Heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E) having: a heat exchanger block (2) comprising a plurality of heat transfer channels (3, 4); a distributor (6) for distributing the process medium (5) onto the heat transfer channels (3, 4); and a pressure difference generating device (12A, 12B, 12C) which is designed to generate a pressure difference of the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a heat exchanger. Background Technology

[0002] According to internal understanding, heat exchangers, particularly so-called plate heat exchangers, comprise heat exchanger blocks with multiple heat transfer channels in which process media can be guided and heat is transferred between the channels during the operation of the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger blocks are arranged between distributors for distributing the corresponding process media onto the heat transfer channels and collectors for collecting the process media leaving the heat transfer channels.

[0003] If the process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger at high or low pressure and / or in a fluctuating volumetric flow, this can result in the process medium not flowing uniformly through all heat transfer channels. So-called inactive regions can form within the heat exchanger block, where the process medium does not flow through or only flows insufficiently through these regions. These inactive regions can cause the heat exchanger to operate inefficiently because they can negatively impact heat transfer within the heat exchanger block. Therefore, the goal is to achieve the most uniform possible flow through the heat exchanger block, even when the pressure and / or volumetric flow of the process medium changes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger.

[0005] Therefore, a heat exchanger is proposed, comprising: a heat exchanger block having multiple heat transfer channels; a distributor for distributing process media onto the heat transfer channels; and a differential pressure generating device designed to generate a differential pressure of the process media between the heat exchanger block and the distributor.

[0006] Because the differential pressure generating device creates a pressure difference between the heat exchanger block and the distributor, it can induce a controlled pressure loss between them, resulting in a uniform distribution of the process medium across the heat transfer channels. This is particularly suitable when the process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger with fluctuating pressure and / or fluctuating volumetric flow. This avoids inactive regions within the heat exchanger, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency within the heat exchanger block.

[0007] Heat exchangers can be part of a vehicle. However, heat exchangers can also be used in any other application. In particular, heat exchangers can also be used in stationary applications, especially in building technology. Heat exchangers are preferably microstructured heat exchangers and are therefore also called microstructured heat exchangers. Particularly preferred are so-called plate heat exchangers and are therefore also called plate heat exchangers. Heat exchangers can also be called heat transfer devices.

[0008] The heat exchanger block is preferably cuboid in shape. Alternatively, the heat exchanger block may also be constructed in a cylindrical shape. However, the following assumes that the heat exchanger block is cuboid. The heat exchanger block is specifically composed of alternating heating surface elements, particularly so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and baffles. The heating surface elements may be made of corrugated or ribbed aluminum plates, while the baffles may be made of smooth aluminum plates. However, materials other than aluminum may also be used.

[0009] By means of heating surface elements and baffles, multiple parallel heat transfer channels can be constructed in a heat exchanger block. Different process media can flow in these heat transfer channels and indirectly transfer heat to process media guided in adjacent heat transfer channels. For example, all heat transfer channels in a layer formed by the width direction (x-direction) and height direction (z-direction) of the heat exchanger are traversed by the same process media. Viewed along the depth direction (y-direction) of the heat exchanger, multiple such layers with heat transfer channels are stacked vertically or arranged side by side, and these heat transfer channels can be traversed by different process media. The x, y, and z directions together form the coordinate system of the heat exchanger.

[0010] Any number of heat transfer channels can be configured. As previously mentioned, the heat transfer channels can be arranged in different layers when viewed along the y-direction. The process medium can flow through each layer. In particular, at least two different process media are provided, and heat exchange occurs between these process media during the operation of the heat exchanger. Only one process medium is referred to below. The process medium can be a coolant or a refrigerant. For example, the process medium can be oil or water.

[0011] A heat exchanger block is arranged between the distributor and the collector. The distributor and collector may also be referred to as manifolds. The distributor and collector may be welded and / or brazed to the heat exchanger block. The distributor distributes the process medium as evenly as possible onto the heat transfer channels. The collector collects the process medium leaving the heat transfer channels. The process medium to be distributed can be supplied to the distributor via the inlet. The collected process medium can be discharged from the collector via the outlet.

[0012] The differential pressure generating device is preferably designed to generate a pressure loss of the process medium between the distributor and the heat exchanger block. In particular, the differential pressure generating device is designed to accumulate the process medium in the distributor. Particularly preferably, the differential pressure is a pressure loss. The differential pressure is generated, particularly within the process medium. Therefore, the differential pressure generating device can also be called a pressure loss generating device. Thus, the terms "differential pressure generating device" and "pressure loss generating device" are currently used interchangeably.

[0013] "Pressure differential" can currently be understood as the difference in pressure profiles between two previously defined measurement points in a system (currently a heat exchanger). Measurement points may be located, for example, in or on a distributor, or in or on a heat exchanger block. "The generation of a pressure differential of the process medium between the heat exchanger block and the distributor" can, in particular, be understood to mean that the process medium has a different pressure in the heat exchanger block than in the distributor. This specifically means that a pressure differential is generated in the process medium.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the differential pressure generating device is arranged inside the distributor.

[0015] This specifically means that the differential pressure generating device is surrounded by the distributor. The differential pressure generating device can also be arranged, specifically, between the heat exchanger block and the distributor. The differential pressure generating device can be fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor. However, this is not a mandatory requirement.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating device has a variable cross-sectional area that can be traversed by the process medium during the operation of the heat exchanger.

[0017] The phrase "the cross-sectional area of ​​the differential pressure generating device is 'variable'" can be understood in particular as meaning that the cross-sectional area of ​​the differential pressure generating device can be increased or decreased. This change in cross-sectional area can be achieved steplessly. For example, if the cross-sectional area is reduced while the volumetric flow of the process medium is constant, the process medium accumulates in the distributor and the pressure of the process medium in the heat exchanger block decreases compared to a state where the differential pressure generating device has a larger cross-sectional area.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating device includes a first orifice plate having a first hole and a second orifice plate having a second hole, wherein the orifice plates can be displaced relative to each other to change their cross-sectional area.

[0019] "Displaceable" can be understood in particular as the ability of the first and second orifice plates to move linearly relative to each other and / or to rotate relative to each other. Adjustment elements can be provided for this purpose. Each orifice has multiple through-holes. Each through-hole penetrates either the first or second orifice plate, allowing the process medium to flow through the through-holes and / or the first and / or second orifice plates. Each through-hole can be a drilled hole. However, in principle, each through-hole can have any desired geometry. Each through-hole can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or similar in shape. Each through-hole can have the same geometry. Alternatively, each through-hole can also have different geometries. For example, each through-hole can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, each through-hole can be arranged side-by-side in a row. Additionally, viewed along the y-direction, multiple rows of through-holes can be stacked one on top of the other. Along the z-direction, the first and second orifice plates are preferably arranged stacked one on top of the other. Each orifice plate can be designed as a mesh or a sieve.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the heat exchanger has adjustment elements for displacing the orifice plates relative to each other.

[0021] Specifically, the adjusting element is designed to displace the second orifice plate relative to the first orifice plate. In this case, the first orifice plate is fixed in position. Conversely, the adjusting element can also be designed to displace the first orifice plate relative to the second orifice plate. In this case, the second orifice plate is fixed in position. The adjusting element can be an electric motor or the like. The adjusting element can also be a magnet, particularly an electromagnet. The adjusting element can be placed inside or outside the heat exchanger. The adjusting element can also be called an actuator or actuator.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the adjusting element is directly or indirectly operatively connected to one of the orifice plates by means of an action connection.

[0023] With the aid of adjusting elements and action connections, the second orifice plate can move relative to or in the opposite direction to the first orifice plate. In the case of a "direct" action connection, the adjusting element can be, for example, an electric motor, and the action connection can be a rack, connecting rod, or lead screw. Therefore, in this case, the adjusting element, in the form of an electric motor, is directly action-connected or coupled to the corresponding orifice plate by means of a rack, connecting rod, or lead screw. In the case of an "indirect" action connection, the adjusting element can be, for example, a magnet, particularly an electromagnet, which magnetically interacts with one of the orifice plates, particularly the second orifice plate, to move it. Therefore, unlike a direct action connection, in an indirect action connection, there is no direct or mechanical action connection, for example, in the form of a connecting rod, teeth, or rack, between the adjusting element and the corresponding orifice plate. An indirect action connection can also be called a non-contact or contactless action connection. However, this does not preclude the situation where the adjusting element, even in the case of an indirect action connection, cannot at least temporarily contact the corresponding orifice plate.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the adjustment element is designed to linearly and / or rotatably shift the orifice plates relative to each other.

[0025] The adjusting element, for example, can cause the second orifice plate to move linearly relative to the first orifice plate. Alternatively, the adjusting element can also cause one orifice plate to rotate or twist relative to the other orifice plate. For example, the adjusting element can cause the second orifice plate to twist relative to the first orifice plate. Alternatively, a combination of linear and rotational movements of one orifice plate relative to the other orifice plate can also be provided.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the adjusting element is arranged entirely or partially within the distributor.

[0027] When the adjusting element is completely arranged within the distributor, the through-hole in the distributor through which the adjusting element is guided can be advantageously omitted. When the adjusting element is partially arranged within the distributor, particularly at least partially within and at least partially outside the distributor, the adjusting element can be fixed or mounted on the distributor.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the heat exchanger has a sensor system for detecting pressure and an adjustment and control device for manipulating adjustment elements based on sensor signals from the sensor system.

[0029] The sensor system may include pressure sensors, which may be located in or on the heat exchanger block, distributor, and / or collector. A regulating loop can be implemented by means of adjusting elements, the sensor system, and regulating and controlling devices, such that a differential pressure is generated based on sensor signals from the sensor system by means of a differential pressure generating device. Thus, the heat exchanger can always operate effectively even under pressure fluctuations and / or volume flow fluctuations of the supplied process medium. For example, regulation can be performed such that the pressure of the process medium within the heat exchanger block remains constant or constant during the operation of the heat exchanger, even under pressure fluctuations and / or volume flow fluctuations of the supplied process medium.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating device can be moved from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa by means of the displacement of the orifice plates relative to each other, wherein the cross-sectional area is larger in the open state than in the partially closed state.

[0031] The open state can also be called the fully open state. In the open state, the through holes of the orifice plates are stacked one on top of the other, so that these through holes are aligned. "Alignment" can be understood here as the through holes of the orifice plates completely overlapping each other. This forms the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the differential pressure generating device, through which the process medium can flow from the distributor through the differential pressure generating device into the heat exchanger block. This cross-sectional area corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the through holes of the first orifice plate or the second orifice plate. By moving one of the orifice plates, especially the second orifice plate, relative to the other orifice plate, especially the first orifice plate, the differential pressure generating device can be moved from the open state to a partially closed state or vice versa by means of adjusting elements and action connections. Therefore, the difference between the partially closed state and the open state is that the second orifice plate is moved relative to the first orifice plate so that the through holes of the orifice plates only partially overlap each other. The differential pressure generating device can be particularly preferably steplessly adjustable. This means that any number of intermediate states can be set between the open state and the partially closed state.

[0032] According to another embodiment, one of the orifice plates is fixedly connected to a heat exchanger block or distributor.

[0033] "Positionally fixed" in this context means that the corresponding orifice plate cannot move relative to the heat exchanger block or relative to the distributor. For example, the first orifice plate is fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block or fixedly connected to the distributor. On the other hand, the second orifice plate is not positionally fixed and can move relative to the first orifice plate, and therefore can also move relative to the heat exchanger block and / or relative to the distributor. However, the opposite arrangement can also be used, in which the second orifice plate is positionally fixed and the first orifice plate is movable.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the perforated plate is polygonal, particularly rectangular, circular, elliptical, or star-shaped.

[0035] However, in principle, orifice plates can have any desired geometry. The term "polygonal" can be replaced by the term "polygonal-shaped." For rectangular orifice plates, the orifice plates move linearly relative to each other to move the differential pressure generating device from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa. For circular orifice plates, the orifice plates twist relative to each other to move the differential pressure generating device from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa. Combined linear and rotational movements can also be performed to move the orifice plate from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating device includes a differential pressure generating element made of open-cell metal foam.

[0037] Alternatively, open-cell plastic foam or open-cell ceramic foam can also be used for differential pressure generating elements. In particular, metal-coated plastic foam can also be used. "Open-cell" currently refers to the fact that the differential pressure generating element is fluid-permeable, allowing the process medium to flow through it. The differential pressure generating element can be block-shaped or pad-shaped. However, alternatively, the differential pressure generating element can also be wedge-shaped. Aluminum foam can be used for differential pressure generating elements. The differential pressure generating element is particularly arranged between the distributor and the heat exchanger block. The differential pressure generating element can be fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating element is wedge-shaped.

[0039] In the present context, "wedge-shaped" can be understood specifically as a change in the height or thickness of the pressure differential generating element extending along the z-direction when viewed along the x-direction. Therefore, when viewed along the x-direction, the thickness of the pressure differential generating element can decrease or increase.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the differential pressure generating element is displaceable so as to move the differential pressure generating device from a first state to a second state and vice versa. In the first state, the differential pressure generating element is arranged such that the thickness of the differential pressure generating element decreases from the inlet of the distributor toward the heat exchanger block, and in the second state, the differential pressure generating element is arranged such that the thickness of the differential pressure generating element increases from the inlet of the distributor toward the heat exchanger block.

[0041] To displace the differential pressure generating element, an adjusting element as described above is provided. To move the differential pressure generating device from a first state to a second state, or vice versa, the adjusting element can cause the differential pressure generating element to twist and / or linearly shift. The first state can also be referred to as the low-pressure state, because the differential pressure generating device is in the first state when the pressure of the process medium is low. The second state can also be referred to as the high-pressure state, because the differential pressure generating device is in the second state when the pressure of the process medium is high. The differential pressure generating device can be steplessly adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states can be set between the first and second states.

[0042] The word “one” is not necessarily understood here to be limited to exactly one element. On the contrary, multiple elements may be provided, such as two, three, or more elements. Nor should any other numerals used herein be construed as limiting the number of elements to exactly the stated number. Rather, unless otherwise stated, deviations in quantity can be either upward or downward.

[0043] Other possible implementations of the heat exchanger include combinations of features or implementation methods not explicitly mentioned in the descriptions of the embodiments above or below. Those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or supplements to the corresponding basic forms of the heat exchanger. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Further advantageous designs and aspects of the heat exchanger are the subject of the dependent claims and the embodiments of the heat exchanger described below. The heat exchanger is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings using preferred embodiments.

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the heat exchanger;

[0046] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger;

[0047] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger along section line III-III;

[0048] Figure 4 The same is shown according to Figure 2 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger along section line III-III;

[0049] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger;

[0050] Figure 6 Showing according to Figure 5 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger;

[0051] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger;

[0052] Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 7 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger;

[0053] Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger;

[0054] Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger; and

[0055] Figure 11 Showing according to Figure 10 Another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger. Detailed Implementation

[0056] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals.

[0057] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of heat exchanger 1A is shown. Figure 2 Another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1A is shown. See also the following... Figure 1 and Figure 2 .

[0058] Heat exchanger 1A can also be referred to as a heat transfer device. Heat exchanger 1A can be part of a vehicle. However, heat exchanger 1A can also be used in any other application. In particular, heat exchanger 1A can also be used in stationary applications, especially in building technology. Heat exchanger 1A is preferably a microstructured heat exchanger.

[0059] The heat exchanger 1A is assigned a coordinate system including the width direction (x), the depth direction (y), and the height direction (z). The x, y, and z directions are oriented perpendicularly to each other.

[0060] The heat exchanger 1A is, in particular, a so-called plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 1A comprises a cuboid heat exchanger block 2, which may be composed of alternating heating surface elements, particularly so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and baffles. The heating surface elements may be made of corrugated or ribbed aluminum plates, while the baffles may be made of smooth aluminum plates. However, materials other than aluminum may also be used. The heat exchanger block 2 does not necessarily have to be cuboid. The heat exchanger block 2 may also be, for example, cylindrical, particularly cylindrical.

[0061] With the aid of heating surface elements and baffles, heat exchanger 1A forms multiple parallel heat transfer channels 3, 4, in which process medium 5 can flow and indirectly transfer heat to process medium guided in adjacent heat transfer channels (not shown). Figure 1 and Figure 2 All heat transfer channels 3 and 4 shown in the cross-sectional view can be traversed by the same process medium 5.

[0062] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the diagram, only two of the heat transfer channels 3 and 4 are labeled. Any number of heat transfer channels 3 and 4 can be arranged. Heat transfer channels 3 and 4 extend along the z-direction. Viewed along the x-direction, heat transfer channels 3 and 4 are arranged side-by-side or stacked one on top of the other. Furthermore, in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Only one process medium 5 is shown, but at least two different process media 5 are provided, and heat exchange occurs between these process media during the operation of the heat exchanger 1A. However, as previously stated, Figure 1 and Figure 2 All heat transfer channels 3 and 4 shown are traversed by the same process medium 5. The process medium 5 can be a coolant or a refrigerant.

[0063] For example, all heat transfer channels 3 and 4 in the layer formed by the x-direction and the z-direction are traversed by the same process medium 5. Viewed along the y-direction, multiple such layers with additional heat transfer channels 3 and 4 are stacked one on top of the other or arranged side by side, and these heat transfer channels can be traversed by different process media 5.

[0064] Heat exchanger block 2 is arranged between distributor 6 and collector 7. Distributor 6 and collector 7 can also be referred to as manifolds. Distributor 6 and collector 7 can be welded and / or brazed to heat exchanger block 2. With the aid of distributor 6, process medium 5 is distributed as evenly as possible onto heat transfer channels 3 and 4. Process medium 5 leaving heat transfer channels 3 and 4 is collected with the aid of collector 7. Process medium 5 to be distributed is supplied to distributor 6 via inlet 8. The collected process medium 5 is discharged from collector 7 via outlet 9.

[0065] Figure 1 A heat exchanger 1A is shown in a first state, in which process medium 5 is supplied to heat exchanger 1A at high pressure and / or large volume flow. Figure 2 The heat exchanger 1A is shown in a second state, in which the process medium 5 is supplied to the heat exchanger 1A at low pressure and / or small volume flow.

[0066] In both states, heat exchanger block 2 is not effectively flushed by process medium 5. Inactive regions 10 and 11 can form within heat exchanger block 2, which process medium 5 does not flow through or only insufficiently flows through. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The inactive regions 10 and 11 are enclosed by a dashed line. These inactive regions ensure that heat exchanger 1A cannot operate effectively because they negatively impact heat transfer within heat exchanger block 2. Therefore, the goal is to achieve the most uniform flow through heat exchanger block 2, even when the pressure and / or volumetric flow of process medium 5 varies. This necessitates eliminating inactive regions 10 and 11.

[0067] In order to achieve such uniform flow through heat exchanger block 2, it is desirable to generate a controlled or limited pressure loss before the process medium 5 enters heat exchanger block 2. This pressure loss can also be achieved by distributing the limited volumetric flow of the process medium 5 over a larger area, as described below.

[0068] In other words, the desired pressure loss can be generated by increasing the area through which the process medium 5 flows into the heat exchanger block 2. This controlled pressure loss results in a uniform distribution of the process medium 5 before it enters the heat exchanger block 2. Furthermore, increasing the area also increases the time period of the process medium 5 in the heat exchanger block 2, thus eliminating inactive regions 10 and 11. This, in turn, increases the efficiency of the heat exchanger 1A.

[0069] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1A along section line III-III. Figure 4 Similarly, it is shown that according to Figure 2 Another sectional view of heat exchanger 1A along section line III-III. See also the following: Figure 3 and Figure 4 .

[0070] Heat exchanger 1A has a differential pressure generating device 12A for uniformly distributing the process medium 5 onto the heat transfer channels 3 and 4 of the heat exchanger block 2. The differential pressure generating device 12A is also designed to generate a differential pressure in the process medium 5 between the distributor 6 and the heat exchanger block 2. The differential pressure generating device 12A is arranged between the distributor 6 and the heat exchanger block 2. For example, the differential pressure generating device 12A is connected to the distributor 6 and / or the heat exchanger block 2.

[0071] The differential pressure generating device 12A has a first orifice plate 13, which is fixedly supported in position. For example, the first orifice plate 13 is welded or brazed to the heat exchanger block 2. The first orifice plate 13 includes a first aperture 14 having a plurality of through holes 15, 16, wherein only two through holes are located in the... Figure 4 The figure includes reference numerals. Through holes 15 and 16 penetrate the first orifice plate 13, allowing the process medium 5 to flow through the through holes 15 and 16 and through the first orifice plate 13. The first orifice plate 13 may be rectangular.

[0072] Through holes 15 and 16 can be drilled holes. However, in principle, through holes 15 and 16 can have any desired geometry. Through holes 15 and 16 can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or similar shapes. Through holes 15 and 16 can all have the same geometry. Alternatively, through holes 15 and 16 can also have different geometries. For example, through holes 15 and 16 can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, through holes 15 and 16 are placed side by side in a row. Furthermore, viewed along the y-direction, multiple rows of through holes 15 and 16 can be placed stacked one on top of the other.

[0073] Furthermore, the differential pressure generating device 12A has a second orifice plate 17. The second orifice plate 17 can also be rectangular. The two orifice plates 13 and 17 are placed stacked on top of each other. Viewed along the z-direction, the second orifice plate 17 is arranged on the first orifice plate 13. However, the second orifice plate 17 is not fixed in position, but can move relative to the first orifice plate 13 along and against the x-direction, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The middle part is indicated by the double-headed arrow 18.

[0074] The second perforated plate 17 includes a second aperture 19 having a plurality of through holes 20, 21, wherein only two of the through holes are in Figure 3 and Figure 4 The figure is marked with reference numerals. Through holes 20 and 21 penetrate the second orifice plate 17, allowing the process medium 5 to flow through the through holes 20 and 21 and through the second orifice plate 17.

[0075] Through holes 15, 16 and 20, 21 can be designed identically. However, this is not mandatory. Through holes 20, 21 can be drilled. However, in principle, through holes 20, 21 can have any desired geometry. Through holes 20, 21 can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or similar shapes. Through holes 20, 21 can all have the same geometry. Alternatively, through holes 20, 21 can also have different geometries. For example, through holes 20, 21 can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, through holes 20, 21 are placed side by side in a row. Furthermore, viewed along the y-direction, multiple rows of through holes 20, 21 can be placed stacked on top of each other.

[0076] The differential pressure generating device 12A also includes an actuator, motor, or adjusting element 22. The adjusting element 22 can be an electric motor or the like. The adjusting element 22 can also be a magnet, particularly an electromagnet. The adjusting element 22 can be placed inside or outside the heat exchanger 1A. The adjusting element 22 is operatively connected to the second orifice plate 17 via an action connection 23. The second orifice plate 17 can move relative to the first orifice plate 13 by means of the adjusting element 22 and the action connection 23, as indicated by the double-headed arrow 18.

[0077] The action connection 23 can be direct or indirect. In the case of a direct action connection 23, it can also be called a mechanical action connection. In the case of an indirect action connection 23, it can also be called a non-contact or contactless action connection. In the case of a direct action connection 23, the adjusting element 22 can be, for example, an electric motor, and the action connection can be a rack, pinion, or lead screw. The adjusting element 22 can also be a magnet, especially an electromagnet, which can be connected to the second orifice plate 17 by means of a suitable mechanism, for example, in the form of a linkage. However, in the case of an indirect action connection 23, the adjusting element 22 can also be, for example, a magnet, especially an electromagnet, which interacts with the second orifice plate 17 only magnetically, i.e., without a connecting mechanism, to move the second orifice plate.

[0078] The function of the differential pressure generating device 12A is explained below. Figure 3The differential pressure generating device 12A is shown in its fully open state Z1. In the fully open state Z1, the through holes 15, 16, 20, and 21 of the orifices 14 and 19 are stacked one on top of the other, aligning these through holes. This forms the maximum cross-sectional area A1 shown in the shaded area of ​​the differential pressure generating device 12A, through which the process medium 5 can flow from the distributor 6 into the heat exchanger block 2 via the differential pressure generating device 12A. The cross-sectional area A1 corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the through holes 15 and 16 or the through holes 20 and 21.

[0079] on the other hand, Figure 4 The differential pressure generating device 12A is shown in a partially closed state Z2. By moving the second orifice plate 17 relative to the first orifice plate 13, the differential pressure generating device 12A can be moved from a fully open state Z1 to a partially closed state Z2 and vice versa, as indicated by the bidirectional arrow 18. Therefore, the difference between the partially closed state Z2 and the fully open state Z1 is that the second orifice plate 17 is in a partially closed state Z2. Figure 4 Move to the right within the orientation.

[0080] The adjustment of the second orifice plate 17 can be achieved steplessly by means of the adjusting element 22 and the action connection 23, so that an unlimited number of partially closed states Z2 can be set in addition to the fully open state Z1. Only one partially closed state Z2 will be discussed below. In the partially closed state Z2, the through holes 15 and 16 of the first orifice 14 and the through holes 20 and 21 of the second orifice 19 partially overlap, so that the differential pressure generating device 12A has a cross-sectional area A2 that is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1 in the partially closed state Z2.

[0081] Compared to the fully open state Z1, in the partially closed state Z2, process medium 5 accumulates in distributor 6, thereby reducing the pressure of process medium 5 in heat exchanger block 2. Since the cross-sectional area A2 in the partially closed state Z2 is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1 in the fully open state Z1, the amount of process medium 5 that can flow through the differential pressure generating device 12A per unit time while maintaining a constant pressure can be reduced. In other words, the volumetric flow of process medium 5 can also be controlled. Therefore, it is possible to variably limit the pressure of process medium 5 in heat exchanger block 2 to eliminate inactive regions 10, 11 and thus operate heat exchanger 1A more efficiently.

[0082] The setting element 22 can be, for example, based on the sensor system 24 of the heat exchanger 1A. Figure 1 and Figure 2The sensor system 24 may include a pressure sensor, which may be disposed in or on the heat exchanger block 2, distributor 6, and / or collector 7. For controlling the adjusting element 22, an adjusting and control device 25 may be provided, which controls the adjusting element 22 based on the sensor signals from the sensor system 24.

[0083] The volumetric flow Q of process medium 5 and the average flow velocity through the corresponding cross-sectional areas A1 and A2 The following are related:

[0084]

[0085] In this case, A represents the corresponding cross-sectional areas A1 and A2. Therefore, for a predetermined volumetric flow Q, when the cross-sectional area A1 is reduced to the cross-sectional area A2 by moving the differential pressure generating device 12A from the fully open state Z1 to the partially closed state Z2, the average flow velocity... Increase.

[0086] The orifice plates 13 and 17 do not necessarily have to be rectangular. Alternatively, the orifice plates 13 and 17 can also be circular, especially annular. In this case, the orifice plates 13 and 17 are twisted relative to each other to move the differential pressure generating device 12A from a fully open state Z1 to a partially closed state Z2 and vice versa.

[0087] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of heat exchanger 1B. Figure 6 Another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1B is shown. See also the following... Figure 5 and Figure 6 .

[0088] The function of heat exchanger 1B corresponds to that of heat exchanger 1A previously described. The only difference between heat exchanger 1B and heat exchanger 1A is that the adjusting element 22 is mounted on the distributor 6. The adjusting element 22 can extend partially into and partially out of the distributor 6. In this case, the adjusting element 22 can be, for example, an electric motor connected to the second orifice plate 17 by means of an action connection 23. Figure 5 The heat exchanger 1B is shown when the pressure of process medium 5 is low. Figure 6 The heat exchanger 1B is shown when the pressure of process medium 5 is high.

[0089] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger 1C. Figure 8 Another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1C is shown. See also the following... Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0090] The function of heat exchanger 1C corresponds to that of heat exchanger 1A previously described. The only difference between heat exchanger 1C and heat exchanger 1A is that the adjusting element 22 is completely arranged within the distributor 6. This eliminates the need for a through hole in the distributor 6 for mounting the adjusting element 22. Figure 7 The heat exchanger 1C is shown when the pressure of process medium 5 is low. Figure 8 The heat exchanger 1C is shown when the pressure of process medium 5 is high.

[0091] In this case, the adjusting element 22 is a magnet, particularly an electromagnet. This is to direct the differential pressure generating device 12A from... Figure 7 The fully open state Z1 shown is placed Figure 8 The partially closed state Z2 shown connects or activates the magnet in the form of the adjusting element 22. In order to return the differential pressure generating device 12A from the partially closed state Z2 to the fully open state Z1, a spring-type reset device can be provided.

[0092] Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0093] The only difference between heat exchanger 1D and heat exchanger 1A is that heat exchanger 1D has an alternative embodiment of a differential pressure generating device 12B. The differential pressure generating device 12B has a block-shaped or pad-shaped differential pressure generating element 26. Specifically, the differential pressure generating element 26 is an open-cell metal foam through which the process medium 5 can flow under pressure loss. Aluminum foam can be used for the differential pressure generating element 26.

[0094] The differential pressure generating device 12B is arranged between the heat exchanger block 2 and the distributor 6, and ensures that the process medium 5 accumulates in the distributor 6. The differential pressure generating device 12B can also generate pressure loss. In addition, the differential pressure generating device 12B ensures that the process medium 5 is evenly distributed on the heat transfer channels 3 and 4.

[0095] The differential pressure generating device 12B can be fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block 2 and / or the distributor 6. The differential pressure generating device 12B can have a differential pressure generating element 26 as a single component. Therefore, the differential pressure generating element 26 can be the same as that in the differential pressure generating device 12B. Alternatively, the differential pressure generating device 12B can also have multiple differential pressure generating elements 26. The setting element 22, the action connection 23, the sensor system 24, and the regulating and control device 25 can be omitted.

[0096] Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the heat exchanger 1E. Figure 11 Another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1E is shown. See also the following: Figure 10 and Figure 11 .

[0097] The function of heat exchanger 1E corresponds to the function of heat exchanger 1D previously described. Figure 10 The heat exchanger 1E is shown when the pressure of process medium 5 is low. Figure 11 The heat exchanger 1E is shown when the pressure of the process medium 5 is high. The only difference between heat exchanger 1E and heat exchanger 1D is that heat exchanger 1E has an alternative embodiment of pressure differential generating device 12C.

[0098] The differential pressure generating device 12C has a differential pressure generating element 27, which—like the differential pressure generating element 26 of the differential pressure generating device 12B—is made of open-cell metal foam. However, unlike the differential pressure generating element 26 of the differential pressure generating device 12B, this differential pressure generating element 27 is wedge-shaped. "Wedge-shaped" can be understood here as the height or thickness d of the differential pressure generating element 27 extending along the z-direction when viewed along the x-direction x and / or along the y-direction y. Figure 11 The thickness d of the pressure differential generating element 27 can be decreased or increased when observed along the x-direction x and / or along the y-direction y.

[0099] Furthermore, the differential pressure generating element 27 is not fixed in position but is movable. For example, the differential pressure generating element 27 can move and / or twist. For this purpose, an adjusting element 22 as described above can be provided, which is operated by means of an adjusting and controlling device 25 based on the sensor signals of the sensor system 24. A combination of linear and rotational motion can also be provided for the differential pressure generating element 27.

[0100] By moving and / or torturing the differential pressure generating element 27 as described above, the differential pressure generating device 12C can be generated from... Figure 10 The first state Z10 shown is placed Figure 11 The second state Z20 is shown and then returns. The first state Z10 can also be called the low-pressure state. The second state Z20 can also be called the high-pressure state. Any number of intermediate states can be set between states Z10 and Z20, so that the differential pressure generating element 27 can be steplessly adjusted.

[0101] For example, the heat exchanger block 2—as previously described—can have a cylindrical geometry, wherein the differential pressure generating element 27 can be circular, particularly circular. In this case, the adjusting element 22 can cause the differential pressure generating element 27 to twist, moving the differential pressure generating device 12C from a first state Z10 to a second state Z20 and vice versa. The differential pressure generating element 27 can also move linearly, placing the differential pressure generating device 12C from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa. Any mechanism can be provided to move or shift the differential pressure generating element 27, including, for example, an arbitrarily shaped control cam.

[0102] In the first state Z10, the differential pressure generating element 27 is arranged such that its thickness d decreases or decreases when viewed from the inlet 8 along the x-direction. Therefore, in the first state Z10, the thickness d of the differential pressure generating element 27 decreases from the inlet 8. In the second state Z20, opposite to the first state Z10, the differential pressure generating element 27 is arranged such that its thickness d increases when viewed from the inlet 8 along the x-direction. Therefore, in the second state Z20, the thickness d of the differential pressure generating element 27 increases from the inlet 8.

[0103] Therefore, when the pressure of process medium 5 is low, the differential pressure generating device 12C is placed in the first state Z10. Therefore, when the pressure of process medium 5 is high, the differential pressure generating device 12C is placed in the second state Z20. The differential pressure generating device 12C can be steplessly adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states can be set between states Z10 and Z20.

[0104] Alternatively, the differential pressure generating element 27 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as metal-coated plastic foam. In this case, the adjusting element 22 may be, for example, a magnet. If the adjusting element 22 acts magnetically on the differential pressure element 27, the differential pressure element deforms. The material of the differential pressure element 27 can thus be attracted to or repelled by the adjusting element 22. Thus, the differential pressure generating device 12C can be moved from a first state Z10 to a second state Z20 and vice versa by means of the elastic deformation of the differential pressure generating element 27. In other words, the differential pressure generating element 27 can be deformed from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa.

[0105] Although the invention has been described using examples, it can be modified in many ways.

[0106] List of reference numerals

[0107] 1A heat exchanger

[0108] 1B heat exchanger

[0109] 1C heat exchanger

[0110] 1D heat exchanger

[0111] 1E heat exchanger

[0112] 2 heat exchanger blocks

[0113] 3 heat transfer channels

[0114] 4 heat transfer channels

[0115] 5 Process Media

[0116] 6 Distributors

[0117] 7 collectors

[0118] 8 entrances

[0119] 9 Exports

[0120] 10 regions

[0121] 11 regions

[0122] 12A Differential Pressure Generating Device

[0123] 12B Differential Pressure Generating Device

[0124] 12C differential pressure generating device

[0125] 13-hole plate

[0126] 14-hole eye

[0127] 15 through holes

[0128] 16 through holes

[0129] 17-hole plate

[0130] 18 double-headed arrows

[0131] 19-hole eye

[0132] 20 through holes

[0133] 21 through holes

[0134] 22 Adjustment Components

[0135] 23 Functional Connection

[0136] 24 sensor system

[0137] 25 Adjustment and control devices

[0138] 26 Differential Pressure Generating Element

[0139] 27 Differential Pressure Generating Element

[0140] A1 Cross-sectional area

[0141] A2 cross-sectional area

[0142] d thickness

[0143] xx direction

[0144] yy direction

[0145] zz direction

[0146] Z1 state

[0147] Z2 state

[0148] Z10 status

[0149] Z20 status

Claims

1. Heat exchangers (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E), including: A heat exchanger block (2) with multiple heat transfer channels (3, 4); Distributor (6) for distributing process medium (5) to the heat transfer channels (3, 4); and Differential pressure generating devices (12A, 12B, 12C) are designed to generate a differential pressure of the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating devices (12A, 12B, 12C) are arranged inside the distributor (6).

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating device (12A) has a variable cross-sectional area (A1, A2) that can be traversed by the process medium (5) during the operation of the heat exchangers (1A, 1B, 1C).

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating device (12A) includes a first orifice plate (13) having a first orifice (14) and a second orifice plate (17) having a second orifice (19), wherein the orifice plates (13, 17) are capable of being displaced relative to each other to change the cross-sectional area (A1, A2).

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized in that, An adjustment element (22) is provided for displacing the orifice plates (13, 17) relative to each other.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that, The setting element (22) is directly or indirectly connected to one of the orifice plates (13, 17) by means of an action connection (23).

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The adjusting element (22) is designed to linearly and / or rotatably shift the orifice plates (13, 17) relative to each other.

8. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The adjusting element (22) is arranged entirely or partially within the distributor (6).

9. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, The device includes a sensor system (24) for detecting pressure and an adjustment and control device (25) for controlling the adjustment element (22) based on the sensor signals of the sensor system (24).

10. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating device (12A) can be moved from an open state (Z1) to a partially closed state (Z2) and vice versa by means of the displacement of the orifice plates (13, 17) relative to each other, wherein the cross-sectional area (A1, A2) is larger in the open state (Z1) than in the partially closed state (Z2).

11. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 10, characterized in that, One of the orifice plates (13, 17) is fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block (2) or the distributor (6).

12. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that, The perforated plates (13, 17) are polygonal, particularly rectangular, circular, elliptical, or star-shaped.

13. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating device (12B, 12C) has a differential pressure generating element (26, 27) made of open-cell metal foam.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 13, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating element (27) is wedge-shaped.

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, characterized in that, The differential pressure generating element (27) is displaceable so that the differential pressure generating device (12C) is moved from a first state (Z10) to a second state (Z10) and vice versa. In the first state, the differential pressure generating element (27) is arranged such that the thickness (d) of the differential pressure generating element (27) decreases from the inlet (8) of the distributor (6) toward the heat exchanger block (2). In the second state, the differential pressure generating element (27) is arranged such that the thickness (d) of the differential pressure generating element (27) increases from the inlet (8) of the distributor (6) toward the heat exchanger block (2).

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