Condensing heat exchanger, condensing heat exchange system, water heater and heat exchange control method

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of household appliances, and discloses a condensing heat exchanger, a condensing heat exchange system, a water heater and a heat exchange control method. The condensing heat exchanger, the condensing heat exchange system, the water heater and the heat exchange control method can improve the thermal efficiency of a conventional gas water heater, are convenient to install, have low modification cost and do not affect the normal use of a gas heating and heating device. The condensing heat exchanger comprises a body, a heat exchange mechanism, a connecting mechanism and a smoke guide mechanism. The bottom of the body is provided with a body smoke inlet, and the top of the body is provided with a body smoke outlet. The heat exchange mechanism and the smoke guide mechanism are arranged in the body. The heat exchange mechanism is used for heat exchange of a cold medium flowing in the heat exchange mechanism. The connecting mechanism is arranged at the body smoke inlet. The body smoke inlet is detachably and sealingly connected with the outlet of a smoke discharge mechanism of the gas heating and heating device through the connecting mechanism. The smoke guide mechanism is located between the body smoke inlet and the body smoke outlet, is used for changing the flow direction of the smoke in the body, prolonging the convection path of the high-temperature smoke and improving the heat exchange efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, specifically to a condensing heat exchanger, a condensing heat exchange system, a water heater, and a heat exchange control method. Background Technology

[0002] A gas water heater is a common household water heating device. It works by using gas as fuel, burning it to heat water, and then transferring that heat to cold water flowing through a heat exchanger. During operation, the combustion of gas produces a lot of exhaust gases. These gases need to be exhausted outdoors or into a shared flue through a flue pipe to prevent indoor air pollution and ensure personal safety. However, the exhaust gases contain heat, and directly releasing them to the outside causes heat loss, which is detrimental to energy conservation and environmental protection, and also affects the thermal efficiency of the gas water heater.

[0003] To address this, a condensing gas water heater has emerged. This type of water heater absorbs the latent heat from high-temperature flue gas through a built-in condensing heat exchanger, offering advantages such as high thermal efficiency and energy conservation. However, for users already using conventional gas water heaters, the only way to save energy and improve thermal efficiency is to replace the entire water heater. This is costly, complicated, and disruptive to daily use, causing significant inconvenience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a condensing heat exchanger, a condensing heat exchange system, a water heater, and a heat exchange control method to solve the problem that if the thermal efficiency of a conventional gas water heater is to be improved, the entire unit must be replaced, which is costly, cumbersome, and affects normal use.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a condensing heat exchanger, comprising:

[0006] The main body has a smoke inlet at the bottom and a smoke outlet at the top.

[0007] A heat exchange mechanism is disposed within the body, and the heat exchange mechanism is used to exchange heat with the cold medium flowing inside it;

[0008] A connecting mechanism is provided at the smoke inlet of the main body, and the smoke inlet of the main body is detachably and sealedly connected to the exhaust outlet of the gas heating equipment through the connecting mechanism.

[0009] A smoke guiding mechanism is disposed within the main body and is located between the main body smoke inlet and the main body smoke outlet. The smoke guiding mechanism is used to change the flow direction of the smoke entering the main body from the main body smoke inlet.

[0010] Beneficial Effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention includes a body, a heat exchange mechanism, a connecting mechanism, and a flue gas guiding mechanism. The body has a flue gas inlet at the bottom and a flue gas outlet at the top. The flue gas inlet is detachably and sealed to the outlet of the flue gas exhaust mechanism of a gas-fired heating system via the connecting mechanism. The flue gas outlet of the condensing heat exchanger is located at the top of the body and connects to the flue gas pipe assembly of a conventional water heater. Furthermore, the body has a flue gas inlet at the bottom, which also has a connecting mechanism, facilitating the installation and connection of the condensing heat exchanger to the outlet of the flue gas exhaust mechanism of a conventional gas-fired water heater. This allows for easy modification of conventional gas-fired water heaters by adding a condensing heat exchanger, thereby improving the thermal efficiency of the conventional gas-fired water heater, saving energy, and is simple to operate without affecting normal user operation. In addition, the condensing heat exchanger of the present invention also has a flue gas guiding mechanism. The flue gas discharged from the gas heating equipment enters the condensing heat exchanger body from bottom to top. The flue gas guiding mechanism can change the flow direction of the flue gas entering the body from the flue gas inlet, increase the path length of the flue gas in the body, and increase the heat exchange time between the flue gas and the cold medium in the heat exchange mechanism, thereby realizing the full utilization of the heat energy of the high-temperature flue gas and further improving the thermal efficiency.

[0011] In one alternative implementation, the smoke guiding mechanism is positioned close to the smoke inlet of the main body.

[0012] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention, by setting the flue gas guiding mechanism close to the flue gas inlet of the main body, allows the flue gas to be guided by the flue gas guiding mechanism as soon as it enters the main body from the flue gas inlet, changing the flow direction, increasing the path length of the flue gas in the main body, increasing the heat exchange time between the flue gas and the cold medium in the heat exchange mechanism, realizing the full utilization of the thermal energy of the high temperature flue gas, and further improving the thermal efficiency.

[0013] In one optional embodiment, the smoke guiding mechanism includes a smoke guiding inlet and a smoke guiding outlet, wherein the smoke guiding inlet is the same as the main body smoke inlet, and the smoke inlet direction of the main body smoke inlet is perpendicular to the smoke exhaust direction of the smoke guiding outlet.

[0014] Beneficial effects: In the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention, the direction of the flue gas inlet of the main body is perpendicular to the direction of the flue gas exhaust outlet, which allows the flow direction of the flue gas entering the main body from the flue gas inlet to be changed by nearly 90°, so that the flue gas flow path is maximized, the heat exchange is most complete, and the thermal efficiency is highest.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the smoke guiding mechanism further includes a smoke guiding cavity, the bottom of which is connected to the bottom of the main body, and the bottom of the smoke guiding cavity has a smoke guiding inlet, and the smoke guiding outlet is disposed on the side wall of the smoke guiding cavity.

[0016] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention includes a flue gas guiding mechanism and a flue gas guiding chamber. All flue gas entering the main body through the main body inlet needs to be guided before being discharged from the flue gas outlet. This can reliably guide all flue gas, ensure heat exchange efficiency, and avoid waste of flue gas heat energy.

[0017] In one optional embodiment, a portion of the heat exchange mechanism is disposed between the inner wall of the main body and the outer wall of the smoke guiding chamber.

[0018] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention has a space between the inner wall of the main body and the outer wall of the flue gas guiding chamber. By setting part of the heat exchange mechanism between the inner wall of the main body and the outer wall of the flue gas guiding chamber, the internal space of the main body is fully utilized, which is beneficial to the structural layout.

[0019] In one optional embodiment, a condensate draining mechanism is further included, which is disposed on the body and is used to drain the condensate generated during heat exchange within the body.

[0020] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention generates condensate during the heat exchange of the cold medium. The condensate discharge mechanism can promptly discharge the condensate generated during heat exchange within the body, preventing the condensate from accumulating within the body and affecting the subsequent heat exchange process of the cold medium.

[0021] In one optional embodiment, the condensate discharge mechanism includes a condensate discharge outlet, which is disposed on the side wall of the bottom of the body and communicates with the interior of the body. A water-guiding structure is provided at the bottom of the body near the condensate discharge outlet.

[0022] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention has a water-guiding structure at the bottom of the body near the condensate drain outlet, which can discharge the condensate more timely and smoothly.

[0023] In one alternative embodiment, the water intake structure includes a water intake slope that slopes downward from the side away from the condensate outlet toward the side closer to the condensate outlet.

[0024] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention includes a water inlet slope in its water inlet structure. This water inlet slope is inclined and set at the bottom of the main body, which can guide the condensate to the condensate outlet, so as to realize the timely and complete discharge of the condensate.

[0025] In one optional embodiment, the axial directions of the main body's smoke inlet and exhaust outlet are parallel, and the main body is further provided with a cold medium inlet and a cold medium outlet arranged in parallel axial directions, the axial directions of the cold medium inlet and the cold medium outlet being perpendicular to the axial directions of the main body's smoke inlet and exhaust outlet.

[0026] Beneficial effects: In the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention, the inlet and outlet of the flue gas are parallel to each other, so that the flue gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside. In addition, the inlet and outlet of the cold medium are perpendicular to the inlet and outlet of the main body, so as to avoid interference of the pipeline structure and facilitate pipeline connection.

[0027] In one alternative embodiment, the connecting mechanism is a plug-in connecting mechanism, a clamp connecting mechanism, or a spiral connecting mechanism.

[0028] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention has a plug-in connection mechanism, a clamp connection mechanism, or a spiral connection mechanism. The above connection mechanisms have simple structures, are easy to install and operate, and have good connection reliability.

[0029] In one alternative embodiment, the connecting mechanism includes a sealing component for sealing the gap between the body smoke inlet and the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet.

[0030] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention includes a sealing component in the connection mechanism to ensure the sealing between the flue gas inlet of the main body and the flue gas outlet of the gas heating equipment, so as to avoid leakage of high-temperature flue gas.

[0031] In one optional embodiment, a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism is further included, which is disposed on the body and is used to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism.

[0032] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention has a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism that can adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the actual operation of the gas heating equipment, so as to reduce the impact of the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism on water resistance and improve user comfort.

[0033] In one alternative implementation, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism adjusts the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism by changing the height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism.

[0034] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention uses a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism by changing the height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism. After entering the heat exchange mechanism, the cold medium will flow from the inlet end to the outlet end under the action of the water supply pressure from the tap water pipe, that is, it flows from top to bottom in the heat exchange mechanism of the present invention. The height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism determines the distance the cold medium flows in the heat exchange mechanism. The longer the distance the cold medium flows in the heat exchange mechanism, the greater the water resistance and the smaller the outlet flow rate, and vice versa. Adjusting the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism by changing the height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism is simple and the adjustment effect is significant.

[0035] In one optional embodiment, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism includes a first cold medium channel and a second cold medium channel disposed on the side wall of the body. The first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel correspond to different height positions of the heat exchange mechanism, and the two ends of the first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel are respectively connected to the cold medium inlet of the heat exchange mechanism and the body.

[0036] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention includes a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism comprising a first cold medium channel and a second cold medium channel disposed on the side wall of the main body. The cold medium can enter the heat exchange mechanism from the cold medium inlet through either the first or second cold medium channel. Since the first and second cold medium channels correspond to different height positions of the heat exchange mechanism, that is, the first and second cold medium channels correspond to different effective heat exchange paths of the heat exchange mechanism, the effective heat exchange path can be adjusted. This heat exchange level adjustment mechanism has a simple structure, is easy to implement, and has low manufacturing cost.

[0037] In one optional embodiment, the first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel of the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism are arranged sequentially from top to bottom along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism. The first cold medium channel corresponds to the first level heat exchange of the condensing heat exchanger, and the second cold medium channel corresponds to the second level heat exchange of the condensing heat exchanger.

[0038] In one optional embodiment, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism further includes a channel switch structure, which is disposed at the channel inlet of the first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel, and is used to control the opening / closing of the first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel.

[0039] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchanger of the present invention further includes a channel switch structure in the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism. The channel switch structure is used to control the opening / closing of the first cold medium channel and the second cold medium channel. This heat exchange level adjustment mechanism has a reliable structure.

[0040] In one optional embodiment, the channel switch structure includes a channel switching component, wherein when the channel switching component opens the first cold medium channel, the second cold medium channel is closed, and when the channel switching component opens the second cold medium channel, the first cold medium channel is closed.

[0041] Beneficial effects: In the condensing heat exchanger of the present invention, when the channel switching component opens the first cold medium channel, the second cold medium channel is closed, and when the channel switching component opens the second cold medium channel, the first cold medium channel is closed. This heat exchange level adjustment mechanism has a simple and reliable structure.

[0042] In one optional embodiment, the channel switching component is movably disposed along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism between the channel inlet of the first cold medium channel and the cold medium inlet.

[0043] Beneficial effects: In the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention, the channel switching component is movably disposed along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism between the channel inlet of the first cold medium channel and the cold medium inlet. This heat exchange level adjustment mechanism has a simple and reliable structure and is easy to implement.

[0044] In one optional embodiment, a temperature detection device is further included, which is disposed on the body and is used to detect the flue gas temperature inside the body.

[0045] Beneficial effects: The condenser heat exchanger of the present invention can detect the temperature of the flue gas inside the body through a temperature detection device, providing a basis for subsequent control of the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism.

[0046] Secondly, the present invention also provides a condensation heat exchange system, comprising:

[0047] Cold medium flow detection device;

[0048] Such as the condensing heat exchanger mentioned above;

[0049] The controller has its signal input terminal connected to the signal output terminal of the cold medium flow detection device, and its signal output terminal connected to the signal input terminal of the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism of the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchanger based on the cold medium flow detected by the cold medium flow detection device.

[0050] Beneficial effects: The condensing heat exchange system of the present invention can adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the actual operating conditions of the gas heating equipment, i.e., the cold medium flow rate. When the cold medium flow rate is small, the user experience is poor. At this time, the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism is reduced to reduce water resistance and the impact of the condensing heat exchange process on the cold medium flow rate, thereby improving the user experience. When the cold medium flow rate is large, the user experience can be guaranteed. At this time, the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism is increased (or the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism is kept large) to improve heat exchange efficiency, make full use of flue gas temperature, and save energy.

[0051] In one optional embodiment, the signal input terminal of the controller is also connected to the signal output terminal of the temperature detection device in the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the flow rate of the cold medium and the flue gas temperature detected by the temperature detection device.

[0052] Beneficial Effects: The condensing heat exchange system of this invention obtains the flue gas temperature inside the condensing heat exchanger through a temperature detection device. The controller can adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the cold medium flow rate and the flue gas temperature. On the one hand, when the cold medium flow rate is small, the user experience is poor. In this case, reducing the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism reduces water resistance and the impact of the condensing heat exchange process on the cold medium flow rate, thus improving the user experience. On the other hand, when the cold medium flow rate is large, the user experience is guaranteed. In this case, increasing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism (or maintaining a larger effective path) improves heat exchange efficiency, fully utilizes the flue gas temperature, and saves energy. On the other hand, when the flue gas temperature is high, the flue gas contains more heat energy. In this case, increasing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism (or maintaining a larger effective path) improves heat exchange efficiency, fully utilizes the flue gas temperature, and saves energy. On the other hand, when the flue gas temperature is low, the flue gas contains less heat energy. In this case, reducing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism can reduce water resistance and improve the user experience while ensuring full utilization of the flue gas heat energy.

[0053] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a water heater, comprising:

[0054] case;

[0055] The smoke extraction mechanism is disposed within the housing;

[0056] The condensate heat exchanger or the condensate heat exchange system described above is installed in the shell. The inlet of the condensate heat exchanger body and the outlet of the exhaust mechanism in the condensate heat exchange system are detachably and sealed. The exhaust port of the condensate heat exchanger body is connected to the outside.

[0057] A cold water inlet mechanism is provided on the housing, and the outlet end of the cold water inlet mechanism is connected to the cold medium inlet of the condenser heat exchanger.

[0058] The main heat exchanger is located inside the shell, and its water inlet is connected to the cold medium outlet of the condenser heat exchanger.

[0059] Beneficial effects: The water heater of the present invention includes the above-mentioned condensing heat exchange system and has the same beneficial effects as the above-mentioned condensing heat exchange system, so it will not be described in detail here.

[0060] Fourthly, the present invention also provides a heat exchange control method applied to the condensation heat exchange system described above, the heat exchange control method comprising:

[0061] start up;

[0062] The condenser heat exchanger is in the first heat exchange position.

[0063] Obtain the flow rate q of the cold medium;

[0064] Determine whether the cold medium flow rate q is greater than the preset cold medium flow rate q0;

[0065] If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting;

[0066] If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

[0067] Beneficial effects: The heat exchange control method of the present invention, when applied to the above-mentioned water heater, has the same beneficial effects as the above-mentioned water heater, so it will not be described in detail here.

[0068] In one optional implementation, after the step of maintaining the first heat exchange position if so, the method further includes:

[0069] Obtain the flue gas temperature t inside the body of the condenser heat exchanger;

[0070] Determine whether the flue gas temperature t is greater than the preset flue gas temperature t0;

[0071] If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting;

[0072] If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

[0073] Beneficial Effects: The heat exchange control method of the present invention has several advantages. On the one hand, when the flow rate of the cold medium is low, the user experience is poor. In this case, reducing the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism reduces water resistance and the impact of the condensation heat exchange process on the flow rate of the cold medium, thus improving the user experience. On the other hand, when the flow rate of the cold medium is high, the user experience can be guaranteed. In this case, increasing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism (or maintaining a larger effective path) improves heat exchange efficiency, fully utilizes the flue gas temperature, and saves energy. On the other hand, when the flue gas temperature is high, the flue gas contains more heat energy. In this case, increasing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism (or maintaining a larger effective path) improves heat exchange efficiency, fully utilizes the flue gas temperature, and saves energy. On the other hand, when the flue gas temperature is low, the flue gas contains less heat energy. In this case, reducing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism can reduce water resistance and improve the user experience while ensuring full utilization of the flue gas heat energy. Attached Figure Description

[0074] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0075] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the condenser heat exchanger of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water heater of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the heat exchange control method of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 6 This is an overall schematic diagram of a condenser heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of a condenser heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0082] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a condensing heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0083] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a condensing heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0084] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a water heater according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0086] 1. Main body; 101. Main body smoke inlet; 102. Main body smoke outlet; 103. Cold medium inlet; 104. Cold medium outlet; 105. First cold medium channel; 106. Second cold medium channel; 107. Smoke exhaust stack;

[0087] 108. Cover plate; 109. First mounting protrusion; 110. Second mounting protrusion; 111. Mounting buckle plate; 112. Mounting groove; 113. Body protrusion; 114. Sealing groove;

[0088] 201. Smoke guide and exhaust port; 202. Smoke guide cavity; 203. Limiting rib;

[0089] 301. Condensate drain outlet; 302. Water inlet slope; 303. Condensate outlet connector;

[0090] 4. Sealing component; 401. Sealing surface; 402. Assembly groove; 403. Outer wall of sealing component;

[0091] 5. Electric two-way valve; 501. Channel switching component; 502. Movement slot; 503. Water inlet slot;

[0092] 6. Shell;

[0093] 7. Main heat exchanger;

[0094] 8. Smoke exhaust pipe assembly;

[0095] 9. Cold water inlet pipe;

[0096] 10. Cold water outlet pipe;

[0097] 11. Domestic hot water outlet pipes;

[0098] 12. Condensate drain pipe;

[0099] 13. Gas pipelines;

[0100] 14. Heat exchanger coil;

[0101] 15. Temperature detection device. Detailed Implementation

[0102] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0103] Conventional gas water heaters have their exhaust outlet directly connected to the exhaust pipe assembly. High-temperature flue gas is discharged outdoors or into a public flue through the exhaust pipe assembly. Since high-temperature flue gas has high thermal energy, directly discharging it will result in a waste of thermal energy.

[0104] Condensing heat exchangers are generally installed inside gas water heaters, forming condensing gas water heater products. Users already using conventional gas water heaters who want to save energy and improve thermal efficiency must replace their entire water heater with a condensing one. This replacement is costly, complicated, and can disrupt normal use.

[0105] Based on this, the present invention proposes a condensing heat exchanger, a condensing heat exchange system, a water heater, and a heat exchange control method.

[0106] The following is combined with Figures 1-10 This describes embodiments of the condensing heat exchanger, condensing heat exchange system, water heater, and heat exchange control method of the present invention.

[0107] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first aspect, a condensing heat exchanger is provided, comprising: a body 1, a heat exchange mechanism, a connecting mechanism, and a smoke guiding mechanism. The body 1 has a body smoke inlet 101 at its bottom and a body smoke outlet 102 at its top. The heat exchange mechanism is disposed within the body 1 and is used to exchange heat with the cold medium flowing inside it. The connecting mechanism is disposed at the body smoke inlet 101, and the body smoke inlet 101 is detachably and sealingly connected to the outlet of the smoke exhaust mechanism of a gas-fired heating device through the connecting mechanism. The smoke guiding mechanism is disposed within the body 1 and is located between the body smoke inlet 101 and the body smoke outlet 102, and is used to change the flow direction of the flue gas entering the body 1 from the body smoke inlet 101.

[0108] The main body flue gas inlet 101 of this condensing heat exchanger is located at the bottom of the main body, and the main body flue gas inlet 101 has a connecting mechanism, which facilitates the installation and connection of the condensing heat exchanger with the exhaust outlet of the gas heating equipment (such as conventional gas water heater). It can easily realize the modification of conventional gas water heaters to add condensing heat exchangers, thereby improving the thermal efficiency of conventional gas water heaters, saving energy, and is easy to operate without affecting the normal use of users.

[0109] In addition, the condensing heat exchanger of the present invention also has a flue gas guiding mechanism. The flue gas discharged from the gas heating equipment enters the condensing heat exchanger body 1 from bottom to top. The flue gas guiding mechanism can change the flow direction of the flue gas entering the body from the flue gas inlet 101, increase the path length of the flue gas in the body 1, and increase the heat exchange time between the flue gas and the cold medium in the heat exchange mechanism, thereby realizing the full utilization of the heat energy of the high temperature flue gas and further improving the thermal efficiency.

[0110] The main body 1 serves as the load-bearing structure for both the internal and external components of the condensing water heater. It possesses a certain structural strength and is typically made of high-temperature and corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or equivalent plastics or aluminum alloys. The main body 1 contains an internal cavity for housing structures such as the heat exchange mechanism and the flue gas guiding mechanism.

[0111] In this embodiment, the main body 1 is a columnar structure, and the upper part of the main body 1 is a chimney 107, which is also a columnar structure. Specifically, the chimney 107 is a cylindrical structure, and the diameter of the upper part of the main body 1 is smaller than the diameter of the lower part, that is, the diameter of the chimney 107 is smaller than the diameter of the lower part of the main body 1.

[0112] The height and diameter of the lower half of the main body 1 and the exhaust pipe 107 can be set according to the usage requirements, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0113] Of course, in other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the body 1 and the exhaust pipe 107 perpendicular to the axial direction can be set as needed, such as triangle, rectangle, polygon, etc.

[0114] Specifically, the lower half of the main body 1 has an opening at the top, and the bottom of the exhaust pipe 107 has a cover plate 108. The cover plate 108 is arranged around the bottom of the exhaust pipe 107. The outer diameter of the cover plate 108 matches the inner diameter of the opening at the top of the lower half of the main body 1. The cover plate 108 is suitable for covering the opening at the top of the lower half of the main body 1.

[0115] The upper edge of the lower half of the body 1 is formed with a plurality of mounting grooves 112, which are spaced apart. Correspondingly, the outer edge of the cover plate 108 has a plurality of first mounting protrusions 109, which are spaced apart. The positions of the mounting grooves 112 and the first mounting protrusions 109 correspond one-to-one. The first mounting protrusions 109 are suitable for insertion into the mounting grooves 112 to realize the installation of the cover plate 108 and the lower half of the body 1.

[0116] The body 1 has a body smoke inlet 101 at the bottom and a body smoke outlet 102 at the top. Smoke is suitable for entering the body 1 through the body smoke inlet 101 and then exiting through the body smoke outlet 102. The flow direction of the smoke is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As indicated by arrows B and B', the main body smoke inlet 101 is formed by the exhaust pipe 107, and the internal cavity of the main body 1 communicates with the outside through the main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body exhaust outlet 102. The inner diameters of the main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body exhaust outlet 102 can be the same or different, but to ensure smooth smoke discharge, the inner diameters of the main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body exhaust outlet 102 should be relatively close. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the main body smoke inlet 101 is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the main body exhaust outlet 102. The main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body exhaust outlet 102 are arranged parallel to each other axially, preferably, the axial directions of the main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body exhaust outlet 102 coincide.

[0117] The main body 1 is also provided with an axially parallel cold medium inlet 103 and a cold medium outlet 104. Both the cold medium inlet 103 and the cold medium outlet 104 are connected to the heat exchange mechanism. The cold medium is suitable to enter the heat exchange mechanism from the cold medium inlet 103, exchange heat with the high-temperature flue gas, and then flow out from the cold medium outlet 104. The flow direction of the cold medium is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As indicated by the middle arrows A and A'. In this embodiment, the cooling medium is cold water, specifically tap water.

[0118] In this embodiment, the cold medium inlet 103 and the cold medium outlet 104 are disposed on the side wall of the body 1. Specifically, the side wall of the body 1 is formed with a U-shaped notch, the upper end of which is open, and the outer wall of which protrudes from the side wall of the body 1, forming a body protrusion 113. A sealing groove 114 is formed between the body protrusion 113 and the side wall of the body 1. The mounting plate 111 is adapted to be inserted into the sealing groove 114. Both the cold medium inlet 103 and the cold medium outlet 104 are disposed on the mounting plate 111. The mounting plate 111 is adapted to be inserted into the sealing groove 114 for tight installation to prevent flue gas leakage.

[0119] The outer edge of the cover plate 108 also has a second mounting protrusion 110, the size of which matches the size of the upper opening of the U-shaped notch. The second mounting protrusion 110 can seal the upper opening of the U-shaped notch to prevent flue gas leakage.

[0120] The axial directions of the cold medium inlet 103 and the cold medium outlet 104 are perpendicular to the axial directions of the main body smoke inlet 101 and the main body smoke outlet 102. The above structure makes full use of the space on the main body 1, avoids mutual interference of connecting pipes, and facilitates the layout of the pipe structure.

[0121] The heat exchange mechanism is used to exchange heat with the cold medium flowing inside it, that is, to use the heat energy contained in the flue gas to exchange heat with the cold water flowing inside it.

[0122] Furthermore, the heat exchange mechanism includes a heat exchange coil 14, which is spirally wound inside the body 1. The heat exchange coil 14 is a pipe structure with a certain inner diameter, and its interior is suitable for the flow of fluids such as water. The specific inner diameter of the heat exchange coil 14 can be selected and set according to actual usage needs, and this embodiment does not limit it. The axial direction of the heat exchange coil 14, i.e., its height direction, is parallel to or coincides with the axial direction of the body 1.

[0123] In addition, for ease of molding and installation, the heat exchange coil 14 is preferably made of a metal material, such as stainless steel. The heat exchange coil 14 is spirally wound, and the spiral direction of the heat exchange coil 14 can be either counterclockwise or clockwise; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0124] Each spiral winding of the heat exchange coil 14 forms one coil, and several coils are arranged side by side. Preferably, adjacent coils are arranged side by side and closely together to make the structure of the heat exchange coil 14 more compact.

[0125] The shape of each coil can be circular, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, etc., and can be selected according to usage requirements and installation space. In this embodiment, for ease of processing and subsequent installation and connection, the coil is circular, that is, the cross-sectional shape of the formed heat exchange component perpendicular to the axial direction is circular.

[0126] Furthermore, for ease of structural design, the diameter of the heat exchange coil 14 should be smaller than the inner diameter of the body 1, meaning there should be a certain distance between the heat exchange coil 14 and the inner wall of the body 1 to provide space for the high-temperature flue gas and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the high-temperature flue gas. Additionally, the height of the heat exchange mechanism should be less than the height of the body 1 so that the heat exchange mechanism can be placed inside the body 1.

[0127] The heat exchange coil 14 has an inlet pipe end and an outlet pipe end. The inlet pipe end is connected to the cold medium inlet 103, and the outlet pipe end is connected to the cold medium outlet 104.

[0128] The connecting mechanism is used to realize the detachable and sealed connection between the condensing heat exchanger and the gas heating equipment, that is, the main body flue gas inlet 101 is detachably and sealed to the flue gas outlet of the gas heating equipment through the connecting mechanism.

[0129] Furthermore, the connection mechanism can be a plug-in connection mechanism, a clamp connection mechanism, or a spiral connection mechanism. In this embodiment, the connection mechanism is a plug-in connection mechanism, that is, the main body smoke inlet 101 is plugged into the exhaust outlet of the gas heating equipment, and the diameter of the main body smoke inlet 101 matches the diameter of the exhaust outlet.

[0130] Furthermore, the connecting mechanism includes a sealing component 4, which is used to seal the gap between the main body smoke inlet 101 and the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet to ensure the sealing between the main body smoke inlet 101 and the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet, so as to avoid high-temperature flue gas leakage.

[0131] Specifically, the sealing component 4 uses a sealing ring and includes a sealing surface 401, an assembly groove 402, and an outer wall 403. The upper end of the assembly groove 402 is open, and the lower edge of the body 1 (the edge of the body's smoke inlet 101) is inserted into the assembly groove 402. The outer wall 403 of the sealing component is placed on the outer wall of the body 1 and protrudes from the outer wall of the body 1, thereby realizing the installation of the sealing component 4 and the body 1. When the body's smoke inlet 101 is inserted into the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet, the sealing surface 401 contacts the outer wall of the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet to ensure the sealing between the body's smoke inlet 101 and the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet and prevent smoke leakage.

[0132] Furthermore, the smoke guiding mechanism is positioned close to the smoke inlet 101 of the main body, so that the flue gas is guided by the smoke guiding mechanism as soon as it enters the main body 1 from the smoke inlet 101, changing the flow direction, increasing the path length of the flue gas in the main body 1, increasing the heat exchange time between the flue gas and the cold medium in the heat exchange mechanism, realizing the full utilization of the thermal energy of the high-temperature flue gas, and further improving the thermal efficiency.

[0133] The smoke guiding mechanism includes a smoke inlet and a smoke outlet 201. The smoke inlet 101 of the main body is perpendicular to the smoke outlet 201, which makes the flow direction of the flue gas entering the main body 1 from the smoke inlet 101 change by nearly 90°, so that the flue gas flow path is maximized, the heat exchange is most sufficient, and the thermal efficiency is highest.

[0134] Furthermore, the smoke guiding mechanism includes a smoke guiding cavity 202, which is a columnar structure, preferably a cylindrical structure, and the radial dimension of the smoke guiding cavity 202 is smaller than the inner diameter of the body 1. In this embodiment, the axial direction of the smoke guiding cavity 202 is parallel to the axial direction of the body 1, preferably overlapping.

[0135] Specifically, the bottom of the smoke guiding cavity 202 is connected to the bottom of the main body 1, and the bottom of the smoke guiding cavity 202 has a smoke guiding inlet and a smoke guiding outlet 201 is provided on the side wall of the smoke guiding cavity 202. The smoke guiding inlet is the same as the main body smoke inlet 101. The smoke guiding outlet 201 is provided near the top of the smoke guiding cavity 202. In this embodiment, four smoke guiding outlets 201 are provided. The four smoke guiding outlets 201 are evenly spaced along the circumference on the side wall of the smoke guiding cavity 202, and the four smoke guiding outlets 201 are arranged opposite each other in pairs.

[0136] The flue gas enters the flue gas chamber 202 from the flue gas inlet, and then enters the space between the outer wall of the flue gas chamber 202 and the inner wall of the main body 1 from the flue gas outlet 201. The flue gas then continues to flow upward and finally exits the main body 1 from the main body outlet 102.

[0137] A limiting rib 203 is provided on the inner wall of the smoke guiding cavity 202. The limiting rib 203 is arranged in a ring along the inner wall of the smoke guiding cavity 202 and protrudes from the inner wall of the smoke guiding cavity. After the outlet of the smoke exhaust mechanism of the gas heating equipment is inserted into the smoke inlet 101 of the main body, the top of the outlet of the smoke exhaust mechanism abuts against the limiting rib 203 and is inserted into place, preventing the top of the outlet of the smoke exhaust mechanism from being inserted too far and blocking the smoke guiding and exhaust port 201, thus affecting the emission of flue gas.

[0138] Furthermore, a portion of the heat exchange mechanism is positioned between the inner wall of the main body 1 and the outer wall of the smoke guiding chamber 202. Since there is a space between the inner wall of the main body 1 and the outer wall of the smoke guiding chamber 202, positioning a portion of the heat exchange mechanism between these two spaces allows for full utilization of the internal space of the main body 1, which is beneficial for structural layout. Moreover, to ensure the smooth flow of flue gas within the main body 1, uniform heat exchange of the cooling medium, and easy drainage of condensate, the bottom of the heat exchange mechanism does not contact the bottom of the main body 1.

[0139] Furthermore, the condensate heat exchanger in this embodiment also includes a condensate discharge mechanism. The condensate discharge mechanism is disposed on the body 1. The condensate discharge mechanism is used to discharge the condensate generated by heat exchange in the body 1, so as to avoid the accumulation of condensate in the body 1 and affect the heat exchange process of the subsequent cold medium. In addition, since the condensate is acidic water, the timely discharge of condensate from the body 1 can reduce the corrosion of the internal structure of the body 1 by the acidic condensate and extend its service life.

[0140] During the heat exchange process, condensate will be generated on the outer wall of the heat exchange coil 14 of the heat exchange mechanism. The condensate will be collected and discharged through the condensate discharge mechanism. There is a portion of the heat exchange coil 14 structure above the flue gas chamber 202, and the top of the flue gas chamber 202 is closed to prevent condensate from dripping into the flue gas chamber 202, so as not to affect the normal operation of the gas water heater and cause corrosion.

[0141] Furthermore, the condensate drainage mechanism includes a condensate drain outlet 301, which is located on the side wall of the bottom of the main body 1 and communicates with the interior of the main body 1. A water guiding structure is provided at the bottom of the main body 1 near the condensate drain outlet 301. By providing the water guiding structure, the condensate can be drained from the main body more promptly and smoothly.

[0142] In order to ensure that the condensate drains smoothly and does not flow down the outer wall of the main body 1, a condensate outlet connector 303 is inserted at the condensate outlet 301.

[0143] Furthermore, the water diversion structure includes a water diversion slope 302, which slopes downwards from the side away from the condensate drain outlet 301 toward the side closer to the condensate drain outlet 301. This inclined water diversion slope is located at the bottom of the main body 1, which can guide the condensate to the condensate drain outlet 301, so as to achieve timely and complete discharge of the condensate.

[0144] Furthermore, the condenser heat exchanger in this embodiment also includes a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism, which is disposed on the main body 1 and is used to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism.

[0145] The effective heat exchange path of a heat exchange mechanism refers to the actual flow path of the cold medium (such as cold water) within the heat exchange mechanism. With a constant water flow velocity, a longer effective heat exchange path results in a longer heat exchange time for the cold water within the mechanism, allowing for more thorough heat exchange with the flue gas. Correspondingly, this leads to greater pipe resistance. Conversely, a shorter effective heat exchange path results in a shorter heat exchange time for the cold water within the mechanism, leading to less thorough heat exchange with the flue gas. Correspondingly, this leads to lower pipe resistance.

[0146] Furthermore, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism adjusts the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism by changing the height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism.

[0147] After entering the heat exchanger, the cold medium flows downwards due to gravity. The height at which the cold medium enters the heat exchanger determines the distance it travels within the heat exchanger. A longer travel distance results in more efficient heat exchange, greater water resistance, and a smaller outlet flow rate, and vice versa. Adjusting the height of the cold medium entering the heat exchanger regulates the effective heat exchange path; this method is simple and yields significant results.

[0148] Specifically, the heat exchange mechanism is formed by spirally winding heat exchange coils 14. Each coil is tightly arranged along the height direction (axial direction) of the heat exchange mechanism. Taking the heat exchange mechanism with five coils as an example, the five coils are arranged from bottom to top as the first coil, the second coil, the third coil, the fourth coil, and the fifth coil. With a constant water flow velocity, compared to cold water flowing through all five layers of coils sequentially (the fifth, fourth, third, second, and first layers of coils), the effective heat exchange path is shorter when cold water flows through the bottom three layers of coils (the third layer, second layer, and first layer of coils in sequence). This results in less efficient heat exchange between the cold water and the flue gas, and consequently, lower pipe resistance. Conversely, the effective heat exchange path is longer when cold water flows through all five layers of coils, allowing for more thorough heat exchange between the cold water and the flue gas, but also resulting in higher pipe resistance. Therefore, the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism can be easily adjusted by changing the height at which the cold medium enters the mechanism.

[0149] Furthermore, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism includes a first cold medium channel 105 and a second cold medium channel 106 disposed on the side wall of the main body 1. The first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 correspond to different height positions of the heat exchange mechanism, and the two ends of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are respectively connected to the heat exchange mechanism and the cold medium inlet 103 of the main body 1.

[0150] The first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are used to connect the heat exchange mechanism and the cold medium inlet 103 of the main body 1. The first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 can be straight channels or channels of other shapes, as long as they can connect the heat exchange mechanism and the cold medium inlet 103. When both the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are straight channels, their axes can be parallel or non-parallel.

[0151] In this embodiment, as Figure 2As shown, a first cold medium channel 105 and a second cold medium channel 106 are provided on the side wall of the main body 1. Both the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are straight channels and their axes are parallel. Both the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are perpendicular to the axis of the main body 1.

[0152] Furthermore, the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 are arranged sequentially from top to bottom along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism. The first cold medium channel 105 corresponds to the first heat exchange position (full position) of the condensing heat exchanger, and the second cold medium channel 106 corresponds to the second heat exchange position of the condensing heat exchanger.

[0153] In this embodiment, the first cold medium channel 105 is connected to the fifth layer coil of the heat exchange mechanism, and the second cold medium channel 106 is connected to the third layer coil of the heat exchange mechanism.

[0154] Furthermore, the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism also includes a channel switch structure, which is located at the channel inlet of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106. The channel switch structure is used to control the opening / closing of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106.

[0155] The channel switch structure is used to control the opening / closing of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106, thereby realizing the adjustment of the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism.

[0156] Furthermore, the channel switch structure includes a channel switching component 501. When the channel switching component 501 opens the first cold medium channel 105, the second cold medium channel 106 is closed; when the channel switching component 501 opens the second cold medium channel 106, the first cold medium channel 105 is closed. Additionally, the channel switching component 501 is movably disposed along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism between the channel inlets of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106 and the cold medium inlet 103.

[0157] In this embodiment, an electric two-way valve 5 is provided at the position of the cold medium inlet 103 on the side wall of the main body 1. The electric two-way valve 5 has a water inlet groove 503 inside, which is continuously connected to the cold medium inlet 103. The water inlet groove 503 is parallel to the axis of the first cold medium channel 105 and the second cold medium channel 106. The electric two-way valve 5 also has a sliding groove 502 inside, which is movable along the axis of the main body 1. The channel switching component 501 is disposed in the sliding groove 502. When the channel switching component 501 moves downward to the bottom of the sliding groove 502, the water inlet 503 is connected to the first cold medium channel 105, and the cold water entering the water inlet 503 from the cold medium inlet 103 enters the heat exchange mechanism through the first cold medium channel 105; when the channel switching component 501 moves upward to the top of the sliding groove 502, the water inlet 503 is connected to the second cold medium channel 106, and the cold water entering the water inlet 503 from the cold medium inlet 103 enters the heat exchange mechanism through the second cold medium channel 106, thereby realizing the adjustment of the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism.

[0158] Furthermore, the condenser heat exchanger in this embodiment also includes a temperature detection device 15, which is disposed on the main body 1 and is used to detect the flue gas temperature inside the main body 1.

[0159] In this embodiment, the temperature detection device 15 is disposed on the top of the body 1. The temperature detection device 15 adopts a temperature sensor, and the detection probe of the temperature detection device 15 is placed inside the body 1, which can detect the temperature of the flue gas inside the body 1.

[0160] This embodiment also provides a condensing heat exchange system, including: a cold medium flow detection device, the aforementioned condensing heat exchanger, and a controller. The cold medium flow detection device is used to detect the flow rate of the cold medium. The signal input terminal of the controller is connected to the signal output terminal of the cold medium flow detection device, and the signal output terminal of the controller is connected to the signal input terminal of the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism of the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchanger based on the cold medium flow rate detected by the cold medium flow detection device.

[0161] This condensing heat exchange system can adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the actual operating conditions of the gas heating equipment, i.e., the flow rate of the cold medium. When the flow rate of the cold medium is small, the user experience is poor. At this time, the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism is reduced to reduce water resistance and the impact of the condensing heat exchange process on the flow rate of the cold medium, thereby improving the user experience. When the flow rate of the cold medium is large, the user experience can be guaranteed. At this time, the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism is increased (or a larger effective path of the heat exchange mechanism is maintained) to improve heat exchange efficiency, make full use of flue gas temperature, and save energy.

[0162] In this embodiment, the cold medium flow detection device is a water flow sensor, which is installed in a gas-fired heating equipment (such as a gas water heater).

[0163] Furthermore, the signal input terminal of the controller is also connected to the signal output terminal of the temperature detection device 15 in the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the cold medium flow rate and the flue gas temperature detected by the temperature detection device 15.

[0164] The condensing heat exchange system in this embodiment can also adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the flue gas temperature in the condensing heat exchanger, that is, simultaneously considering both the cold medium flow rate and the flue gas temperature.

[0165] When the flue gas temperature is high, the flue gas contains more heat energy. At this time, increasing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism (or maintaining a larger effective path of the heat exchange mechanism) can improve heat exchange efficiency, make full use of the flue gas temperature, and save energy. When the flue gas temperature is low, the flue gas contains less heat energy. At this time, reducing the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism can reduce water resistance and improve user experience while ensuring full utilization of the flue gas heat energy.

[0166] like Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment also provides a water heater, including: a shell 6, a flue gas exhaust mechanism (fan), the aforementioned condensing heat exchange system, a cold water inlet mechanism, and a main heat exchanger 7. The flue gas exhaust mechanism is disposed inside the shell 6, and the condensing heat exchange system is disposed on the outside and above the shell 6. The main body flue gas inlet 101 of the condensing heat exchanger in the condensing heat exchange system is detachably and sealed to the outlet of the flue gas exhaust mechanism of the water heater. The main body flue gas inlet 102 of the condensing heat exchanger is connected to the outside. The cold water inlet mechanism is disposed in the shell 6, and the outlet end of the cold water inlet mechanism is connected to the cold medium inlet 103 of the condensing heat exchanger. The main heat exchanger 7 is disposed inside the shell 6, and the inlet end of the main heat exchanger is connected to the cold medium outlet 104 of the condensing heat exchanger.

[0167] Furthermore, the exhaust port 102 of the condensing heat exchanger is connected to the exhaust pipe assembly 8 to achieve communication with the outside world and discharge the flue gas after heat exchange.

[0168] In this embodiment, the water heater is specifically a gas water heater, which belongs to gas heating equipment. The shell 6 is the load-bearing structure of the water heater. The shell 6 has an internal space for housing. The shell 6 has the necessary structural components for the water heater inside and outside. The shell 6 has sufficient structural strength. The shell 6 is usually made of metal material. For aesthetic purposes, the shell 6 is usually rectangular.

[0169] The cold water inlet mechanism includes a cold water inlet pipe 9, the inlet end of which is connected to the tap water network, and the outlet end of which is connected to the cold medium inlet 103. Tap water (cold water) enters the heat exchange coil 14 from the cold water inlet pipe 9, thereby absorbing the heat from the high-temperature flue gas inside the condenser heat exchanger body 1, raising the water temperature. This process is an auxiliary heat exchange process.

[0170] The main heat exchanger 7 is located inside the water heater shell 6. The inlet of the main heat exchanger is connected to the cold medium outlet 104 via the cold water outlet pipe 10. The water that has undergone auxiliary heat exchange in the condenser heat exchanger flows to the main heat exchanger 7 through the cold water outlet pipe 10 to carry out the main heat exchange process, further increasing the water temperature to meet the user's needs. The heated water is then discharged through the domestic hot water outlet pipe 11 for user use.

[0171] Since the water entering the main heat exchanger 7 is no longer cold water, but warm water with a certain temperature, the main heat exchanger 7 can further increase the water temperature, which can greatly save heating time and improve heating efficiency. At the same time, by making full use of the heat energy of the high-temperature flue gas, it can achieve the purpose of saving energy.

[0172] The condensate generated during the auxiliary heat exchange process enters the condensate outlet 303 from the condensate outlet 301 and is then discharged to a designated location, such as a sewer, through the condensate discharge pipe 12.

[0173] The housing 6 is also connected to a gas pipeline 13, which is connected to the burner of the water heater. Gas enters the burner for combustion. Since the process of using gas for main heat exchange is the same as that of existing technology, it will not be described in detail.

[0174] The exhaust system includes a fan. The exhaust gas (high-temperature flue gas) discharged from the main heat exchanger 7 is drawn out by the fan to the main body inlet 101 of the condensing heat exchanger, and then discharged to the outside from the main body exhaust outlet 102. The main body inlet 101 is detachably and sealed to the exhaust system outlet via a connecting mechanism, which facilitates the installation of a condensing heat exchanger on a conventional gas water heater. After installing the condensing heat exchanger of this embodiment, the conventional gas water heater has auxiliary heat exchange capabilities, which greatly improves heat exchange efficiency and achieves environmental protection and energy saving.

[0175] The controller is located inside the housing 6. The controller is also used to receive user commands and control the entire working process of the water heater.

[0176] The water heater is also equipped with a cold medium flow detection device, namely a water flow sensor, to detect the water flow.

[0177] like Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment also provides a heat exchange control method applied to the condensation heat exchange system described above. The heat exchange control method includes:

[0178] start up;

[0179] The condensing heat exchange system is started;

[0180] The condenser heat exchanger is in the first heat exchange position.

[0181] After startup, the condenser heat exchanger is initially set to the first heat exchange position to fully utilize the thermal energy of the high-temperature flue gas and improve heat exchange efficiency.

[0182] Obtain the flow rate q of the cold medium;

[0183] In this embodiment, the cold medium flow rate is the same as the water flow rate, which is usually affected by the water pressure of the municipal water supply network. The water flow rate can be detected by a cold medium flow rate detection device. When the water flow rate is high, the user experience is better; if the water flow rate is too low, it will affect the user experience.

[0184] Determine whether the cold medium flow rate q is greater than the preset cold medium flow rate q0;

[0185] If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting;

[0186] If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

[0187] In this embodiment, a preset cold medium flow rate q0 is set, preferably 5 L / min. It is then determined whether the cold medium flow rate q is greater than the preset cold medium flow rate q0. If the cold medium flow rate q is greater than the preset cold medium flow rate q0, it means the water flow is large, resulting in a better user experience, and the condenser heat exchanger can maintain its first heat exchange setting. If the cold medium flow rate q is less than or equal to the preset cold medium flow rate q0, it means the water flow is small, resulting in a poor user experience, and the condenser heat exchanger should switch to its second heat exchange setting to reduce water resistance and the impact of the heat exchange process on the water flow, thus improving the user experience.

[0188] Furthermore, following the above steps of maintaining the first heat exchange setting if the above applies, the process also includes:

[0189] Obtain the flue gas temperature t inside the main body 1 of the condenser heat exchanger;

[0190] The temperature of the flue gas entering the condenser heat exchanger body 1 is not constant. When the flue gas temperature is high, it contains more heat energy. At this time, the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism should be increased or a longer effective heat exchange path should be maintained to improve the heat exchange efficiency. When the flue gas temperature is low, it contains less heat energy. At this time, the effective path of the heat exchange mechanism should be reduced to reduce water resistance and improve the user experience while ensuring full utilization of the flue gas heat energy.

[0191] Determine whether the flue gas temperature t is greater than the preset flue gas temperature t0;

[0192] If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting;

[0193] If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

[0194] In this embodiment, a preset flue gas temperature t0 is set, preferably 60°C. It is then determined whether the flue gas temperature t is greater than the preset flue gas temperature t0. If the flue gas temperature t is greater than the preset flue gas temperature t0, it means the flue gas temperature is high. In this case, the first heat exchange setting should be maintained to fully utilize the heat energy of the flue gas and improve heat exchange efficiency. Conversely, when the flue gas temperature t is less than or equal to the preset flue gas temperature t0, the heat energy contained is less, and the cold water does not need to flow a long distance in the heat exchange mechanism to absorb the flue gas temperature. This means the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism is not long enough. In this case, switching to the second heat exchange setting can reduce water resistance and improve the user experience.

[0195] like Figures 6-10 The diagram shows a condensing heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. The difference between the condensing heat exchanger in this embodiment and the previous embodiment is that the condensing heat exchanger in this embodiment does not have a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism. The cold medium inlet 103 is directly connected to the heat exchange mechanism, and the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism is fixed and cannot be adjusted.

[0196] Because the water flow in some communities' tap water networks is large and relatively stable, there is no need to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism to ensure user comfort and experience. Furthermore, the absence of a heat exchange level adjustment mechanism in the condensing heat exchanger reduces the data processing load on the controller, lowers control complexity, and helps reduce costs.

[0197] In this embodiment, the main body flue gas inlet 101 of the condensing heat exchanger is located at the bottom of the main body 1, and the main body flue gas inlet 101 has a connecting mechanism, which facilitates the installation and connection of the condensing heat exchanger with the exhaust outlet of a conventional gas water heater. This allows for the easy modification of conventional gas water heaters by adding a condensing heat exchanger, thereby improving the thermal efficiency of conventional gas water heaters, saving energy, and is simple to operate without affecting normal use by users.

[0198] Similarly, this embodiment also provides a water heater, including a shell 6, a flue gas exhaust mechanism (fan), a condensate heat exchanger, a cold water inlet mechanism, and a main heat exchanger 7. The flue gas exhaust mechanism is disposed inside the shell 6, and the condensate heat exchange system is disposed above the shell 6. The main body flue gas inlet 101 of the condensate heat exchanger in the condensate heat exchange system is detachably and sealed to the outlet of the flue gas exhaust mechanism. The main body flue gas outlet 102 of the condensate heat exchanger is connected to the outside. The cold water inlet mechanism is disposed in the shell 6, and the outlet of the cold water inlet mechanism is connected to the cold medium inlet 103 of the condensate heat exchanger. The main heat exchanger 7 is disposed inside the shell 6, and the inlet of the main heat exchanger is connected to the cold medium outlet 104 of the condensate heat exchanger.

[0199] Furthermore, the exhaust port 102 of the condensing heat exchanger is connected to the exhaust pipe assembly 8 to achieve communication with the outside world and discharge the flue gas after heat exchange.

[0200] The water heater in this embodiment can fully utilize the heat from the exhaust high-temperature flue gas, resulting in high thermal efficiency and saving energy and operating costs.

[0201] In other embodiments, the gas-fired heating equipment may also be a gas-fired heating device, such as a wall-hung boiler.

[0202] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A condensation heat exchange system, characterized in that, include: Cold medium flow detection device; Condensing heat exchanger; The controller has its signal input terminal connected to the signal output terminal of the cold medium flow detection device, and its signal output terminal connected to the signal input terminal of the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism of the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchanger according to the cold medium flow detected by the cold medium flow detection device. The signal input terminal of the controller is also connected to the signal output terminal of the temperature detection device (15) in the condensing heat exchanger. The controller controls the heat exchange level adjustment mechanism to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism according to the cold medium flow rate and the flue gas temperature detected by the temperature detection device (15). Condensing heat exchangers include: The main body (1) has a main body smoke inlet (101) at the bottom and a main body smoke outlet (102) at the top. A heat exchange mechanism is disposed inside the body (1), and the heat exchange mechanism is used to exchange heat with the cold medium flowing inside it; A connecting mechanism is provided at the smoke inlet (101) of the main body, and the smoke inlet (101) of the main body is detachably and sealedly connected to the exhaust outlet of the gas heating equipment through the connecting mechanism; A smoke guiding mechanism is disposed within the main body (1) and is located between the smoke inlet (101) and the smoke outlet (102) of the main body. The smoke guiding mechanism is used to change the flow direction of the smoke entering the main body (1) from the smoke inlet (101). A heat exchange level adjustment mechanism is provided on the main body (1) and is used to adjust the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism.

2. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The smoke guiding mechanism is located near the smoke inlet (101) of the main body.

3. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The smoke guiding mechanism includes a smoke guiding inlet and a smoke guiding outlet (201). The smoke guiding inlet is the main body smoke inlet (101), and the smoke inlet direction of the main body smoke inlet (101) is perpendicular to the smoke exhaust direction of the smoke guiding outlet (201).

4. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The smoke guiding mechanism also includes a smoke guiding cavity (202), the bottom of which is connected to the bottom of the main body (1), and the bottom of the smoke guiding cavity (202) has the smoke guiding inlet, and the smoke guiding outlet (201) is disposed on the side wall of the smoke guiding cavity (202).

5. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 4, characterized in that, Part of the heat exchange mechanism is located between the inner wall of the main body (1) and the outer wall of the smoke guiding chamber (202).

6. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a condensate draining mechanism, which is disposed on the body (1) and is used to drain the condensate generated by heat exchange inside the body (1).

7. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The condensate discharge mechanism includes a condensate discharge port (301), which is located on the side wall of the bottom of the body (1) and communicates with the interior of the body (1). A water intake structure is provided at the bottom of the body (1) near the condensate discharge port (301).

8. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water intake structure includes a water intake slope (302) that slopes downward from the side away from the condensate outlet (301) toward the side closer to the condensate outlet (301).

9. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body's smoke inlet (101) and the main body's smoke outlet (102) are parallel in axis. The main body (1) is also provided with a cold medium inlet (103) and a cold medium outlet (104) arranged in parallel in axis. The axes of the cold medium inlet (103) and the cold medium outlet (104) are perpendicular to the axes of the main body's smoke inlet (101) and the main body's smoke outlet (102).

10. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting mechanism is a plug-in connecting mechanism, a clamp connecting mechanism, or a spiral connecting mechanism.

11. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The connecting mechanism includes a sealing component (4) for sealing the gap between the main body smoke inlet (101) and the smoke exhaust mechanism outlet.

12. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange level adjustment mechanism adjusts the effective heat exchange path of the heat exchange mechanism by changing the height position of the cold medium entering the heat exchange mechanism.

13. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The heat exchange gear adjustment mechanism includes a first cold medium channel (105) and a second cold medium channel (106) disposed on the side wall of the main body (1). The first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106) correspond to different height positions of the heat exchange mechanism. The two ends of the first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106) are respectively connected to the heat exchange mechanism and the cold medium inlet (103) of the main body (1).

14. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106) are arranged sequentially from top to bottom along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism. The first cold medium channel (105) corresponds to the first heat exchange position of the condensing heat exchanger, and the second cold medium channel (106) corresponds to the second heat exchange position of the condensing heat exchanger.

15. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The heat exchange level adjustment mechanism also includes a channel switch structure, which is disposed at the channel entrance of the first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106). The channel switch structure is used to control the opening / closing of the first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106).

16. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The channel switch structure includes a channel switching component (501). When the channel switching component (501) opens the first cold medium channel (105), the second cold medium channel (106) is closed. When the channel switching component (501) opens the second cold medium channel (106), the first cold medium channel (105) is closed.

17. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The channel switching component (501) is movably disposed along the height direction of the heat exchange mechanism between the channel inlet of the first cold medium channel (105) and the second cold medium channel (106) and the cold medium inlet (103).

18. The condensation heat exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a temperature detection device (15), which is disposed on the body (1) and is used to detect the flue gas temperature inside the body (1).

19. A water heater, characterized in that, include: Casing (6); A smoke exhaust mechanism is disposed within the housing (6); The condensing heat exchange system as described in any one of claims 1-18 is provided in the shell (6), wherein the main body inlet (101) of the condensing heat exchanger is detachably and sealedly connected to the outlet of the exhaust mechanism, and the main body exhaust outlet (102) of the condensing heat exchanger is connected to the outside. A cold water inlet mechanism is provided on the housing (6), and the outlet end of the cold water inlet mechanism is connected to the cold medium inlet (103) of the condenser heat exchanger; The main heat exchanger (7) is located inside the shell (6), and the water inlet of the main heat exchanger is connected to the cold medium outlet (104) of the condenser heat exchanger.

20. A heat exchange control method, characterized in that, The heat exchange control method, applied to the condensation heat exchange system as described in claim 1, includes: start up; The condenser heat exchanger is in the first heat exchange position. Obtain the flow rate q of the cold medium; Determine whether the cold medium flow rate q is greater than the preset cold medium flow rate q0; If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting; If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

21. The heat exchange control method according to claim 20, characterized in that, If so, after the step of maintaining the heat exchange at the first gear position, the method further includes: Obtain the flue gas temperature t inside the body (1) of the condenser heat exchanger; Determine whether the flue gas temperature t is greater than the preset flue gas temperature t0; If so, maintain the first heat exchange setting; If not, switch to the second heat exchange setting.

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