Header, heat exchanger, header manufacturing method, and heat exchanger manufacturing method

Abstract

The header (2) is provided with: an outer tube (5) connected to the plurality of heat transfer tubes (3); and an inner tube (6) which is inserted into the outer tube (5) and has a plurality of small holes (6a) in the side surface thereof. The header (2) is provided with a plurality of support members (8) which are disposed at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube (5) and which support the inner tube (6), and in the space between the inner tube (6) and the outer tube (5), a gap through which the refrigerant flows in the longitudinal direction of the header (2) across the support members (8) is formed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a header, a heat exchanger, a method for manufacturing a header, and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger. Background Art

[0002] A heat exchanger is a component of a refrigeration circuit and generally includes two headers and a plurality of heat transfer tubes connecting between the two headers. One of the two headers is connected to a pipe on the upstream side of the refrigeration circuit, and refrigerant flows in from the upstream side of the refrigeration circuit. The refrigerant flowing into one header is distributed to the plurality of heat transfer tubes and flows into the other header through the plurality of heat transfer tubes. The refrigerant flowing into the other header is collected here. The other header is connected to a pipe on the downstream side of the refrigeration circuit, and the collected refrigerant flows out to the downstream side of the refrigeration circuit.

[0003] During the period when the refrigerant passes through the plurality of heat transfer tubes, heat exchange occurs between the surrounding air and the refrigerant. Therefore, when the refrigerant having a temperature higher than that of the surrounding air passes through the heat transfer tube, the refrigerant is cooled. When the refrigerant having a temperature lower than that of the surrounding air passes through the heat transfer tube, the refrigerant is heated. In addition, generally, the heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat transfer fins that cross and heat-transfer contact with the plurality of heat transfer tubes. By providing the heat transfer fins, the heat transfer area for the air around the heat exchanger becomes larger, and thus the efficiency of heat exchange is improved.

[0004] In addition, a flat tube evaporator, which is a type of heat exchanger, is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The inlet manifold included in the flat tube evaporator corresponds to the header disposed on the upstream side of the heat exchanger, and the flat tubes correspond to the heat transfer tubes. A distribution tube is inserted into the inlet manifold, and the distribution tube has a plurality of throttle holes. The refrigerant flowing in from the upstream side of the refrigeration circuit is guided to the distribution tube, flows out of the distribution tube through the throttle holes, and is guided to the flat tubes. The refrigerant flows through the flat tubes toward the outlet manifold.

[0005] In this way, the header included in the flat tube evaporator described in Patent Document 1 includes an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube, and the inner tube has a plurality of small holes on the side surface. And according to Patent Document 1, the refrigerant flowing into the outer tube is guided to the inner tube, flows out of the inner tube through the small holes, and is guided to the flat tubes, so that the refrigerant can be evenly distributed to the plurality of heat transfer tubes.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-180910 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] However, in Patent Document 1, as it Figure 4 shows, the inner tube is cantilever-supported at one end of the outer tube. Therefore, there is a problem that the relative position of the inner tube with respect to the outer tube is unstable. In particular, during the manufacturing process of the header, the inner tube is deflected due to the heat of welding, and as a result, the inner tube may be displaced relative to the outer tube. When the inner tube is displaced relative to the outer tube, the flow of the refrigerant in the header changes, and thus the designed performance may not be obtained.

[0011] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a header in which an inner tube is stably held by an outer tube and a heat exchanger including the header. Another object is to provide a method for manufacturing such a header and a heat exchanger.

[0012] Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] To achieve the above object, the header of the present disclosure includes: an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes; and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having a plurality of small holes, wherein the header includes a plurality of support members that are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal axis direction of the outer tube and support the inner tube. And, in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, a gap is formed through which the refrigerant flows along the longitudinal axis direction of the header while passing over the support members.

[0014] Advantages of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, there are a plurality of support members, and the inner tube is supported by the outer tube through the plurality of support members. That is, the inner tube is supported at multiple points. Therefore, the inner tube is stably held by the outer tube, and the generation of displacement of the inner tube relative to the outer tube is suppressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is a front view showing the structure of a heat exchanger including the header according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 is showing Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the header included in the heat exchanger described.

[0018] Figure 3A is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIA-IIIA of the header shown.

[0019] Figure 3B is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIB-IIIB of the header shown.

[0020] Figure 4 is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of the header shown.

[0021] Figure 5A It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0022] Figure 5B It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0023] Figure 5C It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0024] Figure 5D It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0025] Figure 5E It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0026] Figure 5F It is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0027] Figure 6A It is an explanatory diagram showing the process of assembling the cover portion to the main body portion of the outer tube of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0028] Figure 6B It is an explanatory diagram showing the process of assembling the cover portion to the main body portion of the outer tube of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0029] Figure 6C It is an explanatory diagram showing the process of assembling the cover portion to the main body portion of the outer tube of the header according to the embodiment of the present disclosure in a time series.

[0030] Figure 7A It is a top view showing the detailed shape of the fixing member according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 7B It is a top view showing the detailed shape of the fixing member of the modified example.

[0032] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the header of the first modified example.

[0033] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the header of the second modified example.

[0034] Figure 10A It is a side view showing the outer shape of the outer tube included in the header of the third modified example.

[0035] Figure 10B is Figure 10AX-X line view cross-sectional view of the outer tube shown

[0036] Figure 10C It is a top view showing the outer shape of the support member provided in the header of the third modification example

[0037] Figure 10D It shows Figure 10C The state of installing the support member described in Figure 10B on the outer tube described in

[0038] Figure 11A It is a side view showing the outer shape of the outer tube provided in the header of the fourth modification example

[0039] Figure 11B It is Figure 11A XI-XI line view cross-sectional view of the outer tube shown

[0040] Figure 11C It is a top view showing the outer shape of the support member provided in the header of the fourth modification example

[0041] Figure 11D To show Figure 11C The state of installing the support member described in Figure 11B on the outer tube described in

[0042] Figure 12A It is Figure 11D XId-XId line view cross-sectional view of the main body portion and the support member described in

[0043] Figure 12B It is imitating Figure 12A Cross-sectional view showing the shape of the fillet formed around the fitting groove and the protruding piece in another example

[0044] Figure 13A It is imitating Figure 3A Cross-sectional view showing a modification example of the outer tube of the embodiment of the present disclosure

[0045] Figure 13B It is imitating Figure 3A Cross-sectional view showing another modification example of the outer tube of the embodiment of the present disclosure Detailed implementation mode

[0046] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the structures and operations of the header and the heat exchanger according to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail. In addition, in each drawing, the same or equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals

[0047] (Overall structure of the heat exchanger)

[0048] Figure 1is a front view showing the structure of the heat exchanger 1 including the header 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1 shown, the heat exchanger 1 includes: two headers 2 arranged in parallel with each other; a plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 arranged between the two headers 2 to allow a refrigerant to flow between the two headers 2; and a plurality of heat transfer fins 4 arranged to cross the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 and in heat transfer contact with the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3.

[0049] The heat exchanger 1 is a component of a refrigeration circuit (not shown). One of the two headers 2 is connected to a pipe on the upstream side of the refrigeration circuit, and the refrigerant flows into the heat exchanger 1 from this pipe. The refrigerant flowing into one header 2 is distributed to the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 here, and flows into the other header 2 through the heat transfer tubes 3. The other header 2 is connected to a pipe on the downstream side of the refrigeration circuit, and the refrigerant flowing into the other header 2 flows out to the downstream pipe.

[0050] During the period when the refrigerant passes through the heat transfer tubes 3, heat exchange occurs between the air around the heat exchanger 1 and the refrigerant. In addition, since the heat exchanger 1 includes a plurality of heat transfer fins 4, the heat transfer area to the air around the heat exchanger 1 becomes larger. Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 1 is high.

[0051] (Structure of the header)

[0052] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the header 2 included in the heat exchanger 1. As Figure 2 shown, the header 2 includes an outer pipe 5 forming the outer contour of the header 2 and an inner pipe 6 inserted into the outer pipe 5. A plurality of small holes 6a are formed at equal intervals on the side surface of the inner pipe 6 and arranged in two rows along the long axis direction of the inner pipe 6.

[0053] As Figure 2 shown, the header 2 includes two fixing members 7 arranged at intervals in the long axis direction of the outer pipe 5 to fix the portions near both ends of the inner pipe 6 to the outer pipe 5. In addition, as will be described later, the fixing member 7 blocks the gap between the inner pipe 6 and the outer pipe 5. Therefore, the fixing member 7 hermetically divides the space between the inner pipe 6 and the outer pipe 5 in the long axis direction of the outer pipe 5. The plurality of small holes 6a of the inner pipe 6 are formed only between the two fixing members 7. In addition, the right end of the inner pipe 6 in the drawing is closed.

[0054] As Figure 2 shown, a plurality of support members 8 are arranged in the space between the inner pipe 6 and the outer pipe 5 located between the two fixing members 7. The support member 8 is a member fixed to the outer pipe 5 and supporting the inner pipe 6.

[0055] As Figure 2As shown, cover members 9 are closely attached to both ends of the outer tube 5 in the major axis direction. The cover members 9 are inserted into both end portions of the outer tube 5 to hermetically seal both end portions of the outer tube 5. In addition, the header 2 is provided with a take-out pipe 10. The refrigerant flowing in and out of the header 2 passes in and out of the outer tube 5 through the take-out pipe 10.

[0056] As described above, in the header 2, the inner tube 6 is supported by the outer tube 5 through a plurality of fixing members 7 and supporting members 8, so that the inner tube 6 is stably held by the outer tube 5. Therefore, the generation of the position shift of the inner tube 6 in the manufacturing process of the header 2 described later is suppressed. Therefore, the manufacturing of the header 2 becomes easy. In addition, the performance of the header 2 is stable.

[0057] When the header 2 is connected to the upstream-side pipeline when viewed from the header 2 of the refrigeration circuit (not shown), the refrigerant flowing in from the upstream-side pipeline flows into the Figure 2 space between the left-side cover member 9 and the fixing member 7 in the figure. The refrigerant flowing into the space between the cover member 9 and the fixing member 7 flows into the inner tube 6 from here. The refrigerant flowing into the inner tube 6 is distributed to the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 through the plurality of small holes 6a provided in the inner tube 6. Then, the refrigerant flows through the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 to the other header 2.

[0058] The refrigerant flowing into the other header 2 through the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 flows into the inside of the inner tube 6 through the plurality of small holes 6a provided in the inner tube 6. The refrigerant flowing into the inside of the inner tube 6 flows into the Figure 2 space between the left-side cover member 9 and the fixing member 7 in the other header 2, and flows from here through the take-out pipe 10 to the downstream-side pipeline of the refrigeration circuit (not shown) when viewed from the header 2.

[0059] (Structure of the fixing member)

[0060] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view showing the header 2 cut by a plane along the line IIIA-IIIA in Figure 2 . Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view showing the header 2 cut by a plane along the line IIIB-IIIB in Figure 2 . As shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B , the fixing member 7 completely blocks the gap between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5. In addition, the inner tube 6 penetrates through the fixing member 7. In addition, the fixing member 7 is fixed to the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 by welding. And the minute gaps between the fixing member 7 and the inner tube 6 and between the fixing member 7 and the outer tube 5 are filled with solder. Therefore, in the major axis direction of the outer tube 5, the space between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 is hermetically partitioned by the fixing member 7.

[0061] In addition, as shown in Figure 3A andFigure 3B As shown, the outer tube 5 is formed by combining a main body portion 5a having a U-shaped cross-sectional shape and a bottom plate 5b that closes the open end of the U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0062] (Structure of the support member)

[0063] Figure 4 It is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view shown by cutting the header 2 in the plane shown by IV-IV in Figure 4 As shown, the support member 8 is disposed between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 and supports the inner tube 6. In addition, the inner tube 6 penetrates through the support member 8.

[0064] In addition, as Figure 4 shown, a first gap 8a is formed between the support member 8 and the outer tube 5. In the planar shape of the header 2 viewed from the longitudinal axis direction of the header 2, all the portions where the heat transfer tubes 3 protrude into the interior of the outer tube 5 are visible inside the first gap 8a. With such a configuration, the support member 8 and the heat transfer tubes 3 do not interfere with each other. In addition, the flow of the refrigerant entering and exiting the heat transfer tubes 3 is not easily affected by the support member 8.

[0065] In addition, as Figure 4 shown, a second gap 8b is formed between the inner tube 6 and the support member 8. The second gap 8b is arranged symmetrically at about two places. Moreover, the second gap 8b is arranged at a position where the small hole 6a faces the second gap 8b. Therefore, even if the support member 8 is arranged at a position overlapping the small hole 6a, the support member 8 does not block the small hole 6a. Therefore, the installation position of the support member 8 can be selected without considering the arrangement of the small hole 6a.

[0066] By forming the first gap 8a between the support member 8 and the outer tube 5 and forming the second gap 8b between the support member 8 and the inner tube 6, in the space between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5, the refrigerant can flow along the longitudinal axis direction of the header 2 over the support member 8.

[0067] In addition, in Figure 4 , if the inner tube 6 is compared to the dial of a clock, two rows of small holes 6a are formed at positions approximately corresponding to 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock, but this position is an example. The position of the small hole 6a can be arbitrarily selected in design. Figure 4 The number of the small holes 6a appearing in Figure 4 can also be arbitrarily selected in design. That is, in

[0068] (Manufacturing method of the header and the heat exchanger)

[0069] Figures 5A - 5FIt is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the header 2 in chronological order. Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 5A - 5F the manufacturing method of the header 2 will be described.

[0070] In addition, each component constituting the header 2 is manufactured separately. That is, the main body portion 5a and the bottom plate 5b of the outer tube 5 are manufactured by bending a material cut out from a metal plate. The inner tube 6 is manufactured by cutting a metal pipe and then drilling small holes 6a. The fixing member 7, the supporting member 8, and the cover member 9 are cut out from a metal plate. The extraction pipe 10 is manufactured by cutting a metal pipe and then performing bending processing. In addition, solder is applied to necessary parts of the above-mentioned components.

[0071] (Fixing member fixing process)

[0072] As described above, when each component is prepared, as Figure 5A shown, the inner tube 6 is inserted into one fixing member 7. At this time, the inner tube 6 is positioned relative to the fixing member 7 so that the small holes 6a face a predetermined direction, that is, Figure 3A the direction shown. Then, as Figure 5B shown, the tube expanding tool 11 is pressed into the inner tube 6 to expand the portion of the inner tube 6 that intersects the fixing member 7. As a result, the inner tube 6 is fixed to the fixing member 7 in the state shown in Figure 5B . The inner tube 6 is fixed to the fixing member 7 while maintaining the state where the small holes 6a face a predetermined direction, that is, Figure 3A the direction shown.

[0073] (Inner tube assembly process)

[0074] As Figure 5C shown, the supporting member 8 and other fixing members 7 are assembled on the inner tube 6 that has undergone the fixing member fixing process. Since the second gap 8b is formed in the supporting member 8, it is not necessary to arrange the supporting member 8 avoiding the small holes 6a of the inner tube 6, so the working efficiency can be improved.

[0075] (Final assembly process)

[0076] As Figure 5D shown, the inner tube 6 that has undergone the inner tube assembly process, that is, the inner tube 6 assembled with the fixing member 7 and the supporting member 8, is assembled on the main body portion 5a. In addition, in the fixing member fixing process, the inner tube 6 is fixed to one fixing member 7. Therefore, before and after the inner tube assembly process, the inner tube 6 does not rotate around the central axis of the inner tube 6 relative to the fixing member 7. Therefore, in the inner tube assembly process, the inner tube 6 is assembled on the main body portion 5a while maintaining the state shown in Figure 5B . In addition, as Figure 5DAs shown, the main body portion 5a has a plurality of comb-shaped claws 5c. The function of the claws 5c will be described later.

[0077] Then, as Figure 5E shown, the cover member 9 is assembled to both ends of the main body portion 5a of the outer tube 5. Finally, as Figure 5F shown, the bottom plate 5b and the extraction pipe 10 are assembled to the main body portion 5a. Thus, the assembly of the header 2 is completed.

[0078] (Assembly steps of the bottom plate)

[0079] Figures 6A - 6C is an explanatory diagram showing the process of assembling the bottom plate 5b to the main body portion 5a of the outer tube 5 in the above-described overall assembly process in chronological order. As Figure 6A shown, in the state before the bottom plate 5b is assembled to the main body portion 5a, the claws 5c are in a state of extending straight. Therefore, as Figure 6B shown, the bottom plate 5b can be inserted into the main body portion 5a. After the bottom plate 5b is inserted into the main body portion 5a, as Figure 6C shown, the claws 5c are bent. If the claws 5c are bent, the bottom plate 5b is clamped between the fixing member 7 and the claws 5c. As a result, the bottom plate 5b is fixed relative to the main body portion 5a.

[0080] (Final assembly process of the heat exchanger)

[0081] After the assembly of the header 2 is completed, the two headers 2 are arranged parallel to each other with a gap therebetween, a plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 are arranged between the two headers 2, and the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3 are assembled to the two headers 2. Then, a plurality of heat transfer fins 4 are assembled to the heat transfer tubes 3 so as to cross the heat transfer tubes 3. As a result, the heat exchanger 1 is assembled into Figure 1 the state shown.

[0082] (Welding process)

[0083] After the heat exchanger 1 is assembled into Figure 1 the state shown through the final assembly process, the heat exchanger 1 is placed in a heating furnace (not shown) for heating. When the heat exchanger 1 is heated, the solder previously coated on the components constituting the heat exchanger 1 melts and flows into the minute gaps between the components. Then, the heat exchanger 1 is cooled to solidify the solder, thereby completing the welding.

[0084] Through the above processes, the header 2 and the heat exchanger 1 having the header 2 are manufactured.

[0085] (Detailed shape of the fixing member)

[0086] Finally, the detailed shape of the fixing member 7 provided in the header 2 described in Figure 2 and a modified example of the fixing member 7 will be described. Figure 7AIt represents Figure 2 The top view showing the detailed shape of the fixing member 7 provided in the header 2 described in Figure 7B The top view showing the detailed shape of the fixing member 7 of the modified example.

[0087] As Figure 7A shown, a through-hole 7a for inserting the inner tube 6 is provided through the fixing member 7. The through-hole 7a has a planar shape that is in a similar relationship to the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 6. That is, when the cross-section of the inner tube 6 is circular, the planar shape of the through-hole 7a is circular. In addition, as Figure 7A shown, the planar shape of the through-hole 7a is slightly larger than the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 6 before tube expansion, so the inner tube 6 before tube expansion can be easily inserted into the through-hole 7a. In addition, when the inner tube 6 is expanded, the inner tube 6 is in close contact with the fixing member 7.

[0088] As Figure 7B shown, the planar shape of the through-hole 7a may not be similar to the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 6. If the planar shape of the through-hole 7a is not similar to the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 6, when the inner tube 6 is expanded, a part of the fixing member 7 sinks deeper into the inner tube 6, so the inner tube 6 is more firmly fixed to the fixing member 7. As a result, the rotation of the inner tube 6 around the long axis relative to the fixing member 7 can be more reliably restricted.

[0089] (First and second modified examples)

[0090] Figure 8 The cross-sectional view showing the structure of the header 2 of the first modified example, Figure 9 The cross-sectional view showing the structure of the header 2 of the second modified example.

[0091] Above, an example in which the header 2 is provided with the fixing member 7 and the extraction pipe 10 is shown, but the header 2 is not limited to being provided with the fixing member 7 and the extraction pipe 10. For example, as Figure 8 shown, the inner tube 6 can be extended to the left side of the figure and penetrate through the cover member 9 so that the end of the inner tube 6 protrudes to the outside of the header 2. Or, as Figure 9 shown, the inner tube 6 can be bent into an L shape at one end and penetrate through the outer tube 5 so that one end of the inner tube 6 protrudes to the outside of the header 2. In these cases, the refrigerant entering and leaving the header 2 can directly enter and exit from the inner tube 6, so the extraction pipe 10 is not required. In addition, in these cases, the fixing member 7 is not required. Therefore, as Figure 8 , 9 shown, between the cover members 9 closely attached to both ends of the outer tube 5, only a plurality of support members 8 are arranged at intervals in the long axis direction of the outer tube 5.

[0092] In addition, above, an example in which the inner tube 6 is expanded and fixed to the fixing member 7 is shown, but inFigure 8 , 9 In the example shown in 9 , the end portion on the right side in the drawing of the inner tube 6 can also be expanded to fix the inner tube 6 to the support member 8 arranged at the right end in the drawing.

[0093] (Third modification example)

[0094] Figure 10A FIG. 10 is a side view showing the outer shape of the outer tube 5 included in the header 2 (not shown in Figure 10A ) of the third modification example. Figure 10A FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the outer tube 5 cut along the plane indicated by the line X-X in Figure 10A . Figure 10B is taken along Figure 10A the plane indicated by the line X-X in Figure 10A Figure 10A and shows the outer tube 5 shown in Figure 10A . Figure 10C FIG. 12 is a plan view showing the outer shape of the support member 8 included in the header 2 of the third modification example. Figure 10D FIG. 13 is a view showing the state in which the support member 8 described in Figure 10C Figure 10C is installed on the outer tube 5 described in Figure 10B . Figure 10B FIG. 13 is a view showing the state in which the support member 8 described in Figure 10C is installed on the outer tube 5 described in Figure 10B .

[0095] As shown in Figure 10A Figure 10A and Figure 10B , fitting grooves 5d are formed on both side surfaces of the main body portion 5a of the outer tube 5. Further, as shown in Figure 10C Figure 10C , the support member 8 includes protruding pieces 8c. As shown in Figure 10A Figure 10A , since the fitting groove 5d is cut from the lower end of the main body portion 5, the protruding piece 8c can be inserted into the fitting groove 5d from below the main body portion 5a to be fitted with the fitting groove 5d. Further, as shown in Figure 10B Figure 10B , the fitting groove 5d penetrates the main body portion 5a, and when the protruding piece 8c is fitted with the fitting groove 5d, the end of the protruding piece 8c protrudes to the outside of the main body portion 5a. When the protruding piece 8c is fitted with the fitting groove 5d, the support member 8 is fixed to the main body portion 5a in the form shown in Figure 10D Figure 10D .

[0096] Thus, in the header 2 of the third modification example, the fitting groove 5d is provided in the main body portion 5a of the outer tube 5, and the protruding piece 8c that is fitted with the fitting groove 5d is provided in the support member 8, so that the support member 8 can be easily positioned with respect to the main body portion. Therefore, the assembly of the header 2 becomes easy. Further, the assembly accuracy of the header 2 is improved. Further, after the header 2 is assembled, the end of the protruding piece 8c protrudes to the outside of the main body portion 5a, so that it is possible to easily confirm from the outside of the outer tube 5 that the support member 8 is assembled.

[0097] In addition, in the above, an example in which the support member 8 includes the protruding piece 8c is shown, but the member having the protruding piece that is fitted with the fitting groove 5d is not limited to the support member 8. The fixing member 7 or the cover member 9 may include the protruding piece that is fitted with the fitting groove 5d.

[0098] (Fourth Modified Example)

[0099] Figure 11A is a side view showing the outer shape of the outer tube 5 of the header 2 of the fourth modified example (not shown in Figure 11A ). Figure 11B It is a Figure 11A cross-sectional view of the outer tube 5 shown by cutting along the plane indicated by the line XI-XI in Figure 11A . Figure 11C is a top view showing the outer shape of the support member 8 of the header 2 of the fourth modified example. Figure 11D is a view showing the state where the support member 8 described in Figure 11C is installed on the outer tube 5 described in Figure 11B .

[0100] The basic structure and operation of the header 2 of the fourth modified example are the same as those of the header 2 of the third modified example. However, as shown in Figure 11A and Figure 11B , the header 2 of the fourth modified example is different from the header 2 of the third modified example in that the bottom plate 5b has a second fitting groove 5e. In addition, the difference between the header 2 of the fourth modified example and the header 2 of the third modified example is that the protruding piece 8c of the support member 8 is fitted not only into the fitting groove 5d but also into the second fitting groove 5e.

[0101] According to the header 2 of the fourth modified example, after positioning the support member 8 relative to the main body portion 5a by fitting the protruding piece 8c into the fitting groove 5d, the bottom plate 5b can be positioned relative to the main body portion 5a by fitting the protruding piece 8c into the second fitting groove 5e. Therefore, the positioning of the bottom plate 5b relative to the main body portion 5a can be easily and accurately performed. As a result, the assembly of the header 2 becomes easier. In addition, the assembly accuracy of the header 2 is further improved. In addition, above, an example in which the support member 8 has a protruding piece 8c that fits into the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e is shown, but the member having a protruding piece that fits into the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e is not limited to the support member 8. The fixing member 7 or the cover member 9 may also have a protruding piece that fits into the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e.

[0102] In addition, in the third and fourth modified examples, the main body portion 5a and the bottom plate 5b are also manufactured by bending a material cut out from a metal plate. If the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e are formed on the material and then bent, in the case where the bending accuracy is insufficient or post-deformation occurs after bending, in Figure 10B or Figure 11BIn the shown shape, the positions of the fitting groove 5d or the second fitting groove 5e on the right side of the outer tube 5 may not be consistent with the positions of the fitting groove 5d or the second fitting groove 5e on the left side of the outer tube 5. Therefore, for example, when the protruding piece 8c is fitted into the fitting groove 5d formed on the right side of the main body portion 5a, a gap may sometimes be generated between the fitting groove 5d formed on the left side of the main body portion 5a and the protruding piece 8c. Or, when the protruding piece 8c is fitted into the second fitting groove 5e formed on the left side of the bottom plate 5b, a gap may sometimes be generated between the second fitting groove 5e formed on the right side of the bottom plate 5b and the protruding piece 8c. Therefore, it is preferable to form the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e after bending the material. By forming the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e after bending the material, it is possible to prevent the positions of the fitting groove 5d or the second fitting groove 5e from being inconsistent left and right. Figure 10B In the case where it is fitted into the fitting groove 5d formed on the right side of the main body portion 5a, a gap may sometimes be generated between the fitting groove 5d formed on the left side of the main body portion 5a and the protruding piece 8c. Or, Figure 11B In the case where it is fitted into the second fitting groove 5e formed on the left side of the bottom plate 5b, a gap may sometimes be generated between the second fitting groove 5e formed on the right side of the bottom plate 5b and the protruding piece 8c. Therefore, it is preferable to form the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e after bending the material. By forming the fitting groove 5d and the second fitting groove 5e after bending the material, it is possible to prevent the positions of the fitting groove 5d or the second fitting groove 5e from being inconsistent left and right.

[0103] Figure 12A is Figure 11D a sectional view showing the main body portion 5a and the support member 8 cut along the plane shown by the XId-XId line, and is a sectional view showing the shape of the fillet formed around the fitting groove 5d and the protruding piece 8c. Figure 11D is a sectional view showing the shape of the fillet formed around the fitting groove 5d and the protruding piece 8c, which is an example of another case. Figure 12B is modeled after Figure 12A a sectional view showing the shape of the fillet formed around the fitting groove 5d and the protruding piece 8c, which is an example of another case.

[0104] As described above, in the third and fourth modified examples, when the support member 8 is attached to the outer tube 5, the end of the protruding piece 8c of the support member 8 protrudes outward from the outer tube 5. Therefore, when the support member 8 is welded to the outer tube 5, as Figure 12A shown, fillets 12 are formed on the inner side and the outer side of the outer tube 5. As a result, the strength of the welded portion is improved. In addition, it is easy to ensure the airtightness and watertightness of the welded portion.

[0105] In addition, the shape and size of the protruding piece 8c can be selected so that the end of the protruding piece 8c does not reach the outer surface of the outer tube 5. That is, as Figure 12B shown, when the support member 8 is attached to the outer tube 5, the end of the protruding piece 8c may also remain inside the fitting groove 5d. In this case, when the support member 8 is welded to the outer tube 5, as Figure 12B shown, fillets 12 are formed on the inner side of the outer tube 5 and inside the fitting groove 5d. As a result, the strength of the welded portion is improved. In addition, it is easy to ensure the airtightness and watertightness of the welded portion.

[0106] (Modified example of the shape of the outer tube)

[0107] Figure 13A is modeled afterFigure 3A A cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the outer tube 5 Figure 13B is modeled after Figure 3A A cross-sectional view showing another modified example of the outer tube 5

[0108] Above, with reference to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , it has been described that the main body portion 5a of the outer tube 5 has a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, but the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 5a only needs to be configured as a groove shape, and thus is not limited to the shapes illustrated in Figure 3A and Figure 3B . The cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 5a can also be, for example, the shape illustrated in Figure 13A or Figure 13B . That is, the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 5a can also be configured such that, as shown in Figure 13A , the contour is formed in a straight line and has corner portions 5f at two places, and the inner angles of each corner portion 5f are right angles. As shown in Figure 13B , the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 5a can also have corner portions 5f at four places, and the inner angles of each corner portion 5f are obtuse angles

[0109] In addition, in the present disclosure, a "groove shape" refers to a cross-sectional shape that surrounds three sides and is open at one end. And if other components are attached closely to the open end of the "groove shape", a closed cross-section is formed. That is, in the present disclosure, a "groove shape" refers to a cross-sectional shape that is open at one end and forms a closed cross-section by attaching other components closely to the open end. Additionally, in the "groove shape" of the present disclosure, the shape of the portion surrounding three sides is not limited. Moreover, as long as the above definition of the "groove shape" is followed, the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion of the present disclosure can of course be arbitrarily changed. In addition, cross-sectional shapes generally referred to as "U-shaped" or "C-shaped" are also included in the "groove shape"

[0110] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the bottom plate of the present disclosure is not limited by Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 13A , Figure 13B or the cross-sectional shape of the bottom plate 5b illustrated in other drawings. The cross-sectional shape of the bottom plate of the present disclosure can be arbitrarily changed as long as it has the function of forming a closed cross-section integrally with the main body portion having a "groove shape" cross-sectional shape by attaching closely to the open end of the main body portion

[0111] As described above, in the header 2, the inner tube 6 is supported by the outer tube 5 via a plurality of support members 8 arranged in the longitudinal axis direction of the inner tube 6, or via a plurality of fixing members 7 and support members 8. That is, the inner tube 6 is supported at multiple points by the outer tube 5. Therefore, compared with the case where the inner tube is cantilever-supported by the outer tube as described in Patent Document 1, the inner tube 6 is stably held by the outer tube 5. Therefore, the flexure of the inner tube 6 and the positional deviation of the inner tube 6 relative to the outer tube 5 during the manufacturing process of the header 2 are suppressed. Therefore, the manufacturing of the header 2 becomes easy. In addition, since the shape accuracy of the header 2 is improved, the performance of the header 2 is stable.

[0112] In the header 2, a first gap 8a exists between the outer tube 5 and the support member 8, and a second gap 8b is provided between the inner tube 6 and the support member 8. Therefore, in the space between the outer tube 5 and the inner tube 6, the refrigerant can move along the longitudinal axis direction of the header 2 across the support member 8. Therefore, the refrigerant can flow uniformly to the plurality of heat transfer tubes 3. As a result, the performance of the heat exchanger 1 is improved.

[0113] However, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the above-described embodiments. The present disclosure can be freely applied, deformed, or modified within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims.

[0114] The specific mechanical structures of the heat exchanger 1 and the header 2 described in the above embodiments are examples, and the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the specific mechanical structures of the heat exchanger 1 and the header 2. In particular, the number of support members provided in the header of the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplified number.

[0115] For example, an example of arranging the headers 2 in parallel is shown, but one header 2 and the other header 2 may not be parallel. The outer shape of the header 2 is also arbitrary.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the inner tube 6 having a circular cross-section is exemplified, but the header of the present disclosure is not limited to having an inner tube with a circular cross-section. The inner tube provided in the header of the present disclosure may also be a square tube or a tube having other cross-sectional shapes.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the two end portions of the inner tube 6 are fixed to the outer tube 5 by two fixing members 7, and a support member 8 fixed to the outer tube 5 and supporting the inner tube 6 is arranged between the two fixing members 7. However, the inner tube 6 may be fixed to the outer tube 5 by three or more fixing members 7. In this case, a gap similar to the second gap 8b provided in the support member 8 facing the small hole 6a may also be formed in the fixing member 7 arranged in the middle. In addition, the fixing position is not limited to the end portion of the inner tube 6.

[0118] When the thickness of the support member 8 is sufficiently smaller than the diameter of the small hole 6a, the refrigerant can flow through the small hole 6a even if the support member 8 is arranged on the small hole 6a. In such a case, the second gap 8b may not be provided. The cross-sectional shape of the small hole 6a is not limited to a circle. The cross-sectional shape of the small hole 6a may also be an oblong or a polygon. The diameter of the small hole 6a is also arbitrary. In the above, an example of arranging the small holes 6a in series at equal intervals is shown, but the small holes 6a may also be arranged at unequal intervals. The small holes 6a may also be formed at approximately random positions.

[0119] In the above embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 having the heat transfer fins 4 is exemplified, but the heat exchanger of the present disclosure is not limited to having a component corresponding to the heat transfer fins 4. In the heat exchanger of the present disclosure, the component corresponding to the heat transfer fins 4 is an arbitrary component. The heat exchanger of the present disclosure only needs to have a component corresponding to the header 2 and a component corresponding to the heat transfer tube 3.

[0120] In the present disclosure, the materials constituting the header and the heat exchanger are not limited. Various materials can be arbitrarily selected according to the purpose of use, the use environment or the required performance. In the present disclosure, the processing method and processing means of the components constituting the header and the heat exchanger are not limited. Various methods and means can be arbitrarily selected.

[0121] Hereinafter, each aspect of the present disclosure will be collectively described as a supplementary note.

[0122] (Note 1)

[0123] A header comprises: an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes; and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having a plurality of small holes, wherein:

[0124] The header includes a plurality of support members which are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube and support the inner tube, and

[0125] A gap is formed in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, through which the refrigerant flows along the long axis direction of the header over the support member.

[0126] (Note 2)

[0127] The header according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein:

[0128] The outer tube has:

[0129] a main body having a groove-shaped cross-sectional shape in a cross section obtained by cutting the header along a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the header and connected to the heat transfer tube;

[0130] a bottom plate, which is closely attached to the open end of the groove-shaped cross-sectional shape of the main body; and

[0131] The cover member is closely attached to both ends of the outer tube in the long axis direction.

[0132] (Note 3)

[0133] A header comprises: an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes; and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having a plurality of small holes, wherein:

[0134] The header has:

[0135] two fixing members, which are arranged at a distance in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube, fix the inner tube to the outer tube, and airtightly divide the space between the inner tube and the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube; and

[0136] a supporting member located in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, disposed between the two fixing members, and supporting the inner tube,

[0137] A gap is formed in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, through which the refrigerant flows along the long axis direction of the header over the support member.

[0138] (Note 4)

[0139] The header according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein:

[0140] The fixing member has an insertion hole that penetrates the header along the long axis direction and through which the inner tube is inserted.

[0141] The planar shape of the through-hole when viewed from the long axis direction of the header is dissimilar to the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube.

[0142] (Note 5)

[0143] The header according to Supplement 3 or 4, wherein:

[0144] The outer tube has:

[0145] a main body having a groove-shaped cross-sectional shape in a cross section obtained by cutting the header along a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the header and connected to the heat transfer tube;

[0146] a bottom plate, which is closely attached to the open end of the groove-shaped cross-sectional shape of the main body; and

[0147] The cover member is closely attached to both ends of the outer tube in the long axis direction.

[0148] (Note 6)

[0149] The header according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5, wherein,

[0150] the gap is formed between the support member and the outer tube,

[0151] in the planar shape viewed from the longitudinal axis direction of the header, all the portions where the heat transfer tubes protrude into the interior of the outer tube are visible inside the gap.

[0152] (Appendix 7)

[0153] The header according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5, wherein,

[0154] the gap is formed between the support member and the inner tube,

[0155] in the planar shape viewed from the longitudinal axis direction of the header, the small holes of the inner tube are in positions facing the gap.

[0156] (Appendix 8)

[0157] A heat exchanger, comprising:

[0158] two headers according to any one of Appendices 1 to 7;

[0159] a plurality of heat transfer tubes disposed between the two headers to allow a refrigerant to flow between the two headers; and

[0160] a plurality of heat transfer fins intersecting with the plurality of heat transfer tubes and in heat transfer contact with the plurality of heat transfer tubes.

[0161] (Appendix 9)

[0162] A method for manufacturing a header, which is a method for manufacturing the header according to Appendix 5, comprising:

[0163] a fixing member fixing step of inserting the inner tube into one of the fixing members, and then expanding the inner tube to fix the fixing member to the inner tube;

[0164] an inner tube assembling step of assembling other fixing members and the support member on the inner tube that has undergone the fixing member fixing step; and

[0165] a general assembling step of assembling the inner tube that has undergone the inner tube assembling step to the main body portion, and assembling the bottom plate and the cover member on the main body portion.

[0166] (Appendix 10)

[0167] A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising:

[0168] Final assembly process: Assemble a plurality of the heat transfer tubes on two of the headers manufactured by the header manufacturing method described in Supplementary Note 9, and arrange the plurality of the heat transfer tubes between the two headers; and

[0169] Welding process: Heat the header and the heat transfer tubes that have undergone the final assembly process to perform welding.

[0170] (Supplementary Note 11)

[0171] The header according to Supplementary Note 2 or 5, wherein

[0172] The main body portion of the outer tube has a fitting groove, and

[0173] Either or both of the support member and the cover member have a protruding piece that fits into the fitting groove.

[0174] (Supplementary Note 12)

[0175] The header according to Supplementary Note 11, wherein

[0176] The bottom plate of the outer tube has a second fitting groove, and

[0177] The protruding piece fits into the second fitting groove.

[0178] (Supplementary Note 13)

[0179] The header according to Supplementary Note 11 or 12, wherein

[0180] The end of the protruding piece passes through the fitting groove and protrudes to the outside of the outer tube.

[0181] (Supplementary Note 14)

[0182] The header according to Supplementary Note 11 or 12, wherein

[0183] The end of the protruding piece remains in the space inside the fitting groove.

[0184] The present disclosure can be implemented in various embodiments and variations without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the above embodiments are used to illustrate the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. That is, the scope of the present disclosure is not shown by the embodiments, but is shown by the claims. Moreover, various variations implemented within the meaning equivalent to the claims and the disclosure are regarded as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0185] The present disclosure is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-207144 filed on December 23, 2022. The entire specification, claims, and drawings of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-207144 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0186] Industrial Applicability

[0187] The present disclosure is useful as a header, a heat exchanger, a method for manufacturing a header, and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger.

[0188] Reference Signs Description

[0189] 1: Heat exchanger, 2: Header, 3: Heat transfer tube, 4: Heat transfer fin, 5: Outer tube, 5a: Main body portion, 5b: Bottom plate, 5c: Claw, 5d: Fitting groove, 5e: Second fitting groove, 5f: Corner portion, 6: Inner tube, 6a: Small hole, 7: Fixing member, 7a: Through hole, 8: Support member, 8a: First gap, 8b: Second gap, 8c: Protruding piece, 9: Cover member, 10: Take-out pipe, 11: Tube expanding tool, 12: Fillet weld.

Claims

1. A header comprising: an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes; and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having a plurality of small holes, wherein: The header includes a plurality of support members which are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube and support the inner tube, and A gap is formed in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, through which the refrigerant flows along the long axis direction of the header over the support member.

2. The header according to claim 1, wherein: The outer tube has: a main body having a groove-shaped cross-sectional shape in a cross section obtained by cutting the header along a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the header and connected to the heat transfer tube; A bottom plate, which is closely attached to the open end of the groove-shaped cross-sectional shape of the main body; as well as The cover member is closely attached to both ends of the outer tube in the long axis direction.

3. A header comprising: an outer tube connected to a plurality of heat transfer tubes; and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having a plurality of small holes, wherein: The header has: two fixing members, which are arranged at a distance in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube, fix the inner tube to the outer tube, and airtightly divide the space between the inner tube and the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube; and a supporting member located in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, disposed between the two fixing members, and supporting the inner tube, A gap is formed in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, through which the refrigerant flows along the long axis direction of the header over the support member.

4. The header according to claim 3, wherein: The fixing member has an insertion hole that penetrates the header along the long axis direction and through which the inner tube is inserted. The planar shape of the through-hole when viewed from the long axis direction of the header is dissimilar to the cross-sectional shape of the inner tube.

5. The header according to claim 3, wherein: The outer tube has: a main body having a groove-shaped cross-sectional shape in a cross section obtained by cutting the header along a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the header and connected to the heat transfer tube; A bottom plate, which is closely attached to the open end of the groove-shaped cross-sectional shape of the main body; as well as The cover member is closely attached to both ends of the outer tube in the long axis direction.

6. The header according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The gap is formed between the support member and the outer tube, In the planar shape viewed from the long axis direction of the header, all of the portions of the heat transfer tubes protruding into the interior of the outer tube are visible inside the gap.

7. The header according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The gap is formed between the support member and the inner tube, In the planar shape viewed from the long axis direction of the header, the small hole of the inner tube is located facing the gap.

8. A heat exchanger comprising: Two headers according to any one of claims 1 to 5; a plurality of heat transfer tubes disposed between the two headers so that the refrigerant flows between the two headers; and A plurality of heat transfer fins, which cross the plurality of heat transfer tubes and are in heat transfer contact with the plurality of heat transfer tubes.

9. A method for manufacturing a header, which is a method for manufacturing the header according to claim 5, comprising: A fixing member fixing step of inserting the inner tube into one of the fixing members, then expanding the inner tube, and fixing the fixing member to the inner tube; An inner tube assembling step of assembling other fixing members and the supporting members on the inner tube that has undergone the fixing member fixing step; and A final assembling step of assembling the inner tube that has undergone the inner tube assembling step to the main body portion, and assembling the bottom plate and the cover member on the main body portion.

10. A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising: A final assembling step of assembling a plurality of the heat transfer tubes on two headers manufactured by the method for manufacturing a header according to claim 9, and arranging the plurality of heat transfer tubes between the two headers; And A welding step of heating and welding the headers and the heat transfer tubes that have undergone the final assembling step.

11. The header according to claim 2 or 5, wherein The main body portion of the outer tube has a fitting groove, and Either one or both of the supporting member and the cover member have a protruding piece that fits into the fitting groove.

12. The header according to claim 11, wherein The bottom plate of the outer tube has a second fitting groove, and The protruding piece fits into the second fitting groove.

13. The header according to claim 11 or 12, wherein The end of the protruding piece passes through the fitting groove and protrudes to the outside of the outer tube.

14. The header according to claim 11 or 12, wherein The end of the protruding piece remains in the space inside the fitting groove.

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