[0027] In the eighth aspect, since it is not necessary to perform high-lift operation by the pump, the pump input is reduced, thereby making it possible to improve the efficiency of the water heater. In addition, since it is not necessary to make the pump a high-lift specification, it is possible to achieve miniaturization and cost reduction of the pump.

[0028] A ninth aspect of the water heater of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to eighth aspects, an eddy current heater 15 for heating the hot water is further included between the heat exchanger 3 and the pressure regulating unit 6 .

[0029] In the ninth aspect, the eddy current heater 15 heats the hot water (more precisely, the water pipe) and applies an electromagnetic field to the hot water at the same time, thereby efficiently generating high-temperature water while suppressing scale deposition.

[0030] The tenth aspect of the water heating device disclosed herein is characterized in that, based on the ninth aspect, the heat exchanger 3 heats the water for hot water supply to a temperature within a temperature range where scale is not precipitated, and the eddy current heater 15 heats the water for hot water supply to a temperature higher than the temperature range.

[0031] In the tenth aspect, scale deposition can be suppressed more reliably.

[0032] The water heater of the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect, the pipe portion heated by the eddy current heater 15 is made of stainless steel.

[0033] In the eleventh embodiment, among the material candidates that can be used for the water piping (copper, aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), stainless steel can further improve the thermal efficiency of the eddy current heater 15, thereby achieving efficient water heating.

[0034] A water heater according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the heat source device 20 of the heat exchanger 3 is a heat pump.

[0035] In the twelfth aspect, the water heater system as a whole can perform efficient heating operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic piping system diagram of the water heater according to the embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a collector and water pipes before and after the collector according to Modification 1.

[0038] Figure 3 It is shown in Figure 2 The figure shows a case where a scale adsorbent is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the collector.

[0039] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a trap and water pipes before and after it according to Modification 2.

[0040] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the arrangement of a water supply and drainage mechanism for a trap in a water heater according to Modification 3.

[0041] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a trap and water pipes before and after it according to Modification 4.

[0042] Figure 7 It is shown in Figure 6 The figure shows a case where a throttle hole is provided at the inlet of the trap.

[0043] Figure 8 It is shown in Figure 6 The water pipe in the front stage of the trap shown in the figure is provided with an orifice.

[0044] Fig. 9 This is a schematic piping system diagram of a water heater according to Modification 5.

[0045] Fig.10 This is a schematic piping system diagram of a water heater according to a sixth modification.

[0046] Fig.11 This is a schematic piping system diagram of a water heater as a reference example.

[0047] Fig.12 This is a schematic piping system diagram of a water heater according to a seventh modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The following embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the following embodiments are essentially preferred examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses.

[0049] Implementation Method

[0050] (Structure of water heater)

[0051] Figure 1 : is a schematic piping system diagram of the water heater 1 of this embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the water heater 1 heats water for hot water supply (hereinafter sometimes referred to as water) supplied from a water source (not shown) through a water supply pipe 8, and stores the heated water in a storage tank 2. The warm water stored in the storage tank 2 is supplied to a specified hot water supply object (not shown) through a hot water supply pipe 9. The water source includes a water main. The hot water supply object includes a shower, a faucet, a bathtub, etc. The water heater 1 includes a heat source device 20, a storage tank 2, a water pump 4, a water circuit 5, a pressure regulating unit 6, a trap 7, and a controller 30. The heat source device 20, the storage tank 2, the water pump 4, the pressure regulating unit 6, and the trap 7 are connected by a water pipe 10 to form a water circuit 5.

[0052] The heat source device 20 is, for example, a heat pump type heat source device. The heat source device 20 generates warm water for heating water. The heat source device 20 is a vapor compression type heat source device. The heat source device 20 has a refrigerant circuit 21. The refrigerant circuit 21 is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit 21 includes a compressor 22, a heat source heat exchanger 23, an expansion valve 24, and a heat exchanger 3. The compressor 22 compresses the sucked refrigerant and discharges the compressed refrigerant. The heat source heat exchanger 23 is, for example, an air-cooled heat exchanger. The heat source heat exchanger 23 is arranged outdoors. The heat source device 20 has a fan 25. The fan 25 is arranged near the heat source heat exchanger 23. The heat source heat exchanger 23 exchanges heat between the air carried by the fan 25 and the refrigerant. The expansion valve 24 is a decompression mechanism for decompressing the refrigerant. The expansion valve 24 is arranged between the liquid end of the heat exchanger 3 and the liquid end of the heat source heat exchanger 23. The pressure reducing mechanism is not limited to the expansion valve, and may be a capillary tube, an expander, etc. The expander recovers the energy of the refrigerant as power.

[0053] The heat exchanger 3 constituting the heat source device 20 is a heat exchanger that heats water in the water heater 1. The heat exchanger 3 (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as the heat exchanger 3) is, for example, a liquid-cooled heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 3 has a first flow path 3a and a second flow path 3b. The first flow path 3a is connected to the water circuit 5. The second flow path 3b is connected to the refrigerant circuit 21. The heat exchanger 3 exchanges heat between water flowing through the first flow path 3a and the refrigerant flowing through the second flow path 3b. In the heat exchanger 3, the first flow path 3a is formed along the second flow path 3b. In the present embodiment, in the heating operation, the direction of the refrigerant flowing through the second flow path 3b is substantially opposite to the direction of the water flowing through the first flow path 3a. In other words, the heat exchanger 3 in the heating operation functions as a countercurrent heat exchanger. In addition, in Figure 1 In FIG. 5 , the direction of water flowing in the water circuit 5 is indicated by a solid-line arrow, and the direction of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circuit 21 is indicated by a dotted-line arrow.

[0054] The storage tank 2 is a container for storing water. The storage tank 2 is formed, for example, in a longitudinally long cylindrical shape, and has: a cylindrical body 2a; a bottom 2b that blocks the lower end of the body 2a; and a top 2c that blocks the upper end of the body 2a. The interior of the storage tank 2 is formed with a low-temperature portion L, a medium-temperature portion M, and a high-temperature portion H in sequence from bottom to top. The low-temperature portion L stores low-temperature water. The high-temperature portion H stores high-temperature water. The medium-temperature portion M stores medium-temperature water. The temperature of medium-temperature water is lower than that of high-temperature water and higher than that of low-temperature water. Water is supplied to the bottom 2b of the storage tank 2 from a water source such as a water pipe not shown in the figure through a water supply pipe 8. High-temperature water is supplied from the top 2c of the storage tank 2 through a hot water supply pipe 9 to a hot water supply object not shown in the figure.

[0055] The water in the storage tank 2 circulates in the water circuit 5. The first flow path 3a of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the water circuit 5. The water circuit 5 includes an upstream flow path 5a and a downstream flow path 5b. The inflow end of the upstream flow path 5a is connected to the bottom 2b of the storage tank 2, that is, the low temperature part L. The outflow end of the upstream flow path 5a is connected to the inflow end of the first flow path 3a of the heat exchanger 3. The inflow end of the downstream flow path 5b is connected to the outflow end of the first flow path 3a. The outflow end of the downstream flow path 5b is connected to the top 2c of the storage tank 2, that is, the high temperature part H.

[0056] A water pump 4 is provided in the upstream flow path 5a of the water circuit 5, i.e., in front of the heat exchanger 3. The water pump 4 circulates water in the water circuit 5. Specifically, the water pump 4 conveys water from the storage tank 2 to the first flow path 3a of the heat exchanger 3, and then returns the water conveyed to the first flow path 3a to the storage tank 2.

[0057] A pressure regulating unit 6 is provided in the downstream flow path 5b of the water circuit 5, i.e., the rear section of the heat exchanger 3. The pressure regulating unit 6 pressurizes the water flowing in the downstream flow path 5b, i.e., the water heated by the heat exchanger 3. When it is assumed that the pressure of the water flowing in the downstream flow path 5b without the pressure regulating unit 6 is, for example, less than about 0.05 MPa, the pressure regulating unit 6 regulates the pressure of the water flowing in the downstream flow path 5b between the heat exchanger 3 and the pressure regulating unit 6 to, for example, about 0.05 MPa or more, preferably to about 0.05 to 0.30 MPa, and more preferably to about 0.15 to 0.30 MPa. By pressurizing the heated water, the amount of carbonic acid gas generated in the downstream flow path 5b and the first flow path 3a of the heat exchanger 3 connected to the downstream flow path 5b can be suppressed, thereby suppressing the precipitation of calcium carbonate scale. In this embodiment, considering the load of the pressure regulating unit 6, the upper limit of the pressurization is set to, for example, about 0.30 MPa.

[0058] As the pressure regulating unit 6, for example, a pressure regulating valve that can easily adjust the pressure by adjusting the flow path cross-sectional area can be used. In addition, a water pump 4 provided at the front section of the heat exchanger 3, a pressure reducing valve (not shown) arranged on the water supply pipe 8 for supplying water to the storage tank 2, etc. can also be used as another pressure regulating unit separately from the pressure regulating unit 6 provided at the rear section of the heat exchanger 3.

[0059] When a pressure regulating valve (specifically, a gate valve) is used as the pressure regulating unit 6, the pressure of the downstream flow path 5b is increased by reducing the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path inside the valve on the side of the heat exchanger 3. On the other hand, since the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path inside the valve is expanded on the side of the storage tank 2, the pressure of the flow path is reduced, resulting in a decrease in the solubility of carbon dioxide gas, an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide gas generated, and the formation of calcium carbonate scale is easy.

[0060] Therefore, in the present embodiment, a trap 7 that promotes the accumulation of scale is provided at the rear section of the pressure regulating unit 6. The structure of the trap 7 is not particularly limited as long as it can promote the accumulation of scale. For example, as the trap 7, a structure in which a porous material such as zeolite or a filter is installed on the inner peripheral surface of a part of the water piping 10 constituting the water circuit 5 can be used. In addition, by providing a valve or the like on the water piping 10 before and after the trap 7, the trap 7 can be configured to be removed and replaced. Thus, the water heater 1 can be maintained by a simple replacement operation of the trap 7.

[0061] Although not shown, the water circuit 5 may also be provided with sensors such as a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. The pressure sensor detects the pressure of water in the water circuit 5, for example, the downstream flow path 5b, and the first flow path 3a of the heat exchanger 3 connected to the downstream flow path 5b. The temperature sensor detects the temperature of water in the water circuit 5, for example, the downstream flow path 5b and the first flow path 3a. The temperature sensor may directly detect the temperature of water in the water circuit 5. Alternatively, the temperature sensor may be mounted on the surface of the water pipe 10 to indirectly detect the temperature of water in the water circuit 5 via the water pipe 10.

[0062] The controller 30 has a microcomputer and a storage device (specifically, a semiconductor memory), and the storage device stores software for operating the microcomputer. The controller 30 controls various devices constituting the heat source device 20, the water pump 4 of the water circuit 5, the above-mentioned various sensors, etc. The controller 30 is connected to the heat source device 20 and the like via wiring (not shown in the figure), and signals are received and sent between the controller 30 and the heat source device 20 and the like. The controller 30 performs a heating operation of generating warm water and storing the generated warm water in the storage tank 2. The heating operation of this embodiment is an operation of directly heating water by the heat source device 20.

[0063] (Heating operation of water heater)

[0064] During the heating operation, the controller 30 operates the compressor 22 and the fan 25. The controller 30 appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve 24. The controller 30 operates the water pump 4.

[0065] The heat source device 20 performs a refrigeration cycle. In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant releases heat in the heat exchanger 3. More specifically, in the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 22 flows in the second flow path 3b of the heat exchanger 3. In the heat exchanger 3, the refrigerant in the second flow path 3b releases heat to the water in the first flow path 3a. The refrigerant that has released heat or condensed in the second flow path 3b is decompressed by the expansion valve 24 and flows in the heat source heat exchanger 23. In the heat source heat exchanger 23, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air and evaporates. The refrigerant evaporated by the heat source heat exchanger 23 is sucked into the compressor 22.

[0066] In the water circuit 5, the water in the low temperature portion L of the storage tank 2 flows out to the upstream flow path 5a. The water in the upstream flow path 5a flows in the first flow path 3a using the heat exchanger 3. The water in the first flow path 3a is heated by the refrigerant of the heat source device 20. The water heated in the first flow path 3a flows in the downstream flow path 5b and flows into the high temperature portion H of the storage tank 2.

[0067] -Effects of Implementation Methods-

[0068] According to the water heater 1 of the present embodiment described above, the pressure regulating unit 6 pressurizes the water for hot water supply in the rear section of the heat exchanger 3 that heats the water for hot water supply, so that the precipitation of scale in the pressurized area can be suppressed. In addition, the scale precipitated from the water for hot water supply after passing through the pressure regulating unit 6 due to the decompression can be captured by the trap 7, so there is no need to use a high-cost valve that can perform decompression regulation as the pressure regulating unit 6. In addition, the scale can be suppressed from reaching the water circuit 5 after the trap 7, such as the storage tank 2, the water pump 4, etc., so the comfort of the water for hot water supply and the reliability of the water pump 4, etc. are improved. Therefore, the precipitation of scale can be suppressed at a low cost without compromising the comfort and reliability.

[0069] <Variant 1>

[0070] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional structure of the trap 7 and the water pipes 10 before and after it according to Modification 1. Figure 2 , the flow of water is shown by arrows.

[0071] like Figure 2 As shown, in this modification, the inner diameter d1 of the trap 7 is larger than the inner diameter d2 of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7. For example, the trap 7 may be configured by enlarging a portion of the water pipe 10.

[0072] According to this modified example, in addition to the effects of the above-mentioned embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. That is, by increasing the inner diameter of the trap 7, the water pressure is further reduced, so it is easy to precipitate scale in the trap 7. In addition, the water flow rate in the trap 7 is slowed down due to the increase in the cross-sectional area of ​​the trap 7, so the scale precipitated on the inner peripheral surface of the trap 7 is easy to accumulate in the trap 7. Therefore, the effect of capturing scale by the trap 7 is improved. In addition, since the inner diameter of the trap 7 is larger than the inner diameter of the front and rear water pipes 10, even if scale accumulates in the trap 7 to a certain extent, it is not easy to cause internal blockage and pressure loss.

[0073] In addition, in this modification, if Figure 3 As shown, the inner peripheral surface of the expanded collector 7 may be provided with a scale adsorbent 7a made of a porous material such as zeolite. In this way, the scale capture effect of the collector 7 is further improved. In this case, a filter may be provided instead of the scale adsorbent 7a to obtain the same effect.

[0074] <Variant 2>

[0075] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional structure of a trap 7 and water pipes 10 before and after it according to Modification 2. Figure 4 , the flow of water is shown by arrows.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, in this modification, the inner peripheral surface of the trap 7 is formed as a rough surface 7b. In other words, the surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the trap 7 is greater than the surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7. Here, the type of surface roughness is not particularly limited, for example, it can be arithmetic mean roughness Ra. Alternatively, the surface roughness can also be the maximum height (Rmax), ten-point average roughness (Rz), average interval of concave and convex, average interval of local tops, load length ratio, etc.

[0077] In this modification, the inner diameter of the trap 7 may be the same as the inner diameter of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7, or, as in the above modification 1, the inner diameter of the trap 7 may be larger than the inner diameter of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7. In the former case, the trap 7 may be configured to provide a rough surface 7b on a portion of the water pipe 10. Figure 4 The latter case is shown.

[0078] According to this modification, in addition to the effects of the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: That is, scale deposited on the inner peripheral surface of the collector 7 is further easily deposited, so the effect of capturing scale by the collector 7 is further improved.

[0079] <Variant 3>

[0080] This modification example 3 and Figure 1 The above-described embodiment shown is different in that the trap 7 is configured so that water can be supplied to the trap 7 from the outside and water can be discharged from the trap 7 to the outside.

[0081] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the water supply and drainage mechanism of the trap 7 in the water heater 1 according to the modification 3. Figure 5 In Figure 1 The same components as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0082] As a water supply mechanism for the trap 7, Figure 5 As shown, for example, a water supply port 11A may be provided between the water pump 4 and the heat exchanger 3, a water supply port 11B may be provided between the pressure regulating unit 6 and the trap 7, or a water supply port 11C may be provided in the trap 7 itself. When the water supply port 11A is provided between the water pump 4 and the heat exchanger 3, not only the trap 7 but also the heat exchanger 3 can be cleaned. In addition, as a water supply mechanism for the trap 7, a water supply port 11C may be used. Figure 1 The water supply pipe 8 of the water heater 1 according to the above embodiment is shown.

[0083] In addition, as a drainage mechanism for the trap 7, Figure 5 As shown, for example, the drain port 12A may be provided in the trap 7 itself, or the drain port 12B may be provided in the rear section of the trap 7 (between the trap 7 and the storage tank 2 (not shown)).

[0084] According to this modification, in addition to the effects of the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: That is, scale accumulated on the collector 7 can be discharged without construction.

[0085] <Variant 4>

[0086] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a collector 7 and water pipes 10 before and after it according to Modification 4. Figure 6 , the flow of water is shown by arrows.

[0087] like Figure 6 As shown, in this modification, the pressure regulating unit 6 is integrally formed with the trap 7. Specifically, a pressure regulating valve capable of regulating the cross-sectional area of ​​the water flow path is provided at the inlet of the trap 7 as the pressure regulating unit 6. In addition, in this modification, similarly to the above-mentioned modification 1, the inner diameter of the trap 7 may also be larger than the inner diameter of the water pipe 10 before and after the trap 7.

[0088] According to this modification, in addition to the effects of the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: That is, since the trap 7 partially bears the pressure reduction, it is easy to select a valve or the like as the pressure regulating means 6 .

[0089] In addition, in this modification, for example, Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , by providing a throttle hole 7c at the water flow path of the inlet of the trap 7 as another pressure regulating unit, the selection of a valve or the like as the pressure regulating unit 6 becomes further easier. Alternatively, as Figure 8 As shown, by providing an orifice 13 as another pressure regulating unit in the water pipe 10 at the front stage of the trap 7 (between the trap 7 and the heat exchanger 3 not shown), selection of a valve etc. as the pressure regulating unit 6 becomes easier.

[0090] <Variant 5>

[0091] Fig. 9 : is a schematic piping system diagram of the water heater 1 according to the modification 5. Fig. 9 In Figure 1 The same components as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0092] This modification example 5 is Figure 1 The difference of the above-mentioned embodiment shown is that: Fig. 9As shown, a booster mechanism 14 is also included, and the booster mechanism 14 pressurizes the hot water throughout the entire water circuit 5. As the booster mechanism 14, a cylinder structure can be used, for example. In addition, for example, the booster mechanism 14 can be set in the water pipe 10 between the storage tank 2 and the water pump 4.

[0093] According to this modification, the boosting mechanism 14 can bear the water pressure increase of the entire water circuit 5, so there is no need to perform high-lift operation through the water pump 4, so the pump input is reduced, and the water heater 1 can be made more efficient. In addition, since it is not necessary to make the water pump 4 of high-lift specification, the water pump 4 can be miniaturized and cost-effective.

[0094] <Variant 6>

[0095] Fig.10 : is a schematic piping system diagram of the water heater 1 according to the modification 6. Fig.10 In Figure 1 The same components as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0096] This modification example 6 is Figure 1 The difference of the above-mentioned embodiment shown is that: Fig.10 As shown, an eddy current heater 15 is further included between the heat exchanger 3 and the pressure regulating unit 6, and the eddy current heater 15 heats the water for hot water supply.

[0097] According to this variation, the eddy current heater 15 heats the hot water (more precisely, the water pipe 10 ) and applies an electromagnetic field to the hot water at the same time, thereby efficiently generating high-temperature water while suppressing scale deposition.

[0098] In addition, in this modification, the heat exchanger 3 can heat the hot water to a temperature within a temperature range where scale does not precipitate under the pressurized state of the pressure regulating unit 6, and the eddy current heater 15 can heat the hot water to a temperature higher than the temperature range. In this way, scale precipitation can be further reliably suppressed.

[0099] In addition, in this modification, the material of the water pipe 10 at the portion heated by the eddy current heater 15 can be stainless steel. Thus, among the material candidates (copper, aluminum, stainless steel, etc.) that can be used for the water pipe 10, stainless steel can further improve the thermal efficiency of the eddy current heater 15, thereby achieving efficient water heating.

[0100] In addition, when the scale precipitation can be sufficiently suppressed by using the eddy current heater 15, as a reference example, Fig.11 As shown, it can also be constructed from Fig.10The water heater 1 of the present modification shown is obtained by removing the pressure regulating unit 6 and the trap 7. In this way, high-temperature water can be produced efficiently while suppressing scale deposition without maintenance.

[0101] <Variant 7>

[0102] Fig.12 : is a schematic piping system diagram of the water heater 1 according to the modification 7. Fig.12 In Figure 1 The same components as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0103] This modification example Figure 1 The difference of the above-mentioned embodiment shown is that: Fig.12 As shown, a pressure regulating unit 6 is provided at the rear section (i.e., hot water supply pipe 9) of a tank 2 storing hot water heated by a heat exchanger 3, and a water pump 16 is provided at the water supply pipe 8. Thus, the water circuit 5 including the tank 2 can be pressurized.

[0104] In this modification, a collector 7 that promotes the accumulation of scale is provided in the hot water supply pipe 9 at the rear stage of the pressure regulating unit 6, thereby achieving the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment.

[0105] Furthermore, according to this modification, in addition to the same effects as those of the above-mentioned embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. That is, by providing the pressure regulating unit 6 at the rear section of the storage tank 2 and providing the water pump 16 in the water supply pipe 8, the water circuit 5 can be pressurized including the storage tank 2, so that the precipitation of scale inside the storage tank 2 can be suppressed. Therefore, the comfort problem of scale mixing in the hot water supply is not likely to occur. In addition, the reliability problem of scale accumulated at the bottom of the storage tank 2 is not likely to occur, such as being discharged from the lower side of the storage tank 2 to the water circuit 5 and mixing with the water pump 4, etc., causing a malfunction.

[0106] 《Other Implementation Methods》

[0107] In the above embodiment and modification, a heat pump device is used as the heat source device 20. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, a fuel-based device or a Peltier element that heats water by heat exchange with combustion gas may be used as the heat source device 20.

[0108] In the above embodiment and modification, the water heated by the heat source device 20 is temporarily stored in the tank 2 and then supplied to the hot water supply target. However, instead, the hot water may be supplied to the hot water supply target without being stored in the tank 2.

[0109] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the heat source device 20 and the water circuit 5 are controlled by a single controller 30. However, instead, the heat source device 20 and the water circuit 5 may be controlled separately by dedicated controllers.

[0110] The above embodiments and variations are described, but it should be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the subject and scope of the claims. In addition, as long as the functions of the objects disclosed herein are not impaired, the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined and replaced. Furthermore, the above-mentioned "first", "second" ... records are used to distinguish the sentences with these records, and are not intended to limit the number and order of the sentences.

[0111] Industrial Applicability

[0112] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a water heater.

[0113] (Explanation of symbols)

[0114] 1. Hot water supply device

[0115] 2 Storage tanks

[0116] 2a Trunk

[0117] 2b Bottom

[0118] 2c Top

[0119] 3Heat exchanger (using heat exchanger)

[0120] 3a first flow path

[0121] 3b second flow path;

[0122] 4 Water Pump

[0123] 5 Water circuit

[0124] 5a Upstream flow path

[0125] 5b Downstream flow path

[0126] 6 Voltage regulating unit

[0127] 7. Catcher

[0128] 7a scale adsorbent

[0129] 7b Rough surface

[0130] 7c throttle hole

[0131] 8 Water supply piping

[0132] 9Hot water supply pipes

[0133] 10Water piping

[0134] 11A, 11B, 11C water supply ports

[0135] 12A, 12B drainage port

[0136] 13 throttle hole

[0137] 14 booster mechanism

[0138] 15 Eddy current heater

[0139] 16 Water pump

[0140] 20Heat source device

[0141] 21 Refrigerant circuit

[0142] 22 Compressor

[0143] 23Heat source heat exchanger

[0144] 24 Expansion valve

[0145] 25 Fan

[0146] 30 controllers.

Claims

1. A water heating device, characterized in that: include: A water circuit (5) comprising a downstream flow path (5b); a heat exchanger (3), the heat exchanger (3) being connected to the water circuit (5) and heating water for hot water supply; and a valve (6), the valve (6) being provided in the downstream flow path (5b) at the rear stage of the heat exchanger (3) and pressurizing the water for hot water supply, The hot water pressurized by the valve (6) is the hot water flowing between the heat exchanger (3) and the valve (6). A collector (7) is provided at the rear section of the valve (6) to promote the accumulation of scale. The valve (6) reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path at the water pipe (10) of the downstream flow path (5b) on the side of the heat exchanger (3) as viewed from the trap (7), thereby pressurizing the hot water for supplying water flowing in the downstream flow path (5b) between the heat exchanger (3) and the valve (6).

2. The water heating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner diameter of the trap (7) is larger than the inner diameter of the water pipe (10) before and after the trap (7).

3. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the trap (7) is greater than the surface roughness of the inner peripheral surface of the water pipe (10) before and after the trap (7).

4. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The trap (7) is constructed so that water can be supplied to the trap (7) from the outside and water can be discharged from the trap (7) to the outside.

5. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The collector (7) is configured to be disassembled and replaceable.

6. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: At least a portion of the valve (6) is formed integrally with the trap (7).

7. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The rear section of the collector (7) also includes a storage tank (2), and the storage tank (2) stores the water for hot water supply.

8. The water heating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: It also includes a pressure-boosting mechanism (14) for pressurizing the hot water throughout the entire water circuit (5).

9. The water heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: An eddy current heater (15) for heating the hot water is also included between the heat exchanger (3) and the valve (6).

10. The water heating device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The heat exchanger (3) heats the hot water to a temperature within a temperature range where scale is not precipitated, and the eddy current heater (15) heats the hot water to a temperature higher than the temperature range.

11. The water heating device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The material of the piping portion heated by the eddy current heater (15) is stainless steel.

12. The water heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The heat source device (20) of the heat exchanger (3) is a heat pump.

Images