Micro-channel heat exchanger with chained mechanical disturbance

By setting a movable chain structure in the microchannel of the microchannel heat exchanger, the heat transfer boundary layer is broken by the fluid scouring action and impacts the microchannel wall, which solves the channel blockage phenomenon when the heat exchanger is improved, realizes the self-cleaning function, and improves the stability and anti-clogging ability of the heat exchanger.

CN121025840APending Publication Date: 2025-11-28NUCLEAR POWER INSTITUTE OF CHINA
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511265146.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-05
Publication Date
2025-11-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

While existing microchannel diffusion welded heat exchangers (MCDs) improve heat exchange capacity, they are prone to flow channel blockage, affecting long-term stable operation, and lack flow channel self-cleaning function.

Method used

A movable chain structure is set up inside the microchannel. The fluid scouring action causes the chain structure to move axially and oscillate radially, which breaks the heat transfer boundary layer and impacts the microchannel wall, thereby enhancing the heat transfer capacity. At the same time, the chain structure impacts the microchannel wall, further enhancing the heat transfer capacity, breaking the heat transfer boundary layer and impacting the microchannel wall, thus strengthening the heat transfer boundary layer and achieving a self-cleaning function.

Benefits of technology

It enhances heat exchange capacity, strengthens the anti-clogging ability of microchannels, achieves self-cleaning function, and ensures long-term stable operation of heat exchanger.

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Abstract

The chained mechanical disturbance micro-channel heat exchanger comprises a first medium inlet pipe box, a first medium outlet pipe box, a second medium inlet pipe box, a second medium outlet pipe box and a heat exchange core, a micro-channel allowing media to flow is formed in the heat exchange core, and a movable chained structure is arranged in the micro-channel in the axial direction. The chained structure can move to a certain extent in the axial direction of the micro-channel and can freely swing in the radial direction of the micro-channel. A movable chain type structure is arranged in a micro-channel in the axial direction, the chain type structure can move to a certain degree in the axial direction of the micro-channel and can freely swing in the radial direction of the micro-channel, and under the scouring action of fluid in the micro-channel, the movement of the chain type structure can play a role in stirring and mixing surrounding fluid; and meanwhile, the chain type structure can impact the wall surface of the micro-channel, so that impurities such as dirt on the wall surface are difficult to adhere for a long time, and the self-cleaning function of the micro-channel is realized.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heat exchanger technology, and more specifically to a microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance. Background Technology

[0002] Microchannel diffusion-welded heat exchangers (MCDs) are a novel type of heat exchanger characterized by high compactness and excellent heat exchange efficiency. They are widely used in traditional petrochemical, renewable energy utilization, and chemical extraction industries. These heat exchangers are primarily manufactured using advanced microchannel forming and diffusion welding technologies.

[0003] like Figure 1 As shown, the structure of a conventional MCD heat exchanger mainly consists of a medium-1 inlet tube box 1, a medium-1 outlet tube box 2, a medium-2 inlet tube box 3, a medium-2 outlet tube box 4, and a heat exchange core 5. The heat exchange core 5 is usually formed by periodically stacking upper and lower cover plates 51, a medium-1 heat exchange plate 52, and a medium-2 heat exchange plate 53, and then forming a tightly connected porous core block through diffusion welding.

[0004] This type of heat exchanger uses a side inlet / outlet design for one side of the flow channel, achieving vertical deflection in the inlet / outlet region through microchannels (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The medium flows in two directions on one side, while the other side typically uses a straight-in / straight-out flow pattern (e.g., the medium flows in two directions on the other side). Figure 1 (Medium medium flow direction). The hot and cold side heat exchange plates are stacked sequentially at intervals, and the length, width, and number of heat exchange plates are adjusted according to the required heat exchange area, process limitations, and other factors. The numerous microchannel structures give this type of heat exchanger a large heat exchange specific surface area, and the diffusion welding process gives the MCD heat exchanger high weld joint strength, which is a significant feature that distinguishes the MCD heat exchanger from conventional heat exchangers.

[0005] The high heat transfer surface area of ​​MCD heat exchangers makes them highly effective in achieving efficient energy transfer of working fluids with weak heat transfer capabilities, such as supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle systems, helium Brayton cycle systems, methane heat exchangers, and gas heat exchangers. To further explore the heat transfer capacity of MCD heat exchangers, researchers have conducted extensive research, focusing on three aspects: First, the working fluid itself is modified by mixing the working fluid to change its thermophysical properties and improve the heat transfer coefficient. Second, operating conditions are optimized by increasing the working fluid flow velocity and operating pressure to enhance heat transfer. Third, the flow channel geometry is optimized to disrupt the flow boundary layer and enhance the mixing and disturbance of the fluid, thereby achieving efficient heat transfer.

[0006] However, with numerous methods emerging to enhance heat exchange, the demand for improving the heat exchange capacity of MCD heat exchangers remains urgent. Furthermore, due to the small flow area of ​​the microchannels in MCD heat exchangers, channel blockage is prone to occur when the working fluid is not sufficiently clean, leading to loss of heat exchange area and, in severe cases, even requiring shutdown for maintenance. Therefore, enabling MCD heat exchangers to possess self-cleaning channel capabilities while simultaneously improving their heat exchange capacity is crucial for efficient heat exchange and long-term stable operation. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to address the problem of how to improve the heat exchange capacity of an MCD heat exchanger while enabling it to have a microchannel self-cleaning function. This invention provides a microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance, which enhances the heat exchange capacity and achieves the microchannel self-cleaning capability by incorporating a chain structure within the microchannel and utilizing the movement of the chain structure.

[0008] This invention is achieved through the following technical solution: This invention provides a microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance, including a medium inlet tube box, a medium outlet tube box, a medium inlet tube box, a medium outlet tube box, and a heat exchange core. The heat exchange core has microchannels for medium flow inside. A movable chain structure is arranged axially inside the microchannel. The chain structure can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction of the microchannel and can swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel.

[0009] In the above scheme, by setting a movable chain structure along the axial direction in the microchannel of the heat exchange core, the chain structure can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction of the microchannel and can swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel. Under the flushing action of the fluid in the microchannel, the movement of the chain structure can play a role in mixing the surrounding fluid, destroying the heat transfer boundary layer and thus enhancing convective heat transfer. At the same time, the chain structure can impact the wall of the microchannel, making it difficult for dirt and other impurities on the wall of the microchannel to adhere for a long time, thereby realizing the self-cleaning function of the microchannel.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one end of the chain structure is fixed at the working fluid inlet, and the other end is a free end. Because one end of the chain structure is fixed at the working fluid inlet of the microchannel, and the other end is a free end, the chain structure can swing freely under the action of fluid scouring. Simultaneously, since the fixed end of the chain structure is at the working fluid inlet, the chain structure can always maintain an extended state along the axial direction of the flow channel under the action of fluid scouring, preventing the chain structure from clumping together.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the radial dimension of the chain structure is smaller than the radial dimension of the microchannel. This configuration allows the chain structure to swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a chain structure is provided within the microchannel, and the chain structure is placed along the axial direction of the microchannel. This chain structure arrangement is simple and suitable for small cross-section channels.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, multiple chain structures are arranged in parallel along the width direction of the microchannel. This chain structure arrangement is suitable for large-section rectangular straight-through channels, which can further enhance heat exchange capacity and effectively improve the anti-clogging capability of the heat exchanger.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the chain structure is composed of multiple chain links connected in sequence, with one chain link at one end fixed at the working fluid inlet. This chain structure is simple, and because there are gaps between different chain links, the chain structure can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction. Furthermore, adjacent chain links are connected perpendicularly, and the flow direction of the fluid in their vicinity constantly changes, which also has a mixing effect on the surrounding fluid, thereby improving the heat exchange capacity.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the chain structure includes a fixing component, a connecting component, and a conical spiral component. A plurality of the conical spiral components are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the microchannel, and adjacent conical spiral components are rotatably connected to each other through the connecting component. The fixing component is located at the working fluid inlet and is rotatably connected to the conical spiral component at one end through the connecting component.

[0016] In the above scheme, since the conical spiral component can rotate around its own axis, the rotation of the conical spiral component is driven by the fluid and affects the flow of the surrounding fluid, resulting in a spiral motion. This causes it to collide with the flow channel wall, weakening the boundary layer. The oscillation of the conical spiral component itself will also enhance the impact effect. At the same time, the spiral structure allows the component to expand and contract along the axis like a spring, thereby enhancing the mixing of the fluid in the axial direction. Therefore, the turbulence of the fluid from the radial to the axial direction will be enhanced, thereby further improving the heat exchange capacity.

[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the conical helical component has a variable diameter helical structure and is conical in shape, thicker in the middle and thinner at both ends, along the axial direction. Using this structural form of the conical helical component can enhance the turbulence of the fluid from both the radial and axial directions, thereby further improving the heat exchange capacity.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connecting component includes a connecting rod and connecting rings. The connecting rod is U-shaped, and the connecting rings are located at both ends of the connecting rod. This connecting component enables rotary connections between connected conical helical components and between a fixed component and a conical helical component.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the conical spiral component has anti-detachment ends at both ends, and the connecting ring of the connecting component is sleeved on the anti-detachment ends. Using the aforementioned anti-detachment ends allows for rotational connection by sleeved with the connecting ring of the connecting component, while simultaneously preventing the ends of the conical spiral component from detaching from the connecting component.

[0020] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the conical spiral component is made of shape memory alloy, and its shape gradually changes from a straight line to a spiral shape as the fluid temperature rises.

[0021] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the chain structure is made of metal or non-metal materials.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects: This invention utilizes a movable chain structure arranged axially within the microchannels of a heat exchange core. This chain structure can displace to a certain extent along the microchannel's axial direction and swing freely in the radial direction. Under the scouring action of the fluid within the microchannel, the movement of the chain structure mixes the surrounding fluid, disrupting the heat transfer boundary layer and enhancing convective heat transfer. Simultaneously, the chain structure impacts the microchannel walls, making it difficult for dirt and other impurities to adhere persistently, thus achieving a self-cleaning function for the microchannels. This invention is simple in principle, highly feasible, easy to operate, effectively enhances heat exchange capacity, and strengthens the anti-clogging ability of microchannels, showing promising market application prospects. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the microchannel heat exchanger with chain mechanical disturbance in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the chain structure with isolated chains within the microchannel in this invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the multi-chain parallel chain structure within the microchannel in this invention. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of the rotatable chain structure in the microchannel of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable chain structure within the microchannel of the present invention.

[0024] The attached diagram shows the markings and corresponding component names: 1-Inlet pipe box for medium one, 2-Outlet pipe box for medium one, 3-Inlet pipe box for medium two, 4-Outlet pipe box for medium two, 5-Heat exchange core, 51-Cover plate, 52-Heat exchange plate for medium one, 53-Heat exchange plate for medium two, 54-Microchannel for medium one, 55-Microchannel for medium two, 6-Chain structure, 61-Fixing component, 62-Connecting component, 621-Connecting rod, 622-Connecting ring, 63-Conical spiral component, 631-Anti-detachment end, 64-Chain link. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the present invention are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0026] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0027] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features.

[0028] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0029] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects before and after it have an "or" relationship.

[0030] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0031] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces), unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0032] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0033] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0034] Microchannel diffusion-welded heat exchangers (MCDs) are a novel type of heat exchanger characterized by high compactness and excellent heat exchange efficiency. They are widely used in traditional petrochemical, renewable energy utilization, and chemical extraction industries. These heat exchangers are primarily manufactured using advanced microchannel forming and diffusion welding technologies.

[0035] To further explore the heat transfer capacity of MCD heat exchangers, researchers have conducted extensive research. From the working fluid side, they have improved the heat transfer coefficient by mixing the working fluid to alter its thermophysical parameters. From the operating conditions side, they have enhanced the working fluid's heat transfer capacity by increasing its flow velocity and operating pressure. From the heat transfer channels side, they have optimized the channel geometry to disrupt the flow boundary layer and enhance the mixing and disturbance of the fluid, thereby achieving efficient heat transfer.

[0036] However, with numerous methods emerging to enhance heat exchange, the demand for improving the heat exchange capacity of MCD heat exchangers remains urgent. Furthermore, due to the small flow area of ​​the microchannels in MCD heat exchangers, channel blockage is prone to occur when the working fluid is not sufficiently clean, leading to loss of heat exchange area and, in severe cases, even requiring shutdown for maintenance. Therefore, enabling MCD heat exchangers to possess self-cleaning channel capabilities while simultaneously improving their heat exchange capacity is crucial for efficient heat exchange and long-term stable operation.

[0037] In view of this, the applicant, after long-term and in-depth research, proposed a microchannel heat exchanger that can enhance heat exchange capacity and has a self-cleaning function. By setting a chain structure in the microchannel of the heat exchanger, the fluid scouring action causes the chain structure to move, thereby disturbing the boundary layer and enhancing the convective heat transfer capacity. At the same time, the swinging impact of the chain structure on the microchannel wall or the impact between the chain structures themselves prevents the deposition of dirt and impurities and the breaking and peeling off of existing dirt, so that the microchannel has a self-cleaning function.

[0038] Please refer to Figures 1 to 5 The microchannel heat exchanger with chain mechanical disturbance provided in this application embodiment includes a medium inlet tube box 1, a medium outlet tube box 2, a medium second inlet tube box 3, a medium second outlet tube box 4, and a heat exchange core 5. The heat exchange core 5 has a microchannel for medium flow inside. A movable chain structure 6 is arranged axially in the microchannel. The chain structure 6 can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction of the microchannel and can swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel.

[0039] This application utilizes a movable chain structure 6 arranged axially within the microchannels of the heat exchange core 5. Because this chain structure 6 can displace to a certain extent along the axial direction of the microchannel and swing freely in the radial direction, the movement of the chain structure 6, under the scouring action of the fluid within the microchannel, can turbulently mix the surrounding fluid, disrupting the heat transfer boundary layer and thus enhancing convective heat transfer. Simultaneously, the chain structure 6 can impact the microchannel walls, making it difficult for dirt and other impurities to adhere to the microchannel walls permanently, thereby achieving the self-cleaning function of the microchannel. This application is simple in principle, highly feasible, easy to operate, effectively enhances heat exchange capacity, and strengthens the anti-clogging ability of the microchannel, showing promising market application prospects.

[0040] It should be noted that the overall layout of the medium-1 inlet tube box 1, medium-1 outlet tube box 2, medium-2 inlet tube box 3, medium-2 outlet tube box 4 and heat exchange core 5 in the microchannel heat exchanger of this application is roughly the same as that of the microchannel heat exchanger in the prior art. The difference is that the heat exchange core 5 in this application is provided with a chain structure 6 in the microchannel, and the heat exchange capacity and the self-cleaning capacity of the microchannel are enhanced by the movement of the chain structure 6.

[0041] According to some embodiments of this application, one end of the chain structure 6 is fixed to the working fluid inlet, and the other end is a free end. Because one end of the chain structure 6 is fixed to the working fluid inlet of the microchannel, and the other end is a free end, the chain structure 6 can swing freely under the action of fluid scouring. At the same time, with the fixed end of the chain structure 6 at the working fluid inlet, the chain structure 6 can always maintain an extended state along the axial direction of the flow channel under the action of fluid, preventing the chain structure 6 from clumping together.

[0042] According to some embodiments of this application, the radial dimension of the chain structure 6 is smaller than the radial dimension of the microchannel. This configuration allows the chain structure 6 to swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel.

[0043] According to some embodiments of this application, a chain structure 6 is provided within the microchannel, and the chain structure 6 is placed along the axial direction of the microchannel. This arrangement of the chain structure 6 is simple and suitable for small cross-section channels.

[0044] According to some embodiments of this application, multiple chain structures 6 are arranged in parallel along the width of the microchannel. This arrangement of chain structures 6 is suitable for large-section rectangular straight-through channels. The parallel chain structures 6 separate the working fluid, increasing the working fluid velocity and heat exchange contact area. The collision and separation processes between the slightly oscillating chains further enhance the fluid mixing effect, increasing turbulent kinetic energy and further strengthening the heat exchange capacity. At the same time, it can effectively improve the anti-clogging capability of the heat exchanger.

[0045] According to some embodiments of this application, the chain structure 6 is composed of multiple chain links 64 connected sequentially, with one chain link 64 fixed at one end to the working fluid inlet. This chain structure 6 is similar to a common iron chain, with a simple overall structure. Furthermore, due to the gaps between different chain links 64, the chain structure 6 can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction. Adjacent chain links 64 are vertically connected, and the fluid flow direction near them constantly changes, making it difficult for a stable boundary layer to form on the chain wall. This also stirs the surrounding fluid, thereby improving heat exchange capacity.

[0046] According to some embodiments of this application, the chain structure 6 includes a fixing component 61, a connecting component 62, and a conical spiral component 63. A plurality of conical spiral components 63 are arranged at intervals along the microchannel axis. Adjacent conical spiral components 63 are rotatably connected by the connecting component 62. The fixing component 61 is located at the working fluid inlet and is rotatably connected to one end of the conical spiral component 63 by the connecting component 62.

[0047] In this application, the conical spiral component 63 can rotate around its own axis. The rotation of the conical spiral component 63 is driven by the fluid and affects the flow of the surrounding fluid, resulting in a spiral motion. This causes it to collide with the flow channel wall, weakening the boundary layer. The oscillation of the conical spiral component 63 itself will also enhance the impact effect. At the same time, the spiral structure allows the component to expand and contract along the axis like a spring, thereby enhancing the mixing of the fluid in the axial direction. Therefore, the turbulence of the fluid from the radial to the axial direction will be enhanced, thereby further improving the heat exchange capacity.

[0048] According to some embodiments of this application, the conical helical component 63 has a variable diameter helical structure and is conical in shape, thicker in the middle and thinner at both ends, along the axial direction. This type of conical helical component 63 can enhance the turbulence of the fluid from the radial to the axial direction, thereby further improving the heat exchange capacity.

[0049] Specifically, the conical helical component 63 includes a helical segment whose structure is similar to that of a helical spring and has a variable diameter structure, that is, the outer diameter is largest in the middle of the helical segment and gradually decreases towards both ends, thus presenting a conical shape structure that is thick in the middle and thin at both ends along the axial direction.

[0050] According to some embodiments of this application, the connecting component 62 includes a connecting rod 621 and connecting rings 622. The connecting rod 621 is U-shaped, and the connecting rings 622 are located at both ends of the connecting rod 621, with the axis formed by the two connecting rings 622 parallel to the axis of the middle section of the connecting rod 621. This connecting component 62 enables rotary connections between connected conical helical components 63 and between the fixed component 61 and the conical helical component 63.

[0051] It should be noted that the connection between the rotatable conical helical component 63 and the connecting component 62 includes other connection forms that can realize the rotation function, such as bearing connection, slide rail connection, spherical connecting rod connection, etc.

[0052] According to some embodiments of this application, the conical spiral component 63 has anti-detachment ends 631 at both ends, and the connecting ring 622 of the connecting component 62 is sleeved on the anti-detachment ends 631. The anti-detachment ends 631 can be sleeved with the connecting ring 622 of the connecting component 62 to achieve a rotary connection, while preventing the ends of the conical spiral component 63 from detaching from the connecting component 62.

[0053] Specifically, the anti-detachment end 631 includes a straight section and a limiting head, wherein one end of the straight section is connected to the spiral section, and the outer diameter of the straight section is adapted to the inner diameter of the connecting ring 622; the limiting head is connected to the other end of the straight section, and the outer diameter of the limiting head is larger than the outer diameter of the straight section, so that the limiting head can prevent the two from separating after the connecting ring 622 is fitted onto the straight section.

[0054] According to some embodiments of this application, the conical spiral component 63 may be made of shape memory alloy material. As the fluid temperature rises, its shape gradually changes from a straight line to a spiral shape, and the deformation process can further enhance heat transfer.

[0055] According to some embodiments of this application, the chain structure 6 is made of metal or non-metal materials. For example, the chain structure 6 can include various metal or non-metal materials that enable free oscillation within the microchannel, such as gear chain structures.

[0056] Specifically, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates an arrangement of chain structures within a single flow channel. Medium-1 microchannel 54 and Medium-2 microchannel 55 are adjacent, with the flow direction of Medium-1 opposite to that of Medium-2. A chain structure 6 is arranged within each of the two microchannels, with the length of the chain structure 6 slightly shorter than the length of the flow channel. The chain structure 6 in this diagram resembles a common iron chain structure, composed of multiple linked links 64 connected sequentially. The chain structure 6 is fixed at the inlet of the working medium according to the flow direction and is placed along the axial direction of the microchannel. The diameter of the chain structure 6 is smaller than the diameter of the microchannel, allowing it to swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel. Simultaneously, the gaps between adjacent links 64 allow the chain structure 6 to undergo a certain degree of axial displacement. As is well known, during fluid flow, a flow and heat transfer boundary layer exists at the interface with a fixed wall. Within this boundary layer, a sublayer exists where heat is transferred through conduction. This sublayer's heat transfer capacity is far less than that of the turbulent region at the center of the flow channel. The thicker the boundary layer, the stronger its inhibitory effect on heat transfer. Therefore, disrupting the boundary layer can effectively enhance heat transfer. Since the chain structure 6 can move radially within the microchannel, under the scouring action of the fluid, the chain structure 6, fixed at one end, will swing. The swinging chain structure 6 will impact the microchannel wall, disrupting the boundary layer and thus enhancing convective heat transfer. Furthermore, along the fluid flow direction, adjacent chain links 64 of the chain structure 6 are vertically connected, and the constantly changing fluid flow direction nearby makes it difficult for a stable boundary layer to form on the chain wall, also mixing the surrounding fluid. The overall effect is an improvement in heat exchange capacity. Simultaneously, due to the impact of the chain structure 6, dirt and other impurities adhering to the wall are difficult to persist, achieving a self-cleaning function for the microchannel.

[0057] Specifically, Figure 3The document describes a parallel arrangement of multiple chain structures 6. Taking the medium-microchannel 54 as an example, multiple chain structures 6 are arranged in parallel along the width of the medium-microchannel 54. Due to the diverse applications of heat exchangers, the working fluids flowing inside them are also varied. In liquid metal reactors, liquid sodium metal, liquid lead metal, lead-bismuth alloys, sodium-potassium alloys, etc., are used. These liquid metals are prone to producing refractory oxides, leading to deposition and blockage. In solar thermal power plants, molten salt is used as the heat storage medium. Molten salt has a complex composition and may contain particulate matter, while the cooling seawater in seawater heat exchangers also contains impurities such as algae and marine organisms. Therefore, in the above application scenarios, the anti-clogging function of the microchannels in MCD heat exchangers must be a key consideration. Figure 3 The large-section rectangular straight-through flow channel shown, combined with multiple parallel chain structures 6, effectively improves the heat exchanger's anti-clogging capability. The chain structures 6 separate the working fluid, increasing the fluid velocity and heat exchange contact area. The collisions and separation processes between the slightly oscillating chains further enhance the fluid mixing effect, increasing turbulent kinetic energy and strengthening heat exchange. Impurities that easily cause blockages are difficult to adhere to due to the impact of the chain oscillations, preventing the accumulation and deposition of large impurities. Even large impurities that have already formed will be broken up by the impact of the chain structures 6 and discharged from the heat exchanger with the flow.

[0058] Specifically, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows the arrangement and structure of the rotatable chain structure 6. Medium one microchannel 54 and medium two microchannel 55 are adjacent, with the flow direction of medium one opposite to that of medium two. A rotatable chain structure 6 is arranged within each of the medium one microchannel 54 and medium two microchannel 55. The chain structure 6 is fixed at the working fluid inlet and positioned along the flow channel axis. The rotatable chain structure 6 consists of a fixing component 61, a connecting component 62, and a conical spiral component 63. The conical spiral component 63 has anti-detachment ends 631 at both ends and is connected to adjacent conical spiral components 63 via connecting rings 622 of the connecting component 62. Due to the ring connection, the conical spiral component 63 can rotate around its own axis, and the spiral structure allows the component to expand and contract along the axial direction like a spring. The rotational motion of the conical spiral component 63 is driven by the fluid and affects the flow of the surrounding fluid, resulting in a spiral motion. This causes the component to collide with the flow channel wall, weakening the boundary layer. The oscillation of the conical spiral component 63 itself also enhances the impact effect. The axial extension and contraction motion strengthens the mixing of the fluid in the axial direction. The combined effect is that the turbulence of the fluid is enhanced from the radial to the axial direction, which is macroscopically manifested as an increase in heat exchange capacity.

[0059] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance, characterized in that, It includes a medium inlet pipe box, a medium outlet pipe box, a medium inlet pipe box, a medium outlet pipe box, and a heat exchange core. The heat exchange core has microchannels for medium flow inside. A movable chain structure is arranged axially in the microchannel. The chain structure can be displaced to a certain extent along the axial direction of the microchannel and can swing freely in the radial direction of the microchannel.

2. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the chain structure is fixed at the inlet of the working medium, and the other end is a free end.

3. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radial dimension of the chain structure is smaller than that of the microchannel.

4. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, A chain structure is provided inside the microchannel, and the chain structure is placed along the axial direction of the microchannel.

5. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The microchannel contains multiple chain-like structures arranged in parallel along the width of the microchannel.

6. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chain structure is composed of multiple chain links connected in sequence, and the chain link at one end is fixed at the working fluid inlet.

7. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chain structure includes a fixed component, a connecting component, and a conical spiral component. Multiple conical spiral components are arranged at intervals along the microchannel axis. Adjacent conical spiral components are rotatably connected by a connecting component. The fixed component is located at the working fluid inlet and is rotatably connected to one end of the conical spiral component through the connecting component.

8. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conical spiral component has a variable diameter spiral structure and is conical in shape with a thicker middle and thinner ends along the axial direction.

9. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 8, characterized in that, The connecting component includes a connecting rod and connecting rings. The connecting rod is U-shaped, and the connecting rings are located at both ends of the connecting rod.

10. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conical spiral component has anti-detachment ends at both ends, and the connecting ring of the connecting component is sleeved on the anti-detachment ends.

11. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conical spiral component is made of shape memory alloy, and its shape gradually changes from a straight line to a spiral as the fluid temperature rises.

12. The microchannel heat exchanger with chain-type mechanical disturbance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chain structure is made of metal or non-metal materials.