evaporator

Abstract

The application discloses an evaporator, comprising a distribution device, the distribution device comprising a distribution device shell, at least one receiving port and at least one distribution piece. The distribution device shell is arranged around the heat exchange pipe and encloses the end of the heat exchange pipe. The at least one distribution piece is rotatably connected to the distribution device shell, wherein the distribution piece is configured to distribute the refrigerant received from the corresponding receiving port to the end of at least a part of the heat exchange pipe as the distribution piece rotates. The distribution piece in the distribution device of the evaporator of the application uniformly distributes the refrigerant into each heat exchange pipe through rotation, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of each heat exchange pipe. In the case of the same heat exchange efficiency, the evaporator of the application can reduce the number of heat exchange pipes, thereby reducing the size of the evaporator shell and reducing the cost. In the case of the same size of the evaporator shell, the evaporator of the application can arrange more heat exchange pipes, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an evaporator, and more particularly to a dry evaporator. Background Technology

[0002] The evaporator is a key component in a refrigeration system, and the dry-type evaporator is a commonly used type. A dry-type evaporator contains multiple heat exchange tubes, with refrigerant flowing inside the tubes and water flowing outside, allowing heat exchange between the refrigerant and water within the evaporator shell. During this heat exchange, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the water outside the tubes and evaporates, thus achieving the evaporator's heat exchange function. Therefore, uniform distribution of the refrigerant within the heat exchange tubes effectively ensures the heat exchange efficiency of the dry-type evaporator. However, due to the large number of heat exchange tubes in a dry-type evaporator, it is difficult to distribute the refrigerant evenly within each tube. Therefore, there is a need for an evaporator that can achieve uniform distribution of refrigerant among the multiple heat exchange tubes within the evaporator. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an evaporator, comprising: an evaporator shell, a pair of tube sheets, a plurality of heat exchange tubes, and a distribution device. The distribution device includes a distribution device housing, at least one receiving port, and at least one distributing member. The evaporator shell has a length direction. The pair of tube sheets are respectively connected to both ends of the evaporator shell in the length direction. The plurality of heat exchange tubes are disposed within the evaporator shell and extend along the length direction of the evaporator shell, with the end of each heat exchange tube passing through the pair of tube sheets. The distribution device is connected to one of the pair of tube sheets and configured to distribute refrigerant to at least a portion of the heat exchange tubes. The distribution device housing has a receiving space, and the distribution device housing surrounds and closes the ends of the heat exchange tubes. The at least one receiving port is disposed on the distribution device housing for receiving refrigerant. Each distributing member is in fluid communication with a corresponding receiving port, and the at least one distributing member is disposed within the receiving space and rotatably connected to the distribution device housing, wherein the distributing member is configured to, upon rotation of the distributing member, distribute refrigerant received from the corresponding receiving port to the ends of at least a portion of the heat exchange tubes.

[0004] According to the above, each of the distribution components includes a distribution cavity and several distribution ports connected to the distribution cavity, and the distribution cavity of each distribution component is connected to a corresponding receiving port, wherein the several distribution ports are disposed on the bottom wall of the distribution component facing the heat exchange tube.

[0005] Based on the above, the dispensing device further includes at least one connecting pipe. Each connecting pipe is in fluid communication with one of the dispensing components and a corresponding receiving port, such that refrigerant received from the corresponding receiving port can flow through the connecting pipe and enter the dispensing component, wherein the connecting pipe is configured to rotate together with the dispensing component.

[0006] Based on the above, the dispensing device further includes at least one bearing. The at least one bearing is disposed between the connecting pipe and the dispensing device housing.

[0007] According to the above, the bearing includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and a rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring, wherein the outer ring is connected to the dispensing device housing, and the inner ring is connected to the connecting pipe, so that the bearing facilitates the rotation of the connecting pipe relative to the dispensing device housing.

[0008] According to the above, the dispensing device housing includes a mounting groove in which the bearing is accommodated. The dispensing device further includes a baffle plate connected to the dispensing device housing to retain the bearing in the mounting groove.

[0009] According to the above, each of the dispensing devices includes a guide vane disposed inside the connecting pipe. The guide vane is configured to extend in a spiral shape to guide the flow direction of the refrigerant as it flows through the guide vane, thereby generating a driving force to rotate the connecting pipe.

[0010] According to the above, the dispensing device housing includes an annular surrounding plate and an end plate connected to each other. The annular surrounding plate and the end plate together define the receiving space, wherein at least one dispensing member is rotatably connected to the inner wall of the end plate, at least one receiving port is disposed through the end plate, and wherein the annular surrounding plate is connected between the tube sheet and the end plate. Each dispensing member includes at least one jet port disposed on the side wall of the dispensing member facing the annular surrounding plate, the jet port being configured to guide gas in the refrigerant towards the annular surrounding plate to generate a driving force for rotating the dispensing member.

[0011] According to the above, the dispensing component is a long tube, and the at least one jet nozzle includes a pair of jet nozzles, which are respectively disposed on a pair of sidewalls of the dispensing component and located at both ends of the dispensing component in the length direction.

[0012] According to the above, the housing of the dispensing device includes an annular surrounding plate and an end plate connected to each other. The annular surrounding plate and the end plate together define the receiving space, wherein at least one dispensing member is rotatably connected to the inner wall of the end plate, and at least one receiving port is disposed through the end plate, wherein the annular surrounding plate is connected between the tube sheet and the end plate. The bottom wall of the dispensing member is arc-shaped, and the plurality of dispensing ports are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the bottom wall. The dispensing ports are configured to guide at least a portion of the refrigerant to be injected toward the annular surrounding plate to generate a force driving the dispensing member to rotate.

[0013] According to the above, the distribution component also includes a drive motor, and the outer surface of the connecting pipe is provided with teeth that mesh with the drive motor, wherein the drive motor is configured to provide a driving force to drive the connecting pipe to rotate.

[0014] According to the above, the dispensing component is a long tubular shape, and each of the connecting pipes is connected to the middle of the dispensing component, wherein the dispensing component rotates about the connecting pipe as a rotation axis.

[0015] According to the above, in the length direction of the distributor, the size of the distributor gradually decreases from the middle to both ends.

[0016] Based on the above, each of the dispensing components further includes several blocking components. These blocking components are spaced apart within the dispensing cavity along the length of the dispensing component. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1A This is a perspective structural diagram of one embodiment of the evaporator of this application;

[0018] Figure 1B for Figure 1A An exploded view of a portion of the evaporator;

[0019] Figure 2A for Figure 1A A three-dimensional structural diagram of the distribution device in the middle;

[0020] Figure 2B for Figure 2A Diagram showing the fit between the distribution components and the tube sheet;

[0021] Figure 3A for Figure 2A An exploded view of the distribution device from one angle;

[0022] Figure 3B for Figure 2A An exploded view of the dispensing device from another angle;

[0023] Figure 3C for Figure 2AA cross-sectional view of the dispensing device shown;

[0024] Figure 4A for Figure 3A A perspective view of one embodiment of the distribution component;

[0025] Figure 4B for Figure 4A A three-dimensional structural diagram of the distribution component from another angle;

[0026] Figure 4C for Figure 4A The diagram shows the mating structure of the dispensing component and the housing of the dispensing device.

[0027] Figure 5A for Figure 3A A perspective view of another embodiment of the distribution component;

[0028] Figure 5B for Figure 5A The diagram shows the mating structure of the dispensing component and the housing of the dispensing device.

[0029] Figure 6A for Figure 4A The three-dimensional structural diagram of the distribution component is shown from another angle;

[0030] Figure 6B for Figure 6A A top view of the distribution components shown;

[0031] Figure 7A for Figure 2A An exploded view of another embodiment of the dispensing device shown;

[0032] Figure 7B for Figure 7A Diagram showing the fit between the distribution components and the tube sheet;

[0033] Figure 8 for Figure 2A An exploded view of another embodiment of the dispensing device shown;

[0034] Figure 9 for Figure 2A An exploded view of another embodiment of the dispensing device shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Various specific embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification. It should be understood that although directional terms such as "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" are used in this application to describe various exemplary structural parts and elements, their use is merely for illustrative purposes and is based on the exemplary orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. Since the embodiments disclosed in this application can be arranged in different orientations, these directional terms are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting.

[0036] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The structure of the evaporator 100 according to an embodiment of this application is shown, wherein Figure 1A A three-dimensional structural diagram of the evaporator 100 is shown. Figure 1B This is a partially exploded view showing the distribution device 104 after it has been separated from the tube sheet 103 of the evaporator 100. Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the evaporator 100 includes an evaporator shell 101, several heat exchange tubes 110, a pair of tube sheets 103, and a distribution device 104. The evaporator shell 101 is cylindrical and extends horizontally. An accommodating space is formed inside the evaporator shell 101, and openings are formed at both ends along its length. The pair of tube sheets 103 are plate-shaped and are respectively disposed at both ends along the length of the evaporator shell 101. The pair of tube sheets 103 are identical in shape and parallel to each other, and are respectively disposed perpendicular to the length of the evaporator shell 101. The size of each pair of tube sheets 103 is larger than the size of the opening at one end of the evaporator shell 101, so that the pair of tube sheets 103 can respectively close the openings at both ends along the length of the evaporator shell 101.

[0037] Several heat exchange tubes 110 are disposed within a receiving space inside the evaporator housing 101, and the length direction of the heat exchange tubes 110 is aligned with the length direction of the evaporator housing 101. A pair of ends of each heat exchange tube 110 penetrate a tube sheet 103. A distribution device 104 is located at one end of the evaporator housing 101 along its length and is connected to the outside of the corresponding tube sheet 103. The distribution device 104 distributes refrigerant, such as a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, from the expansion valve to at least a portion of the ends of the heat exchange tubes 110, allowing refrigerant to enter the heat exchange tubes 110. A refrigerant outlet pipe 102 is provided on the tube sheet 103 on the other side opposite the distribution device 104. The refrigerant outlet pipe 102 can communicate with the heat exchange tubes 110 inside the evaporator housing 101 to discharge refrigerant from the heat exchange tubes 110.

[0038] In this embodiment, the dispensing device 104 includes a receiving port 105, a dispensing device housing 106, and a dispensing component 220 (see [link]). Figure 2A (As shown). A receiving port 105 is disposed on the distribution device housing 106. The receiving port 105 is connected to the expansion valve via a receiving pipe 115 to receive refrigerant. The receiving port 105 is in fluid communication with the distribution member 220 inside the distribution device housing 106, so that the refrigerant, after entering through the receiving port 105, can be distributed to the corresponding heat exchange tubes 110 via the distribution member 220. In this embodiment, the distribution device 104 includes one receiving port 105. In other embodiments, it may include other numbers of receiving ports 105, such as two or three. The distribution device housing 106 includes an end plate 109 and an annular surrounding plate 108, which connects the end plate 109 and the tube sheet 103. The receiving port 105 is disposed on the end plate 109. In this embodiment, the distribution device 104 also includes a fastener 107 for connecting the end plate 109 and the tube sheet 103 of the distribution device housing 106, so that the distribution device 104 can be fixedly connected to the tube sheet 103. In this embodiment, the fastener 107 is configured as a ring surrounding the outer peripheral edge of the dispensing device housing 106. In other embodiments, the dispensing device 104 can also be fixedly connected to the tube sheet 103 by welding or other connection methods. The dispensing device 104 also includes a seal 181, which is disposed between the annular surrounding plate 108 and the tube sheet 103. The seal 181 is made of an elastic material and is used to seal the connection between the dispensing device housing 106 and the tube sheet 103. In this embodiment, the seal 181 is configured as a ring that matches the shape of the annular surrounding plate 108 of the dispensing device housing 106.

[0039] The evaporator housing 101 has an inlet 111 and an outlet 112 on its side. The inlet 111 and outlet 112 are respectively connected to the receiving space inside the evaporator housing 101, allowing water to flow into the evaporator housing 101 from the inlet 111, exchange heat with the refrigerant in the heat exchange tube 110, and then flow out from the outlet 112. In this embodiment, the evaporator 100 includes two inlets 111 and one outlet 112. As shown in Figure 1, the two inlets 111 are respectively located at opposite ends along the length of the evaporator housing 101, and the outlet 112 is located at the middle position along the length of the evaporator housing 101. In other embodiments, the evaporator 100 may also include one inlet 111 and one outlet 112.

[0040] Since the inlet 111 and outlet 112 of the water supply into and out of the evaporator 100 are respectively located on the evaporator shell 101, a pair of tube sheets 103, the evaporator shell 101, and the tube walls of several heat exchange tubes 110 together define the water flow space, with water flowing between the inside of the evaporator shell 101 and the outside of the heat exchange tubes 110. The refrigerant flows inside the heat exchange tubes 110. Therefore, the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchange tubes 110 can exchange heat with the water flowing outside through the tube walls. In the evaporator 100, the water releases heat and lowers its temperature, while the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant absorbs heat and further vaporizes into gaseous refrigerant.

[0041] Figure 2A and Figure 2B The structure of the dispensing device 104 is further shown to illustrate its working principle. Figure 2A This shows a three-dimensional structural diagram of the dispensing device 104 viewed from the inside out. Figure 2B The diagram shows the mating structure of the distribution element 220 of the distribution device 104 with the tube sheet 103 and the heat exchange tubes 110. (Example) Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the end plate 109 of the dispensing device housing 106 is circular, and the annular surrounding plate 108 is annular. The annular surrounding plate 108 and the end plate 109 together define a cylindrical receiving space 218 within the dispensing device housing 106.

[0042] The dispensing component 220 is a long, straight tube with closed ends, and has a top wall 223, a bottom wall 221, and a pair of side walls 222, which together define a dispensing cavity inside the dispensing component 220 (see [link]). Figure 3CThe distribution cavity 336 is provided. A top wall 223 and a bottom wall 221 are disposed opposite each other, and a pair of side walls 222 are disposed opposite each other. The top wall 223 is flat and faces the end plate 109. The top wall 223 has a distribution inlet 235 in fluid communication with the receiving port 105 to receive refrigerant from the receiving port 105. The bottom wall 221 is arc-shaped and faces the tube sheet 103 and heat exchange tubes 110. The bottom wall 221 has several distribution ports 216 to distribute refrigerant to each heat exchange tube 110. The distribution inlet 235 and the several distribution ports 216 are all in fluid communication with the distribution cavity 336, so that refrigerant from the receiving port 105 can enter the distribution cavity 336 through the distribution inlet 235 and then exit through the several distribution ports 216. In this embodiment, several distribution ports 216 are arranged along a straight line at the bottom of the arc-shaped bottom wall 221, that is, the part closest to the heat exchange tube 110. These distribution ports 216 include 22 ports 216, which are evenly divided into two groups, respectively located on both sides of the length of the bottom wall 221. That is, no distribution port 216 is provided at the location directly opposite the distribution inlet 235. This prevents refrigerant entering from the distribution inlet 235 from flowing directly out from the distribution port directly opposite the distribution inlet 235. In this embodiment, the distribution ports 216 are circular holes; in other embodiments, the distribution ports 216 can also be square holes. Furthermore, the number, position, and size of the distribution ports 216 can be set according to actual needs.

[0043] In this embodiment, the dispensing member 220 is rotatably disposed in the receiving space 218. The dispensing inlet 235 is located at the center of the dispensing member 220 along its length, and the dispensing member 220 rotates around the dispensing inlet 235 so that the rotation of the dispensing member 220 is a circular rotation. Those skilled in the art will understand that the dispensing member 220 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Further reference... Figure 2B As shown, in Figure 2BThe distributor 220 rotates clockwise. In this embodiment, several heat exchange tubes 110 fill the cylindrical receiving space within the evaporator housing 101, meaning that the heat exchange tubes 110 are essentially arranged within a circular area. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the length of the distributor 220 is approximately the same as or slightly smaller than the circular area of ​​the heat exchange tubes 110, so that the rotation path of the distributor 220 can cover most of the heat exchange tubes 110. Since the refrigerant entering the distributor 220 is in a gas-liquid two-phase mixed state, the refrigerant can have a certain injection pressure. Therefore, even if the length of the distributor 220 is slightly smaller than the circular area of ​​the heat exchange tubes 110, the refrigerant can still be distributed to the heat exchange tubes at the edges under the action of centrifugal force when the distributor 220 rotates. Therefore, by setting the length of the distributor 220 and the number of distribution ports 216, the distributor 220 can distribute the refrigerant from the receiving port 105 to almost all of the heat exchange tubes 110 through the various distribution ports 216 when rotating clockwise.

[0044] Those skilled in the art will understand that, although in this embodiment, the dispensing device 104 includes a dispensing member 220, and the length of the dispensing member 220 is approximately the same as the circular range of the heat exchange tubes 110, the refrigerant is distributed to almost all of the heat exchange tubes 110 as the dispensing member 220 rotates. However, in other embodiments, the dispensing device may include more dispensing members, or the dispensing members may have other lengths, such that the refrigerant can be distributed to a portion of several heat exchange tubes along the rotation path of the dispensing member as it rotates, as will be shown in other embodiments.

[0045] Figures 3A-3C A more detailed structure of the dispensing device 104 is shown. Wherein... Figure 3A An exploded perspective view of the dispensing device 104 from an outside-in viewpoint is shown. Figure 3B An exploded perspective view of the dispensing device 104 from the inside out is shown. Figure 3C The dispensing device 104 is shown along Figure 2A A sectional view after cutting along line AA. (See example...) Figures 3A-3C As shown, the dispensing device 104 also includes a connecting pipe 325 and a bearing 328. The connecting pipe 325 is cylindrical in shape, with one end fixedly connected to the top wall 223 of the dispensing member 220, for example by welding, and is arranged around the dispensing member inlet 235. Thus, the connecting pipe 325 can serve as a rotation axis, allowing the dispensing member 220 to rotate circumferentially.

[0046] The other end of the connecting pipe 325 is connected to the bearing 328 and aligned with the receiving port 105, so that the receiving port 105 and the distributor inlet 235 are in fluid communication through the connecting pipe 325. Thus, the refrigerant received from the receiving port 105 can flow through the connecting pipe 325 and enter the distribution cavity 336 of the distributor 220. In this embodiment, the distribution device 104 also includes a guide vane 326 disposed in the connecting pipe 325 to guide the flow direction of the refrigerant as it flows through the connecting pipe 325. The guide vane 326 extends in a spiral shape along the extending direction of the connecting pipe 325, so that when the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows through the guide vane 326, it generates a driving force that drives the connecting pipe 325 to rotate. Under the action of this driving force, the connecting pipe 325 drives the distributor 220 to rotate together. For example, in Figure 2B Rotate clockwise within.

[0047] A bearing 328 is disposed between the connecting pipe 325 and the end plate 109 of the dispensing device housing 106 to assist the rotation of the connecting pipe 325. Specifically, the bearing 328 includes an inner ring 342, an outer ring 341, and a rolling element 343 disposed between the inner ring 342 and the outer ring 341. The outer ring 341 is connected to the end plate 109 of the dispensing device housing 106, and the inner ring 342 is connected to the connecting pipe 325, so that the bearing 328 can facilitate the rotation of the connecting pipe 325 relative to the dispensing device housing 106. In this embodiment, the inner side of the end plate 109 is provided with a mounting groove 332, in which the bearing 328 is accommodated. Furthermore, the dispensing device 104 also includes a baffle 327, which blocks the outer side of the bearing 328. The baffle 327 is fixedly connected to the outer ring 341 of the bearing 328, and the outer edge of the baffle 327 is connected to the end plate 109 by fasteners, thereby fixing the outer ring 341 of the bearing 328 to the end plate 109 together. The outer end of the connecting tube 325 is fixedly connected to the inner ring 342, for example, by welding. When the connecting tube 325 rotates, the outer ring 341 of the bearing 328 is fixedly connected to the end plate 109, so the outer ring 341 remains stationary. The inner ring 342 of the bearing 328 rotates together with the connecting tube 325. The rolling element 343 supports the inner ring 342 between the inner ring 342 and the outer ring 341, reducing the coefficient of friction of the rotation of the inner ring 342 and the connecting tube 325, and ensuring the rotational accuracy of the inner ring 342 and the connecting tube 325, thereby assisting the inner ring 342 and the connecting tube 325 in rotating relative to the outer ring 341. As an example, the end of the connecting pipe 325 does not contact the end plate 109, but is spaced a certain distance from the bottom of the mounting groove 332, in order to further reduce the friction of the connecting pipe 325 rotating.

[0048] The distribution cavity 336 of the distribution component 220 is provided with several blocking members 334, which are spaced apart along the length of the distribution component 220. In this embodiment, the blocking members 334 are connected to the interior of the distribution component 220 by welding. In other embodiments, the blocking members 334 can also be assembled inside the distribution component 220 as molded parts. Since the refrigerant entering the distribution cavity 336 from the distribution inlet 235 is a gas-liquid two-phase mixture with a certain pressure, the blocking members 334 in the distribution cavity 336 can block the flow of the refrigerant and prevent the gaseous refrigerant with a high flow velocity from directly carrying the liquid refrigerant to both ends of the distribution component 220 along its length. This ensures that the liquid refrigerant can be evenly distributed as much as possible along the length of the distribution component 220 and enter the heat exchange tube 110 through each distribution port 216 for evaporation. In this embodiment, the blocking members 334 are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart on the inner surfaces of the top wall 223 and the bottom wall 221 of the distribution component 220. Furthermore, each blocking member 334 extends perpendicular to the length direction of the dispensing member 220. As a specific example, the blocking members 334 disposed on the bottom wall 221 are located near the dispensing port 216, especially near the dispensing port 216 close to the dispensing member inlet 235. Those skilled in the art will understand that the size, number, and position of the blocking members 334 can be set according to specific needs.

[0049] Therefore, when the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant from the expansion valve passes through the receiving port 105 and the connecting pipe 325, it can drive the connecting pipe 325 and the distributor 220 to rotate together, and after entering the distribution cavity 336 of the distributor 220, it flows along the length direction of the distributor 220, distributing the refrigerant through each distribution port 216 to each heat exchange tube 110 on the rotation path of the distributor 220.

[0050] Figures 4A-4C The specific structure of another embodiment of the dispensing member 420 is shown, wherein Figure 4A and Figure 4B These are three-dimensional structural diagrams of the 420 component viewed from two different angles. Figure 4C This diagram shows the mating structure of the distributor 420 and the annular surrounding plate 108. (See diagram for example.) Figures 4A-4CAs shown, the shape and structure of the distributor 420 are basically the same as those of the distributor 220, except that the distributor 420 also includes at least one jet nozzle 446. In this embodiment, the jet nozzle 446 is disposed on the side wall 222 of the distributor 220 and is positioned towards the annular surrounding plate 108 of the distributor housing 106, for example, directly opposite the annular surrounding plate 108, so that the jet nozzle 446 can guide the gaseous refrigerant in the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant to be sprayed towards the annular surrounding plate 108, generating a driving force to drive the distributor 220 to rotate. In this embodiment, the jet nozzle 446 and the guide vane 326 in the connecting pipe 325 can be used together or separately. When the jet nozzle 446 and the guide vane 326 are used together, the driving force generated by the jet nozzle 446 is in the same direction as the driving force generated by the refrigerant flowing through the guide vane 326 in the connecting pipe 325, so as to jointly drive the distributor 220 and the connecting pipe 325 to rotate together. Figure 4C At the angle shown, the driving force causes the distributor 220 to rotate counterclockwise, that is, at... Figure 2B At the angle shown, the distributor 220 can rotate clockwise. As an example, in this embodiment, there are two jet nozzles 446, each disposed on a pair of sidewalls 222 of the distributor 220, with the two nozzles 446 positioned at opposite ends of the distributor 220's length. Thus, the gaseous refrigerant ejected from the two nozzles 446 impacts the annular surrounding plate 108, generating a driving force in the same direction that drives the distributor 220 to rotate.

[0051] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The specific structure of another embodiment of the dispensing component 520 is shown, wherein Figure 5A A three-dimensional structural diagram of component 520. Figure 5B This diagram shows the mating structure of the distribution component 520 and the annular surrounding plate 108. (See diagram for example.) Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, the shape and structure of the distributor 520 are basically the same as those of the distributor 220, except that the positions of the several distribution ports 516 on the distributor 520 are different from those of the several distribution ports 216. In this embodiment, the several distribution ports 516 are no longer arranged in a straight line on the bottom wall 221 of the distributor 520. The several distribution ports 516 are arranged in two groups, respectively offset from the bottom of the bottom wall 221 and arranged on the bottom wall 221 near the side wall 222. That is, the two groups of distribution ports 516 are staggered on both sides of the arc-shaped bottom wall 221. Thus, the distribution ports 516 are no longer directly facing the heat exchange tube 110, but are oriented towards the heat exchange tube 110 but inclined towards the tube opening of the heat exchange tube 110. When the refrigerant is discharged from the distribution ports 516, at least a portion of the refrigerant will be discharged towards the annular surrounding plate 108, thereby generating a driving force to drive the distributor 220 to rotate. Compared to the jet nozzle 446 of the distributor 420, the distributor port 516, still located on the bottom wall 221, is not directly facing the annular baffle 108, but it discharges more refrigerant toward the annular baffle 108, thus also generating driving force. Those skilled in the art will understand that the distributor port 516 in this embodiment can be used together with the guide vane 326 in the connecting pipe 325 and the jet nozzle 446 in the distributor 420, or it can be used alone. When used together, the driving force they generate is in the same direction.

[0052] Figure 6A and Figure 6B The specific structure of another embodiment of the distribution member 620 is shown, wherein Figure 6A A three-dimensional structural diagram of component 620. Figure 6B A top view of the distribution component 620 is shown. (As shown) Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the shape and structure of the distributor 620 are basically the same as those of the distributor 220, except that the dimensions of the distributor 620 gradually decrease from the middle to both ends in the length direction. In this embodiment, the distributor 620 is no longer a long straight tube, but a tube that is thinner at both ends and thicker in the middle. A pair of sidewalls 622 of the distributor 620 extend relatively close to each other from the middle to both ends, so that the distributor 620 forms a tube that is thinner at both ends and thicker in the middle. The top wall 623 and the bottom wall 621 of the distributor 620 are still arranged opposite each other and connected between the pair of sidewalls 622. The top wall 623 is flat, and the bottom wall 621 is arc-shaped. The connecting pipe 625 is still connected to the middle of the top wall 623.

[0053] In this embodiment, the refrigerant enters the distribution cavity inside the distributor 620 from the connecting pipe 625 in the middle of the distributor 620, and flows along the length of the distributor 620 towards both ends. As the refrigerant flows, some of it is discharged from the distribution port to the heat exchange tube first; therefore, the amount of refrigerant decreases as it flows closer to both ends. Setting the distributor 620 in a shape where the size gradually decreases from the middle to both ends allows the refrigerant to concentrate at the distribution port, facilitating uniform distribution within the distributor 620. As an example, the tubular shape of the distributor 620, which is thinner at both ends and thicker in the middle, can be used in combination with other embodiments.

[0054] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The specific structure of a dispensing device 704 according to another embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7A An exploded perspective view of the dispensing device 704 is shown. Figure 7B This diagram shows the assembly structure of the dispensing components of the dispensing device 704 and the tube sheet 703. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, in this embodiment, the heat exchange tubes 710 include two sets of heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b arranged symmetrically side by side, with a vertically extending interval between them. When the evaporator using the distribution device 704 of this embodiment is in operation, the heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b can operate simultaneously or independently. That is, the evaporator can have three operating states: the first state is that only heat exchange tube group 710a is operating; the second state is that only heat exchange tube group 710b is operating; and the third state is that both heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b are operating simultaneously. The specific operating state of the heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b can be selected according to the user's needs.

[0055] The distribution device housing 706 of the distribution device 704 also includes a partition plate 782, which is connected inside the annular surrounding plate 708 and extends vertically. When the distribution device housing 706 is connected to the tube sheet 703, the partition plate 782 is connected to the gap between the heat exchange tube group 710a and the heat exchange tube group 710b, dividing the receiving space 718 into left and right parts corresponding to the heat exchange tube group 710a and the heat exchange tube group 710b, respectively. A seal 781 is used to seal the connection between the annular surrounding plate 708 and the tube sheet 703. The size and shape of the seal 781 match the cross-section of the end of the distribution device housing 706 near the tube sheet 703. In this embodiment, the shape of the seal 781 is adapted to the annular surrounding plate 708 and the partition plate 782 disposed inside the annular surrounding plate 708. That is, the seal 781 includes an annular portion and a strip-shaped portion extending vertically within the annular portion.

[0056] The distribution device 704 has two symmetrically arranged receiving ports 705 on its housing 706, each receiving port 705 receiving refrigerant independently via a receiving pipe 715. Correspondingly, the distribution device 704 also includes two distribution members 720, each independently fluidly connected to a receiving port 705, and the two distribution members 720 are symmetrically arranged in the left and right portions of the receiving space 718, separated by a partition plate 782. The distribution device 704 also includes two bearings 728, two baffles 727, and two connecting pipes 725. Each connecting pipe 725 is fluidly connected to one distribution member 720 and one receiving port 705. Each bearing 728 is disposed between a connecting pipe 725 and the distribution device housing 706, and each baffle 727 connects one bearing 728 to the distribution device housing 706.

[0057] Further reference Figure 7B As shown, the two distribution components 720 include distribution component 720a and distribution component 720b. Distribution component 720a and distribution component 720b each independently receive refrigerant and distribute the refrigerant to heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b respectively through their respective rotational movements. In this embodiment, heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b are arranged in a semi-circular pattern. Distribution component 720a and distribution component 720b are respectively disposed in the middle of heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b. When distribution component 720a and distribution component 720b rotate circumferentially, they can only distribute refrigerant to the circumferential portion of the heat exchange tubes along their rotation path. That is, the top and bottom portions of the heat exchange tubes of heat exchange tube groups 710a and 710b cannot be distributed with refrigerant. Therefore, although the evaporator using the distribution device 704 of this embodiment can have more operating states according to the unit requirements, its heat exchange efficiency is lower than that of the evaporator using the distribution component 220.

[0058] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of a dispensing device 804 according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the heat exchanger tube 810 includes four sets of heat exchanger tube groups 810a, 810b, 810c, and 810d. Heat exchanger tube group 810a is located in the upper right, heat exchanger tube group 810b in the upper left, heat exchanger tube group 810c in the lower left, and heat exchanger tube group 810d in the lower right. Heat exchanger tube groups 810a and 810d are separated from heat exchanger tube groups 810b and 810c by vertically extending intervals, and heat exchanger tube groups 810a and 810d are separated by horizontally extending intervals. There is no interval between heat exchanger tube groups 810b and 810c. By correspondingly configuring the tube sheet structure at the other end of the evaporator along its length, the heat exchanger tube 810 can have four tube passes.

[0059] The distribution device housing 806 of the distribution device 804 also includes a partition plate 882 connected inside the annular surrounding plate 808, and includes a vertically extending vertical plate 886 and a horizontally extending horizontal plate 887. The horizontal plate 887 extends horizontally to the right from the middle of the vertical plate 886. The vertical plate 886 is correspondingly connected to the vertically extending intervals between heat exchanger tube assemblies 810a and 810d and between heat exchanger tube assemblies 810b and 810c, and the horizontal plate 887 is correspondingly connected to the horizontally extending intervals between heat exchanger tube assemblies 810a and 810d, thereby dividing the receiving space 818 into three parts corresponding to heat exchanger tube assemblies 810a, 810d, and 810b and 810c. A seal 881 is used to seal the connection between the annular surrounding plate 808 and the tube sheet 803. In this embodiment, the seal 881 is annular in shape.

[0060] The distribution device 804 has a receiving port 805 and a refrigerant outlet 883 on its housing 806. The receiving port 805 receives refrigerant through a receiving pipe 815, and the refrigerant outlet 883 discharges refrigerant through a refrigerant outlet pipe 802. The receiving port 805 is positioned above the refrigerant outlet 883, and is located at a corresponding position in the heat exchange tube assembly 810a, while the refrigerant outlet 883 is located at a corresponding position in the heat exchange tube assembly 810d. Corresponding to the receiving port 805, the distribution device 804 also includes a distribution component 820, a bearing 828, a baffle 827, and a connecting pipe 825, which are disposed within the accommodating space 818 in the portion corresponding to the heat exchange tube assembly 810a. The connecting pipe 825 fluidly connects the distribution component 820 and the receiving port 805, the bearing 828 is located between the connecting pipe 825 and the distribution device housing 806, and the baffle 827 connects the bearing 828 and the distribution device housing 806.

[0061] When the evaporator of the distribution device 804 in this embodiment is in operation, the refrigerant enters the distribution member 820 from the receiving port 805, and the rotational movement of the distribution member 820 distributes the refrigerant to the inlet end of the heat exchange tube assembly 810a (i.e., as shown in the image). Figure 8 (One end of the tube sheet 803 shown). Then the refrigerant moves along the length of the heat exchange tube assembly 810a to the outlet end of the heat exchange tube assembly 810a (i.e., one end of the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1), completing the first tube pass flow. Then the refrigerant flows from the outlet end of the heat exchange tube assembly 810a to the inlet end of the heat exchange tube assembly 810b (i.e., one end of the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1), and flows along the length of the heat exchange tube assembly 810b to the outlet end of the heat exchange tube assembly 810b (i.e., one end of the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1). Figure 8 The refrigerant flows from one end of the tube sheet 803 (as shown), completing the second tube pass. Then, the refrigerant flows from the outlet end of heat exchanger tube assembly 810b to the inlet end of heat exchanger tube assembly 810c (i.e., as shown). Figure 8 The refrigerant flows along the length of the tube sheet 803 (as shown at one end) to the outlet end of the heat exchanger tube assembly 810c (i.e., the end at the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1), completing the third tube pass. Finally, the refrigerant flows from the outlet end of the heat exchanger tube assembly 810c to the inlet end of the heat exchanger tube assembly 810d (i.e., the end at the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1), and flows along the length of the heat exchanger tube assembly 810d to the outlet end of the heat exchanger tube assembly 810d (i.e., the end at the tube sheet at the top in Figure 1). Figure 8 (At one end of the tube sheet 803 shown), after completing the fourth tube pass flow, it is discharged from the refrigerant outlet 883 and the refrigerant outlet pipe 802.

[0062] In this embodiment, the four heat exchange tube groups 810a, 810b, 810c, and 810d are arranged in a quarter-circle, or a right-angled sector. The distributor 820 is correspondingly located in the middle of heat exchange tube group 810a. When the distributor 820 rotates in a circle, it can only distribute refrigerant to the heat exchange tubes on the circumferential portion of its rotation path. A portion of the heat exchange tubes in heat exchange tube group 810a cannot be distributed with refrigerant. Therefore, although the evaporator using the distribution device 804 of this embodiment can have more tubes, its heat exchange efficiency is lower than that of the evaporator using the distributor 220.

[0063] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of a dispensing device 904 according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the structure of the dispensing device 904 is roughly the same as that of the dispensing device 104, the difference being the method of providing driving force to the dispensing component 220 and the connecting pipe 925. In this embodiment, the dispensing device 904 also includes a drive motor 963, which drives the connecting pipe 925 to rotate. Specifically, the outer surface of the connecting pipe 925 is provided with teeth 962, which surround the connecting pipe 925. The end of the drive motor 963 has teeth 964, which mesh with the teeth 962, enabling the drive motor 963 to drive the connecting pipe 925 to rotate, thereby driving the dispensing component 220 to rotate. Those skilled in the art will understand that the drive motor 963 can also provide driving force to the connecting pipe 925 via a belt, chain, or other transmission method.

[0064] While examples of dispensing devices have been given above, those skilled in the art will understand that the number, position, and size of components such as dispensing parts, connecting pipes, and receiving ports in these examples can be set according to specific needs. Although some methods of providing driving force to the dispensing parts and connecting pipes have been shown above, those skilled in the art can also provide driving force to the dispensing parts and connecting pipes in other ways, as long as the dispensing parts and connecting pipes rotate together. Furthermore, these methods of providing driving force can be used individually or in combination, as long as the direction of the driving force provided is consistent.

[0065] In a dry evaporator, refrigerant flows inside the heat exchange tubes, while water flows outside. Therefore, the refrigerant needs to be evenly distributed among the heat exchange tubes. If the refrigerant is not evenly distributed, some of the tube walls will not be fully utilized, thus affecting the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator.

[0066] If the evaporator's distribution system includes stationary distributors that distribute refrigerant to the heat exchange tubes, then to ensure that as many heat exchange tubes as possible are supplied with refrigerant, multiple distributors are needed to distribute refrigerant to different areas of the heat exchange tubes. Furthermore, to ensure a wider distribution range, the distribution ports of the distributors require structural design, making the distributor's structure complex.

[0067] The distribution device of this application's evaporator uses a rotating component to evenly distribute refrigerant to each heat exchange tube, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of each tube. Furthermore, the heat exchange tubes of this application's evaporator are arranged in a full-circle shape, which fully utilizes the space within the evaporator shell and matches the rotation path of the distribution component, allowing for the arrangement of as many heat exchange tubes as possible within a given evaporator size, and ensuring that all heat exchange tubes are supplied with refrigerant. Therefore, with the same heat exchange efficiency, this application's evaporator can reduce the number of heat exchange tubes, thereby reducing the size of the evaporator shell and lowering costs. Conversely, with the same evaporator shell size, this application's evaporator can accommodate more heat exchange tubes, improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0068] The distribution device of this application can drive the distribution component to rotate by utilizing the gas-liquid two-phase mixing characteristics of the refrigerant, or it can drive the distribution component to rotate by adding a motor. The drive structure is simple and easy to install and manufacture.

[0069] Furthermore, in the distribution device of this application, the distribution component first pre-distributes the refrigerant from the expansion valve in the distribution cavity, and then distributes the refrigerant to each heat exchange tube through several distribution ports. This not only ensures that the liquid refrigerant is distributed as evenly as possible to each heat exchange tube, but also reduces the pressure loss of the refrigerant. It eliminates the need for the refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve to have a high pressure, and the refrigerant can still be evenly distributed to each heat exchange tube, providing a wider range of operating condition options for the unit design.

[0070] Although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with examples of the embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents, whether known or now or soon to be foreseen, will likely be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the examples of embodiments of this disclosure set forth above are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to include all known or previously developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents. The technical effects and problems described in this specification are exemplary rather than restrictive. It should be noted that the embodiments described in this specification may have other technical effects and may solve other technical problems.

Claims

1. An evaporator, characterized by The evaporator comprises: an evaporator shell having a length direction; a pair of tube plates connected at two ends of the length direction of the evaporator shell, respectively; a plurality of heat exchange tubes arranged in the evaporator shell and extending along the length direction of the evaporator shell, and the end of each heat exchange tube penetrates through the pair of tube plates; and a distribution device connected to one of the pair of tube plates and configured to distribute refrigerant to at least part of the plurality of heat exchange tubes, wherein the distribution device comprises: a distribution device shell comprising an annular enclosure and an end plate which together define a containing space, the annular enclosure being arranged around the heat exchange tubes and connected between the tube plate and the end plate, the distribution device shell enclosing the end of the heat exchange tubes; at least one receiving port arranged through the end plate and configured to receive refrigerant; and at least one distribution piece in fluid communication with a corresponding receiving port, the at least one distribution piece being arranged in the containing space and rotatably connected to the end plate, wherein the distribution piece is configured to distribute refrigerant received from the corresponding receiving port to the end of at least part of the heat exchange tubes as the distribution piece rotates, wherein each distribution piece comprises at least one jet port arranged on a side wall of the distribution piece facing the annular enclosure, the jet port being configured to jet gas in the refrigerant towards the annular enclosure to generate a driving force driving the rotation of the distribution piece.

2. The evaporator of claim 1, wherein: each distribution piece comprises a distribution cavity and a plurality of distribution ports in communication with the distribution cavity, and the distribution cavity of each distribution piece is in communication with a corresponding receiving port, wherein the plurality of distribution ports are arranged on a bottom wall of the distribution piece facing the heat exchange tubes. The distribution device further comprises:

3. The evaporator of claim 2, wherein at least one connecting tube in fluid communication between a distribution piece and a corresponding receiving port, so that refrigerant received from the corresponding receiving port can flow through the connecting tube and then enter the distribution piece, wherein the connecting tube is arranged to rotate together with the distribution piece. The distribution device further comprises:

4. The evaporator of claim 3, wherein at least one bearing arranged between the connecting tube and the distribution device shell.

5. The evaporator of claim 4, wherein: the bearing comprises an inner ring, an outer ring and rolling elements arranged between the inner ring and the outer ring, wherein the outer ring is connected to the distribution device shell and the inner ring is connected to the connecting tube, so that the bearing facilitates the rotation of the connecting tube relative to the distribution device shell.

6. The evaporator of claim 4, wherein: the distribution device shell comprises a mounting groove in which the bearing is accommodated; wherein the distribution device further comprises a retaining piece connected to the distribution device shell to retain the bearing in the mounting groove. ​ 7. The evaporator according to claim 3, wherein: each of the distribution devices comprises a guide vane disposed inside the connecting pipe, the guide vane being disposed to extend in a spiral shape to guide a flow direction of the refrigerant when the refrigerant flows through the guide vane, thereby generating a driving force to drive the connecting pipe to rotate.

8. The evaporator according to claim 1, wherein: the distribution member is in a long tube shape, and the at least one jet port comprises a pair of jet ports, one pair of jet ports being disposed on each of a pair of side walls of the distribution member and being located at both ends in a length direction of the distribution member.

9. The evaporator according to claim 2, wherein: a bottom wall of the distribution member is in a circular arc shape, and the plurality of distribution ports are disposed on opposite sides of the bottom wall, the distribution ports being disposed to jet at least a portion of the refrigerant toward the annular enclosure to generate an acting force to drive the distribution member to rotate.

10. The evaporator according to claim 3, wherein: the distribution member further comprises a driving motor, and an outer surface of the connecting pipe is provided with a tooth to engage with the driving motor, wherein the driving motor is disposed to provide a driving force to drive the connecting pipe to rotate.

11. The evaporator according to claim 3, wherein: the distribution member is in a long tube shape, and each of the connecting pipes is connected to a middle portion of the distribution member, wherein the distribution member rotates with the connecting pipes as a rotation axis.

12. The evaporator according to claim 11, wherein: in a length direction of the distribution member, a size of the distribution member gradually decreases from the middle portion to both ends.

13. The evaporator according to claim 2, wherein: each of the distribution members further comprises a plurality of blocking members, the blocking members being disposed in the distribution cavity in a length direction of the distribution member.

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