Flow path module, method of manufacturing the same, and air conditioning system

Abstract

This application provides a flow path module, its manufacturing method, and an air conditioning system. The flow path module includes a flow path body and a connecting pipe assembly. The flow path body is formed by stacking multiple layers of sheet metal and includes a flow cavity and an interface communicating with the flow cavity. The interface is formed on the outermost sheet metal. The connecting pipe assembly includes a connecting pipe body and a connecting pipe sleeve. One end of the connecting pipe body is welded to the interface, and the other end is welded to the connecting pipe sleeve, which is used to connect an external connecting pipe. The connecting pipe sleeve is made of copper, while the connecting pipe body and the interface are both made of steel and are connected using laser welding, argon arc welding, or furnace brazing. The connecting pipe body and the connecting pipe sleeve are connected using furnace brazing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration technology, and in particular to a flow path module, a method for manufacturing the flow path module, and an air conditioning system. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioning systems typically require a flow path module for refrigerant distribution. This module mainly consists of a fluid inlet connector, a flow path body, and a fluid outlet connector. Both the inlet and outlet connectors must connect to external connectors, allowing a portion of the fluid from the external connectors to flow through the flow path body from the inlet connector to the outlet connector, and then be distributed to another portion of the external connectors. The connections between the inlet connector, flow path body, outlet connector, and external connectors are usually made by welding.

[0003] In existing flow path modules, both the inlet and outlet pipes are made of copper, as is the outer pipe, while the main body of the flow path is typically made of steel. Due to limited installation space, the pipes are usually short. When welding the copper pipe to the copper outer pipe, heat can easily travel along the pipe to the weld between the steel flow path body and the copper pipe. Because the welding temperature between the copper pipe and the steel flow path body is relatively low, this heat can cause the weld between the original copper pipe and the steel flow path body to melt, leading to fluid leakage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this application is to provide a flow path module that is not affected by heat conduction caused by welding of the external nozzle, and the welded part between the nozzle and the flow path body will not melt.

[0005] Another objective of this application is to provide a method for manufacturing more than one flow path module.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] According to one aspect of this application, a flow path module is provided, including a flow path body and a connecting pipe assembly. The flow path body is formed by stacking multiple layers of sheet metal, and includes a flow cavity and an interface communicating with the flow cavity, the interface being formed on the outermost sheet metal. The connecting pipe assembly includes a connecting pipe body and a connecting pipe sleeve, one end of the connecting pipe body being welded to the interface, and the other end being welded to the connecting pipe sleeve, the connecting pipe sleeve being used to connect an external connecting pipe. The connecting pipe sleeve is made of copper. The connecting pipe body and the interface are both made of steel and are connected by laser welding, argon arc welding, or furnace brazing. The connecting pipe body and the connecting pipe sleeve are connected by furnace brazing.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, the multilayer plates are brazed in a furnace to form the flow path body, and the multilayer plates are all made of steel.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this application, the pipe assembly is provided with a limiting surface, which is used for insertion and limiting with the outer pipe.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the outer surface of the connector sleeve is welded to the inner surface of the connector body.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this application, the inner surface of the pipe sleeve is welded to the outer surface of the pipe body.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, there are multiple adapters, and each adapter has a corresponding connecting pipe assembly welded to it. The multiple adapters are distributed on at least two different surfaces of the flow path body.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this application, the length of the pipe assembly is 30mm-100mm.

[0014] According to another aspect of this application, this application also provides a method for manufacturing a flow path module, comprising:

[0015] The connector body and the connector sleeve are welded together to form the connector assembly;

[0016] The multiple layers of the aforementioned plates are welded together to form the main body of the flow path;

[0017] Apply pressure to press the connector assembly into the adapter of the flow path body;

[0018] The pipe assembly and the adapter are welded together to form the flow path module.

[0019] According to a third aspect of this application, this application also provides an air conditioning system including the above-mentioned flow path module, the air conditioning system including an external pipe, the external pipe being made of copper, and the pipe sleeve and the external pipe being connected by flame welding.

[0020] According to one embodiment of this application, the number of external pipes is four, and the air conditioning system further includes a shut-off valve, a storage tank, and a compressor. One of the external pipes is connected to the compressor, one of the external pipes is connected to the shut-off valve, and the other two external pipes are connected to the storage tank.

[0021] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the advantages and positive effects of the flow path module proposed in this application are as follows:

[0022] The flow path module proposed in this application,

[0023] 1. A connector assembly consisting of a connector body and a connector sleeve. The connector body and the connector sleeve can be made of different materials. Different materials have different welding temperatures, which can reduce the impact of the welding heat of the connector sleeve and the outer connector on the connection performance between the connector body and the adapter.

[0024] 2. Furthermore, the connecting sleeve is made of copper; the connecting body and the adapter are both made of steel, connected by laser welding, argon arc welding, or furnace brazing; the connecting body and the connecting sleeve are connected by furnace brazing. This ensures that the welding temperature between the connecting sleeve and the outer connecting pipe is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting body and the connecting sleeve, and the welding temperature between the connecting body and the connecting sleeve is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting body and the adapter. This welding temperature gradient prevents heat from being conducted to the connection between the connecting body and the adapter during welding of the connecting sleeve and the outer connecting pipe, thus preventing the connection from melting, avoiding leakage, and ensuring the reliability of the flow path module. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The various objectives, features, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are merely illustrative illustrations of this application and are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings, the same reference numerals always denote the same or similar parts. Wherein:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path module of this application.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The main view.

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Top view.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the main flow path structure of this application.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the takeover component of this application.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the takeover component of this application.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the takeover component of this application.

[0033] The annotations in the attached figures are explained as follows:

[0034] 1-Flow path module;

[0035] 10-Flow path main body;

[0036] 20 - Takeover components;

[0037] 21-Take over the main body;

[0038] 22- Connector sleeve;

[0039] 30-soldering sheet;

[0040] 11 - First board;

[0041] 12 - Second board;

[0042] 13 - Third board;

[0043] 100-locking structure;

[0044] 101 - Flow chamber;

[0045] 102-Adapter;

[0046] 211-Main body section;

[0047] 212-Connecting section. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that the invention will be thorough and complete, and the concept of the exemplary embodiments will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore their detailed description will be omitted.

[0049] In the following description of various exemplary embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the invention, and which illustrate by way of example different exemplary structures, systems, and steps that can implement various aspects of the invention. It should be understood that other specific embodiments of the components, structures, exemplary devices, systems, and steps may be used, and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, while the terms “above,” “between,” “within,” etc., may be used in this specification to describe various exemplary features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein for convenience only, such as the orientation according to the examples shown in the drawings. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional orientation of the structure to fall within the scope of the invention.

[0050] It is understood that the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the embodiments of this invention are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or components inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0051] Relative terms such as “down” or “bottom” and “up” or “top” may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another, as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device beyond those shown in the figures. For example, if a device in one of the figures is flipped, an element described as “down” or “bottom” of another element will be oriented “up” or “top” of that element. Thus, the exemplary term “down” can include both “down” and “up” orientations, and the term “bottom” can include both “bottom” and “top” orientations, depending on the specific orientation of the figure. Similarly, if a device in one of the figures is flipped, an element described as “down” or “bottom” of another element will be oriented “up” or “top” of that element. Thus, the exemplary term “bottom” or “below” can include both “up” and “down” orientations.

[0052] Given the specific number of measurements discussed and the associated errors (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), the terms “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” as used herein include the values ​​and the average values ​​within an acceptable range of deviation from the specific values ​​as determined by a person skilled in the art.

[0053] See Figures 1 to 3 This application provides a flow path module 1, including a flow path body 10 and a connector assembly 20. The flow path body 10 is formed by stacking multiple layers of plates. The flow path body 10 includes a flow cavity 101 and an interface 102 communicating with the flow cavity 101. The interface 102 is formed on the outermost plate. The connector assembly 20 includes a connector body 21 and a connector sleeve 22. One end of the connector body 21 is welded to the interface 102, and the other end is welded to the connector sleeve 22. The connector sleeve 22 is used to connect to an external connector.

[0054] Both the connector body 21 and the adapter 102 are made of steel and are connected by laser welding, argon arc welding, or furnace brazing. The connector body 21 and the connector sleeve 22 are connected by furnace brazing. The connector sleeve 22 is made of copper. When welding the outer connector, the outer connector is generally also made of copper, and the connector sleeve 22 and the outer connector are connected by flame welding. When the connector sleeve 22 and the outer connector are connected by flame welding, the welding temperature between the connector sleeve 22 and the outer connector is lower than the welding temperature between the connector body 21 and the connector sleeve 22, and the welding temperature between the connector body 21 and the connector sleeve 22 is lower than the welding temperature between the connector body 21 and the adapter 102.

[0055] In the flow path module 1 of this application, the flow path body 10 is connected to an external pipe via a connecting pipe assembly 20. The connecting pipe assembly 20 includes a connecting pipe body 21 and a connecting pipe sleeve 22. The connecting pipe body 21 and the connecting pipe sleeve 22 can be made of different materials, and the welding temperatures of different materials are different, thereby reducing the impact of the welding heat of the connecting pipe sleeve 22 and the external pipe on the connection performance between the connecting pipe body 21 and the adapter 102. The welding temperature between the connecting pipe sleeve 22 and the external pipe is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting pipe body 21 and the connecting pipe sleeve 22, and the welding temperature between the connecting pipe body 21 and the connecting pipe sleeve 22 is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting pipe body 21 and the adapter 102. This welding temperature gradient ensures that when the connecting pipe sleeve 22 is welded to the external pipe, due to the small installation space and the short length of the connecting pipe assembly, even if heat is conducted to the connection between the connecting pipe body 21 and the adapter 102, the connection between the connecting pipe body 21 and the adapter 102 will not melt, thus preventing fluid leakage.

[0056] In this embodiment, the multilayer plates are brazed in a furnace to form the flow path body 10. The multilayer plates are made of steel. The welding temperature between the pipe sleeve 22 and the outer pipe is lower than the welding temperature of the multilayer plates, and the welding temperature of the multilayer plates is lower than the welding temperature between the pipe body 21 and the adapter 102. This welding temperature gradient ensures that the welding connection between the pipe sleeve 22 and the outer pipe does not affect the connection strength and sealing between the multilayer plates.

[0057] The main body 10 of the flow path is made of stainless steel, the main body 21 of the connector is made of stainless steel, and the sleeve 22 of the connector can be made of copper. Since the outer connector is usually made of copper, the welding temperature when connecting the sleeve 22 to the outer connector is approximately 650℃-750℃; the welding temperature between the main body 21 and the sleeve 22 is approximately 1000℃-1070℃; since both the main body 21 and the main body 10 of the flow path are made of stainless steel, the welding temperature between the main body 21 and the main body 10 is approximately 1400℃-1500℃; when the sleeve 22 is welded to the outer connector, a welding temperature of approximately 650℃-750℃ is sufficient to complete the connection. The welding of the connector is carried out at a temperature of 650℃-750℃. Since the welding temperature between the connector body 21 and the flow path body 10 is 1400℃-1500℃, which is much higher than 650℃-750℃, even if the heat generated during the welding of the connector sleeve 22 and the outer connector is conducted to the connection between the connector body 21 and the flow path body 10, the weld joint will not melt, thus reducing the sealing performance of the flow path module 1, decreasing its reliability, and shortening its service life. The welding temperature is the temperature required for the weld joint to rise during welding.

[0058] In this embodiment, the pipe sleeve 22 is made of phosphorus-deoxidized copper or oxygen-free copper, the flow path body 10 is made of low-carbon 304 stainless steel, and the pipe body 21 is made of 304 stainless steel. In some other embodiments, the flow path body 10 and the pipe body 21 may also be made of 316 stainless steel.

[0059] The system includes multiple connecting pipe assemblies 20, which are used to connect to various components in the compressor, storage tank, outdoor heat exchanger, oil separator, various valves (four-way valve, electronic expansion valve, shut-off valve, etc.), and other piping in the refrigerant flow path. The flow path body 10 consists of a first plate 11, a second plate 12, and a third plate 13. The first plate 11 and the second plate 12 are located on the outermost side of the flow path body 10 and are equipped with multiple adapters 102. The multiple connecting pipe assemblies 20 are connected to the first plate 11 and the second plate 12 through these adapters 102. The flow cavity 101 is mainly formed by multiple stacked third plates 13, with at least two third plates. The first plate 11 and the second plate 12 enclose the flow cavity 101, and the adapters 102 communicate with the flow cavity 101. The shape of the flow cavity 101 can be adjusted according to actual needs. Fluid can flow in from at least one of the multiple connecting pipe assemblies 20, pass through the flow cavity 101 of the flow path body 10, and then flow out from the remaining connecting pipe assemblies 20.

[0060] The flow path module 1 of this application is applied to an air conditioning system, for example, installed inside the outdoor unit of an air conditioning system. The outdoor unit typically houses components forming the refrigerant circuit, such as a compressor, storage tank, outdoor heat exchanger, oil separator, and various valves, as well as electrical installation units. The flow path module 1 of this application is typically installed horizontally on the indoor unit in a multi-layered sheet metal configuration, with an overall flat structure. This optimizes the piping structure within the indoor unit, improves piping integration, reduces piping space requirements, and decreases the overall size of the outdoor unit. The air conditioning system includes external connecting pipes made of copper, connected to the connecting pipe sleeve using flame welding. In this embodiment, the number of external connecting pipes is four. The air conditioning system includes a shut-off valve, a storage tank, and a compressor. One external connecting pipe connects to the compressor, one connects to the shut-off valve, and the remaining two connect to the storage tank. The flow path module of this application, connected to the air conditioning system, allows for a more rational layout of the connecting pipes within the system, enabling the configuration of shorter connecting pipes. This simplifies the overall piping structure of the air conditioning system and improves the efficiency of refrigerant distribution.

[0061] In this embodiment, the solder includes solder pads 30, which are disposed between two adjacent plates and avoid the flow cavity 101. The solder pads 30 ensure that when they melt, the solder is evenly distributed across the entire surface of the plates, resulting in a stronger connection and better sealing performance between adjacent plates. Solder pads 30 are also disposed between multiple third plates 13. Solder pads 30 are also disposed between the first plate 11 and the third plate 13, and between the second plate 12 and the third plate 13.

[0062] In this embodiment, there are multiple adapters 102, and each adapter 102 has a corresponding connecting pipe assembly 20 welded to it. The multiple adapters 102 are distributed on at least two different surfaces of the flow path body 10. The arrangement of multiple adapters 102 allows the flow path module 1 to be used for the flow of multiple fluids.

[0063] In this embodiment, the outermost surface of the first plate 11 is connected to one pipe assembly 20 via an adapter 102, and the outermost surface of the second plate 12 is connected to multiple pipe assemblies 20 via multiple adapters 102. In other embodiments, the outermost surface of the first plate 11 may be connected to multiple pipe assemblies 20 via multiple adapters 102, and the outermost surface of the second plate 12 may be connected to one pipe assembly 20 via one adapter 102. Alternatively, the outermost surface of the first plate 11 may be connected to multiple pipe assemblies 20 via multiple adapters 102, and the outermost surface of the second plate 12 may be connected to multiple pipe assemblies 20 via multiple adapters 102. The number of pipe assemblies 20, the number of adapters 102, and their distribution can all be adaptively adjusted according to actual conditions.

[0064] In this application, locking structures 100 are provided at each of the four corners of the multilayer sheet, such as bolts or screws. Through holes are provided in the multilayer sheet at corresponding positions of the locking structures to allow the locking structures to pass through. The locking structures 100 can provide pre-tightening force before welding the multilayer sheet to press it together, thereby improving welding efficiency. The locking structures 100 can be made of materials such as 304 stainless steel or 316 stainless steel.

[0065] In this embodiment, the length of the connecting pipe assembly 20 is 30mm-100mm, and can be 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 80mm, 100mm, etc.

[0066] In this embodiment, see Figure 5 The connector body 21 includes a main body section 211 and a connecting section 212. The connecting section 212 is used for welding connection to the adapter 102 of the flow path body 10. One end of the main body section 211 is connected to the connecting section 212, and the other end is connected to the connector sleeve 22. The other end of the connector sleeve 22 is connected to the outer connector. The outer diameter of the end of the connector sleeve 22 connected to the main body section 211 of the connector body 21 is larger than the outer diameter of the end connected to the outer connector. The inner surface of the connector sleeve 22 is welded to the outer surface of the connector body 21.

[0067] The maximum outer diameter of the connecting segment 212 is smaller than the outer diameter of the main body segment 211. The connecting segment 212 can be integrally formed with the main body segment 211, or it can be formed separately and then fixed together. The outer diameter of the connecting segment 212 can be slightly smaller than or equal to the diameter of the adapter 102. During installation, pressure is required to press the connecting segment 212 into the adapter 102.

[0068] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe assembly 20 is provided with a limiting surface, which is used for limiting the insertion of the connecting pipe with the outer connecting pipe. See also Figure 5 The limiting surface is the stepped surface of the connecting sleeve 22.

[0069] The flow path module 1 of this application also has a second embodiment, in which the flow path module 1 of the second embodiment is related to... Figures 1 to 5 Compared to the flow path module 1 of the second embodiment, it has a substantially the same structure in its basic construction. Therefore, in the following description of the flow path module 1 of this second embodiment, it will not be described again. Figures 1 to 5 The structure has already been described in the implementation method. Additionally, regarding... Figures 1 to 5 The structures described in the embodiments are identical to those of the flow path module 1, and are labeled with the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the following description of this embodiment, the structures are mainly those of the same type. Figures 1 to 5 The differences between the flow path module 1 in the second embodiment and the previous embodiment will be explained. For the flow path module 1 in this second embodiment, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 6The connector body 21 includes a main body section 211 and a connecting section 212. One end of the main body section 211 is connected to the connecting section 212, and the other end is connected to the connector sleeve 22. The other end of the connector sleeve 22 is connected to the outer connector. The outer diameter of the end of the connector body 21 connected to the main body section 211 is equal to the outer diameter of the end connected to the outer connector. The inner surface of the connector sleeve 22 is welded to the outer surface of the connector body 21.

[0070] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe assembly 20 is provided with a limiting surface, which is used for limiting the insertion of the connecting pipe with the outer connecting pipe. See also Figure 6 The limiting surface is the end face of the receiver body 21.

[0071] The flow path module 1 of this application also has a third embodiment, in which the flow path module 1 of the third embodiment is related to... Figures 1 to 5 Compared to the flow path module 1 of the third embodiment, it has a substantially the same structure in its basic construction. Therefore, in the following description of the flow path module 1 of this third embodiment, it will not be described again. Figures 1 to 5 The structure has already been described in the implementation method. Additionally, regarding... Figures 1 to 5 The structures described in the embodiments are identical to those of the flow path module 1, and are labeled with the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the following description of this embodiment, the structures are mainly those of the same type. Figures 1 to 5 The differences between the flow path module 1 in the third embodiment will be explained. For the flow path module 1 in this third embodiment, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 The connector body 21 includes a main body section 211 and a connecting section 212. One end of the main body section 211 is connected to the connecting section 212, and the other end is connected to the connector sleeve 22. The other end of the connector sleeve 22 is connected to the outer connector. The outer diameter of the end connected to the main body section 211 of the connector body 21 is smaller than the outer diameter of the end connected to the outer connector. The inner surface of the connector sleeve 22 is welded to the outer surface of the connector body 21.

[0072] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe assembly 20 is provided with a limiting surface, which is used for limiting the insertion of the connecting pipe with the outer connecting pipe. See also Figure 7 The limiting surface is the stepped surface of the connecting sleeve 22.

[0073] The flow path module 1 of this application also has a fourth embodiment, in which the flow path module 1 of the fourth embodiment is related to... Figures 1 to 5 Compared to the flow path module 1 of the previous embodiment, it has a substantially similar structure in its basic construction. Therefore, in the following description of the flow path module 1 of this fourth embodiment, it will not be described again. Figures 1 to 5 The structure has already been described in the implementation method. Additionally, regarding... Figures 1 to 5 The structures described in the embodiments are identical to those of the flow path module 1, and are labeled with the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the following description of this embodiment, the structures are mainly those of the same type. Figures 1 to 5The differences between the flow path module 1 in this fourth embodiment and the previous one will be explained. In this fourth embodiment, the connecting sleeve 22 is provided with a limiting structure for installation limiting. The limiting structure can be provided between the connecting body 21 and the connecting sleeve 22, or between the connecting sleeve 22 and the outer connecting pipe. The limiting structure can be a protrusion, a recess, or other similar structure.

[0074] The flow path module 1 of this application also has a fifth embodiment, which is related to the flow path module 1 of the fifth embodiment. Figures 1 to 5 Compared to the flow path module 1 of the previous embodiment, it has a substantially similar structure in its basic construction. Therefore, in the following description of the flow path module 1 of this fifth embodiment, it will not be described again. Figures 1 to 5 The structure has already been described in the implementation method. Additionally, regarding... Figures 1 to 5 The structures described in the embodiments are identical to those of the flow path module 1, and are labeled with the same reference numerals. Therefore, in the following description of this embodiment, the structures are mainly those of the same type. Figures 1 to 5 The differences between the flow path module 1 in the implementation method will be explained. Specifically, in this... Figures 1 to 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface of the connector sleeve 22 is welded to the outer surface of the connector body 21. In the fifth embodiment, the flow path module 1 is primarily formed by welding the outer surface of the connector sleeve 22 to the inner surface of the connector body 21.

[0075] In fact, for the second, third, and fourth embodiments, the outer surface of the connecting sleeve 22 can be welded to the inner surface of the connecting body 21, forming the sixth, seventh, and eighth embodiments respectively. Since the differences are quite obvious, they will not be elaborated further here.

[0076] The foregoing is a detailed description of several exemplary embodiments of the flow path module 1 proposed in this application. In addition, this application also provides a method for manufacturing the flow path module 1, including: welding a connector body 21 and a connector sleeve 22 to form a connector assembly 20; welding multiple layers of plates together to form a flow path body 10; applying pressure to press the connector assembly 20 into the adapter 102 of the flow path body 10; and welding the connector assembly 20 and the adapter 102 together to form the flow path module 1.

[0077] In this embodiment, a locking structure 100, such as a bolt or screw, is provided at the bend of the multilayer board. Through holes are provided in the multilayer board at positions corresponding to the locking structures to allow the locking structures to pass through. During the manufacturing of the flow path module 1, the locking structure 100 can provide preload force to press the multilayer boards together before welding, thereby improving the welding efficiency of the multilayer boards.

[0078] In this embodiment, the multi-layer plates are connected by furnace brazing, the pipe body 21 and the pipe sleeve 22 are connected by furnace brazing, and the pipe body 21 and the adapter 102 are connected by laser welding or argon arc welding. The main body 10 of the flow path is made of stainless steel, the main body 21 of the connector is made of stainless steel, and the sleeve 22 of the connector is made of copper. The welding temperature when the sleeve 22 is connected to the outer connector is approximately 650℃-750℃; the welding temperature between the main body 21 and the sleeve 22 is approximately 1000℃-1070℃; and the welding temperature between the main body 21 and the main body 10 of the flow path is approximately 1400℃-1500℃. The welding temperature of 650℃-750℃ between the sleeve 22 and the outer connector is significantly lower than the welding temperature of 1400℃-1500℃ between the main body 21 and the main body 10 of the flow path. Therefore, even if the heat generated during the welding of the sleeve 22 and the outer connector is conducted to the connection between the main body 21 and the main body 10 of the flow path, the weld between the main body 21 and the main body 10 of the flow path will not melt. The selection of the above materials can improve the sealing and reliability of the flow path module 1, increase the service life of the flow path module 1, and shield the performance of the flow path module 1 from the influence of user operation. It is easy to install and has high safety.

[0079] The above describes the manufacturing method of the flow path module 1 of this application. The following will describe in detail the usage process of the flow path module proposed in this application.

[0080] Users can weld the pipe sleeve 22 of the pipe assembly 20 of the flow path module 1 to the external pipe of the external device that provides or receives fluid, according to actual needs. The welding temperature is usually low, 650℃-750℃, so that the weld between the pipe body 21 and the flow path body 10 will not melt, thus avoiding the impact of user operation on the performance of the flow path module 1.

[0081] After welding the flow path module 1 and the external pipe together, the fluid inflow device can be started. The fluid can flow from a part of the pipe assembly 20 (or one) of the flow path module 1 through the adapter 102 into the flow cavity 101 of the flow path module 1, and then through other adapters 102 into other pipe assemblies 20, thereby flowing to the fluid receiving device.

[0082] In summary, the flow path module proposed in this application includes a flow path body and a connecting pipe assembly. The flow path body is formed by stacking multiple layers of sheet metal and includes a flow cavity and an adapter communicating with the flow cavity. The adapter is formed on the outermost sheet metal. The connecting pipe assembly includes a connecting pipe body and a connecting pipe sleeve. One end of the connecting pipe body is welded to the adapter, and the other end is welded to the connecting pipe sleeve, which is used to connect to an external connecting pipe. The connecting pipe assembly, composed of the connecting pipe body and the connecting pipe sleeve, can use different materials for the connecting pipe body and the connecting pipe sleeve. Different materials have different welding temperatures, thereby reducing the impact of the welding heat of the connecting pipe sleeve and the external connecting pipe on the connection performance between the connecting pipe body and the adapter.

[0083] The connecting sleeve is made of copper; the connecting body and the adapter are both made of steel, connected by laser welding, argon arc welding, or furnace brazing; the connecting body and the connecting sleeve are connected by furnace brazing. This ensures that the welding temperature between the connecting sleeve and the outer connecting pipe is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting body and the connecting sleeve, and the welding temperature between the connecting body and the connecting sleeve is lower than the welding temperature between the connecting body and the adapter. This welding temperature gradient prevents heat from being conducted to the connection between the connecting body and the adapter during welding, thus avoiding melting at the connection point and preventing leakage, ensuring the reliability of the flow path module.

[0084] This application also proposes a method for manufacturing a flow path module, comprising: welding a connector body and a connector sleeve to form a connector assembly; welding multiple layers of plates together to form a flow path body; applying pressure to press the connector assembly into the adapter of the flow path body; and welding the connector assembly and the adapter together to form a flow path module.

[0085] The air conditioning system proposed in this application includes an external pipe and a flow path module, wherein the external pipe is made of copper and the pipe sleeve and the external pipe are connected by flame welding.

[0086] It is understood that the various embodiments / implementations provided by the present invention can be combined with each other without causing contradictions, and will not be described one by one here.

[0087] In the above exemplary embodiments, the flow path module proposed in this invention is illustrated using an application to a refrigeration system as an example. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, additions, substitutions, deletions, or other changes may be made to the specific embodiments to apply the relevant designs of this invention to other types of devices, and these changes are still within the scope of the principles of the flow path module proposed in this invention.

[0088] It should be noted that the flow path modules shown in the accompanying drawings and described in this specification are merely a few examples among many flow path modules capable of employing the principles of the present invention. It should be clearly understood that the principles of the present invention are by no means limited to any detail or component of the flow path modules shown in the accompanying drawings or described in this specification.

[0089] In the embodiments of the invention, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0090] In the description of the embodiments of the invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or unit referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the invention.

[0091] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. When describing elements / components / etc. described and / or illustrated herein, the terms "a," "an," and "the above" are used to indicate the presence of one or more elements / components / etc. In this specification, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0092] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the invention should be included within the protection scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A flow path module, characterized in that, include: The flow path body is formed by stacking multiple layers of plates. The flow path body includes a flow cavity and a transition interface communicating with the flow cavity. The transition interface is formed on the outermost plate. The connector assembly includes a connector body and a connector sleeve. One end of the connector body is welded to the adapter, and the other end is welded to the connector sleeve. The connector sleeve is made of copper and is used to connect to an external connector. Both the connector body and the adapter are made of steel and are connected by laser welding, argon arc welding or furnace brazing. The main body of the connector and the sleeve of the connector are connected by furnace brazing.

2. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-layered plates are brazed in a furnace to form the main body of the flow path, and all the multi-layered plates are made of steel.

3. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The connector assembly is provided with a limiting surface, which is used for insertion and limiting with the external connector.

4. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the connector sleeve is welded to the inner surface of the connector body.

5. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner surface of the connector sleeve is welded to the outer surface of the connector body.

6. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, There are multiple adapters, and each adapter has a corresponding connecting pipe assembly welded to it. The multiple adapters are distributed on at least two different surfaces of the flow path body.

7. The flow path module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The length of the connecting pipe assembly is 30mm-100mm.

8. A method for manufacturing a flow path module as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: The connector body and the connector sleeve are welded together to form the connector assembly; The multiple layers of the aforementioned plates are welded together to form the main body of the flow path; Apply pressure to press the connector assembly into the adapter of the flow path body; The pipe assembly and the adapter are welded together to form the flow path module.

9. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, The air conditioning system includes the flow path module as described in any one of claims 1-7, wherein the air conditioning system includes an external pipe, the external pipe is made of copper, and the pipe sleeve and the external pipe are connected by flame welding.

10. The air conditioning system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The number of external pipes is four. The air conditioning system also includes a shut-off valve, a storage tank, and a compressor. One of the external pipes is connected to the compressor, one external pipe is connected to the shut-off valve, and the other two external pipes are connected to the storage tank.

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