Head member, heat exchanger unit, and method for manufacturing head member
By designing the header components and utilizing multiple step-by-step connected flow path components, the complexity of fluid flow path management in the heat exchanger is solved, and the effect of branching and converging fluids without mixing is achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380040574.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-05-19
- Filing Date
- 2023-02-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-21
AI Technical Summary
In a heat exchanger, it is necessary to manage the distribution and merging of the plurality of first and second heat transfer tubes simultaneously, and it is necessary to ensure that the flow paths of the first and second fluids do not intersect and realize branches or collections.
A header component is designed, which is installed at the end of the heat exchanger and uses multiple first flow paths and second flow paths to be connected step by step to ensure that the fluid branches or collections are not mixed. The header component includes a first external piping connection part, a first flow path part, a second external piping connection part and a second flow path part. Through the design of these components, the branching and merging of fluids are realized.
In the case of not mixed the first fluid and the second fluid, the complexity of the fluid flow management in the heat exchanger through a simple structure can be resolved by a simple structure.
Smart Images

Figure CN119343576A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a header component, a heat exchanger unit and a method for manufacturing the header component.
[0002] This application claims priority based on patent application No. 2022-082119 filed in Japan on May 19, 2022, and the contents are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art
[0003] Among heat exchangers, there is a heat exchanger in which a plurality of heat transfer tubes through which a fluid flows are arranged in an array. Patent Document 1 discloses a header structure of a heat exchanger having a distribution flow path that distributes a flow path from a refrigerant inlet toward a plurality of heat transfer tubes into a plurality of distribution flow paths.
[0004] Previous technical literature
[0005] Patent Literature
[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6840262 Summary of the invention
[0007] Technical issues to be solved by the invention
[0008] In a heat exchanger, there is a structure in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes through which a first fluid flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes through which a second fluid flows are bundled in an adjacent manner. In a heat exchanger of such a structure, in a header on the inflow side relative to the heat exchanger, the first fluid and the second fluid need to be distributed to each of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes. Furthermore, in a header on the outflow side from the heat exchanger, the first fluid and the second fluid flowing out of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes need to be merged, respectively. At this time, it is necessary not to cross the flow path of the first fluid and the flow path of the second fluid, but to branch or merge the flow path of the first fluid and the flow path of the second fluid, respectively.
[0009] The present invention provides a heat exchanger having a structure in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes can be arranged adjacent to each other, a header component that branches or gathers a first fluid and a second fluid with a simple structure without mixing them, a heat exchanger unit, and a method for manufacturing the header component.
[0010] Means for solving technical problems
[0011] The header component of the present invention is installed on a heat exchanger in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes through which a first fluid flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes through which a second fluid different from the first fluid flows are arranged adjacent to each other, and the header component comprises: a first external pipe connection portion, which is arranged at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger and can be connected to a first external pipe for supplying or discharging the first fluid relative to the heat exchanger; a first flow path portion, which is arranged between the ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes and the first external pipe connection portion; and a second external pipe connection portion, which is arranged at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger. And a second external piping capable of being connected to supply or discharge the second fluid relative to the heat exchanger; and a second flow path portion, arranged between the end portions of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes and the second external piping connection portion, the first flow path portion having a plurality of first flow paths respectively connected to the plurality of first heat transfer tubes, the plurality of first flow paths being sequentially connected step by step and connected to one first external piping connection portion, the second flow path portion having a plurality of second flow paths respectively connected to the plurality of second heat transfer tubes and formed independently of the plurality of first flow paths, the plurality of second flow paths being sequentially connected step by step and connected to one second external piping connection portion.
[0012] The heat exchanger unit according to the present invention comprises: a heat exchanger having a plurality of first heat transfer tubes through which a first fluid flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes through which a second fluid flows; and the above-mentioned header member disposed at at least one end of the heat exchanger.
[0013] The manufacturing method of the manifold component involved in the present invention is the manufacturing method of the manifold component as described above, which includes the following steps: obtaining the distribution information of the flow rate of the first fluid between the plurality of the first flow paths in the first flow path section and the distribution information of the flow rate of the second fluid between the plurality of the second flow paths in the second flow path section; determining the shapes of the first flow path and the second flow path in a manner that the flow path resistance becomes constant based on the obtained distribution information of the flow rate of the first fluid between the plurality of the first flow paths and the distribution information of the flow rate of the second fluid between the plurality of the second flow paths; forming the first flow path section and the second flow path section based on the determined shapes of the first flow path and the second flow path; forming the first external piping connection section and the second external piping connection section; and
[0014] The header member is manufactured by connecting the formed first external pipe connection portion, the first flow path portion, the second external pipe connection portion, and the second flow path portion.
[0015] Effects of the Invention
[0016] According to the header component, heat exchanger unit and header component manufacturing method of the present invention, a heat exchanger having a structure in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes are arranged adjacent to each other can branch or combine the first fluid and the second fluid without mixing them with a simple structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a heat exchanger unit including a header member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 AA section view.
[0019] Figure 3 It is a diagram schematically showing the layout of the first flow path of the first flow path section in the header member.
[0020] Figure 4 The figure schematically shows the layout of the first flow path connecting portion connecting the first flow path of the first-stage flow path section and the first flow path of the second-stage flow path section in the first flow path unit in the header member.
[0021] Figure 5 The figure schematically shows the layout of the first flow path connecting portion connecting the first flow path of the second-stage flow path segment and the first flow path of the third-stage flow path segment in the first flow path section of the header member.
[0022] Figure 6 The figure schematically shows the layout of the first flow path connecting portion connecting the first flow path of the third-stage flow path segment and the first flow path of the fourth-stage flow path segment in the first flow path section of the header member.
[0023] Figure 7 It is a diagram schematically showing the layout of the first flow path and the second flow path of the fourth flow path section in the first flow path portion in the header member.
[0024] Figure 8 It is a diagram schematically showing the layout of the second flow path of the second flow path section in the header member.
[0025] Fig. 9 The figure schematically shows the layout of the second flow path connecting portion connecting the second flow path of the first-stage flow path section and the second flow path of the second-stage flow path section in the second flow path unit in the header member.
[0026] Fig.10 The figure schematically shows the layout of the second flow path connecting portion connecting the second flow path of the second-stage flow path segment and the second flow path of the third-stage flow path segment in the second flow path section of the header member.
[0027] Fig.11The figure schematically shows the layout of the second flow path connecting portion connecting the second flow path of the third-stage flow path segment and the second flow path of the fourth-stage flow path segment in the second flow path section of the header member.
[0028] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing the procedure of the method for manufacturing the header member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] Fig.13 It is a diagram schematically showing a first flow rate distribution adjusting portion and a second flow rate distribution adjusting portion provided in a header member according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] Fig.14 This is a flowchart showing the procedure of a method for manufacturing a header member according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a first flow rate distribution adjusting portion and a second flow rate distribution adjusting portion provided in a header member according to a modification example of the second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Hereinafter, the form for implementing the header member, the heat exchanger unit, and the header member manufacturing method of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.
[0033] (First Embodiment)
[0034] (Structure of heat exchanger unit)
[0035] The heat exchanger unit 1A is disposed in the middle of the pipe, etc., and is configured to be able to perform heat exchange between fluids of different temperatures. Figure 1 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 1A includes a heat exchanger 2, a first header 3A, and a second header 3B.
[0036] (Structure of heat exchanger)
[0037] The heat exchanger 2 performs heat exchange between the supplied first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2. The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are different fluids. The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are respectively gas or liquid. The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are different in at least temperature. In addition, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 may be different in, for example, the type of fluid, in addition to the temperature.
[0038] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the heat exchanger 2 includes a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21, a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22, and a shell 23. Each of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and each of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 extends in the first direction D1. The first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 are respectively formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction D1. That is, the first direction D1 is the direction in which the first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 extend, and is the flow direction of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the heat exchanger 2. The first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 are open on both sides of the end of the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 observed from the first direction D1 is, for example, a rectangular shape (square shape). In addition, the first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 are not limited to having a rectangular cross-sectional shape, and the cross-sectional shape observed from the first direction D1 may also be, for example, a circular shape, a polygonal shape, etc. The first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 are each a tubular member formed of, for example, a metal material.
[0039] The plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other. In the present embodiment, the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction D2 orthogonal to the first direction D1 and in the third direction D3 orthogonal to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In each of the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, the adjacent first heat transfer tubes 21 and the second heat transfer tubes 22 are in contact with each other. That is, when viewed from the first direction D1, one first heat transfer tube 21 is arranged not adjacent to other first heat transfer tubes 21 but surrounded only by the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22. The plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged in the same number (for example, 32 each in the present embodiment). In addition, the number of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 can be appropriately changed according to the environment in which they are used.
[0040] The second direction D2 is the width direction of the heat exchanger 2, for example, the horizontal direction. The third direction D3 is the length direction of the heat exchanger 2, for example, the vertical direction.
[0041] The plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are bundled and housed in the housing 23. The housing 23 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the housing 23 is formed in a rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed from the first direction D1.
[0042] The first fluid F1 flows through each of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21. A second fluid F2 different from the first fluid F1 flows through each of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22. The flow direction of the first fluid F1 in the first heat transfer tube 21 and the flow direction of the second fluid F2 in the second heat transfer tube 22 may be the same direction or may be opposite to each other. In the present embodiment, the flow direction of the first fluid F1 in the first heat transfer tube 21 and the flow direction of the second fluid F2 in the second heat transfer tube 22 are set to be opposite to each other in the first direction D1, for example.
[0043] (Structure of header component)
[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the first header 3A and the second header 3B are installed in the heat exchanger 2. The first header 3A is installed at the end of one side (first side) of the first direction D1 of the heat exchanger 2. The second header 3B is installed at the end of the other side (second side) of the first direction D1 of the heat exchanger 2. That is, the second header 3B is arranged on the opposite side of the first header 3A in the first direction D1 relative to the heat exchanger 2. With the heat exchanger 2 as a reference, the second header 3B is arranged symmetrically with the first header 3A and facing the opposite side in a manner opposite to the first header 3A.
[0045] The first header 3A is arranged on the inflow side of the first fluid F1 and the outflow side of the second fluid F2 relative to the heat exchanger 2. The first header 3A is configured to be able to connect one (one) first external pipe 8A and one (one) second external pipe 9A. The first header 3A branches the first fluid F1 flowing through the first external pipe 8A and sends it to the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21. The first header 3A gathers the second fluid F2 flowing through the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 and sends it to the second external pipe 9A.
[0046] The second header 3B is arranged on the outflow side of the first fluid F1 from the heat exchanger 2 and the inflow side of the second fluid F2. The second header 3B is provided with one (one) first external pipe 8B and one (one) second external pipe 9B which are different from the first header 3A and can be connected. The second header 3B collects the first fluid F1 flowing through the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and sends it to the one first external pipe 8B. The second header 3B branches the second fluid F2 flowing through the one second external pipe 9B and sends it to the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22.
[0047] The first header 3A and the second header 3B are respectively composed of header members 30P. The header members 30P constituting the first header 3A and the second header 3B are described below. The header members 30P constituting the first header 3A and the header members 30P constituting the second header 3B have the same structure except that they are arranged in different directions and the flow directions of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 therein are opposite. Figure 3 As shown, the header member 30P includes a header body 31, a first external pipe connection portion 32, a second external pipe connection portion 33, a first flow path portion 34, and a second flow path portion 35 (see Figure 8 ).
[0048] The header body 31 is mounted on the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. The header body 31 is mounted on the heat exchanger 2 by various joining means such as welding, bonding, and bolting. The header body 31 is formed of the same material as the shell 23. The header body 31 is formed of, for example, a metal material, a ceramic material, a resin material, etc. When viewed from the first direction D1, the header body 31 is formed in a rectangular (square) cross-section. The header body 31 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the header body 31 is composed of a plurality of (in the present embodiment, for example, four) stacked bodies 311a to 311d stacked in the first direction D1. The four stacked bodies 311a to 311d are arranged in the order of being away from the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. Each stacked body 311a to 311d is fixed to the other stacked bodies 311a to 311d adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. In the first direction D1 , the stacked body 311 a disposed at a position closest to the heat exchanger 2 is fixed to an end portion of the heat exchanger 2 .
[0049] The first external pipe connection part 32 is arranged in the manifold member 30P at a position far from the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. The first external pipe connection part 32 is fixed to the stacked body 311d arranged at a position farthest from the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. Only one first external pipe connection part 32 is arranged in the manifold member 30P. The first external pipe connection part 32 is provided to be able to connect the first external pipe 8A that supplies the first fluid F1 to the heat exchanger 2, or the first external pipe 8B that discharges the first fluid F1 from the heat exchanger 2. The first external pipe connection part 32 has, for example, a pipe joint or a threaded joint that can be attached and detached to the first external pipes 8A and 8B.
[0050] The second external piping connection part 33 is arranged in the manifold part 30P at a position far from the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. The second external piping connection part 33 is fixed to the stacked body 311d at a position farthest from the end of the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. Only one second external piping connection part 33 is arranged in the manifold part 30P. The second external piping connection part 33 is arranged at intervals in a direction intersecting the first direction D1 relative to the first external piping connection part 32. The second external piping connection part 33 of this embodiment is arranged at a position offset in the third direction D3 relative to the first external piping connection part 32. The second external piping connection part 33 is provided to be able to connect the second external piping 9A for supplying the second fluid F2 to the heat exchanger 2, or the second external piping 9B for discharging the first fluid F1 to the heat exchanger 2. The second external piping connection part 33 has, for example, a pipe joint or a threaded joint that can be attached and detached to the second external piping 9A and 9B.
[0051] The first flow path portion 34 is disposed between the ends of the plurality of opened first heat transfer tubes 21 and the first external pipe connection portion 32. The first flow path portion 34 includes a plurality of first flow paths 36 and a plurality of first flow path connection portions 37.
[0052] A plurality of first flow paths 36 are formed in the header body 31. More specifically, the plurality of first flow paths 36 of the present embodiment are formed by holes penetrating the interior of the stacked bodies 311a to 311d. The plurality of first flow paths 36 are connected to the ends of all the first heat transfer tubes 21 at positions close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. The plurality of first flow paths 36 are sequentially connected step by step and connected to a first external piping connection portion 32. That is, the plurality of first flow paths 36 are connected to the first external piping connection portion 32 at a position farthest from the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1.
[0053] The first flow path portion 34 includes a plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4. A plurality of first flow paths 36 are formed in the first direction D1 across the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4. The plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 are sequentially located in the first direction D1. In addition, each flow path section R1 to R4 is sometimes configured to span the stacked bodies 311a to 311d in the first direction. That is, two flow path sections are sometimes configured in one stacked body 311a to 311d. Among the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 of the first flow path portion 34, the number of first flow paths 36 arranged in the second direction D2 decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 increases. In the present embodiment, among the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 of the first flow path portion 34, when viewed from the first direction D1, the number of first flow paths 36 arranged along the imaginary plane extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger 2 increases.
[0054] Specifically, among the plurality of flow paths R1 to R4, the first flow path 361 of the first level among the plurality of first flow paths 36 is arranged in the first flow path R1 closest to the end of the heat exchanger 2. One first level first flow path 361 is directly connected to one first heat transfer tube 21. Figure 4 As shown, the first-stage first flow paths 361 in the first flow path section R1 are arranged in the same number as the first heat transfer tubes 21 when viewed from the first direction D1 . That is, the first-stage first flow paths 361 are the largest among the plurality of first flow paths 36 .
[0055] And, if Figure 3 As shown, with respect to the first flow path section R1, in the first direction D1, the second-stage first flow path 362 of the plurality of first flow paths 36 is arranged in the second flow path section R2 adjacent to the heat exchanger 2 in the opposite direction. Figure 5 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second-stage first flow paths 362 in the second flow path section R2 are configured with, for example, one-fourth the number of the first-stage first flow paths 361 (eight in this embodiment). That is, the number of the second-stage first flow paths 362 is less than the number of the first-stage first flow paths 361.
[0056] And, if Figure 3 As shown, relative to the second flow path section R2, in the first direction D1, a third-stage first flow path 363 of the plurality of first flow paths 36 is arranged in the third flow path section R3 adjacent to the heat exchanger 2 in the opposite direction. Figure 6 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third first flow paths 363 in the third flow path section R3 are configured with, for example, one fourth (two in this embodiment) the number of second first flow paths 362. That is, the number of third first flow paths 363 is less than the number of second first flow paths 362.
[0057] And, if Figure 3 As shown, relative to the third flow path section R3, in the first direction D1, a fourth-stage first flow path 364 of the plurality of first flow paths 36 is arranged on the fourth flow path section R4 adjacent to the side away from the heat exchanger 2. The fourth flow path section R4 is the flow path section closest to the first external piping connection portion 32 in this embodiment. The fourth-stage first flow path 364 is directly connected to the first external piping connection portion 32. Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the fourth-stage first flow path 364 in the fourth flow path section R4 is configured with, for example, half the number of the third-stage first flow paths 363 (one in this embodiment). That is, the number of the fourth-stage first flow paths 364 is less than the number of the third-stage first flow paths 363. Therefore, the fourth-stage first flow paths 364 are the least among the plurality of first flow paths 36.
[0058] Furthermore, it is preferable that, in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, the flow path cross-sectional area of one first flow path 36 close to the first external pipe connection portion 32 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one first flow path 36 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 (cross-sectional area when viewed from the first direction D1). Therefore, the flow path cross-sectional area of one second-stage first flow path 362 of the second-stage flow path section R2 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one of the plurality of first-stage first flow paths 361 of the first-stage flow path section R1. The flow path cross-sectional area of one third-stage first flow path 363 of the third-stage flow path section R3 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one second-stage first flow path 362. The flow path cross-sectional area of one fourth-stage first flow path 364 of the fourth-stage flow path section R3 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one third-stage first flow path 363. Therefore, in the present embodiment, among the plurality of first flow paths 36, the flow path cross-sectional area of the fourth-stage first flow path 364 is the largest, and the flow path cross-sectional area of the first-stage first flow path 361 is the smallest.
[0059] like Figure 3 As shown, at least one first flow path connection part 37 is disposed between adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4. The first flow path connection part 37 connects a plurality of first flow paths 36 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. One first flow path connection part 37 connects a plurality of (most of) first flow paths 36 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1 and close to the heat exchanger 2 and one first flow path 36 close to the first external pipe connection part 32. The first flow path connection part 37 connects at least two first flow paths 36 disposed at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction D1 on adjacent flow path sections.
[0060] Specifically, if Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a first-stage first flow path connection portion 371 is arranged between the first flow path section R1 and the second flow path section R2 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The first-stage first flow path connection portion 371 connects a plurality of (four in this embodiment) first-stage first flow paths 361 of the first flow path section R1 and a second-stage first flow path 362 of the second flow path section R2. The first-stage first flow path connection portion 371 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stacked body 311a. In this embodiment, one first-stage first flow path connection portion 371 is connected to a total of four first-stage first flow paths 361 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, including the first-stage first flow paths 361 arranged at the closest position, when viewed from the first direction D1 in the first flow path section R1.
[0061] like Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, a second-stage first flow path connection portion 372 is arranged between the second-stage flow path section R2 and the third-stage flow path section R3 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The second-stage first flow path connection portion 372 connects a plurality of (four in this embodiment) second-stage first flow paths 362 of the second-stage flow path section R2 and a third-stage first flow path 363 of the third-stage flow path section R3. The second-stage first flow path connection portion 372 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stack 311b. In this embodiment, one second-stage first flow path connection portion 372 connects a total of four second-stage first flow paths 362 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, including the second-stage first flow paths 362 arranged at the closest position, when viewed from the first direction D1 in the second-stage flow path section R2.
[0062] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, a third-level first flow path connection portion 373 is arranged between the third-stage flow path section R3 and the fourth-stage flow path section R4 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The third-level first flow path connection portion 373 connects a plurality of (two in this embodiment) third-level first flow paths 363 of the third-stage flow path section R3 and a fourth-level first flow path 364 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4. The third-level first flow path connection portion 373 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stack 311c. In this embodiment, the third-level first flow path connection portion 373 connects a plurality of third-level first flow paths 363 arranged at the closest position when viewed from the first direction D1 in the third-stage flow path section R3. The third-level first flow path connection portion 373 connects two third-level first flow paths 363 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 when viewed from the first direction D1.
[0063] In addition, the number and arrangement of the plurality of first flow paths 36 connected by the first flow path connecting portion 37 can be changed as appropriate, but it is preferable to make the flow path length of the first flow path connecting portion 37 as short as possible.
[0064] The first flow path section 34 configured in this way branches or gathers the flow of the first fluid F1 with respect to the heat exchanger 2. Specifically, in the first header 3A disposed on the inflow side of the first fluid F1 into the heat exchanger 2, the first fluid F1 flows from the first external pipe 8A into the first flow path section 34 via the first external pipe connection section 32. In the first flow path section 34, the first fluid F1 flows from the fourth-stage first flow path 364 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4 into the third-stage first flow path connection section 373. The first fluid F1 flowing into the third-stage first flow path connection section 373 branches and flows into the plurality of third-stage first flow paths 363 of the third-stage flow path section R3. Thereafter, the first fluid F1 flows from each of the third-stage first flow paths 363 into the second-stage first flow path connection section 372. The first fluid F1 flowing into the second-stage first flow path connection section 372 branches and flows into the plurality of second-stage first flow paths 362 of the second-stage flow path section R2. After that, the first fluid F1 flows from each second-stage first flow path 362 into the first-stage first flow path connection part 371. The first fluid F1 flowing into the first-stage first flow path connection part 371 branches and flows into the plurality of first-stage first flow paths 361 of the first flow path section R1. As a result, the first fluid F1 flows into the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 through the first-stage first flow paths 361.
[0065] Furthermore, in the second header 3B disposed on the outflow side of the first fluid F1 from the heat exchanger 2, the first fluid F1 flows from the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 into the first flow path section 34. In the first flow path section 34, the first fluid F1 flows from each of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 into each of the plurality of first-stage first flow paths 361 of the first-stage flow path section R1. The first fluid F1 flowing into the plurality of first-stage first flow paths 361 merges and flows in at the first-stage first flow path connection section 371. The first fluid F1 flowing into the first-stage first flow path connection section 371 flows into a second-stage first flow path 362 of the second-stage flow path section R2. The first fluid F1 flowing into the second-stage first flow path 362 merges and flows in at the second-stage first flow path connection section 372. The first fluid F1 flowing into the second-stage first flow path connection section 372 flows into a third-stage first flow path 363 of the third-stage flow path section R3. The first fluid F1 flowing into the third-stage first flow path 363 merges and flows into the third-stage first flow path connection portion 373. The first fluid F1 flowing into the third-stage first flow path connection portion 373 flows into the fourth-stage first flow path 364 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4. As a result, the first fluid F1 reaches one first external pipe connection portion 32 via the fourth-stage first flow path 364 and flows into the first external pipe 8B.
[0066] like Figure 8As shown, the second flow path portion 35 is disposed between the ends of the plurality of opened second heat transfer tubes 22 and the second external pipe connection portion 33. The second flow path portion 35 includes a plurality of second flow paths 38 and a plurality of second flow path connection portions 39.
[0067] A plurality of second flow paths 38 are formed in the header body 31. More specifically, the plurality of second flow paths 38 of the present embodiment are formed by holes penetrating the interior of the stacked bodies 311a to 311d together with the first flow paths 36. The plurality of second flow paths 38 are formed independently of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the first flow path connection portion 37. The plurality of second flow paths 38 are connected to the ends of all the second heat transfer tubes 22 at a position close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. The plurality of second flow paths 38 are connected step by step in sequence and connected to a second external piping connection portion 33. That is, the plurality of second flow paths 38 are connected to the second external piping connection portion 33 at a position farthest from the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1.
[0068] Similar to the first flow path portion 34, the second flow path portion 35 includes a plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4. In the present embodiment, the flow path sections R1 to R4 of the second flow path portion 35 are the same as the flow path sections R1 to R4 of the first flow path portion 34. A plurality of second flow paths 38 are formed over the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 in the first direction D1. In the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 of the second flow path portion 35, the number of second flow paths 38 arranged in the second direction D2 decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 increases. In the present embodiment, in the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 of the second flow path 38, the number of first flow paths 36 arranged along an imaginary plane extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction when viewed from the first direction D1 decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger 2 increases. The second flow path 38 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the plurality of first flow paths 36.
[0069] Specifically, among the plurality of flow paths R1 to R4, the first flow path R1 closest to the end of the heat exchanger 2 is provided with the first-stage second flow path 381 of the second flow path 38. One first-stage second flow path 381 is directly connected to one second heat transfer tube 22. Fig. 9 As shown, the first-stage second flow paths 381 in the first flow path section R1 are arranged in the same number as the second heat transfer tubes 22 when viewed from the first direction D1. That is, the first-stage second flow paths 381 are the largest among the plurality of second flow paths 38.
[0070] And, if Figure 8 As shown, with respect to the first flow path section R1, in the first direction D1, a second stage second flow path 382 of the plurality of second flow paths 38 is arranged in the second flow path section R2 which is adjacent to the heat exchanger 2 in the opposite direction. Fig.10As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second-stage second flow paths 382 in the second flow path section R2 are configured with, for example, one-fourth the number of the first-stage second flow paths 381 (eight in this embodiment). That is, the number of the second-stage second flow paths 382 is less than the number of the first-stage second flow paths 381.
[0071] And, if Figure 8 As shown, relative to the second flow path section R2, in the first direction D1, a third-stage second flow path 383 of the plurality of second flow paths 38 is arranged in the third flow path section R3 adjacent to the heat exchanger 2 in the opposite direction. Fig.11 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third-stage second flow paths 383 in the third flow path section R3 are configured with, for example, one-fourth (two in this embodiment) the number of second-stage second flow paths 382. That is, the number of third-stage second flow paths 383 is less than the number of second-stage second flow paths 382.
[0072] And, if Figure 8 As shown, relative to the third flow path section R3, in the first direction D1, a fourth-stage second flow path 384 of the plurality of second flow paths 38 is arranged on the fourth flow path section R4 adjacent to the side away from the heat exchanger 2. The fourth flow path section R4 is the flow path section closest to the second external piping connection portion 33 in this embodiment. The fourth-stage second flow path 384 is directly connected to the second external piping connection portion 33. Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the fourth-stage second flow path 384 in the fourth flow path section R4 is configured with, for example, half the number of the third-stage second flow paths 383 (one in this embodiment). That is, the number of the fourth-stage second flow paths 384 is less than the number of the third-stage second flow paths 383. Therefore, the fourth-stage second flow path 384 is the least among the plurality of second flow paths 38.
[0073] Furthermore, it is preferable that, in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, the flow path cross-sectional area of one second flow path 38 close to the second external pipe connection portion 33 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one second flow path 38 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 (cross-sectional area when viewed from the first direction D1). Therefore, the flow path cross-sectional area of one second-stage second flow path 382 of the second flow path section R2 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one of the plurality of first-stage second flow paths 381 of the first-stage flow path section R1. The flow path cross-sectional area of one second-stage second flow path 382 of the third-stage flow path section R3 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one second-stage second flow path 382. The flow path cross-sectional area of one fourth-stage second flow path 384 of the fourth-stage flow path section R3 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of one third-stage second flow path 383. Therefore, in the present embodiment, among the plurality of second flow paths 38, the flow path cross-sectional area of the fourth-stage second flow path 384 is the largest, and the flow path cross-sectional area of the first-stage second flow path 381 is the smallest.
[0074] like Figure 8 As shown, at least one second flow path connection part 39 is arranged between each of the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4. The second flow path connection part 39 connects a plurality of second flow paths 38 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. One second flow path connection part 39 connects a plurality of (most of) second flow paths 38 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1 and close to the heat exchanger 2 and a second flow path 38 close to the second external piping connection part 33. The second flow path connection part 39 connects at least two second flow paths 38 arranged at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction D1 on the adjacent flow path sections. In addition, the second flow path connection part 39 is formed in an independent state in a manner that does not interfere with the first flow path connection part 37 or the first flow path 36.
[0075] Specifically, if Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, a first-stage second flow path connection portion 391 is arranged between the first flow path section R1 and the second flow path section R2 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The first-stage second flow path connection portion 391 connects a plurality of (four in this embodiment) first-stage second flow paths 381 of the first flow path section R1 and a second-stage second flow path 382 of the second flow path section R2. The first-stage second flow path connection portion 391 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stacked body 311a. In this embodiment, one first-stage second flow path connection portion 391 is connected to a total of four first-stage second flow paths 381 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, including the first-stage second flow paths 381 arranged at the closest position, when viewed from the first direction D1 in the first flow path section R1.
[0076] like Figure 8 and Fig.10 As shown, a second-stage second flow path connection portion 392 is arranged between the second-stage flow path section R2 and the third-stage flow path section R3 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The second-stage second flow path connection portion 392 connects a plurality of (four in this embodiment) second-stage second flow paths 382 of the second-stage flow path section R2 and a third-stage second flow path 383 of the third-stage flow path section R3. The second-stage second flow path connection portion 392 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stack 311b. In this embodiment, one second-stage second flow path connection portion 392 connects a total of four second-stage second flow paths 382 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, including the second-stage second flow paths 382 arranged at the closest position, when viewed from the first direction D1 in the second-stage flow path section R2.
[0077] like Figure 8 and Fig.11As shown, a third-level second flow path connection portion 393 is arranged between the third-stage flow path section R3 and the fourth-stage flow path section R4 adjacent to each other in the first direction D1. The third-level second flow path connection portion 393 connects a plurality of (two in this embodiment) third-level second flow paths 383 of the third-stage flow path section R3 and a fourth-level second flow path 384 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4. The third-level second flow path connection portion 393 extends along an imaginary surface extending in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 inside the stack 311c. In this embodiment, the third-level second flow path connection portion 393 connects a plurality of third-level second flow paths 383 arranged at the closest position when viewed from the first direction D1 in the third-stage flow path section R3. The third-level second flow path connection portion 393 connects two third-level second flow paths 383 adjacent to each other in an inclined direction intersecting the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 when viewed from the first direction D1.
[0078] In addition, the number and arrangement of the plurality of second flow paths 38 connected by the second flow path connecting portion 39 can be changed as appropriate, but it is preferable to make the flow path length of the second flow path connecting portion 39 as short as possible.
[0079] Furthermore, in order to avoid intersecting with the first flow path connection portion 37 , the second flow path connection portion 39 is disposed so as to be shifted in position in the first direction D1 relative to the first flow path connection portion 37 within the stacked bodies 311 a to 311 d .
[0080] The second flow path section 35 configured in this way branches or gathers the flow of the second fluid F2 relative to the heat exchanger 2. Specifically, in the second header 3B arranged on the inflow side of the second fluid F2 into the heat exchanger 2, the second fluid F2 flows from the second external pipe 9B to the second flow path section 35 via the second external pipe connection section 33. In the second flow path section 35, the second fluid F2 flows from the fourth-stage second flow path 384 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4 into the third-stage second flow path connection section 393. The second fluid F2 flowing into the third-stage second flow path connection section 393 branches and flows into the plurality of third-stage second flow paths 383 of the third-stage flow path section R3. Thereafter, the second fluid F2 flows from each of the third-stage second flow paths 383 into the second-stage second flow path connection section 392. The second fluid F2 flowing into the second-stage second flow path connection section 392 branches and flows into the plurality of second-stage second flow paths 382 of the second-stage flow path section R2. After that, the second fluid F2 flows from each second-stage second flow path 382 into the first-stage second flow path connection part 391. The second fluid F2 flowing into the first-stage second flow path connection part 391 branches and flows into the plurality of first-stage second flow paths 381 of the first-stage flow path section R1. As a result, the second fluid F2 flows into the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 respectively via the first-stage second flow paths 381.
[0081] Furthermore, in the first header 3A disposed on the outflow side of the second fluid F2 from the heat exchanger 2, the second fluid F2 flows from the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 into the second flow path section 35. In the second flow path section 35, the second fluid F2 flows from each of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 into each of the plurality of first-stage second flow paths 381 of the first-stage flow path section R1. The second fluid F2 flowing into the plurality of first-stage second flow paths 381 merges and flows in at the first-stage second flow path connection section 391. The second fluid F2 flowing into the first-stage second flow path connection section 391 flows into a second-stage second flow path 382 of the second-stage flow path section R2. The second fluid F2 flowing into the second-stage second flow path 382 merges and flows in at the second-stage second flow path connection section 392. The second fluid F2 flowing into the second-stage second flow path connection section 392 flows into a third-stage second flow path 383 of the third-stage flow path section R3. The second fluid F2 flowing into the third-stage second flow path 383 merges and flows into the third-stage second flow path connection portion 393. The second fluid F2 flowing into the third-stage second flow path connection portion 393 flows into the fourth-stage second flow path 384 of the fourth-stage flow path section R4. As a result, the second fluid F2 reaches one second external pipe connection portion 33 via the fourth-stage second flow path 384 and flows into the second external pipe 9A.
[0082] (Process for manufacturing header member)
[0083] Next, a method for manufacturing the header member 30P as described above will be described. Fig.12 As shown, the manufacturing method S10 of the manifold component 30P involved in the embodiment of the present invention includes: a step S12 of determining the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38; a step S13 of forming the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35; a step S14 of forming the first external piping connection portion 32 and the second external piping connection portion 33; and a step S15 of manufacturing the manifold component 30P.
[0084] In the step S12 of determining the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38, the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 are determined. Specifically, for example, as described above, the shapes are determined in such a manner that, in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, the flow path cross-sectional area of one first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 close to the first external pipe connection portion 32 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1.
[0085] In step S13 of forming the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35, the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35 are formed according to the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 determined in step S12. In the present embodiment, a plurality of first flow paths 36 (361 to 363) and second flow paths 38 (381 to 383) are formed on each of the stacked bodies 311a to 311d. Thereafter, the manifold body 31 is formed by stacking the stacked bodies 311a to 311d in the first direction D1.
[0086] In the step S14 of forming the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 , the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 are formed into predetermined shapes, respectively.
[0087] In step S15 of manufacturing the header member 30P, the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 formed in step S13 are connected and fixed to the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 formed in step S14. Thus, the header member 30P constituting the first header 3A and the second header 3B is manufactured.
[0088] (Effect)
[0089] In the header member 30P of the above-described structure, the first flow path section 34 includes a plurality of first flow paths 36 connected to the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21, respectively. The second flow path section 35 includes a plurality of second flow paths 38 connected to the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22, respectively. The plurality of first flow paths 36 are sequentially connected in stages and connected to one first external pipe connection section 32. The plurality of second flow paths 38 are sequentially connected in stages and connected to one second external pipe connection section 33. The plurality of second flow paths 38 are formed independently of the first flow paths 36. In this way, the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 sequentially connected in stages are connected to one first external pipe connection section 32 or one second external pipe connection section 33 without mixing the fluids flowing therein. As a result, with respect to the heat exchanger 2 of the structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 can be branched or gathered with a simple structure without mixing them.
[0090] Furthermore, the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 are connected by the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 disposed between adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4. Therefore, in the flow path sections R1 to R3 close to the heat exchanger 2 and the flow path sections R2 to R4 close to the first external pipe connection portion 32 in the first direction D1, the number of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 in each flow path section gradually decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger 2 increases. Thus, the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 can be branched or gathered relative to the heat exchanger 2 with a simple structure.
[0091] Furthermore, the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 connect two or more first flow paths 36 or second flow paths 38 that are disposed at the closest positions in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4 when viewed from the first direction D1. Thus, the flow path length of the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 can be shortened. Therefore, the overall flow path length in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 can also be shortened. Therefore, the pressure loss in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 can be suppressed.
[0092] The first flow path 34 and the second flow path 35 are formed by the plurality of stacked bodies 311a to 311d. Thus, the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 are connected sequentially via the first flow path connecting part 37 and the second flow path connecting part 39 easily by simply stacking the plurality of stacked bodies 311a to 311d.
[0093] Furthermore, in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, the flow path cross-sectional area of one first flow path 36 and one second flow path 38 close to the first external pipe connection portion 32 is made larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and second flow paths 38 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1. Thus, the pressure loss when the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 merge or branch with the one first flow path 36 and the one second flow path 38 is suppressed. Therefore, the flow efficiency of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 can be suppressed from being reduced.
[0094] The heat exchanger unit 1A of the above structure includes the heat exchanger 2 and the header member 30P. Thus, it is possible to provide a heat exchanger unit 1A including the header member 30P that branches or gathers the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 with a simple structure without mixing them, relative to the heat exchanger 2 having a structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other.
[0095] In the manufacturing method S10 of the header member 30P having the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to manufacture the header member 30P having the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38. Therefore, it is possible to provide the header member 30P in which the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are branched or gathered with a simple structure without mixing them, with respect to the heat exchanger 2 having a structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other.
[0096] (Second Embodiment)
[0097] Next, a second embodiment of the header member, the heat exchanger unit, and the method for manufacturing the header member according to the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment described below, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35 of the header member 30Q have a first flow distribution adjusting section 70A and a second flow distribution adjusting section 70B.
[0098] In heat exchanger unit 1B (reference Figure 1 ), the first header 3A and the second header 3B are respectively constituted by a header member 30Q. The header member 30Q includes, in addition to the header body 31, the first external piping connection portion 32, the second external piping connection portion 33, the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35, which are the same as the header member 30P in the first embodiment, the following Fig.13 The first flow distribution adjustment unit 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment unit 70B are shown.
[0099] The first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A is disposed in the first flow path portion 34. The first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36. The first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 in such a manner that the flow path resistance of the first flow paths 36 in each flow path section R1 to R4 becomes constant. Specifically, the first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 by changing at least one of the orifice diameter, curvature, and flow path surface roughness of the flow path with respect to at least one of the plurality of first flow paths 36. That is, the first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A is formed as a part of the plurality of first flow paths 36 or the first flow path 36 itself. For example, the first flow distribution adjusting portion 70A is formed by making the curvature of the first flow path 36 greater than that of other first flow paths 36 in the same flow path section in the first flow path 36 having the largest flow path resistance among the plurality of first flow paths 36. In this case, the curvature of a portion of the connection portion between the first flow path 36 and the first flow path connection portion 37 is adjusted in a manner that differs depending on the configuration position. As a result, the flow path resistance is reduced in a portion of the plurality of first flow paths 36. Furthermore, the first flow distribution adjustment portion 70A is formed, for example, by making the flow path surface roughness greater than that of other first flow paths 36 in the same flow path section in the first flow path 36 having the largest flow rate (smallest flow path resistance) among the plurality of first flow paths 36. In this case, the surface roughness of a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the plurality of first flow paths 36 is adjusted in a manner that differs depending on the configuration position. As a result, the flow path resistance can also be increased in a portion of the plurality of first flow paths 36.
[0100] The second flow distribution adjustment section 70B is disposed in the second flow path section 35. The second flow distribution adjustment section 70B adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38. In the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B, the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38 is adjusted in a manner such that the flow path resistance of the second flow paths 38 in each flow path section R1 to R4 becomes constant, similarly to the first flow distribution adjustment section 70A. Specifically, the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38 by changing at least one of the diameter, curvature, and flow path surface roughness of at least one of the plurality of second flow paths 38. That is, the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B is formed as a part of the second flow path 38 or the second flow path 38 itself. For example, the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B is formed by making the curvature of the second flow path 38 greater than that of other second flow paths 38 in the same flow path section in the second flow path 38 having the largest flow path resistance among the plurality of second flow paths 38. As a result, the flow resistance is reduced in a part of the plurality of second flow paths 38. Furthermore, for example, in the second flow path 38 having the largest flow rate (the smallest flow resistance) among the plurality of second flow paths 38, the second flow distribution adjustment portion 70B is formed by making the flow path surface roughness greater than that of other second flow paths 38 in the same flow path section. As a result, the flow path resistance can also be increased in a part of the plurality of second flow paths 38.
[0101] (Process for manufacturing header member)
[0102] Next, a method for manufacturing the above-described header member 30Q will be described.
[0103] like Fig.14 As shown, the manufacturing method S20 of the manifold component 30Q involved in the embodiment of the present invention includes: a step S21 of obtaining the distribution information of the flow rate in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35; a step S22 of determining the shape of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38; a step S23 of forming the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35; a step S24 of forming the first external piping connection portion 32 and the second external piping connection portion 33; and a step S25 of manufacturing the manifold component 30Q.
[0104] In the step S21 of acquiring the flow rate distribution information in the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35, the flow rate distribution information of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 in the first flow path section 34 is acquired as the flow rate distribution information in the first flow path section 34. Furthermore, the flow rate distribution information of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38 in the second flow path section 35 is acquired as the flow rate distribution information in the second flow path section 35.
[0105] Specifically, an example of acquiring flow rate distribution information for the first flow path 36 will be described. When the first flow path 36 is divided into small sections in the first direction D1, the pressure loss dPi of the first flow path 36 in each small section is expressed by the following equation (1).
[0106] [Formula 1]
[0107]
[0108] Wherein, ξi is the resistance coefficient of the flow path, χi is the length of the micro-interval, Di is the equivalent diameter of the flow path, G is the mass flow rate of the fluid, ρ is the density of the fluid, A is the cross-sectional area of the flow path, and the subscript i is the micro-interval number.
[0109] Based on the above equation (1), the overall loss dP of the entire flow path of each first flow path 36 is expressed by the following equation (2).
[0110] [Formula 2]
[0111]
[0112] The flow resistance of the first flow paths 36 in each flow path section R1 to R4 is adjusted to be constant based on the total pressure loss dP in the first flow paths 36 calculated by the above formula (2). As a result, the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 in the first flow paths 36 is adjusted.
[0113] Thus, using the above formulas (1) and (2), the pressure losses in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 are calculated by calculation based on a computer device. Based on the calculated pressure losses in the plurality of first flow paths 34 and the second flow paths 35, the distribution information of the flow rates in the first flow paths 34 and the second flow paths 35 is obtained.
[0114] Furthermore, the distribution information of the flow rate of the fluid in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 may be acquired through simulation analysis using a computer device.
[0115] In the step S22 of determining the shapes of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38, the shapes of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 are determined so that the flow path resistance becomes constant based on the distribution information of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the distribution information of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38 acquired in the step S21. At this time, when the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 is uneven beyond a predetermined range, the shape of the first flow paths 36 is determined in a state where the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 is adjusted by the first flow rate distribution adjusting unit 70A. When the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38 is uneven beyond a predetermined range, the shape of the second flow paths 38 is determined in a state where the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38 is adjusted by the second flow rate distribution adjusting unit 70B. Specifically, as the first flow distribution adjustment unit 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment unit 70B, the shapes of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 are determined in a state where at least any one of the diameter, curvature and surface roughness of the flow paths is changed relative to a portion of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38.
[0116] In the step S23 of forming the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35, the first flow path section 34 and the second flow path section 35 are formed according to the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 determined in the step S22. In the second embodiment, a plurality of first flow paths 36 (361 to 363) and second flow paths 38 (381 to 383) are formed according to the shapes determined for each of the stacked bodies 311a to 311d. At this time, the flow path diameter, curvature, flow path surface roughness, etc. are partially different according to the stacked bodies 311a to 311d formed or the positions formed, and then the manifold body 31 is formed by stacking the stacked bodies 311a to 311d in the first direction D1.
[0117] In the step S24 of forming the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 , the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 are formed into predetermined shapes, respectively.
[0118] In step S25 of manufacturing the header member 30Q, the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 formed in step S23 are connected and fixed to the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 formed in step S24. Thus, the header member 30Q constituting the first header 3A and the second header 3B is manufactured.
[0119] (Effect)
[0120] The manifold member 30Q of the above structure can adjust the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the flow rate distribution of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38 by the first flow rate distribution adjustment portion 70A and the second flow rate distribution adjustment portion 70B. As a result, in the process of connecting the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 in a stepwise manner, the flow rate distribution caused by the difference in flow path resistance caused by the difference in flow path length in each flow path section can be appropriately adjusted.
[0121] Furthermore, in the first flow distribution adjustment section 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B, at least one of the diameter, curvature, and surface roughness of the flow paths is changed for the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38. The diameter, curvature, and surface roughness of the flow paths contribute to the pressure loss in each flow path. Therefore, by changing at least one of the diameter, curvature, and surface roughness of the flow paths, the pressure loss in each flow path can be fine-tuned. Thus, the flow path resistance of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 in each flow path section R1 to R4 can be set constant, thereby achieving uniform distribution of the flow rates of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the heat exchanger 2.
[0122] Furthermore, in the manufacturing method S20 of the header member 30Q described above, it is possible to manufacture the header members 30P and 30Q having the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 whose shapes are determined so that the flow path resistance becomes constant based on the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 in the first flow path section 34 and the flow rate distribution information of the second fluid F2 in the second flow path section 35. Therefore, it is possible to provide the header members 30P and 30Q in which the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are branched or gathered with a simple structure without mixing them, with respect to the heat exchanger 2 having a structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other.
[0123] (Variation of the Second Embodiment)
[0124] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, as the first flow distribution adjustment section 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B, at least one of the diameter, curvature and flow path surface roughness of the multiple first flow paths 36 and the multiple second flow paths 38 is changed, but the form of the first flow distribution adjustment section 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment section 70B is not limited to being a part of the flow path in this way.
[0125] The first flow distribution adjustment unit 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment unit 70B may be components different from the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38. For example, Fig.15As shown, the first flow distribution adjustment unit 70A may include a throttle plate 72A for reducing the flow path cross-sectional area on at least one of the first flow paths 36. Similarly, the second flow distribution adjustment unit 70B may include a throttle plate 72B for reducing the flow path cross-sectional area on at least one of the second flow paths 38.
[0126] By providing the orifice plates 72A and 72B in at least one of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38, the flow path resistance in a part of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 can be increased. Thus, the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 can be adjusted regardless of the shapes of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38. Furthermore, even when the flow rates of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 change, the flow rate distribution can be adjusted.
[0127] In addition, in the second embodiment, the flow rate distribution is adjusted by the first flow rate distribution adjustment unit 70A and the second flow rate distribution adjustment unit 70B so that the flow resistance of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 in each flow path section R1 to R4 becomes constant, but the flow resistance is not limited to being constant. As the distribution of the flow rates of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 is adjusted by the first flow rate distribution adjustment unit 70A and the second flow rate distribution adjustment unit 70B, the distribution of the flow rates of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 can be made close to a preset distribution.
[0128] (Other embodiments)
[0129] As mentioned above, the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes and the like are also included within the scope that does not depart from the gist of the present invention.
[0130] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the steps S10 and S20 of the manufacturing method of the header members 30P and 30Q are shown, but the order thereof can be changed as appropriate.
[0131] In addition, the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 are not limited to the form of this embodiment. For example, the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 may be formed by a tube body arranged in the manifold body 31, or may be formed separately from the manifold body 31. That is, the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 are not limited to being composed of the stacked bodies 311a to 311d. The first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 may be composed of a single block-shaped component.
[0132] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, four of the plurality of flow path segments are arranged, but the number of the flow path segments is not limited to four, and may be three or less, or five or more.
[0133] Furthermore, in each of the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 , the flow path cross-sectional areas of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 may all be different, or may all be the same, or only partly be the same.
[0134] <Notes>
[0135] The manufacturing methods S10 and S20 of the header members 30P and 30Q, the heat exchanger unit 1A, and the header members 30P and 30Q described in the respective embodiments can be understood, for example, as follows.
[0136] (1) The manifold components 30P and 30Q involved in the first embodiment are installed on a heat exchanger 2 in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 through which a first fluid F1 flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 through which a second fluid F2 different from the first fluid F1 flows are arranged adjacent to each other, and the manifold components 30P and 30Q include: a first external pipe connection portion 32, which is arranged at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger 2 and can be connected to a first external pipe 8A or 8B for supplying or discharging the first fluid F1 relative to the heat exchanger 2; a first flow path portion 34, which is arranged between the ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the first external pipe connection portion 32; and a second external pipe connection portion 33, which is arranged at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger 2. The end portion is positioned and can be connected to the second external piping 9A, 9B for supplying or discharging the second fluid F2 relative to the heat exchanger 2; and the second flow path portion 35 is arranged between the ends of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 and the second external piping connection portion 33, the first flow path portion 34 has a plurality of first flow paths 36 respectively connected to the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21, the plurality of first flow paths 36 are sequentially connected step by step and connected to one first external piping connection portion 32, the second flow path portion 35 has a plurality of second flow paths 38 respectively connected to the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 and formed independently of the plurality of first flow paths 36, the plurality of second flow paths 38 are sequentially connected step by step and connected to one second external piping connection portion 33.
[0137] Examples of the first external pipe connection portion 32 and the second external pipe connection portion 33 include a pipe joint and a threaded joint.
[0138] In the header members 30P and 30Q, the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 connected in sequence in stages are connected to one first external pipe connection portion 32 or one second external pipe connection portion 33 without mixing the fluids circulating therein. As a result, in the heat exchanger 2 having a structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 can be branched or gathered with a simple structure without mixing them.
[0139] (2) The header member 30P, 30Q involved in the second embodiment is the header member 30P, 30Q of (1), wherein the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 include a plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4, and the plurality of flow path sections R1 to R4 are arranged in a first direction D1 where the first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 extend, and the number of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 arranged in a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1 decreases as they move away from the heat exchanger 2, and the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 are arranged in a first direction D1 where the first heat transfer tube 21 and the second heat transfer tube 22 extend, and the number of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 arranged in a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1 decreases as they move away from the heat exchanger 2. 35 comprises: at least one first flow path connection portion 37, which is arranged between adjacent flow path sections R1~R4, connecting multiple first flow paths 36 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 and one first flow path 36 close to the first external piping connection portion 32; and at least one second flow path connection portion 39, which is arranged between adjacent flow path sections R1~R4, connecting multiple second flow paths 38 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1 and one second flow path 38 close to the second external piping connection portion 33.
[0140] Thus, the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 are arranged between adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, so that in the flow path sections R1 to R4 close to the heat exchanger 2 and the flow path sections R1 to R4 close to the first external pipe connection portion 32 in the first direction D1, the number of the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 in each flow path section gradually decreases as they are away from the heat exchanger 2. Thus, the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 can be branched or gathered relative to the heat exchanger 2 with a simple structure.
[0141] (3) The manifold components 30P, 30Q involved in the third embodiment are the manifold components 30P, 30Q of (2), wherein the first flow path connecting portion 37 connects at least two first flow paths 36 that are arranged at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction D1 in adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4, and the second flow path connecting portion 39 connects at least two second flow paths 38 that are arranged at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction D1 in adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4.
[0142] Thus, the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 connect at least two first flow paths 36 or second flow paths 38 that are arranged at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction D1 in the adjacent flow path sections R1 to R4. Thus, the flow path length of the first flow path connection portion 37 and the second flow path connection portion 39 can be shortened. Therefore, the overall flow path length in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 can also be shortened. Therefore, the pressure loss in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 can be suppressed.
[0143] (4) The manifold components 30P, 30Q involved in the fourth embodiment are the manifold components 30P, 30Q of (2) or (3), wherein the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 are composed of a plurality of stacked bodies 311a~311d stacked in the first direction D1, and the plurality of stacked bodies 311a~311d have the first flow path connecting portion 37 and the second flow path connecting portion 39.
[0144] Thus, a structure in which the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 are sequentially connected via the first flow path connecting portion 37 and the second flow path connecting portion 39 can be easily realized simply by stacking the plurality of stacked bodies 311 a to 311 d .
[0145] (5) The collecting pipe parts 30P, 30Q involved in the fifth embodiment are the collecting pipe parts 30P, 30Q of (2) or (3), wherein, in the adjacent flow path sections R1~R4, the flow path cross-sectional area of one of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 close to the first external piping connection part 32 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of multiple first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 close to the heat exchanger 2 in the first direction D1.
[0146] This reduces pressure loss when the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 merge or branch with one first flow path 36 and one second flow path 38. Therefore, it is possible to reduce reduction in flow efficiency of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35.
[0147] (6) The manifold component 30Q involved in the sixth embodiment is any one of the manifold components 30Q from (2) to (4), which comprises: a first flow distribution adjustment portion 70A, which is arranged in the first flow path portion 34 and adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36; and a second flow distribution adjustment portion 70B, which is arranged in the second flow path portion 35 and adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38.
[0148] Thus, it is possible to adjust the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the flow rate distribution of the second fluid F2 in the plurality of second flow paths 38. As a result, in the process of connecting the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the plurality of second flow paths 38 in a stepwise manner, the flow rate distribution caused by the difference in flow path resistance due to the difference in flow path length and the like can be appropriately adjusted.
[0149] (7) The manifold component 30Q involved in the seventh embodiment is the manifold component 30Q of (6), wherein the first flow distribution adjustment unit 70A changes at least one of the diameter, curvature and flow surface roughness of the plurality of first flow paths 36 so that the flow resistance of the first flow paths 36 in the flow path sections R1 to R4 becomes constant, and the second flow distribution adjustment unit 70B changes at least one of the diameter, curvature and flow surface roughness of the plurality of second flow paths 38 so that the flow resistance of the second flow paths 38 in the flow path sections R1 to R4 becomes constant.
[0150] The diameter, curvature and surface roughness of the flow path contribute to the pressure loss in each flow path. Therefore, by changing at least one of the diameter, curvature and surface roughness of the flow path, the pressure loss in each flow path can be fine-tuned. In this way, the flow resistance of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 in each flow path section R1 to R4 can be set constant, and the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the heat exchanger 2 can be uniform.
[0151] (8) The manifold component 30Q involved in the eighth embodiment is the manifold component 30Q of (6) or (7), wherein the first flow distribution adjustment portion 70A and the second flow distribution adjustment portion 70B have throttling orifice plates 72A, 72B for reducing the cross-sectional area of the flow path on at least one of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38.
[0152] Thus, the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 can be adjusted regardless of the shapes of the first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38. Furthermore, even when the flow rates of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the second flow paths 38 change, the flow rate distribution can be adjusted.
[0153] (9) The heat exchanger unit 1A involved in the ninth embodiment comprises: a heat exchanger 2, having a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 for circulating a first fluid F1 and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 for circulating a second fluid F2; and any one of the header components 30P, 30Q of (1) to (8), arranged at at least one end of the heat exchanger 2.
[0154] Thus, it is possible to provide a heat exchanger unit 1A including the header members 30P and 30Q that branch or bring together the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 without mixing them with a simple structure.
[0155] (10) The manufacturing method S20 of the manifold component 30Q involved in the tenth embodiment is the manufacturing method S20 of any one of the manifold components 30Q of (1) to (8), which includes the following steps: a step S21 of obtaining information on the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 in the first flow path section 34 and the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38 in the second flow path section 35; a step S22 of obtaining information on the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the flow rate of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38 based on the obtained distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid F1 between the plurality of first flow paths 36 and the flow rate of the second fluid F2 between the plurality of second flow paths 38; The process S22 is to determine the shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38 in a manner that the flow path resistance becomes constant based on the distribution information of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38; the process S23 is to form the first flow path portion 34 and the second flow path portion 35 according to the determined shapes of the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38; the process S24 is to form the first external piping connection portion 32 and the second external piping connection portion 33; and the process S25 is to connect the formed first external piping connection portion 32, the first flow path portion 34, the second external piping connection portion 33 and the second flow path portion 35 to manufacture the manifold component 30Q.
[0156] Thus, it is possible to manufacture the header member 30Q having the first flow path 36 and the second flow path 38, the shapes of which are determined so that the flow path resistance becomes constant according to the flow rate distribution of the first fluid F1 in the first flow path section 34 and the flow rate distribution information of the second fluid F2 in the second flow path section 35. Therefore, it is possible to provide the header member 30Q in which the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are branched or gathered with a simple structure without mixing them, with respect to the heat exchanger 2 having a structure in which the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 21 and the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 22 are arranged adjacent to each other.
[0157] Industrial Applicability
[0158] According to the header component, heat exchanger unit and header component manufacturing method of the present invention, a heat exchanger having a structure in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes are arranged adjacent to each other can branch or combine the first fluid and the second fluid without mixing them with a simple structure.
[0159] Explanation of symbols
[0160] 1A, 1B-heat exchanger unit, 2-heat exchanger, 3A-first header, 3B-second header, 8A, 8B-first external pipe, 9A, 9B-second external pipe, 21-first heat transfer pipe, 22-second heat transfer pipe, 23-shell, 30P, 30Q-header component, 31-header body, 32-first external pipe connection part, 33-second external pipe connection part, 34-first flow path part, 35-second flow path part, 36-first flow path part Path, 361-first level first path, 362-second level first path, 363-third level first path, 364-fourth level first path, 37-first path connection, 371-first level first path connection, 372-second level first path connection, 373-third level first path connection, 38-second path, 381-first level second path, 382-second level second path, 383-third level second path, 384-fourth level first path Second flow path, 39-second flow path connection part, 391-first stage second flow path connection part, 392-second stage second flow path connection part, 393-third stage second flow path connection part, 70A-first flow distribution adjustment part, 70B-second flow distribution adjustment part, 72A, 72B-throttling orifice plate, 311a~311d-stack, D1-first direction, D2-second direction, D3-third direction, F1-first fluid, F2-second fluid, R1 ~R4-flow path section, S10, S20-manufacturing method of the manifold component, S21-process of obtaining distribution information of flow rates in the first flow path section and the second flow path section, S12, S22-process of determining the shapes of the first flow path and the second flow path, S13, S23-process of forming the first flow path section and the second flow path section, S14, S24-process of forming the first external piping connection section and the second external piping connection section, S15, S25-process of manufacturing the manifold component.
Claims
1. A header component mounted on a heat exchanger in which a plurality of first heat transfer tubes through which a first fluid flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes through which a second fluid different from the first fluid flows are arranged adjacent to each other, the header component comprising: a first external pipe connection portion, which is disposed at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger and can be connected to a first external pipe for supplying or discharging the first fluid with respect to the heat exchanger; A first flow path portion is disposed between ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes and the first external pipe connection portion; a second external pipe connection portion disposed at a position away from the end of the heat exchanger and capable of connecting a second external pipe for supplying or discharging the second fluid with respect to the heat exchanger; and The second flow path portion is arranged between the ends of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes and the second external pipe connection portion, The first flow path portion has a plurality of first flow paths connected to the plurality of first heat transfer tubes respectively. A plurality of the first flow paths are sequentially connected step by step and connected to one first external pipe connection portion, The second flow path portion includes a plurality of second flow paths connected to the plurality of second heat transfer tubes respectively and formed independently of the plurality of first flow paths. The plurality of second flow paths are sequentially connected in stages and connected to one second external pipe connection portion.
2. The header component according to claim 1, wherein: The first flow path portion and the second flow path portion include a plurality of flow path sections, wherein the number of the first flow paths and the second flow paths arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction decreases as the distance from the heat exchanger increases in the first direction in which the first heat transfer tube and the second heat transfer tube extend. The first flow path portion and the second flow path portion have: at least one first flow path connection portion, disposed between adjacent flow path sections, connecting a plurality of first flow paths close to the heat exchanger in the first direction and one first flow path close to the first external pipe connection portion; and At least one second flow path connection portion is disposed between adjacent flow path sections and connects a plurality of second flow paths close to the heat exchanger in the first direction and one second flow path close to the second external pipe connection portion.
3. The header component according to claim 2, wherein: The first flow path connecting portion connects at least two first flow paths that are arranged at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction in the adjacent flow path sections. The second flow path connecting portion connects at least two second flow paths that are disposed at the closest positions when viewed from the first direction in the adjacent flow path sections.
4. The header component according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The first flow path portion and the second flow path portion are composed of a plurality of stacked bodies stacked in the first direction, The plurality of stacked bodies include the first flow path connecting portion and the second flow path connecting portion.
5. The header component according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: In the adjacent flow path sections, a flow path cross-sectional area of one of the first flow path and the second flow path close to the first external pipe connection portion is larger than a flow path cross-sectional area of one of the first flow path and the second flow path close to the heat exchanger in the first direction.
6. The header member according to claim 2 or 3, comprising: a first flow distribution adjustment unit disposed in the first flow path portion and adjusting the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid in the plurality of the first flow paths; and The second flow distribution adjusting unit is disposed in the second flow path portion and adjusts the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid in the plurality of second flow paths.
7. The header component according to claim 6, wherein: The first flow distribution adjustment unit changes at least one of the diameter, curvature, and surface roughness of the plurality of first flow paths so that the flow resistance of the first flow paths in the flow path section becomes constant. The second flow distribution adjustment unit changes at least one of a diameter, a curvature, and a surface roughness of a flow path for the plurality of second flow paths so that the flow path resistance of the second flow paths in the flow path section becomes constant.
8. The header component according to claim 6, wherein: The first flow distribution adjusting portion and the second flow distribution adjusting portion include an orifice plate that reduces a flow passage cross-sectional area in at least one of the first flow passage and the second flow passage.
9. A heat exchanger unit comprising: a heat exchanger having a plurality of first heat transfer tubes through which a first fluid flows and a plurality of second heat transfer tubes through which a second fluid flows; and The header member according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is arranged at at least one end of the heat exchanger.
10. A method for manufacturing a header component, which is the method for manufacturing a header component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising the following steps: acquiring distribution information of the flow rate of the first fluid between the plurality of the first flow paths in the first flow path section and distribution information of the flow rate of the second fluid between the plurality of the second flow paths in the second flow path section; determining the shapes of the first flow paths and the second flow paths in such a way that flow path resistance becomes constant based on the acquired information on the distribution of the flow rate of the first fluid between the plurality of first flow paths and the distribution of the flow rate of the second fluid between the plurality of second flow paths; forming the first flow path portion and the second flow path portion according to the determined shapes of the first flow path and the second flow path; forming the first external pipe connection portion and the second external pipe connection portion; and The header member is manufactured by connecting the formed first external pipe connection portion, the first flow path portion, the second external pipe connection portion, and the second flow path portion.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Image forming apparatus
JP2022082119A