Water tank assembly and gas water heater

Abstract

The invention discloses a water tank assembly and a gas water heater, the water tank assembly comprises a tank body and a heat exchanger, the tank body is provided with a smoke cavity, and the smoke cavity has a smoke inlet direction; the heat exchanger comprises a main heat exchange pipe set and a condensation pipe set which are sequentially arranged in the smoke inlet direction, the condensation pipe set comprises a plurality of condensation pipes which are sequentially arranged in the smoke inlet direction, and each condensation pipe extends in a bent mode in the direction forming an included angle with the smoke inlet direction. According to the technical scheme, the heat exchange efficiency of the condensation pipe can be improved, and the energy utilization efficiency of the water tank assembly is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of gas water heater technology, and in particular to a water tank assembly and a gas water heater using the water tank assembly. Background Technology

[0002] The high-temperature flue gas produced by the burner of a gas water heater exchanges heat with the heat exchange liquid in the heat exchanger to heat the liquid.

[0003] However, in related technologies, heat exchangers include main heat exchange tubes and condenser tubes. Flue gas first passes through the main heat exchange tubes and then through the condenser tubes. After passing through the main heat exchange tubes, the temperature of the flue gas has decreased, but it still contains some heat energy. At this point, the flue gas enters the condenser tubes. The condenser tubes, through a further heat exchange process, recover the remaining heat in the flue gas (mainly the latent heat released when water vapor condenses) and transfer it to the water. However, the condenser tubes cannot fully absorb the heat from the high-temperature hot gas flow, resulting in significant heat loss and low heat exchange efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a water tank assembly and a gas water heater, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the condenser tube to enhance the energy utilization efficiency of the water tank assembly.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a water tank assembly, the water tank assembly comprising:

[0006] The housing includes a flue gas chamber with a flue gas inlet direction; and

[0007] The heat exchanger includes a main heat exchange tube group and a condenser tube group arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction. The condenser tube group includes multiple condenser tubes arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction, and each condenser tube extends in a direction that forms an angle with the flue gas inlet direction.

[0008] In some embodiments, the housing has a first direction and a second direction that are perpendicular to the smoke inlet direction, and the first direction and the second direction are set at an angle.

[0009] The condenser tube includes multiple straight segments and multiple curved segments. The straight segments extend along the first direction, and the multiple straight segments are arranged at intervals along the second direction. The curved segments are connected to adjacent straight segments.

[0010] In some embodiments, adjacent condenser tubes are at least partially staggered along the flue gas inlet direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the condenser is a bellows.

[0012] In some embodiments, the housing is provided with a condensate inlet box and a condensate outlet box, and both ends of each condenser tube are connected to the condensate inlet box and the condensate outlet box respectively, so that multiple condenser tubes are arranged in parallel.

[0013] In some embodiments, the condensate inlet box and the condensate outlet box are located on the same side wall of the housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall arranged opposite to each other along the smoke inlet direction. The first sidewall is provided with a first main heat exchanger box, and the second sidewall is provided with a second main heat exchanger box. The main heat exchanger tube assembly includes a plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes, and the two ends of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes are respectively connected to the first main heat exchanger box and the second main heat exchanger box.

[0015] And at least one end of the first main heat exchange tube is connected to the condensate inlet box.

[0016] In some embodiments, both the first main heat exchanger box and the second main heat exchanger box include multiple units, and one first main heat exchanger tube is connected to one first main heat exchanger box and one second main heat exchanger box, so that multiple first main heat exchanger tubes are connected in series to form a series water circuit.

[0017] In some embodiments, along the flue gas inlet direction, a plurality of first main heat exchange tubes are provided in at least two rows, and the two rows of first main heat exchange tubes are arranged in an alternating manner.

[0018] In some embodiments, the housing further includes a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall disposed opposite to each other along the smoke inlet direction, the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall being located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and the housing also having a smoke inlet communicating with the smoke chamber;

[0019] The first sidewall is also provided with a third main heat exchanger box, and the second sidewall is also provided with a fourth main heat exchanger box. The main heat exchanger tube group also includes a plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes. The plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes are located on the side of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes near the flue gas inlet. The opposite ends of the plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes are respectively connected to the third main heat exchanger box and the fourth main heat exchanger box, and at least one second main heat exchanger tube is connected to the first main heat exchanger box.

[0020] Multiple second main heat exchange tubes are respectively disposed on the third side wall and the fourth side wall.

[0021] In some embodiments, the radial cross-section of the first main heat exchange tube and / or the second main heat exchange tube is elliptical, and the major axis of the ellipse extends along the flue gas inlet direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger further includes heat exchange fins, the heat exchange fins comprising:

[0023] The fin body has a thickness direction and is provided with a plurality of through holes that extend along the thickness direction. The through holes are used for the main heat exchange tube assembly to pass through. Along the flue gas inlet direction, the fin body has an inlet end and an outlet end.

[0024] A turbulence-disrupting structure is connected to one side surface of the fin body along the thickness direction to block a portion of the flue gas flowing towards the outlet end; and

[0025] A guiding structure is connected to the fin body and is located on the same surface of the fin body as the turbulence structure. The guiding structure is located on the side of the turbulence structure closer to the inflow end, for guiding the flue gas to the turbulence structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the guiding structure is an arched structure, and a flow channel extending along the smoke inlet direction is formed within the arched structure, with the turbulence structure located at the outlet of the flow channel.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the flow channel is configured to gradually decrease from the inflow end toward the outflow end.

[0028] In some embodiments, the surface of the fin body facing away from the guide structure has a first smoke outlet that connects to the flow channel.

[0029] In some embodiments, the turbulence structure includes a turbulence ring and a turbulence plate arranged sequentially along the smoke inlet direction, wherein the length extension direction of the turbulence plate is set at an angle to the smoke inlet direction.

[0030] In some embodiments, the projection surface of the spoiler ring is located within the spoiler plate along the smoke inlet direction.

[0031] In some embodiments, the surface of the fin body facing away from the guide structure has a second smoke outlet that connects to the inner ring of the turbulence ring.

[0032] In some embodiments, the heat exchange fins further include a containment member connected to one side surface of the fin body in the thickness direction and arranged circumferentially around the through-hole.

[0033] In some embodiments, multiple disturbance structures and guiding structures are provided, with one of the guiding structures located on the side of a disturbance structure near the inflow end.

[0034] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a gas water heater, which includes:

[0035] case;

[0036] The water tank assembly described above is disposed within the housing; and

[0037] A burner is disposed within the housing and is capable of generating heat-exchange flue gas flowing into the flue gas chamber.

[0038] Based on the water tank assembly and gas water heater of this application embodiment, by arranging multiple condenser tubes of the heat exchanger sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction of the flue gas chamber of the tank, and each condenser tube extending at an angle to the flue gas inlet direction, the water tank assembly of this embodiment has at least the following technical effects:

[0039] First, the arrangement and curved shape of the condenser tubes allow for more thorough contact between the flue gas and the tube surface during flow, extending the heat exchange path and time. Furthermore, the increased contact area allows for more complete absorption of heat energy from the flue gas by the condenser tubes and its transfer to the water, reducing heat waste and loss, thus improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the curved path of the condenser tubes helps guide the flue gas to a more even distribution on the outer surface, reducing localized overheating and deposit formation. Therefore, the water tank assembly in this embodiment ensures high heat exchange efficiency while also optimizing energy utilization efficiency, providing a more energy-efficient and effective hot water experience. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the water tank assembly of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly from another perspective;

[0043] Figure 3 For along Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of section AA in the middle;

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the condenser tube assembly of the water tank component in this application;

[0045] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the heat exchanger of the water tank assembly in this application;

[0046] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange fins of the heat exchanger in this application;

[0047] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0048] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange fins of the heat exchanger in this application from another perspective.

[0049] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0050] 1. Water tank assembly; 10. Tank body; 11. First side wall; 111. First main hot water exchanger box; 112. Third main hot water exchanger box; 12. Second side wall; 121. Second main hot water exchanger box; 122. Fourth main hot water exchanger box; 13. Third side wall; 14. Fourth side wall; 10A. Flue gas chamber; 10B. Flue gas inlet; 10C. Flue gas outlet; 10a. Condensate inlet box; 10b. Condensate outlet box; 10c. Water inlet; 10d. Water outlet;

[0051] 20. Heat exchanger; 21. Main heat exchange tube assembly; 211. First main heat exchange tube; 212. Second main heat exchange tube; 22. Condenser tube assembly; 221. Condenser tube; 2211. Straight section; 2212. Curved section; 23. Heat exchange fins; 231. Fin body; 231A. Inlet end; 231B. Outlet end; 2311. First flue gas outlet; 2312. Second flue gas outlet; 2313. Through-tube hole; 232. Turbulence structure; 2321. Turbulence ring; 2322. Turbulence plate; 233. Guide structure; 233A. Guide channel; 234. Enclosure component.

[0052] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Where the following description relates to the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0055] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0056] 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 belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0057] The first aspect of this application proposes a gas water heater. In the embodiments of this application, the gas water heater can obtain high-temperature flue gas by combustion heating. Then, by exchanging heat between the high-temperature flue gas and cold water, the heat of the high-temperature flue gas can be transferred to the cold water, thereby raising the temperature of the cold water to produce hot water, that is, to produce the required bathroom water.

[0058] Understandably, gas water heaters can mix gas and air, using the resulting mixture as fuel to achieve complete combustion. Specifically, gas and air can be pre-mixed according to a specific combustion ratio to create the desired fuel. This fuel is then ignited to produce high-temperature flue gas. This achieves a more efficient energy conversion and a combustion process with lower emissions, commonly known as fully premixed technology. Of course, the fuel can also be gas alone; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0059] Please see Figure 1 In this embodiment, the gas water heater includes a housing (not shown in the figure), a water tank assembly 1, and a burner (not shown in the figure). The housing is used to support and install the various components of the gas water heater. The water tank assembly 1 and the burner are respectively disposed inside the housing. The water tank assembly 1 has a flue gas chamber 10A.

[0060] The fuel is fed into the burner and ignited to produce high-temperature flue gas. The high-temperature flue gas then flows into the flue gas chamber 10A to exchange heat with the water flowing through the water tank assembly 1, thereby raising the water temperature to produce the required hot water.

[0061] The high-temperature flue gas produced by the burner of the gas water heater will exchange heat with the heat exchange liquid in the heat exchanger 20 to heat the heat exchange liquid.

[0062] However, heat exchanger 20 includes a main heat exchange tube and a condenser tube 221. The flue gas first passes through the main heat exchange tube and then through the condenser tube 221. After passing through the main heat exchange tube, the temperature of the flue gas has decreased, but it still contains some heat energy. At this point, the flue gas enters the condenser tube 221. The condenser tube 221 recovers the remaining heat in the flue gas (mainly the latent heat released when water vapor condenses) and transfers it to the water through a further heat exchange process. However, the condenser tube 221 cannot fully absorb the heat from the high-temperature hot gas flow, resulting in significant heat loss and low heat exchange efficiency.

[0063] To resolve the above issues, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 4 The second aspect of this application proposes a water tank assembly 1, which, in an embodiment of this application, includes a tank body 10 and a heat exchanger 20.

[0064] The housing 10 can be made of stainless steel, which has advantages such as better corrosion resistance, better scale resistance, and lower cost. Of course, the housing 10 can also be made of copper; this embodiment does not limit this. The housing 10 can be rectangular or cubic in shape to make the shape more regular, facilitating manufacturing. The housing 10 has the aforementioned flue gas chamber 10A, and the heat exchanger 20 is disposed within the flue gas chamber 10A. The flue gas chamber 10A has a flue gas inlet direction.

[0065] The heat exchanger 20 includes a main heat exchange tube assembly 21 and a condenser tube assembly 22 arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction. The condenser tube assembly 22 includes multiple condenser tubes 221, which are arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction, and each condenser tube 221 extends at an angle to the flue gas inlet direction. The main heat exchange tube assembly 21 and the condenser tube assembly 22 can be made of stainless steel, copper, or other metals. Stainless steel is used as an example to provide advantages such as better corrosion resistance, better scale resistance, and lower cost. Liquid flow channels are formed within the main heat exchange tube assembly 21 and the condenser tube assembly 22 to allow the heat exchange liquid to flow.

[0066] It is understandable that when the high-temperature flue gas flows through the main heat exchanger tube group 21 and the condenser tube group 22, it will come into contact with the main heat exchanger tube group 21 and the condenser tube group 22 to transfer heat to the main heat exchanger tube group 21 and the condenser tube group 22. Then, the main heat exchanger tube group 21 and the condenser tube group 22 exchange heat with the heat exchange liquid to finally transfer the heat to the heat exchange liquid.

[0067] Based on the water tank assembly 1 and gas water heater of this application embodiment, by arranging a plurality of condenser tubes 221 of the heat exchanger 20 sequentially along the flue gas chamber 10A of the housing 10 in the direction of flue gas inlet, and by bending and extending each condenser tube 221 at an angle to the direction of flue gas inlet, the water tank assembly 1 of this embodiment has at least the following technical effects:

[0068] First, the arrangement and curved shape of the condenser tubes 221 allow the flue gas to make more thorough contact with the surface of the condenser tubes 221 during its flow, extending the heat exchange path and time. Furthermore, due to the increased contact area, the heat energy in the flue gas is more fully absorbed by the condenser tubes 221 and transferred to the water, reducing heat waste and loss, thus improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the curved path of the condenser tubes 221 helps guide the flue gas to be more evenly distributed on the tube surface, reducing localized overheating and the formation of deposits. Therefore, the water tank assembly 1 in this embodiment, while ensuring efficient heat exchange, also optimizes energy utilization efficiency, providing a more energy-saving and efficient hot water usage experience.

[0069] Combined with reference Figure 4 In some structural configurations, the housing 10 has a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the smoke inlet direction, with the first and second directions forming an angle. It can be understood that when the housing 10 is a cube, the smoke inlet direction is the height direction of the housing 10, and the first and second directions are the length and width directions of the housing 10, respectively. The condenser pipe 221 includes multiple straight segments 2211 and multiple curved segments 2212. The straight segments 2211 extend along the first direction, and the multiple straight segments 2211 are spaced apart along the second direction. The curved segments 2212 connect to adjacent straight segments 2211. This arrangement is more regular, further increasing the contact area.

[0070] Optionally, along the flue gas inlet direction, adjacent condenser tubes 221 are at least partially staggered. This staggered arrangement not only increases the relative surface area between the condenser tubes 221, allowing the flue gas to make more thorough contact with them during passage, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency, but also enhances the stability and durability of the entire system. The staggered arrangement helps to disperse the impact force of the flue gas flow, reducing direct wear on the condenser tubes 221 and extending the service life of the equipment. At the same time, this layout also improves the compactness of the structure, allowing more condenser tubes 221 to be accommodated in a limited space, thereby improving the overall heat handling capacity and efficiency. In addition, the staggered arrangement of the condenser tubes 221 optimizes the airflow channel, enabling the flue gas to form more complex and varied flow patterns during flow, further promoting heat transfer and exchange.

[0071] In some embodiments, the condenser tube 221 is a corrugated tube. It is understood that the corrugated tube has a pleated structure on its wall, which increases the heat exchange area between the corrugated tube and the high-temperature flue gas, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the corrugated tube and the high-temperature flue gas. Furthermore, the corrugated tube is lightweight and has a low material cost.

[0072] Reference Figures 1 to 4 In some structural configurations, the housing 10 is equipped with a condensate inlet box 10a and a condensate outlet box 10b. Both ends of each condenser tube 221 are connected to the condensate inlet box 10a and the condensate outlet box 10b, respectively, allowing multiple condenser tubes 221 to be arranged in parallel. This enables multiple condenser tubes 221 to work in parallel, jointly undertaking the task of heat exchange. Compared to the traditional series water circuit configuration, its significant advantage lies in significantly increasing the overall water flow rate. Because the parallel structure allows water to flow simultaneously in multiple channels, water resources can be utilized more effectively, improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, since the temperature of the condenser tubes 221 is typically lower than that of the main heat exchange tube group 21 during operation, this parallel configuration eliminates concerns about the risk of vaporization caused by excessively high temperatures within the condenser tubes 221. This feature not only ensures stable system operation but also reduces energy loss and safety hazards that may result from vaporization.

[0073] Furthermore, the condensate inlet box 10a and the condensate outlet box 10b are located on the same side wall of the tank 10. This layout not only optimizes the internal space structure but also greatly improves the convenience of the installation process. During installation, there is no need to move between multiple side walls of the tank 10; the installation and debugging of the condensate pipe 221's inlet and outlet boxes can be easily completed by focusing on the same side wall. This significantly saves installation time, reduces installation difficulty, and also reduces the potential risk of malfunctions due to improper operation, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the water tank assembly 1.

[0074] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 5Optionally, the housing 10 includes a first sidewall 11 and a second sidewall 12 arranged opposite to each other along the flue gas inlet direction. The first sidewall 11 is provided with a first main heat exchanger box 111, and the second sidewall 12 is provided with a second main heat exchanger box 121. The main heat exchanger tube assembly 21 includes a plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes 211, with both ends of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes 211 connected to the first main heat exchanger box 111 and the second main heat exchanger box 121, respectively. Thus, the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes 211 connect the first main heat exchanger box 111 and the second main heat exchanger box 121 to form a heat exchange path. The plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes 211 can be arranged in straight pipes to simplify manufacturing. At least one end of each first main heat exchanger tube 211 is connected to the condensate inlet box 10a. In this process, the heat exchange liquid smoothly exchanges between the main heat exchanger tubes, the first main heat exchanger box 111, and the second main heat exchanger box 121, effectively transferring and releasing heat. After the initial heat exchange is completed, the heat exchange fluids flow along at least one first main heat exchange tube 211 to the condensate inlet box 10a for further heat exchange within multiple condensate tubes 221. This design not only improves the overall system heat exchange efficiency but also maximizes the utilization of the heat exchange fluids, reducing energy waste. It should be noted that the condensate inlet box 10a and the condensate outlet box 10b can simultaneously have either a first sidewall 11 or a second sidewall 12 for simultaneous processing.

[0075] Furthermore, both the first main heat exchanger box 111 and the second main heat exchanger box 121 include multiple units, and one first main heat exchanger tube 211 is connected to one first main heat exchanger box 111 and one second main heat exchanger box 121 respectively, so that multiple first main heat exchanger tubes 211 are connected in series to form a series water circuit. In this way, compared with the parallel water circuit, the series water circuit can avoid the phenomenon of empty tubes or water accumulation in the first main heat exchanger tubes 211 due to insufficient heat exchange liquid flow and slow flow velocity. This can slow down water vaporization and scaling in the first main heat exchanger tubes 211, effectively reduce the risk of damage to the first main heat exchanger tubes 211, extend the service life of the main heat exchanger tube assembly 21, and also prevent the water tank assembly 1 from exploding, ensuring the safety of the water tank assembly 1.

[0076] Optionally, along the flue gas inlet direction, the plurality of first main heat exchange tubes 211 are arranged in at least two rows, and the two rows of first main heat exchange tubes 211 are arranged in a staggered manner. This staggered arrangement of the first main heat exchange tubes 211 allows the flue gas to make more thorough contact with the first main heat exchange tubes 211 as it flows through, increasing the heat exchange area and thus promoting effective heat transfer. At the same time, this layout also helps to reduce eddies and dead zones in the flue gas flow, improving the uniformity of flue gas flow and heat exchange.

[0077] Reference Figures 1 to 3Optionally, the housing 10 further includes a third sidewall 13 and a fourth sidewall 14 arranged opposite to each other along the smoke inlet direction. The third sidewall 13 and the fourth sidewall 14 are both located between the first sidewall 11 and the second sidewall 12. The housing 10 also has a smoke inlet 10B and a smoke outlet 10C, both of which are connected to the smoke chamber 10A. In one example, the smoke inlet 10B and the smoke outlet 10C share the same opening. That is, after the smoke flows into the smoke chamber 10A from the smoke inlet 10B, it changes its flow direction and turns back when it reaches the bottom wall of the smoke chamber 10A, and then flows out from the smoke outlet 10C. In this case, the smoke inlet 10B and the smoke outlet 10C share the same opening. In another example, the smoke inlet 10B and the smoke outlet 10C are located on opposite sides of the housing 10. In this way, after the smoke inlet 10B flows into the smoke chamber 10A, it will not change its flow direction and will flow out through the smoke outlet 10C. Thus, the smoke inlet 10B and the smoke outlet 10C are different openings.

[0078] The first sidewall 11 is also provided with a third main heat exchanger box 112, and the second sidewall 12 is also provided with a fourth main heat exchanger box 122. The main heat exchanger tube assembly 21 also includes a plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes 212, which are located on the side of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes 211 near the flue gas inlet 10B. The opposite ends of the plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes 212 are respectively connected to the third main heat exchanger box 112 and the fourth main heat exchanger box 122, and at least one second main heat exchanger tube 212 is connected to the first main heat exchanger box 111. The plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes 212 are respectively disposed on the third sidewall 13 and the fourth sidewall 14.

[0079] The multiple secondary main heat exchange tubes 212 are carefully arranged on the third sidewall 13 and the fourth sidewall 14. This arrangement cleverly avoids obstructing the flow of flue gas toward the first main heat exchange tube 211, ensuring smooth and efficient flue gas flow. At the same time, this layout also promotes the uniformity and stability of the heat exchange process, allowing each main heat exchange tube group 21 to fully exert its heat exchange efficiency and avoiding problems such as local overheating or uneven cooling.

[0080] When high-temperature flue gas enters the casing 10 from the inlet 10B, it first encounters multiple secondary main heat exchange tubes 212 for initial heat exchange. This process effectively reduces the temperature of the flue gas, laying a good foundation for subsequent cooling and heat recovery. Subsequently, the initially cooled flue gas continues to flow through multiple primary main heat exchange tubes 211 for deeper heat exchange, achieving efficient heat transfer and utilization.

[0081] Furthermore, the housing 10 also has an inlet 10c and an outlet 10d. The inlet 10c is connected to the condensate inlet box 10a, and the outlet 10d is connected to the fourth main heat exchanger pipe. In this way, the heat exchange liquid can flow sequentially through the inlet 10c, the condensate tube group 22, the main heat exchanger tube group 21, and the outlet 10d, realizing the circulation of the heat exchange liquid within the main heat exchanger tube group 21 and the condensate tube group 22, thereby improving the heat utilization rate of the flue gas. The condensate inlet box 10a and the fourth main heat exchanger pipe are located on the same side of the housing 10, which facilitates connection with external pipelines.

[0082] Furthermore, the radial cross-section of the first main heat exchange tube 211 or the second main heat exchange tube 212 is elliptical, with the major axis of the ellipse extending along the flue gas inlet direction. When the first main heat exchange tube 211 is elliptical, compared to a traditional circular heat exchange tube, the elliptical tube can accommodate more first main heat exchange tubes 211 within the same width range. This compact and orderly arrangement not only optimizes space utilization but also directly increases the heat exchange area, making the heat exchange process more efficient and complete. When high-temperature flue gas passes through, it can come into wider contact with the surface of the heat exchange tubes, thereby achieving faster heat transfer and more efficient energy recovery. When the second main heat exchange tube 212 is elliptical, compared to a traditional circular heat exchange tube, it can increase the contact area with the flue gas and further reduce the obstruction of the flue gas flowing towards the first main heat exchange tube 211. Of course, in some embodiments, the radial cross-sections of both the first main heat exchange tube 211 and the second main heat exchange tube 212 can be designed as elliptical to integrate space optimization, heat exchange efficiency improvement and energy consumption reduction.

[0083] Combined with reference Figures 4 to 6 In some structural forms, the heat exchanger 20 also includes heat exchange fins 23. The heat exchange fins 23 can be made of copper, which has the advantage of better thermal conductivity. Of course, the heat exchange fins 23 can also be made of stainless steel or other metals. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0084] The heat exchange fin 23 includes a fin body 231, a turbulence structure 232, and a guiding structure 233.

[0085] The fin body 231 is the main part of the heat exchange fin 23, and it can be roughly rectangular. Therefore, the fin body 231 can have two mutually perpendicular thickness directions, width directions, and length directions. Along the flue gas inlet direction, the fin body 231 has an inlet end 231A and an outlet end 231B, and the inlet end 231A and the outlet end 231B are arranged sequentially in the flue gas width direction. The fin body 231 is provided with multiple through holes 2313 extending along the thickness direction. The through holes 2313 are used for the main heat exchange tube group 21 to pass through, that is, the first main heat exchange tube 211 can be passed through a through hole 2313 to ensure the positional stability of the first main heat exchange tube 211 and the fin body 231. It should be noted that when the first main heat exchange tube 211 is an elliptical tube, the through hole 2313 is an elliptical hole. This not only ensures a stable positional relationship between the heat exchange tube and the fin body 231, preventing shaking and misalignment during operation, but also greatly improves heat transfer efficiency, allowing heat to be transferred more efficiently to the surrounding medium through the fin body 231. It is understood that multiple heat exchange fins 23 are provided, arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the first main heat exchange tube 211, to further increase the flue gas residence time.

[0086] The flow-disrupting structure 232 is connected to one surface of the fin body 231 along the thickness direction, and the guiding structure 233 is connected to the fin body 231 and is located on the same surface of the fin body 231 as the flow-disrupting structure 232. The flow-disrupting structure 232 and the guiding structure 233 can be integrated with the fin body 231 to ensure the structural strength of the flow-disrupting structure 232 and the guiding structure 233, ensuring that the flow-disrupting structure 232 and the guiding structure 233 can maintain good shape and function under complex working conditions.

[0087] The technical solution of this embodiment positions the guiding structure 233 on the side of the turbulence structure 232 closer to the inlet end 231A. The guiding structure 233 directs the flue gas to the turbulence structure 232, which in turn blocks some of the flue gas flowing towards the outlet end 231B. This ensures that the heat exchange fins 23 of this embodiment have at least the following technical effects:

[0088] This arrangement allows the guiding structure 233 to precisely guide a large amount of flue gas to the turbulence structure 232. Subsequently, the turbulence structure 232, through its blocking effect, effectively reduces the tendency of the flue gas to flow directly to the outlet end 231B, forcing the flue gas to generate more complex turbulence and mixing phenomena around the fin body 231. During this process, the contact area between the flue gas and the fin body 231 is significantly increased, and the contact time is extended, providing a more sufficient opportunity for heat exchange. Heat freely shuttles between the flue gas and the fin body 231, achieving efficient and uniform transfer, greatly improving heat exchange efficiency. Therefore, the heat exchange fins 23 in this embodiment promote sufficient heat exchange in the flue gas, thereby greatly improving the heat and mass transfer efficiency during the heat exchange process.

[0089] Combined with reference Figure 7 In some structural configurations, the guiding structure 233 is an arched structure, with a flow channel 233A extending along the flue gas inlet direction formed within the arched structure. A turbulence-inducing structure 232 is located at the outlet of the flow channel 233A. This arched design of the guiding structure 233, compared to the traditional method of using guide plates, allows the naturally formed flow channel 233A within the arched structure to perfectly match the flue gas flow direction. This effectively guides the flue gas along a predetermined path, reducing resistance and turbulence during flow and thus improving heat exchange efficiency. In contrast, while traditional guide plates can also guide the flue gas, their shapes are often simpler and cannot fully adapt to the complex flue gas flow characteristics, resulting in relatively lower heat exchange efficiency.

[0090] Furthermore, the arched structure incorporates a turbulence-inducing structure 232 at the outlet of the guide channel 233A. This ensures that the flue gas flows directionally to the turbulence-inducing structure 232 after exiting the guide channel 233A. Through the action of the turbulence-inducing structure 232, some of the flue gas generates strong turbulence and mixing effects around the fin body 231, thereby significantly increasing the contact area and contact time between the flue gas and the fin body 231, promoting deeper heat transfer. This design not only improves heat exchange efficiency but also makes the heat exchange process more uniform and stable.

[0091] Furthermore, the cross-section of the flow guide channel 233A gradually decreases from the inflow end 231A towards the outflow end 231B. As the cross-section gradually decreases, the flue gas gradually accelerates during flow, creating a "jet" effect that enhances heat and mass exchange between the flue gas and the fin body 231. Simultaneously, the tapered cross-section promotes uniform distribution of the flue gas within the flow guide channel 233A, reducing eddies and dead zones caused by uneven flow velocity, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. In addition, this design helps reduce energy loss during flue gas flow, allowing more energy to be effectively utilized in the heat exchange process.

[0092] Optionally, a first smoke inlet 2311 is provided on the surface of the fin body 231 facing away from the guide structure 233, connecting to the flow channel 233A. This allows the flue gas on the surface of the fin body 231 facing away from the guide structure 233 to flow into the flow channel 233A through the first smoke inlet 2311, so that more flue gas flows towards the turbulence structure 232. This design not only increases the contact area between the flue gas and the fin body 231, but also prolongs the residence time of the flue gas around the fin body 231, providing a more sufficient opportunity for heat transfer. At the same time, since more flue gas is guided to the turbulence structure 232, the obstruction and mixing effect of the turbulence structure 232 on the flue gas is more fully utilized, further promoting the exchange of heat in the flue gas with the fin body 231.

[0093] Combined with reference Figures 6 to 8 In some embodiments, the turbulence structure 232 includes a turbulence ring 2321 and a turbulence plate 2322 arranged sequentially along the smoke inlet direction, with the length extension direction of the turbulence plate 2322 forming an angle with the smoke inlet direction. When the flue gas flows towards the turbulence ring 2321, it flows along the peripheral wall of the turbulence ring 2321, effectively blocking and guiding the incoming flue gas initially, thus prolonging the residence time of the flue gas. The following turbulence plate 2322, with its length extension direction forming an angle with the smoke inlet direction, allows the turbulence plate 2322 to more fully utilize the flow energy of the flue gas, guiding the flue gas to generate more complex and intense turbulence and mixing phenomena around the fin body 231. This complex flow state not only increases the contact area and contact time between the flue gas and the fin body 231, but also promotes the uniformity and efficiency of heat transfer. Therefore, the combination of the turbulence ring 2321 and the turbulence plate 232 in the turbulence structure 232, as well as the angle between the turbulence plate 2322 and the smoke inlet direction, together constitute a highly efficient and stable heat exchange system.

[0094] Furthermore, projecting along the flue gas inlet direction, the projection surface of the turbulence ring 2321 is located within the turbulence plate 2322. This arrangement helps reduce energy loss of the flue gas during its flow. Due to the close cooperation between the turbulence ring 2321 and the turbulence plate 2322, the flue gas can maintain a high flow velocity and low resistance when passing through this area, thereby reducing energy dissipation caused by uneven flow velocity or eddy current generation.

[0095] Combined with reference Figures 6 to 8Optionally, a second flue gas outlet 2312 is provided on the surface of the fin body 231 facing away from the guide structure 233, connecting to the inner ring of the turbulence ring 2321. This allows the flue gas that might otherwise pass directly over the back of the fin body 231 to be redirected and smoothly flow into the inner ring area of ​​the turbulence ring 2321 through the second flue gas outlet 2312. This arrangement is essentially a careful planning of the flue gas flow path, which not only widens the interface between the flue gas and the fin body 231 but also significantly extends the residence time of the flue gas around the fin body 231. During this process, the heat exchange between the flue gas and the fin body 231 is more thorough, and the efficiency and effect of heat transfer are significantly improved. Therefore, the addition of the second flue gas outlet 2312 not only enhances the heat exchange performance of the fin structure but also makes the entire heat exchange process more efficient and stable.

[0096] Reference Figure 6 In some embodiments, the heat exchange fins 23 further include a surrounding member 234, which is connected to one side surface of the fin body 231 in the thickness direction and is arranged circumferentially around the through-hole 2313. The surrounding member 234 can be integrally formed with the fin body 231 to ensure its structural strength. The inclusion of the surrounding member 234 directly and effectively increases the contact area between the first main heat exchange tube 211 and the fin body 231. With the significant increase in contact area, heat transfer between the first main heat exchange tube 211 and the fin body 231 becomes more efficient and direct. During heat exchange, more heat is exchanged quickly and fully between the two, thus significantly improving the overall heat exchange efficiency. This design not only optimizes the performance of the heat exchange fins 23 but also enables the entire heat exchange system to achieve the ideal heat exchange effect in a shorter time, meeting users' needs for efficient and energy-saving hot water supply.

[0097] Combined with reference Figures 6 to 8 Optionally, multiple turbulence structures 232 and guiding structures 233 are provided, with each guiding structure 233 located on the side of a turbulence structure 232 near the inflow end 231A. This not only enhances the flow field organization inside the heat exchange fins 23, but also significantly improves the guidance and orderliness of the flue gas flow. As the flue gas flows in, each guiding structure 233 can play its guiding role, smoothly guiding the flue gas to the corresponding turbulence structure 232, effectively avoiding turbulence and energy loss during the flue gas flow process. At the same time, the presence of multiple turbulence structures 232 further intensifies the turbulence and mixing of the flue gas around the fin body 231, making the heat transfer process more complete and efficient. This design not only increases the contact area between the flue gas and the fin body 231, but also promotes rapid heat exchange between the flue gas and the fins, thereby improving the overall heat exchange efficiency.

[0098] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" 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 this application and simplifying the description, and do not 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, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0099] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A water tank assembly suitable for a gas water heater, characterized in that, The water tank assembly includes: The housing includes a flue gas chamber with a flue gas inlet direction; and The heat exchanger includes a main heat exchange tube group and a condenser tube group arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction. The condenser tube group includes multiple condenser tubes arranged sequentially along the flue gas inlet direction, and each condenser tube extends in a direction that forms an angle with the flue gas inlet direction.

2. The water tank assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has a first direction and a second direction that are perpendicular to the smoke inlet direction, and the first direction and the second direction are set at an angle to each other. The condenser tube includes multiple straight segments and multiple curved segments. The straight segments extend along the first direction, and the multiple straight segments are arranged at intervals along the second direction. The curved segments are connected to adjacent straight segments.

3. The water tank assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Along the smoke inlet direction, two adjacent condenser tubes are at least partially staggered.

4. The water tank assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The condenser is a corrugated pipe.

5. The water tank assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is equipped with a condensate inlet box and a condensate outlet box. Both ends of each condenser tube are connected to the condensate inlet box and the condensate outlet box, respectively, so that multiple condenser tubes are arranged in parallel.

6. The water tank assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The condensate inlet box and the condensate outlet box are located on the same side wall of the enclosure.

7. The water tank assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The housing includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall arranged opposite to each other along the smoke inlet direction. The first sidewall is provided with a first main heat exchanger box, and the second sidewall is provided with a second main heat exchanger box. The main heat exchanger tube assembly includes a plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes, and the two ends of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes are respectively connected to the first main heat exchanger box and the second main heat exchanger box. And at least one end of the first main heat exchange tube is connected to the condensate inlet box.

8. The water tank assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, Both the first main heat exchanger box and the second main heat exchanger box include multiple units, and one first main heat exchanger tube is connected to one first main heat exchanger box and one second main heat exchanger box, so that multiple first main heat exchanger tubes are connected in series to form a series water circuit.

9. The water tank assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, Along the flue gas inlet direction, there are at least two rows of the first main heat exchange tubes, and the two rows of the first main heat exchange tubes are arranged in an alternating manner.

10. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The housing also includes a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall arranged opposite to each other along the smoke inlet direction. The third sidewall and the fourth sidewall are both located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The housing also has a smoke inlet communicating with the smoke chamber. The first sidewall is also provided with a third main heat exchanger box, and the second sidewall is also provided with a fourth main heat exchanger box. The main heat exchanger tube group also includes a plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes. The plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes are located on the side of the plurality of first main heat exchanger tubes near the flue gas inlet. The opposite ends of the plurality of second main heat exchanger tubes are respectively connected to the third main heat exchanger box and the fourth main heat exchanger box, and at least one second main heat exchanger tube is connected to the first main heat exchanger box. Multiple second main heat exchange tubes are respectively disposed on the third side wall and the fourth side wall.

11. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The radial cross-section of the first main heat exchange tube and / or the second main heat exchange tube is elliptical, and the major axis of the ellipse extends along the flue gas inlet direction.

12. The water tank assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The heat exchanger further includes heat exchange fins, the heat exchange fins comprising: The fin body has a thickness direction and is provided with a plurality of through holes that extend along the thickness direction. The through holes are used for the main heat exchange tube assembly to pass through. Along the flue gas inlet direction, the fin body has an inlet end and an outlet end. A turbulence-disrupting structure is connected to one side surface of the fin body along the thickness direction to block a portion of the flue gas flowing towards the outlet end; and A guiding structure is connected to the fin body and is located on the same surface of the fin body as the turbulence structure. The guiding structure is located on the side of the turbulence structure closer to the inflow end, for guiding the flue gas to the turbulence structure.

13. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The guiding structure is an arched structure, and a flow channel extending along the smoke inlet direction is formed within the arched structure. The turbulence structure is located at the outlet of the flow channel.

14. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The cross-section of the flow guiding channel is set to gradually decrease from the inflow end toward the outflow end.

15. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The surface of the fin body facing away from the guide structure has a first smoke outlet that connects to the flow channel.

16. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The turbulence structure includes a turbulence ring and a turbulence plate arranged sequentially along the smoke inlet direction, wherein the length extension direction of the turbulence plate is set at an angle to the smoke inlet direction.

17. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, Projecting along the smoke inlet direction, the projection surface of the turbulence ring is located within the turbulence plate.

18. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The surface of the fin body facing away from the guide structure has a second smoke outlet that connects to the inner ring of the turbulence ring.

19. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The heat exchange fins also include a surrounding member, which is connected to one side surface of the fin body in the thickness direction and is arranged around the circumference of the through-hole.

20. The water tank assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, Multiple disturbance structures and multiple guide structures are provided, with one guide structure located on the side of one disturbance structure near the inflow end.

21. A gas-fired water heater, characterized in that, include: case; The water tank assembly as described in any one of claims 1-20 is disposed within the housing; as well as A burner is disposed within the housing and is capable of generating heat-exchange flue gas flowing into the flue gas chamber.

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