Plate heat exchanger

Abstract

This application discloses a plate heat exchanger, including a heat exchange core. The heat exchange core includes multiple first heat exchange plates and multiple second heat exchange plates. The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a height direction. The first heat exchange plates and second heat exchange plates are alternately stacked along the height direction. The heat exchange core has first inter-plate flow channels and second inter-plate flow channels. The first inter-plate flow channels are located between a first heat exchange plate and an adjacent second heat exchange plate, and the second inter-plate flow channels are located between a first heat exchange plate and another adjacent second heat exchange plate. The first inter-plate flow channels and the second inter-plate flow channels are isolated from each other. The first heat exchange plates include multiple first crests, first sidewalls, and first troughs. The first sidewalls are located between the first crests and first troughs, and both the first crests and first troughs are connected to the first sidewalls. The first sidewalls include multiple first protrusions, which are spaced apart. In this application, the first protrusion can effectively disturb the flow of the heat exchange medium in the first and second inter-plate channels, causing the flow area of ​​the heat exchange medium to periodically contract and expand, thereby enhancing the turbulence of the heat exchange medium, strengthening the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium, and thus improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heat exchange technology, and more particularly to a plate heat exchanger for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Plate heat exchangers are widely used in refrigeration and heating systems as evaporators, condensers, economizers, etc., due to their advantages such as compact structure, high heat transfer coefficient, high reliability, and low refrigerant charge.

[0003] In related technologies, a plate heat exchanger includes a heat exchange core, which includes multiple first heat exchange plates and multiple second heat exchange plates. The first and second heat exchange plates are alternately stacked along the height direction of the plate heat exchanger. The heat exchange core has a first inter-plate flow channel and a second inter-plate flow channel. The first inter-plate flow channel is located between a first heat exchange plate and an adjacent second heat exchange plate, and the second inter-plate flow channel is located between a first heat exchange plate and another adjacent second heat exchange plate. The first and second inter-plate flow channels are isolated from each other, and the heat exchange medium in the first inter-plate flow channel and the heat exchange medium in the second inter-plate flow channel exchange heat. The first heat exchange plate includes multiple first crests, first sidewalls, and first troughs. The first sidewall is located between the first crests and the first troughs. Both the first crests and the first troughs are connected to the first sidewall. The first sidewall is usually a flat surface structure. The heat exchange medium flows relatively slowly in the inter-plate channel, the evaporation phase change process of the heat exchange medium is weak, the heat transfer efficiency is low, and the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger needs to be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application aims to improve the heat exchange performance of plate heat exchangers by modifying the heat exchange plate structure.

[0005] The following technical solution is adopted in this application:

[0006] A plate heat exchanger includes a heat exchange core, the heat exchange core including a plurality of first heat exchange plates and a plurality of second heat exchange plates, the plate heat exchanger is defined to have a height direction, the first heat exchange plates and the second heat exchange plates are alternately stacked along the height direction, the heat exchange core has a first inter-plate flow channel and a second inter-plate flow channel, the first inter-plate flow channel is located between a first heat exchange plate and an adjacent second heat exchange plate, the second inter-plate flow channel is located between a first heat exchange plate and another adjacent second heat exchange plate, and the first inter-plate flow channel and the second inter-plate flow channel are isolated from each other;

[0007] The first heat exchange plate includes multiple first crest portions, first sidewall portions, and first trough portions. The first sidewall portion is located between the first crest portions and the first trough portions. Both the first crest portions and the first trough portions are connected to the first sidewall portion. The first sidewall portion includes multiple first protrusion portions, which are spaced apart.

[0008] In this application, the first sidewall portion includes a plurality of first protrusions, which are spaced apart. The arrangement of the first protrusions can effectively disturb the flow of the heat exchange medium in the first and second plate flow channels, causing the flow area of ​​the heat exchange medium to periodically contract and expand, thereby enhancing the turbulence of the heat exchange medium and strengthening the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium, thus improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a plate heat exchanger.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown is an exploded view of a plate heat exchanger.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the plate heat exchanger from another angle;

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first heat exchange plate in the plate heat exchanger shown, and a partial enlarged view thereof;

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first heat exchange plate in the plate heat exchanger shown from another angle, and a partial enlarged view thereof;

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the second heat exchange plate in the plate heat exchanger shown, and a partial enlarged view thereof;

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the second heat exchange plate in the plate heat exchanger from another angle, and a partial enlarged view thereof;

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of the plate heat exchanger shown;

[0017] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A partial plan view of the first sidewall portion of the plate heat exchanger shown;

[0018] Figure 10 This is a partial plan view of another embodiment of the first sidewall portion;

[0019] Figure 11 This is a partial plan view of another embodiment of the first sidewall portion;

[0020] Figure 12 yes Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged view of the plate heat exchanger shown.

[0021] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the distributor in the plate heat exchanger is shown.

[0022] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 An exploded view of the dispenser is shown below;

[0023] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A schematic cross-sectional view of the distribution tube in the distributor shown.

[0024] In the figure, 10 is the heat exchange core; 101 is the first flow channel; 102 is the second flow channel; 103 is the third flow channel; 104 is the fourth flow channel; 105 is the first inter-plate flow channel; 106 is the second inter-plate flow channel; 11 is the first heat exchange plate; 1101 is the first cavity; 1102 is the second cavity; 111 is the first crest; 112 is the first sidewall; 1121 is the first protrusion; 11211 is the first sub-protrusion; 11212 is the second... Sub-protrusion; 1122, First groove; 11221, First sub-groove; 11222, Second sub-groove; 113, First trough; 114, First top wall; 115, First bottom wall; 12, Second heat exchange plate; 1201, Third cavity; 1202, Fourth cavity; 1203, Fifth cavity; 121, Second crest; 122, Second side wall; 1221, Second protrusion; 1222, Second groove; 123. 124. Second trough section; 125. Second top wall; 126. Second bottom wall; 127. Third crest section; 128. Third side wall section; 13. Top plate; 14. Bottom plate; 15. Connecting plate; 20. Distributor; 21. Distributor pipe; 210. Distributor cavity; 211. First pipe section; 212. Second pipe section; 213. Third pipe section; 214. Distributor hole; 2141. First distribution hole; 2142. Second distribution hole; 215. First pipe opening ; 216, Second port; 22, Baffle; 220, Baffle channel; 221, First baffle; 222, Second baffle; 223, Connecting rod; 224, Baffle plate; 23, Cover plate; 231, Mounting hole; 30, First external pipe; 40, Second external pipe; 50, Third external pipe; 60, Fourth external pipe; L, Length direction of plate heat exchanger; W, Width direction of plate heat exchanger; H, Height direction of plate heat exchanger. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other technical solutions obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. The plate heat exchanger of exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features in the implementation methods can complement or combine with each other.

[0027] According to one possible embodiment of the plate heat exchanger of this application, refer to Figures 1 to 15 As shown, a plate heat exchanger includes a heat exchange core 10, which includes a plurality of first heat exchange plates 11 and a plurality of second heat exchange plates 12. The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a height direction H. The first heat exchange plates 11 and the second heat exchange plates 12 are alternately stacked along the height direction H. The heat exchange core 10 has a first inter-plate flow channel 105 and a second inter-plate flow channel 106. The first inter-plate flow channel 105 is located between the first heat exchange plate 11 and an adjacent second heat exchange plate 12, and the second inter-plate flow channel 106 is located between the first heat exchange plate 11 and another adjacent second heat exchange plate 12. The first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106 are isolated from each other.

[0028] The first heat exchange plate 11 includes a plurality of first crest portions 111, first sidewall portions 112 and first trough portions 113. The first sidewall portions 112 are located between the first crest portions 111 and the first trough portions 113. The first crest portions 111 and the first trough portions 113 are both connected to the first sidewall portions 112. The first sidewall portions 112 include a plurality of first protrusions 1121, which are spaced apart.

[0029] In this application, the first sidewall portion 112 includes a plurality of first protrusions 1121, which are spaced apart. The arrangement of the first protrusions 1121 can effectively disturb the flow of the heat exchange medium in the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106, causing the flow area of ​​the heat exchange medium to periodically contract and expand, thereby enhancing the turbulence of the heat exchange medium, strengthening the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium, and forming denser vaporization nuclei, thus enhancing the evaporation phase change process of the heat exchange medium and improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger. At the same time, the arrangement of the first protrusions 1121 can not only improve the structural strength of the first heat exchange plate 11, but also increase the heat exchange area of ​​the first heat exchange plate 11, thereby improving the heat exchange performance of the first heat exchange plate 11 and further improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

[0030] The isolation between the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106 means that the medium flowing into the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the heat exchange medium flowing into the second inter-plate flow channel 106 are not connected and do not cross-flow. When different heat exchange media flow through the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106, heat exchange occurs. The alternating stacking of the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106 results in better heat exchange performance. The heat exchange medium includes refrigerant, coolant, etc. The refrigerant can be R134A, HFO-1234YF, R744, etc., and the coolant can be a mixture of ethanol and water or other cooling media. The refrigerant flows into the first inter-plate flow channel 105, and the coolant flows into the second inter-plate flow channel 106. The refrigerant and coolant flow in their respective channels and exchange heat. The refrigerant can be in liquid, gas, or two-phase (liquid, gas, and liquid) states.

[0031] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the first sidewall portion 112 has a plurality of first grooves 1122, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the first sidewall portion 112, and a plurality of first protrusions 1121 are spaced apart along the length direction of the first sidewall portion 112. The first protrusions 1121 protrude from one surface of the first sidewall portion 112 toward the direction close to the second heat exchange plate 12, and the first grooves 1122 are recessed from the other surface of the first sidewall portion 112 toward the direction close to the second heat exchange plate 12.

[0032] Along the thickness direction of the first sidewall portion 112, the first protrusion 1121 is disposed opposite to the groove wall of the first groove 1122. Specifically, while the first sidewall portion 112 is being machined into multiple first protrusions 1121, the first groove 1122 is also being formed simultaneously. Therefore, the first protrusions 1121 and the groove walls of the first grooves 1122 correspond one-to-one, which is convenient for processing. Moreover, the multiple first grooves 1122 can also effectively disturb the flow of the heat exchange medium in the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106, causing the flow area of ​​the heat exchange medium to periodically contract and expand, thereby strengthening the turbulence of the heat exchange medium, enhancing the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium, and enhancing the evaporation phase change process of the heat exchange medium, thus improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

[0033] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 9As shown, a plurality of first protrusions 1121 include first sub-protrusions 11211 and second sub-protrusions 11212. The volume of the first sub-protrusion 11211 is larger than the volume of the second sub-protrusion 11212, and the first sub-protrusions 11211 and second sub-protrusions 11212 are alternately arranged. A plurality of first grooves 1122 include first grooves 11221 and second grooves 11222. The volume of the first groove 11221 is larger than the volume of the second groove 11222, and the first grooves 11221 and second sub-grooves 11222 are alternately arranged. The groove walls of the first sub-protrusions 11211 and the first grooves 11221 are arranged opposite each other, and the groove walls of the second sub-protrusions 11212 and the second grooves 11222 are arranged opposite each other. The first sub-protrusion 11211 and the second sub-protrusion 11212 are alternately arranged, and the first sub-groove 11221 and the second sub-groove 11222 are alternately arranged. This optimizes the periodic contraction and expansion of the heat exchange medium flow area, further enhances the turbulence of the heat exchange medium, strengthens the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium, and thus further improves the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

[0034] Reference Figure 10 As shown, in some possible embodiments, the first sidewall portion 112 includes two rows of first protrusions 1121, which are aligned. This facilitates the processing of the first protrusions 1121 and ensures better uniformity of the heat exchange medium flow.

[0035] Reference Figure 11 As shown, in some possible embodiments, the first sidewall portion 112 includes two rows of first protrusions 1121, which are staggered. This results in better turbulence during the flow of the heat exchange medium, thus improving the heat transfer effect of the heat exchange medium.

[0036] In some possible embodiments, the first sidewall portion 112 includes three rows of first protrusions 1121, the first row of first protrusions being staggered from the second row of first protrusions, and the first row of first protrusions being aligned with the third row of first protrusions. This further optimizes the turbulence effect during the flow of the heat exchange medium, thereby enhancing the heat transfer of the heat exchange medium.

[0037] The number of rows of the first protrusion 1121, the number of first protrusions 1121 in each row, and the size of the first protrusion 1121 need to be reasonably selected based on the area and thickness of the first sidewall 112 to balance the processing difficulty and optimize the heat exchange performance. No specific restrictions are imposed here.

[0038] The planar outline of the first protrusion 1121 can be square, circular, polygonal, elliptical, etc., and no specific limitation is made here. In this embodiment, the planar outline of the first protrusion 1121 is square, and square protrusions are relatively easy to process.

[0039] Reference Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the second heat exchange plate 12 includes multiple second crest portions 121, second sidewall portions 122, and second trough portions 123. The second sidewall portions 122 are located between the second crest portions 121 and the second trough portions 123. Both the second crest portions 121 and the second trough portions 123 are connected to the second sidewall portions 122. A portion of the first crest portion 111 is connected to the second trough portion 123, and a portion of the first trough portion 113 is connected to the second crest portion 121. The second sidewall portion 122 includes multiple second protrusions 1221, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the second sidewall portion 122. The second sidewall portion 122 has multiple second grooves 1222, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the second sidewall portion 122. Along the thickness direction of the second sidewall portion 122, the second protrusions 1221 are positioned opposite to the groove walls of the second grooves 1222. Specifically, while processing the second sidewall portion 122 to form multiple second protrusions 1221, a second groove 1222 is also formed at the same time. Therefore, the second protrusions 1221 and the groove walls of the second grooves 1222 correspond one-to-one, which facilitates processing.

[0040] The second protrusion 1221 and the second groove 1222 effectively disturb the flow of the heat exchange medium in the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the second inter-plate flow channel 106, causing the flow area of ​​the heat exchange medium to periodically contract and expand. This enhances the turbulence of the heat exchange medium, strengthens heat transfer, and forms denser vaporization nuclei, thus enhancing the evaporation phase change process of the heat exchange medium and improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger. Simultaneously, the second protrusion 1221 not only improves the structural strength of the second heat exchange plate 12 but also increases its heat exchange area, thereby improving its heat exchange performance and further enhancing the overall heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

[0041] Reference Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the first heat exchange plate 11 has a first cavity 1101 and a second cavity 1102, which are located on opposite sides of the thickness direction of the first sidewall portion 112. The openings of the first cavity 1101 and the second cavity 1102 face opposite directions. The second heat exchange plate 12 has a third cavity 1201 and a fourth cavity 1202, which are located on opposite sides of the thickness direction of the second sidewall portion 122. The openings of the third cavity 1201 and the fourth cavity 1202 face opposite directions. The first cavity 1101 communicates with the fourth cavity 1202, forming at least a portion of the first inter-plate flow channel 105. The second cavity 1102 communicates with the third cavity 1201, forming at least a portion of the second inter-plate flow channel 106.

[0042] The second heat exchange plate 12 includes multiple third crest portions 126 and third sidewall portions 127. Second trough portions 123 are located between second sidewall portions 122 and third sidewall portions 127. The second sidewall portions 122 and third sidewall portions 127 are respectively connected to the second trough portions 123. The third sidewall portions 127 are located between the second trough portions 123 and third crest portions 126. The second trough portions 123 and third crest portions 126 are respectively connected to the third sidewall portions 127. The height of the third crest portion 126 is less than the height of the second crest portion 121; in other words, the distance between the third crest portion 126 and the second trough portion 123 is less than the distance between the second crest portion 121 and the second trough portion 123. The height of the third sidewall portion 127 is less than the height of the second sidewall portion 122, causing the heat exchange medium flow area to periodically contract and expand, strengthening the turbulence of the heat exchange medium and enhancing heat transfer. The second heat exchange plate 12 has a fifth cavity 1203. The fourth cavity 1202 and the fifth cavity 1203 are located on both sides of the thickness direction of the third side wall portion 127, respectively. The openings of the fourth cavity 1202 and the fifth cavity 1203 face opposite directions, while the openings of the third cavity 1201 and the fifth cavity 1203 face the same direction. The second cavity 1102 is connected to the fifth cavity 1203. The second cavity 1102, the third cavity 1201, and the fifth cavity 1203 are interconnected, forming at least a portion of the second interplate flow channel 106.

[0043] Reference Figure 12 As shown, the first heat exchange plate 11 includes a first top wall 114 and a first bottom wall 115, which are located on opposite sides of the thickness direction of the first heat exchange plate 11. The second heat exchange plate 12 includes a second top wall 124 and a second bottom wall 125, which are located on opposite sides of the thickness direction of the second heat exchange plate 12. A first inter-plate flow channel 105 is located between adjacent first bottom walls 115 and second top walls 124, and a second inter-plate flow channel 106 is located between adjacent second bottom walls 125 and first top walls 114.

[0044] The first heat exchange plate 11 and the second heat exchange plate 12 are both integral structures. Both are made of metal and have good structural strength. The first heat exchange plate 11 and the second heat exchange plate 12 are both herringbone corrugated plate structures. The method by which the first heat exchange plate 11 and the second heat exchange plate 12 are formed as an integral structure is not specifically limited. They can be formed through one or a combination of stamping, extrusion, casting, powder metallurgy, metal powder injection molding, 3D printing, etc. Alternatively, they can be formed by stamping, extrusion, casting, powder metallurgy, or metal powder injection molding followed by machining, or they can be directly machined.

[0045] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 12 As shown, the heat exchange core 10 has a first flow channel 101, a second flow channel 102, a third flow channel 103, and a fourth flow channel 104. The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a length direction L, along which the first flow channel 101 and the third flow channel 103 are spaced apart, and the second flow channel 102 and the fourth flow channel 104 are spaced apart. The plate heat exchanger is also defined to have a width direction W, along which the first flow channel 101 and the second flow channel 102 are spaced apart, and the third flow channel 103 and the fourth flow channel 104 are spaced apart. A second inter-plate flow channel 106 connects the first flow channel 101 and the third flow channel 103, and a first inter-plate flow channel 105 connects the second flow channel 102 and the fourth flow channel 104.

[0046] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the plate heat exchanger includes a distributor 20, and the heat exchange core 10 is connected to the distributor 20. The distributor 20 is at least partially located in the first flow channel 101. The distributor 20 includes a distribution pipe 21, which has a distribution cavity 210 communicating with the first flow channel 101. The distribution pipe 21 is a U-shaped pipe and is an integral structure. The U-shaped distribution pipe 21 forms a U-shaped distribution flow path, which is longer than a straight distribution flow path, thereby improving the distribution effect of the distributor. Furthermore, the U-shaped distribution pipe 21 can relatively reduce the size of the distribution pipe 21 in the height direction H of the plate heat exchanger, resulting in a more compact structure.

[0047] The distribution pipe 21 includes a first pipe section 211, a second pipe section 212, and a third pipe section 213. Both the first and second pipe sections 211 and 212 are connected to the third pipe section 213. The cavities of the first and second pipe sections 211 and 212 are connected to the cavity of the third pipe section 213. The third pipe section 213 is located between the first and second pipe sections 211 and 212. The plate heat exchanger is defined with a width direction W. Along the width direction W, the first and second pipe sections 211 and 212 are arranged side-by-side. The first and second pipe sections 211 and 212 are arranged in parallel, with a gap between them; in other words, the first and second pipe sections 211 and 212 are arranged parallel and spaced apart. The outer contour of the third pipe section 213 is approximately semi-circular. When the plate heat exchanger is working, the heat exchange medium flows sequentially into the first pipe section 211, the third pipe section 213, and the second pipe section 212, forming a U-shaped distribution flow path, resulting in good distribution effect.

[0048] The distributor 20 includes a flow-dispersing element 22, which is at least partially located in the distribution cavity 210. The flow-dispersing element 22 is connected to the distribution pipe 21 and has a flow-dispersing channel 220 that communicates with the distribution cavity 210. The flow-dispersing channel 220 is a spiral channel. Specifically, the flow-dispersing element 22 includes a connecting rod 223 and a flow-dispersing plate 224. The connecting rod 223 and the flow-dispersing plate 224 are fixedly connected. The flow-dispersing plate 224 is connected to the inner wall of the distribution pipe 21. Specifically, the flow-dispersing plate 224 abuts against the inner wall of the distribution pipe 21 and is spiral in shape. The baffle 22 is designed to ensure that the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant entering the distribution pipe 21 is mixed evenly, thus improving the uniformity of distribution. The baffle 22 has a spiral baffle channel 220, which improves the mixing effect of the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant entering the distribution pipe 21. The spiral baffle channel 220 combined with the U-shaped distribution flow path extends the distribution flow path, resulting in a better mixing effect of the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and improving the distribution effect of the distributor.

[0049] Specifically, the distributor 20 includes two flow deflectors 22, namely a first flow deflector 221 and a second flow deflector 222. The first flow deflector 221 is located in the cavity of the first pipe section 211 and is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first pipe section 211. The second flow deflector 222 is located in the cavity of the second pipe section 212 and is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the second pipe section 212. In this embodiment, the structures of the first flow deflector 221 and the second flow deflector 222 are basically the same. Both the first flow deflector 221 and the second flow deflector 222 include a connecting rod 223 and a baffle plate 224, and both the first flow deflector 221 and the second flow deflector 222 have a flow deflection channel 220. The first turbulence element 221 and the second turbulence element 222 are designed to ensure that the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant entering the distribution pipe 21 can be mixed evenly, thereby improving the distribution uniformity. Both the first turbulence element 221 and the second turbulence element 222 have spiral turbulence channels 220, which further improves the mixing effect of the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant entering the distribution pipe 21 and further improves the distribution effect of the distributor.

[0050] The distribution pipe 21 is made of metal, resulting in good structural stability. The distribution pipe 21 is a one-piece structure, providing good overall structural stability. In an optional embodiment, the distribution pipe 21 is made of a high-temperature and high-pressure resistant resin material, which is lower in cost and lighter in weight.

[0051] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 15As shown, the distribution pipe 21 has multiple distribution holes 214, which are spaced apart. Each distribution hole 214 extends through both sides of the distribution pipe 21 in the thickness direction of its wall, connecting the distribution cavity 210 and the first flow channel 101. The distribution holes 214 are circular, which facilitates processing. The cross-sectional dimension of the distribution pipe 21 is much larger than the size of the distribution holes 214. That is, the distribution cavity 210 is mainly used for the flow of the heat exchange medium, forming a distribution flow channel, while the distribution holes 214 are mainly used for the distribution of the heat exchange medium within the distribution cavity 210. The arrangement of the distribution holes 214 ensures that the heat exchange medium within the distribution cavity 210 can be evenly distributed to the first flow channel 101.

[0052] Specifically, the plurality of distribution holes 214 include first distribution holes 2141 and second distribution holes 2142. The first distribution holes 2141 are located in the first tube section 211, and the plurality of first distribution holes 2141 are spaced apart along the length direction of the first tube section 211. The second distribution holes 2142 are located in the second tube section 212, and the plurality of second distribution holes 2142 are spaced apart along the length direction of the second tube section 212. Optionally, the plurality of first distribution holes 2141 are evenly spaced along the length direction of the first tube section 211, and the plurality of second distribution holes 2142 are evenly spaced along the length direction of the second tube section 212. This allows the heat exchange medium in the distribution tube cavity 210 to be evenly distributed from the distribution holes 214 to the first flow channel 101, thereby improving the distribution uniformity of the distribution tube 21 and improving the distribution effect of the distributor 20.

[0053] The distribution pipe 21 has a first port 215 and a second port 216. The distributor 20 includes a cover plate 23, which is fixedly connected to the heat exchange core 10. The cover plate 23 has a mounting hole 231 that extends through both sides of the cover plate 23 in the thickness direction. The outer contour of the cover plate 23 is circular, and the mounting hole 231 is a circular hole. The first port 215 is circular in shape, and the diameter of the mounting hole 231 is approximately equal to the diameter of the first port 215. The wall containing the first port 215 is at least partially located within the mounting hole 231, and the wall containing the first port 215 is fixedly connected to the wall of the mounting hole 231. The wall containing the second port 216 is fixedly connected to the cover plate 23, and the cover plate 23 closes the second port 216. That is, the cover plate 23 prevents the heat exchange medium from flowing into or out of the second port 216. The heat exchange medium can only flow into the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21 from the first pipe opening 215, and is evenly distributed to the first flow channel 101 by multiple distribution holes 214, forming a U-shaped distribution flow path. The cover plate 23 not only seals the second pipe opening 216, but also achieves a fixed connection between the distribution pipe 21, the cover plate 23 and the heat exchange core 10. Moreover, the structure of the cover plate 23 is relatively simple and easy to process.

[0054] The diameter of the distribution orifice 214 gradually decreases from the wall containing the first orifice 215 to the wall containing the second orifice 216. That is, along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21, the diameter of the distribution orifice 214 gradually decreases. Due to the inertia of the liquid refrigerant, it has a certain impulse, and the pressure at the refrigerant inlet is lower than the pressure at the end of the distribution pipe 21. The pressure gradually increases along the path from the refrigerant inlet to the end. In other words, the pressure gradually increases along the path from the first orifice 215 to the second orifice 216. Therefore, along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21, the amount of liquid refrigerant distributed will show a gradually increasing trend from the first orifice 215 to the second orifice 216. Therefore, in order to improve this problem, the diameter of the distribution hole 214 is gradually reduced along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21, so that the heat exchange medium in the distribution cavity 210 can be evenly distributed from the distribution hole 214 to the first flow channel 101, thereby improving the distribution uniformity of the distribution pipe 21 and improving the distribution effect of the distributor 20.

[0055] In some possible embodiments, the apertures of the plurality of distribution holes 214 are all equal in the direction extending from the wall where the first port 215 is located to the wall where the second port 216 is located. That is, along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21, the apertures of the plurality of distribution holes 214 are all equal. The equal apertures of the plurality of distribution holes 214 facilitate the processing of the distribution pipe 21, thereby relatively reducing the processing cost of the distribution pipe 21. Thus, the distribution pipe 21 has the advantages of easy processing, low cost, and good distribution effect.

[0056] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the plate heat exchanger includes a first external pipe 30 and a top plate 13. The first external pipe 30 is fixedly connected to the heat exchange core 10. The cavity of the first external pipe 30 communicates with a first port 215. A cover plate 23 isolates the cavity of the first external pipe 30 from the second port 216. The cover plate 23 is located between the first heat exchange plate 11 and the top plate 13, and the first heat exchange plate 11 and the top plate 13 are fixedly connected to the cover plate 23. The plate heat exchanger also includes a bottom plate 14. Along the height direction H of the plate heat exchanger, the top plate 13 and the bottom plate 14 are located on both sides of the heat exchange core 10. The structures of the top plate 13 and the bottom plate 14 are roughly the same, and the structural strength of the top plate 13 and the bottom plate 14 is greater than that of the first heat exchange plate 11. The top plate 13 and the bottom plate 14 effectively protect the heat exchange core 10, reducing the possibility of structural deformation and damage to the heat exchange core 10, thereby improving the structural stability of the plate heat exchanger.

[0057] Each second interplate flow channel 106 corresponds to a first distribution hole 2141 and a second distribution hole 2142, so that the heat exchange medium of the distribution tube cavity 210 can be evenly distributed from the distribution hole 214 to each second interplate flow channel 106, thereby improving the distribution uniformity of the distribution tube 21 and improving the distribution effect of the distributor 20.

[0058] The plate heat exchanger includes a first external pipe 30, a second external pipe 40, a third external pipe 50, and a fourth external pipe 60. All four external pipes are fixedly connected to the heat exchange core 10. Specifically, the plate heat exchanger includes a connecting plate 15, which is fixedly connected to the top plate 13. All four external pipes are fixedly connected to the connecting plate 15. The lumen of the first external pipe 30 communicates with the distribution lumen 210 of the distribution pipe 21; the lumen of the second external pipe 40 communicates with the second flow channel 102; the lumen of the third external pipe 50 communicates with the third flow channel 103; and the lumen of the fourth external pipe 60 communicates with the fourth flow channel 104.

[0059] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 12 to 15 As shown, in this embodiment, when the plate heat exchanger is working, the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows from the cavity of the first external pipe 30 into the distribution cavity 210 of the distribution pipe 21, and then into the turbulence channel 220 of the turbulence member 22, so that the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant is mixed evenly. The refrigerant in the turbulence channel 220 is evenly distributed to the first flow channel 101 by the multiple distribution holes 214 of the distribution pipe 21. The refrigerant flows through multiple second inter-plate flow channels 106 and into the third flow channel 103, and finally flows out of the plate heat exchanger from the cavity of the third external pipe 50. At the same time, the coolant flows from the cavity of the fourth external pipe 60 into the fourth flow channel 104, flows through multiple first inter-plate flow channels 105 and into the second flow channel 102, and finally flows out of the plate heat exchanger from the cavity of the second external pipe 40. The coolant in the first inter-plate flow channel 105 and the refrigerant in the second inter-plate flow channel 106 exchange heat.

[0060] Along the length L of the plate heat exchanger, the coolant flow direction of the first inter-plate flow channel 105 is opposite to the refrigerant flow direction of the second inter-plate flow channel 106, forming a layered convection, which is beneficial to improving the heat exchange performance of the plate heat exchanger.

[0061] It should be understood that the integral structure in this application refers to a component manufactured from a single piece of material using processes such as stamping, extrusion, and machining, without the use of brazing, gluing, or other joining processes. The methods of fixing and installing together in this application include, but are not limited to, at least one of brazing, gluing, or bracket fixing. It should be understood that in this application, the "connection" between two components can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through other components.

[0062] The technical solutions described in this application should be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, directional descriptions such as "front," "back," "left," "right," "up," and "down" are only used to describe the relationship between objects and are not substantive limitations. "Multiple" means at least two or more.

[0063] Although this specification has described the present application in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still make modifications or equivalent substitutions to the present application, and all technical solutions and improvements that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A plate heat exchanger, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger includes a heat exchange core (10), which includes a plurality of first heat exchange plates (11) and a plurality of second heat exchange plates (12). The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a height direction (H). The first heat exchange plates (11) and the second heat exchange plates (12) are alternately stacked along the height direction (H). The heat exchange core (10) has a first inter-plate flow channel (105) and a second inter-plate flow channel (106). The first inter-plate flow channel (105) is located between the first heat exchange plate (11) and an adjacent second heat exchange plate (12). The second inter-plate flow channel (106) is located between the first heat exchange plate (11) and another adjacent second heat exchange plate (12). The first inter-plate flow channel (105) and the second inter-plate flow channel (106) are isolated from each other. The first heat exchange plate (11) includes a plurality of first crest portions (111), a first sidewall portion (112), and a first trough portion (113). The first sidewall portion (112) is located between the first crest portion (111) and the first trough portion (113). The first crest portion (111) and the first trough portion (113) are both connected to the first sidewall portion (112). The first sidewall portion (112) includes a plurality of first protrusions (1121), and the plurality of first protrusions (1121) are spaced apart.

2. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first sidewall portion (112) has a plurality of first grooves (1122), the plurality of first grooves (1122) are spaced apart along the length direction of the first sidewall portion (112), and the plurality of first protrusions (1121) are spaced apart along the length direction of the first sidewall portion (112); Along the thickness direction of the first sidewall portion (112), the first protrusion (1121) is disposed opposite to the groove wall of the first groove (1122).

3. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of first protrusions (1121) include a first sub-protrusion (11211) and a second sub-protrusion (11212), wherein the volume of the first sub-protrusion (11211) is larger than the volume of the second sub-protrusion (11212), and the first sub-protrusion (11211) and the second sub-protrusion (11212) are alternately arranged; The plurality of first grooves (1122) include a first sub-groove (11221) and a second sub-groove (11222), wherein the volume of the first sub-groove (11221) is greater than the volume of the second sub-groove (11222), and the first sub-groove (11221) and the second sub-groove (11222) are alternately arranged; Along the thickness direction of the first sidewall portion (112), the first sub-protrusion (11211) is disposed opposite to the groove wall of the first sub-groove (11221), and the groove wall of the second sub-protrusion (11212) is disposed opposite to the groove wall of the second sub-groove (11222).

4. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first sidewall portion (112) includes two rows of first protrusions (1121), which are aligned or staggered.

5. The plate heat exchanger as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second heat exchange plate (12) includes a plurality of second crest portions (121), second sidewall portions (122), and second trough portions (123). The second sidewall portions (122) are located between the second crest portions (121) and the second trough portions (123). The second crest portions (121) and the second trough portions (123) are both connected to the second sidewall portions (122). A portion of the first crest portion (111) is connected to the second trough portion (123), and a portion of the first trough portion (113) is connected to the second crest portion (121). The second sidewall portion (122) includes a plurality of second protrusions (1221), which are spaced apart along the length direction of the second sidewall portion (122). The second sidewall portion (122) has a plurality of second grooves (1222), which are spaced apart along the length direction of the second sidewall portion (122). Along the thickness direction of the second sidewall portion (122), the second protrusion (1221) is disposed opposite to the groove wall of the second groove (1222).

6. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first heat exchange plate (11) has a first cavity (1101) and a second cavity (1102). The first cavity (1101) and the second cavity (1102) are located on both sides of the thickness direction of the first side wall portion (112), and the openings of the first cavity (1101) and the second cavity (1102) face opposite directions. The second heat exchange plate (12) has a third cavity (1201) and a fourth cavity (1202), the third cavity (1201) and the fourth cavity (1202) are respectively located on both sides of the thickness direction of the second side wall portion (122), and the openings of the third cavity (1201) and the fourth cavity (1202) are oriented in opposite directions; The first cavity (1101) is connected to the fourth cavity (1202), and the second cavity (1102) is connected to the third cavity (1201).

7. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The second heat exchange plate (12) includes a plurality of third crest portions (126) and third sidewall portions (127). The second trough portion (123) is located between the second sidewall portion (122) and the third sidewall portion (127). The second sidewall portion (122) and the third sidewall portion (127) are respectively connected to the second trough portion (123). The third sidewall portion (127) is located between the second trough portion (123) and the third crest portion (126). The second trough portion (123) and the third crest portion (126) are respectively connected to the third sidewall portion (127). The height of the third peak (126) is less than the height of the second peak (121); The second heat exchange plate (12) has a fifth cavity (1203), the fourth cavity (1202) and the fifth cavity (1203) are respectively located on both sides of the thickness direction of the third side wall (127), the openings of the fourth cavity (1202) and the fifth cavity (1203) are opposite, and the openings of the third cavity (1201) and the fifth cavity (1203) are the same. The second cavity (1102) is connected to the fifth cavity (1203).

8. The plate heat exchanger as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first heat exchange plate (11) includes a first top wall (114) and a first bottom wall (115), the first top wall (114) and the first bottom wall (115) being located on both sides of the thickness direction of the first heat exchange plate (11), and the second heat exchange plate (12) includes a second top wall (124) and a second bottom wall (125), the second top wall (124) and the second bottom wall (125) being located on both sides of the thickness direction of the second heat exchange plate (12); The first interplate flow channel (105) is located between the adjacent first bottom wall (115) and the second top wall (124), and the second interplate flow channel (106) is located between the adjacent second bottom wall (125) and the first top wall (114).

9. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchange core (10) has a first flow channel (101), a second flow channel (102), a third flow channel (103) and a fourth flow channel (104). The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a length direction (L). Along the length direction (L), the first flow channel (101) and the third flow channel (103) are spaced apart, and the second flow channel (102) and the fourth flow channel (104) are spaced apart. The plate heat exchanger is defined to have a width direction (W), along which the first flow channel (101) and the second flow channel (102) are spaced apart, and the third flow channel (103) and the fourth flow channel (104) are spaced apart; The second inter-plate flow channel (106) connects the first flow channel (101) and the third flow channel (103), and the first inter-plate flow channel (105) connects the second flow channel (102) and the fourth flow channel (104).

10. The plate heat exchanger as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger includes a distributor (20), the heat exchange core (10) and the distributor (20) are connected, and the distributor (20) is at least partially located in the first flow channel (101); The distributor (20) includes a distribution tube (21), the distribution tube (21) has a distribution cavity (210), the distribution cavity (210) is connected to the first flow channel (101), the distribution tube (21) is a U-shaped tube, and the distribution tube (21) is an integral structure; The distributor (20) includes a flow-dispersing element (22), which is at least partially located in the distribution cavity (210). The flow-dispersing element (22) is connected to the distribution pipe (21). The flow-dispersing element (22) has a flow-dispersing channel (220) that communicates with the distribution cavity (210). The flow-dispersing channel (220) is a spiral channel. The distribution pipe (21) has a plurality of distribution holes (214), which are spaced apart. The distribution holes (214) penetrate both sides of the wall thickness direction of the distribution pipe (21), and the distribution holes (214) connect the distribution pipe cavity (210) and the first flow channel (101).

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