Heat exchanger core for a printed circuit heat exchanger and printed circuit heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger core (10) for a printed circuit heat exchanger (1) comprising first heat exchanger plates (100) and second heat exchanger plates (200) alternately stacked to each other. Each first heat exchanger plate (100) and second heat exchanger plate (200) comprises a pair of first port holes (150) and a pair of second port holes (160). One or more of the first heat exchanger plates (100) and / or one or more of the second heat exchanger plates (200) comprises one or more heat shield grooves (500) provided adjacent to and extending along at least a portion of a periphery of an associated first port hole (150) and / or adjacent to and extending along at least a portion of a periphery of an associated second port hole (160). A printed heat circuit heat exchanger (1) comprising the heat exchanger core (10) is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heat exchangers. More specifically, it relates to a heat exchanger core for a printed circuit heat exchanger, and to a printed circuit heat exchanger comprising this heat exchanger core.

[0002] The heat exchanger core has a first heat exchanger plate and a second heat exchanger plate that are alternately stacked on and connected to each other along a stacking direction. Each first heat exchanger plate has a first heat exchange region having a passage for a first medium; and each second heat exchanger plate has a heat exchange region having a passage for a second medium. Background Technology

[0003] Plate heat exchangers are used in a variety of applications where heat is transferred from one fluid to another or vice versa. A typical plate heat exchanger consists of a plate assembly or core formed by stacked heat exchanger plates.

[0004] One type of plate heat exchanger is the so-called printed circuit heat exchanger (PCHE). A PCHE generally has a core of many first heat exchanger plates and many second heat exchanger plates. The heat exchanger plates are typically stacked in an interleaved manner and connected to each other. Each first heat exchanger plate generally has a heat exchange region comprising passages formed by grooves etched into the material of the heat exchanger plate. Correspondingly, each second heat exchanger plate generally has a heat exchange region comprising numerous passages formed by grooves etched into the material of the heat exchanger plate.

[0005] The first and second heat exchanger plates of a PCHE are typically joined together via a diffusion bonding process. This creates a strong bond between the respective heat exchanger plates. When the heat exchanger plates are diffusely bonded together, a solid heat exchanger core with customized pathways is formed. Due to the strong bond between the heat exchanger plates, PCHEs are generally suitable for high-pressure applications where the heat exchanger core is subjected to high operating pressures that could damage conventional plate heat exchangers, where the heat exchanger plates are patterned or molded by pressing or stamping.

[0006] PCHEs are commonly used in hydrogen refueling stations due to their robust and pressure-resistant properties. Despite their excellent high-pressure resistance, material fatigue-related issues can significantly limit their lifespan. For example, when used in hydrogen refueling stations, PCHEs are subjected to large, cyclic temperature changes while simultaneously operating under high pressure. This combination of large cyclic temperature changes and high pressure can lead to premature material fatigue, resulting in material failure. Material fatigue typically occurs in locations with large temperature differences, such as areas where cold or hot media enter the PCHE.

[0007] PCHEs have been designed to reduce thermally induced material stress. To this end, it has been proposed to provide vertically extending slots, either fully or partially, through the heat exchanger core at areas of greatest thermal difference. While this approach can locally reduce thermally induced material stress, it typically complicates the overall design of the heat exchanger core and degrades its performance.

[0008] For natural reasons, the presence of gaps in heat exchanger plates limits design freedom and the expansion of the heat exchange area. This limitation can be even greater when the heat exchanger core involved includes port holes for supplying the medium to the corresponding heat exchange areas. In effect, port holes and gaps compete with the heat exchange areas for valuable available space on the heat exchanger plate. This means that the presence of such gaps will inevitably reduce the performance of the heat exchanger core, as they will occupy areas that would otherwise be available for heat exchange. Therefore, introducing gaps into the heat exchanger plate may require the plate to be made larger, or otherwise, its heat exchange performance may be reduced.

[0009] Furthermore, the introduction of such gaps typically complicates the manufacturing of the heat exchanger plates, and thus the heat exchanger core, potentially requiring additional manufacturing steps. Consequently, the heat exchanger plates become more expensive.

[0010] Therefore, there is room for improvement when it comes to reducing thermal stress in PCHEs, and especially thermal stress in the core of PCHEs. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved heat exchange core for a printed circuit heat exchanger, and a printed circuit heat exchanger including the heat exchange core.

[0012] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which can handle large cyclic temperature variations and reduce the risk of cracking or other failures.

[0013] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers that is not prone to cracking.

[0014] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which can handle large temperature differences between the media used in the heat exchange process.

[0015] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which has an extended lifespan.

[0016] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which improves overall performance.

[0017] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which allows for greater design freedom in the heat exchanger area.

[0018] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which is easier to manufacture.

[0019] Another objective is to provide this heat exchange core for printed circuit heat exchangers, which is more cost-effective.

[0020] To achieve at least one of the above objectives and others as will become clear from the following description, according to the present invention, a heat exchanger core having the features defined in claim 1 is provided. Claim 15 provides a printed circuit heat exchanger comprising a heat exchanger core for a printed circuit heat exchanger.

[0021] More specifically, according to a first aspect, a heat exchanger core for a printed circuit type heat exchanger is provided, comprising: a first heat exchanger plate and a second heat exchanger plate alternately stacked on and connected to each other in a stacking direction, wherein each first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate includes a pair of first port holes and a pair of second port holes, wherein each first heat exchanger plate includes a first heat exchange region including a first groove forming a first passage for a first medium extending between the first port holes of the first heat exchanger plate, wherein each second heat exchanger plate includes a second heat exchange region including a second groove forming a second passage for a second medium extending between the second port holes of the second heat exchanger plate, wherein one or more of the first heat exchanger plates and / or one or more of the second heat exchanger plates include one or more heat shielding grooves provided to extend adjacent to and along at least a portion of the periphery of an associated first port hole, and / or adjacent to and along at least a portion of the periphery of an associated second port hole.

[0022] Therefore, an improved heat exchanger core for printed circuit heat exchangers is provided.

[0023] The heat exchanger core is designed for high pressure and large temperature differences, and is therefore suitable for use under such conditions. Furthermore, the heat exchanger core is designed to handle large, repeated temperature variations, such as those encountered in hydrogen refueling stations.

[0024] Therefore, this invention is based on the understanding that by providing one or more heat-shielding grooves in the heat exchanger plate at locations with large temperature differences during use, a less prone-to-failure heat exchanger core can be provided. This means that, in practice, the heat exchanger core can have an extended lifespan. Furthermore, the heat exchanger core can be designed with greater design freedom, potentially leading to a heat exchanger core with improved performance in heat exchange.

[0025] It should be noted that, within the context of this application, the term "heat shielding groove" may refer to any groove that is disconnected from the first and second port holes and extends partially into its associated heat exchanger plate. Thus, the heat shielding groove extends along the primary surface of the associated heat exchanger plate. The heat shielding groove is not in fluid communication with the first or second medium through which heat is exchanged during use of the heat exchanger core. Therefore, the depth of the heat shielding groove corresponds to a portion of the thickness of its associated heat exchanger plate. Therefore, the heat shielding groove does not extend through its associated heat exchanger plate. The heat shielding groove is isolated from its associated heat exchanger plate. In other words, the heat shielding groove extends along the primary surface of its associated heat exchanger plate without penetrating it. The heat shielding groove may be closed and have a vacuum therein. Air may be filled within the heat shielding groove.

[0026] Therefore, by providing heat-shielding grooves at locations with large temperature differences during use, the thermal path of the heat exchanger core can be locally extended. More specifically, since heat-conducting material is removed during the formation of the heat-shielding grooves, the thermal path can extend locally across them. Thus, by providing heat-shielding grooves at locations between relatively hot and relatively cold areas, less heat can be transferred between the hot and cold areas. Correspondingly, heat can be transferred more slowly between the hot and cold areas. In this way, large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes can be mitigated. By mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes, the thermal stress induced in the heat exchanger core can be significantly reduced.

[0027] One or more heat-shielding recesses of the heat exchanger plate are provided adjacent to and extending along at least a portion of the periphery of an associated first port hole, and / or adjacent to and extending along at least a portion of the periphery of an associated second port hole. This means that at least a portion of the heat-shielding recesses in the heat-shielding recesses of the heat exchanger plate will be provided relatively near or around the port hole. In other words, the heat-shielding recesses in the heat-shielding recesses will be associated with a port hole in the first or second port hole. In fact, each heat-shielding recess in the heat-shielding recesses of the heat exchanger plate may be associated with a port hole in the first or second port hole.

[0028] Furthermore, each of the heat shielding recesses in the heat exchanger plate will typically be provided along at least a portion of the periphery of the port hole in its vicinity. Thus, in practice, at least a portion of each of the heat shielding recesses in the heat exchanger plate will be provided relatively close to the port hole in the first and second port holes, and will extend along at least a portion of the heat shielding recess in question close to the port hole it provides.

[0029] More than one heat-shielding groove may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the port hole in the first and second port holes, and extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the port hole in the first and second port holes. This means that, in practice, different heat-shielding grooves may be provided at different distances from the same port hole. For this purpose, two or more heat-shielding grooves extend at least partially parallel at different distances from the same port hole.

[0030] One or more heat-shielding recesses may be provided as one or more of the first port holes adjacent to the heat exchanger plate, and as one or more of the second port holes adjacent to the heat exchanger plate. That is, for example, one or more heat-shielding recesses may be provided as one, two, three or four port holes adjacent to the heat exchanger plate.

[0031] It should be noted that, within the context of this application, the term "extending along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated port hole" means that the heat-shielding groove extends to a certain extent along the periphery of the port hole where it is located. The heat-shielding groove may extend at different distances from the associated port hole. This means that, in practice, the heat-shielding groove may extend along the periphery of the associated port hole without following its contour. For example, the heat-shielding groove may extend in a straight line beyond a circular port hole. However, the heat-shielding groove may follow the contour of the port hole. For example, the heat-shielding groove may partially follow the contour of the port hole. For example, the heat-shielding groove may have curved sections and straight sections.

[0032] Any number of heat-shielding grooves can be advantageously provided in the heat exchanger plates of the first and second heat exchanger plates.

[0033] In practice, one or more of the heat exchanger plates in the heat exchanger core may include one or more heat shielding grooves. In practice, one or more of the first heat exchanger plates in the heat exchanger core may include one or more heat shielding grooves. In practice, one or more of the second heat exchanger plates in the heat exchanger core may include one or more heat shielding grooves.

[0034] One or more heat-shielding recesses may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of an associated first heat exchange region and extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first heat exchange region; and / or one or more heat-shielding recesses may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of an associated second heat exchange region and extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second heat exchange region. This has the advantage of mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes in at least a portion of the first heat exchange region along the heat exchanger plate and / or in at least a portion of the second heat exchange region along the heat exchanger plate. As previously stated, by mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes, the thermal stress induced in the heat exchanger core can be significantly reduced.

[0035] One or more heat-shielding recesses may surround an associated first port hole, and / or one or more heat-shielding recesses may surround an associated second port hole. This has the advantage of mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes in the region surrounding the first port hole of the heat exchanger plate and / or in the region surrounding the second port hole of the heat exchanger plate. In this way, the heat transferred to / from the medium through the port hole to the region surrounding the port hole is reduced.

[0036] The heat shielding recess in one or more heat shielding recesses may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole and extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole, and the heat shielding recess in one or more heat shielding recesses may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole and extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole, which has the advantage of mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes in the region along at least a portion of the periphery of the first port hole of the heat exchanger plate and in the region along at least a portion of the periphery of the second port hole of the heat exchanger.

[0037] A corresponding heat shielding groove in one or more heat shielding grooves may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of each associated first port hole and extending along at least a portion of the periphery of each associated first port hole, and / or a corresponding heat shielding groove in one or more heat shielding grooves may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of each associated second port hole and extending along at least a portion of the periphery of each associated second port hole. The advantage of this is that it can mitigate large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes in the region along at least a portion of the periphery of each first port hole of the heat exchanger plate and in the region along at least a portion of the periphery of each second port hole of the heat exchanger plate.

[0038] As seen along the stacking direction, the heat shielding grooves in one or more heat shielding recesses of the first heat exchanger plate and the heat shielding grooves in one or more heat shielding recesses of the adjacent second heat exchanger plate may at least partially overlap each other. This has the advantage of further reducing heat transfer across the heat shielding grooves of adjacent heat exchanger plates compared to when the heat shielding grooves of two adjacent heat exchanger plates do not overlap, or compared to when only one of the two adjacent heat exchanger plates is provided with one or more heat shielding grooves. Therefore, by providing the heat shielding grooves of adjacent plates in an overlapping manner, heat transfer from the first portion of the heat exchanger core to the second portion of the heat exchanger core can be further reduced, because the overlapping heat shielding grooves will provide a heat shielding effect not only along the respective main surfaces of their associated heat exchanger plates but also along the stacking direction.

[0039] Each first heat exchanger plate and second heat exchanger plate may include one or more thermal shielding grooves, which have the advantage of mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes throughout the heat exchanger core.

[0040] The second port hole may have an elongated shape, and each first heat exchanger plate may include a heat shielding groove in one or more heat shielding grooves for each second port hole, the heat shielding groove extending along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole between the second port hole and the first heat exchange region. This has the advantage of mitigating large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes between the second port hole and the first heat exchange region throughout the heat exchanger core.

[0041] The first port hole of each second heat exchanger plate may have a circular, semi-circular, elliptical, semi-elliptical, oval, or rectangular shape, and each second heat exchanger plate may include a heat shielding groove for each first port hole, the heat shielding groove extending along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole between the first port hole and the second heat exchange region. The advantage of this is that it can mitigate large temperature differences and rapid temperature changes between the first port hole and the second heat exchange region throughout the heat exchanger core.

[0042] One or more heat-shielding recesses in the first heat exchanger plate can be connected to the surrounding environment by extending to the outer periphery of the first heat exchanger plate, and / or one or more heat-shielding recesses in the second heat exchanger plate can be connected to the surrounding environment by extending to the outer periphery of the second heat exchanger plate. This has the advantage of mitigating pressure variations within the heat-shielding recesses. Therefore, by allowing the heat-shielding recesses to communicate with the surrounding environment, the risk of pressure buildup in the heat-shielding recesses due to temperature increases can be reduced. In this way, material stress in the heat exchanger core can be further reduced.

[0043] The heat shielding grooves in one or more heat shielding recesses may have a depth ranging from 20% to 90%, preferably 25% to 80%, and more preferably 30% to 50% of the thickness corresponding to the associated first or second heat exchanger plate. This has the advantage of providing efficient heat shielding while maintaining the strength of the heat exchanger core. Furthermore, the one or more heat shielding grooves may be manufactured simultaneously with the manufacture of the first and / or second grooves. Therefore, additional manufacturing steps may not be required to form the one or more heat shielding grooves.

[0044] As seen along the main surface of the associated first or second heat exchanger plate, the minimum lateral distance between the heat shielding grooves in one or more heat shielding grooves may be at least 15%, preferably at least 40%, of the thickness of the associated first or second heat exchanger plate. This has the advantage of providing efficient heat shielding while maintaining the strength of the heat exchanger core.

[0045] As seen along the main surface of the associated first or second heat exchanger plate, the minimum lateral distance between the heat shielding groove in one or more heat shielding recesses and the associated first or second port hole can be at least 15%, preferably at least 40%, of the thickness of the associated first or second heat exchanger plate. This provides the advantage of efficient heat shielding while maintaining the strength of the heat exchanger core. Therefore, efficient heat shielding can be achieved while maintaining a low risk of material failure in the port hole region.

[0046] The first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate may be formed of a metallic material, and one or more heat shielding grooves may be formed by etching the metallic material.

[0047] The first and second heat exchanger plates can be made of metal.

[0048] The first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate may be formed of a metal alloy.

[0049] The first and second heat exchanger plates can be made of stainless steel.

[0050] The first and second heat exchanger plates can be formed of a nickel alloy.

[0051] The first and second heat exchanger plates may include titanium.

[0052] One or more heat shielding grooves can be formed by etching using a photoresist etching mask.

[0053] One or more thermal shielding grooves can be formed by etching a mask using negative photoresist.

[0054] One or more heat-shielding grooves may be formed while forming the first groove and / or the second groove.

[0055] The first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate can be connected by a diffusion bonding process.

[0056] The first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate can be connected by brazing.

[0057] The first heat exchanger plate and the second heat exchanger plate can be connected by welding.

[0058] According to another aspect of the invention, a printed circuit heat exchanger is provided, comprising: a heat exchanger core according to a first aspect, a first end plate provided at a first end of the heat exchanger core as seen in a stacking direction, and a second end plate provided at a second end of the heat exchanger core as seen in a stacking direction, wherein one of the first end plate and the second end plate includes a first opening in fluid communication with a first port hole, and wherein one of the first end plate and the second end plate includes a second opening in fluid communication with a second port hole.

[0059] In summary, this feature offers similar advantages to those discussed above regarding the first aspect. Therefore, to avoid excessive repetition, these advantages will not be repeated.

[0060] It should be noted that, in the context of this application, the term "end plate" refers to a plate of the heat exchanger without a heat exchanger region. Therefore, the end plate does not have grooves for the first medium and for the second medium. Furthermore, end plates are typically provided at the ends of the heat exchanger core. In fact, as seen along the stacking direction, a first end plate is typically provided at a first end of the heat exchanger core, and a second end plate is typically provided at a second opposite end of the heat exchanger core, also as seen along the stacking direction. Moreover, end plates may be formed from a series of sub-plates stacked on top of each other. Such sub-plates may be of the same type, or may have different thicknesses, or may be formed from different materials.

[0061] With the above design, the first end plate may include zero or more openings. Correspondingly, the second end plate may include zero or more openings.

[0062] A printed circuit heat exchanger may include a pair of first openings in fluid communication with a corresponding first port hole in a pair of first port holes of a heat exchanger core.

[0063] A printed circuit heat exchanger may include a pair of second openings in fluid communication with a corresponding second port hole in a pair of second port holes of the heat exchanger core.

[0064] In practice, a printed circuit heat exchanger will include a pair of first openings in fluid communication with corresponding first port holes in a pair of first port holes of the heat exchanger core, and a pair of second openings in fluid communication with corresponding second port holes in a pair of second port holes of the heat exchanger core. In this case, the first and second openings can be arbitrarily distributed between the first and second end plates. That is, zero or more of the first and second openings can be provided at the first end plate. Correspondingly, zero or more of the first and second openings can be provided at the second end plate. Therefore, four out of four openings can be provided at either the first or second end plate. Three out of four openings can be provided at either the first or second end plate, meaning one opening can be provided at the other end plate. Two out of four openings can be provided at either the first or second end plate, meaning two openings can be provided at the other end plate. Two first openings can be provided at the first end plate, and two second openings can be provided at the second end plate.

[0065] The further scope of the invention will become clear from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples indicate preferred embodiments of the invention, they are given only by way of illustration, as various variations and modifications within the scope of the invention will become clear to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0066] Therefore, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific component parts of the described device, as such devices can vary. It will also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be restrictive. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and appended claims, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more of the elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, references to “unit” or “the unit” may include several devices, etc. Furthermore, the words “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and similar wording do not exclude other elements or steps. Attached Figure Description

[0067] The above and other aspects of the inventive concept will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate variations. These drawings should not be considered limiting; rather, they are for illustration and understanding. In fact, several heat-shielding grooves are shown in the corresponding figures, but according to the inventive concept, a single heat-shielding groove at a single location on a single heat exchanger plate can be advantageously used.

[0068] As shown in the figure, for illustrative purposes, the sizes of layers and areas may be exaggerated, and are therefore provided to illustrate the overall structure of the variation. Similar reference numerals denote similar elements throughout.

[0069] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a schematic example of a heat exchanger core for a printed circuit type heat exchanger according to an embodiment.

[0070] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic plan view of the first heat exchanger plate of the heat exchanger core.

[0071] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic plan view of the second heat exchanger plate of the heat exchanger core.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic plan view of the first heat exchanger plate according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] Figure 5 This is a schematic plan view of a first heat exchanger plate according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0074] Figure 6 Typically, according to exemplary embodiments, and Figure 5 A schematic plan view of a second heat exchanger plate used in conjunction with a first heat exchanger plate.

[0075] Figure 7 This is a schematic plan view of a first heat exchanger plate according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0076] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of a schematic example of a printed circuit heat exchanger according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0077] The inventive concept will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate currently preferred variations or embodiments of the inventive concept. However, the inventive concept can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the variations set forth herein; rather, these variations are provided for completeness and to fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0078] An exemplary embodiment of the heat exchanger core 10 for a printed circuit heat exchanger 1 will now be described with reference to the figures. The printed circuit heat exchanger 1 will also be described with reference to the figures. The figures are merely schematic diagrams, and the relative dimensions of some structures and layers may be exaggerated and not drawn to scale. Rather, dimensions may be adjusted for clarity and ease of understanding. When present in the figures, the indicated axes L and S always refer to the lateral direction L of the heat exchanger core 10 and the stacking direction S of the heat exchanger core 10. The term "lateral" direction L refers to any direction parallel to the extending plane of the heat exchanger plates of the heat exchanger core 10. The term "stacking" direction S refers to a direction parallel to the normal direction of the extending plane of the heat exchanger plates of the heat exchanger core 10.

[0079] Now go to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 1 An example is illustrated for a printed circuit type heat exchanger 1 ( Figure 8 Example heat exchanger core 10 (described herein). This core 10 may also be referred to as a plate assembly. The heat exchanger core 10 described herein will be referred to as core 10.

[0080] The core 10 is formed of a plurality of heat exchanger plates 100, 200. More specifically, the core 10 is formed of a plurality of first heat exchanger plates 100 and a plurality of second heat exchanger plates 200. Figure 1 The design of the first heat exchanger plate is in Figure 2 The text shows that it will be used for... Figure 2 For reference. Correspondingly, Figure 1 The design of the second heat exchanger plate is in Figure 3 The text shows that it will be used for... Figure 3 For reference.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are alternately stacked on top of each other in the stacking direction S. Note that in... Figure 1 In the diagram, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are shown separately in order to clearly illustrate the design of the heat exchanger plates 100, 200. However, it will be understood that the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are connected to each other to form the core 10.

[0082] The first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are typically formed from metal plates or sheets. The metal plates forming the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 can be, for example, stainless steel. However, other materials, such as various other metal alloys, can also be advantageously used. The first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are typically joined to each other by a diffusion bonding process. Diffusion bonding itself is known in the art and will not be described further here. However, when the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are joined via a diffusion bonding process, in short, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are stacked on top of each other and heated in a furnace under vacuum conditions while being subjected to pressure. In this way, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are joined to each other without the use of any solder or welding materials.

[0083] However, before the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 are connected to each other, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 undergo other processing steps for forming the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200.

[0084] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, each first heat exchanger plate 100 includes a pair of first port holes 150 and a pair of second port holes 160. Correspondingly, as... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, each second heat exchanger plate 100 includes a pair of first port holes 150 and a pair of second port holes 160. Figure 1 As shown, the first port hole 150 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the first port hole 150 of the second heat exchanger plate 200 are aligned to form a pair of port hole channels 152 for the first medium. Figure 1 (as indicated in the general outline). Correspondingly, the second port hole 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second port hole 160 of the second heat exchanger plate 200 are aligned to form a pair of port hole channels 162 for the second medium. Figure 1 (The Chinese government pointed out that...)

[0085] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, each first heat exchanger plate 100 includes a first heat exchange region A1. The depicted first heat exchange region A1 of each first heat exchanger plate 100 includes a plurality of first recesses 102. Each first recess 102 forms a first passage 104 for a first medium, i.e., a medium associated with a first port hole channel 152. The first passage 104 extends between the first port holes 150 of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100.

[0086] Correspondingly, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, each second heat exchanger plate 200 includes a second heat exchange region A2. The depicted second heat exchange region A2 of each second heat exchanger plate 200 includes a plurality of second recesses 202. Each second recess 202 forms a second passage 204 for a second medium, i.e., a medium associated with a second port hole channel 162. The second passage 204 extends between the associated second port holes 160 of the second heat exchanger plate 200.

[0087] The depicted core 10 is designed for use in a hydrogen refueling station. For this purpose, a first heat exchanger plate 100 includes a first recess 102 for supplying liquefied hydrogen as a first medium via a first heat exchange region A1 to the space between first port holes 150. Correspondingly, a second heat exchanger plate 200 includes a second recess 202 for supplying a refrigerant (such as water) as a second medium via a second heat exchange region A2 to the space between second port holes 160. Therefore, when the first and second media are supplied via the first heat exchange region A1 and the second heat exchange region A2, heat exchange will occur between the first and second media depending on their temperatures. Typically, when the first medium is liquefied hydrogen, the liquefied hydrogen will be cooled by the second medium (water), which is supplied via heat exchange regions A1 and A2.

[0088] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first groove 102 and the second groove 202 depicted are formed via an etching process, wherein the metal of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 is etched away to form specific groove patterns, namely the first groove 102 in the case of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second groove in the case of the second heat exchanger plate 200. Metal etching itself is known in the art and will not be described further herein. However, when etching the first groove 102 and the second groove 202, an etching mask formed of photoresist is typically used. The photoresist can be a positive photoresist or a negative photoresist. Negative photoresists are generally preferred due to their relatively high resistance to etching chemicals used to etch the grooves 102, 202. When etching grooves 102 and 202, the main surfaces of the plates 100 and 200 to be etched are typically coated with photoresist. The photoresist is then exposed using the pattern of the grooves to be etched in the case of positive photoresist, or exposed using the reverse pattern of the grooves to be etched in the case of negative photoresist. The photoresist is then developed and used as an etching mask for the etching chemicals used to etch the metal at the main surfaces of the plates 100 and 200 to be etched.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 include a plurality of heat-shielding grooves 500. The depicted heat-shielding grooves 500 are similar to the first groove 102 and the second groove 202 etched into the material of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200. In other words, the heat-shielding grooves 500 are etched into the main surface of the first heat exchanger plate 100. Correspondingly, the heat-shielding grooves 500 are etched into the main surface of the second heat exchanger plate 200. Since the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 are bonded to each other by diffusion bonding under vacuum conditions, the heat-shielding grooves 500 can typically have a vacuum therein. This is true as long as the heat-shielding grooves 500 do not open to the surrounding environment. In the case where the heat-shielding grooves 500 open to the surrounding environment, the heat-shielding grooves will be filled with air for natural reasons. The design of the heat-shielding grooves can be modified. In this respect, in the following, in reference... Figures 1 to 7 In this context, the different related designs of the heat shielding recess will be described in more detail. In this case, the specific design of the heat shielding recess 500 will be referred to as 500:X, where X represents the specific design of the heat shielding recess 500. Reference number 500 still refers to all heat shielding recesses of any design depicted.

[0090] Although the design of the heat shielding recess 500 may differ, all described heat shielding recesses 500 share some common design features: the heat shielding recess 500 is provided adjacent to and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole 150, and / or adjacent to and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole 160. Furthermore, the heat shielding recesses 500 are recesses because they do not extend through the thickness of their associated heat exchanger plates 100, 200. Additionally, the heat shielding recesses 500 are disconnected from the first port hole 150 and the second port hole 160. Therefore, the first medium and the second medium will not enter the heat shielding recess 500.

[0091] When the heat shielding recess 500 is provided such that it is adjacent to and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole 150, and / or adjacent to and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole 160, the heat shielding recess 500 may advantageously be provided at a distance from the port holes 150, 160. If the heat shielding recess 500 is provided very close to the port holes 150, 160, there is a risk of material breakage between the heat shielding recess 500 and the associated port holes 150, 160. This breakage may lead to failure of the core 10 and may simultaneously destroy or significantly reduce the heat shielding effect across the heat shielding recess 500. Therefore, according to an example, as seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200, the minimum lateral distance d2 between the heat shielding groove 500 and the associated first port hole 150 or associated second port hole 160 may be at least 15% of the thickness of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200. However, as seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200, any suitable lateral distance d2 between the heat shielding groove 500 and the port holes 150, 160 may be advantageously used. For example, a minimum lateral distance d2 of approximately 40% of the thickness of the heat exchanger plate 100, 200 in which the heat shielding groove 500 is located can provide a solution with high mechanical strength and significant heat shielding effect.

[0092] Now, especially transferred to Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 2 The first heat exchanger plate 100 of the core 10 is shown. Figure 3 The second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 is shown.

[0093] The first heat exchanger plate 100 is provided with a heat shielding groove 500:1 near each of the first port holes 150. Figure 2 The heat-shielding groove 500:1 extends along a portion of its associated first port hole 150. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the first port aperture 150 has an overall rectangular shape, and a heat-shielding groove 500:1 is provided along approximately half of the periphery of the circular end portion of the first port aperture 150. In this way, the first port aperture 150 is thermally isolated from the first heat exchange region A1 to a certain extent. However, this is not... Figure 2 The main purpose of the heat shield groove 500:1 in the first heat exchanger plate 100. Figure 2 The main purpose of the heat shield groove 500:1 is to make the first port hole 150 and Figure 2The second heat exchange region A2 of the second heat exchange plate 200 adjacent to the first heat exchange plate 100 is thermally isolated.

[0094] Therefore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 is provided with more or fewer corresponding heat shielding grooves 500:2. Therefore, Figure 3 The heat-shielding recesses 500:2 are provided near each of the first port holes 150 in the second heat exchanger plate 200. In this respect, it should be noted that... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The shape of the first port hole 150 is different. Figure 3 In the second heat exchanger plate 200, the first port hole 150 is a circular hole. However, other shapes, such as semi-circular, elliptical, semi-elliptical, oval, or rectangular shapes, can also be advantageously used. Furthermore, Figure 2 500:1 heat shield groove and Figure 3 The heat shielding grooves 500:2 overlap each other along the stacking direction S. Therefore, as seen along the stacking direction S, the heat shielding groove 500:1 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the heat shielding groove 500:2 of the adjacent second heat exchanger plate 200 at least partially overlap each other. Through the overlapping heat shielding grooves 500:1 and 500:2, the thermal path across the heat shielding grooves 500:1 and 500:2 can be significantly extended because only a portion of the material that would normally conduct heat can remain at the overlapping location of the heat shielding grooves 500:1 and 500:2.

[0095] In addition, the first heat exchanger plate 100 is provided with three heat shielding recesses 500:11 near each of the second port holes 160. Figure 2 The heat-shielding groove 500:11 extends along a portion of its associated second port hole 160. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the second port hole 160 has a generally elongated shape. Two heat-shielding recesses 500:11 are provided along approximately half of the periphery of the second port hole 160, and the heat-shielding recesses 500:11 are provided near the end region of the second port hole 160. The two heat-shielding recesses 500:11, which are provided along approximately half of the periphery of the second port hole 160, are largely provided between the associated second port hole 160 and the first heat exchange region A1. In this way, the second port hole 160 is thermally isolated from the first heat exchange region A1. At the same time, in the corresponding regions where the port holes 150 and 160 are close to each other, the first port hole 150 is thermally isolated from the second port hole to a certain extent.

[0096] like Figure 3As shown, the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 is provided with a corresponding heat shielding groove 500:21. In this respect, Figure 3 The heat-shielding recesses 500:21 are provided near each of the second port holes 160 in the second heat exchanger plate 200. More specifically, Figure 3 A heat-shielding recess 500:21 is provided in a region near the end of each second port hole 160. The heat-shielding recess 500:21 furthest from the associated second port hole 160 is provided at a distance from the heat-shielding recess 500:21 provided with the heat-shielding recess 500:21. Figure 2 The associated second port hole 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 corresponds to the furthest heat shielding recess 500:11. Furthermore, Figure 3 The two heat shield recesses 500:21 provided closer to the associated second port hole 160 of the second heat exchanger plate 200 are provided closer to Figure 2 The two thermally shielded recesses 500:11 of the associated second port hole 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 correspond to each other. Therefore, Figure 2 Heat shielding groove 500:11 and Figure 3 The heat shielding grooves 500:21 at least partially overlap each other along the stacking direction S. Therefore, as seen along the stacking direction S, the heat shielding grooves 500:11 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the heat shielding grooves 500:2 of the adjacent second heat exchanger plate 200 at least partially overlap each other. Through the overlapping heat shielding grooves 500:11 and 500:21, the thermal path across the heat shielding grooves 500:11 and 500:21 can be significantly extended because only a portion of the originally heat-conducting material remains at the overlapping location of the heat shielding grooves 500:11 and 500:21.

[0097] In summary, portions of the heat-shielding grooves 500:1, 500:2, 500:11, and 500:21 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 can overlap each other at the locations where heat shielding effect is most needed, and have a significant impact on heat transfer in the areas of the heat-shielding grooves 500:1, 500:2, 500:11, and 500:21. For example, during use of the core 10, portions of the heat-shielding grooves 500:1, 500:2, 500:11, and 500:21 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 of the core 10 can overlap at locations with large temperature differences. Such areas are typically located near the port holes 150 and 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200.

[0098] In addition to customizing the design and location of the heat shielding recess 500, the thermal path across the heat shielding recess 500 can also be adapted by customizing its depth. As described above, the heat shielding recess 500 is advantageously formed by etching simultaneously with etching the first recess 102 in the case of the first heat exchanger plate 100, and simultaneously with etching the second recess 202 in the case of the first heat exchanger plate 200. The heat shielding recess is typically etched to a depth having a value in the range of 20% to 90%, preferably 25% to 80%, more preferably 30% to 50% of the thickness corresponding to the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200. Although in practice the heat shielding recess 500 can be etched simultaneously with the first recess 102 and the second recess 202, as is known in the art, the depth of the heat shielding recess 500 can be adapted by customizing the linewidth of the etching mask used to etch the first recess 102, the second recess 202, and the heat shielding recess 500.

[0099] According to the example, the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 may have a thickness in the range of 1.5 to 2.0 mm. In this case, the heat shielding groove 500 may be etched to a depth of about 0.65 mm. However, the depth of the heat shielding groove 500 may be about 1.2 mm to improve the heat shielding provided by the heat shielding groove 500. However, it will be understood that any suitable thickness of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 may be used advantageously. In addition, any suitable depth of the heat shielding groove may be used advantageously.

[0100] When two or more heat-shielding recesses 500 are provided near the port holes 150, 160, the heat-shielding recesses 500 can be as described above and as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3The heat shielding grooves extend along each other, or partially along each other, as shown. In the case where the heat shielding grooves extend at least partially along each other, the heat shielding grooves 500 can be provided at a minimum distance from each other so as to avoid the risk of breakage due to the heat shielding grooves 500 being too close together. The same is true when the heat shielding grooves 500 associated with different port holes 150, 160 are located close to each other. In this case, according to an example, as seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200, the minimum lateral distance d1 between the heat shielding grooves 500 can be at least 15% of the thickness of the heat exchanger plate 100, 200 where the heat shielding grooves 500 are located. However, any suitable lateral distance d1 between the heat shielding grooves 500 can be advantageously used, as seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate 100 or second heat exchanger plate 200. For example, a minimum lateral distance d1 of approximately 40% of the thickness of the heat exchanger plates 100 and 200 where the heat shielding groove 500 is located can provide a solution with high mechanical strength and significant heat shielding effect.

[0101] Now go to Figure 4 . Figure 4 An alternative design for the first heat exchanger plate 100 is shown. Therefore, Figure 4 Heat exchanger plate 100 can be used Figure 1 In the core 10. Figure 4 100 heat exchanger plates are replaceable Figure 1 All or some of the first heat exchanger plates 100 of the core 10.

[0102] Figure 4 The first heat exchanger plate 100 and Figure 2 The first heat exchanger plate 100 is similar. Given this similarity, only the differences between the corresponding first heat exchanger plates 100 will be described below. Figure 4 As shown, the first heat exchanger plate 100 includes a pair of heat-shielding recesses 500:12 surrounding each of the second port holes 160. Therefore, the two heat-shielding recesses 500:12 surround... Figure 4 The periphery of each of the two second port holes 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 is provided. In this way, the heat shielding effect can be achieved along... Figure 4 The entire periphery of the second port hole 160 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 is provided. The heat shield recess 500:12 can be combined with the above. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The type described.

[0103] Correspondingly, one or more heat-shielding recesses 500 may be provided in Figure 3 On the second heat exchanger plate 200, to surround the associated first port hole 150. For this purpose, the above is combined Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 One or more heat shielding recesses 500 of the type described herein may be provided such that one or more heat shielding recesses 500 surround the first port hole 150.

[0104] Now go to Figure 5 and Figure 6 . Figure 5 An alternative design for the first heat exchanger plate 100 is shown. Figure 6 An alternative design for the second heat exchanger plate 200 is shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 can be used to form with Figure 1 The core is similar to the core 10.

[0105] Figure 5 The first heat exchanger plate 100 and Figure 2 The first heat exchanger plate 100 is similar. Figure 6 The second heat exchanger plate 200 and Figure 3 The second heat exchanger plate 200 is similar. Given the similarity, only the differences between the corresponding first heat exchanger plate 100 and second heat exchanger plate 200 will be described below.

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 The first port hole 150 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 is as follows: Figure 2 The first heat exchanger plate 100 is located in a different position compared to the first heat exchanger plate 100. Therefore, for natural reasons, Figure 6 The first port hole 150 of the second heat exchanger plate 200 is also as... Figure 3 The second heat exchanger plate 200 is located in a different position compared to the previous one. As a result, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first heat exchange region A1 and the second heat exchange region A2 are as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 The design of the first heat exchange region A1 is different from that of the second heat exchange region A2.

[0107] in addition, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The heat shielding groove 500 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 The design of the heat shielding groove 500 of the first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 is different.

[0108] like Figure 5As shown, the first heat exchanger plate 100 may be provided with a plurality of heat-shielding recesses 500:13. The heat-shielding recesses 500:13 may be as described above. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The described type. The depicted heat-shielding recess 500:13 is provided adjacent to and extends along the periphery of the associated second port hole 160. Furthermore, the depicted heat-shielding recess 500:13 is at least partially provided between the first heat exchange region and the associated second port hole 160. Additionally, due to the design of the heat-shielding recess 500:13, the depicted heat-shielding recess 500:13 is provided adjacent to a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole 150 and extends along a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole 150.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the heat shielding recess 500:13 extends to the surrounding environment by reaching the outer periphery 106 of the first heat exchanger plate 100. In this way, the heat shielding recess 500:13 is in fluid communication with the surrounding environment. Therefore, air or another fluid can enter or exit the heat shielding recess 500:13 at the periphery 106 of the first heat exchanger plate 100. This effectively counteracts pressure fluctuations within the heat shielding recess 500:13.

[0110] like Figure 6 As shown, the second heat exchanger plate 200 may be provided with a plurality of heat-shielding recesses 500:23. The heat-shielding recesses 500:23 may be as described above. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The described type. The depicted heat shielding recess 500:23 is provided adjacent to and extends along the periphery of the associated first port hole 150. Furthermore, due to the design of the heat shielding recess 500:23, the depicted heat shielding recess 500:23 is provided adjacent to a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole 160 and extends along a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole 160.

[0111] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the heat shielding recess 500:23 extends to the surrounding environment via a point extending to the outer periphery 206 of the second heat exchanger plate 200. In this way, the heat shielding recess 500:23 is in fluid communication with the surrounding environment. Therefore, air or another fluid can enter or exit the heat shielding recess 500:23 at the periphery 206 of the second heat exchanger plate 200. This effectively counteracts pressure fluctuations within the heat shielding recess 500:23.

[0112] Now go to Figure 7 . Figure 7An alternative design for the first heat exchanger plate 100 is shown. Therefore, Figure 4 Heat exchanger plate 100 can be used Figure 1 In the core 10. Figure 7 100 heat exchanger plates are replaceable Figure 1 All or some of the first heat exchanger plates 100 of the core 10.

[0113] Figure 7 The first heat exchanger plate 100 and Figure 2 The first heat exchanger plate 100 is similar. Given this similarity, only the differences between the respective first heat exchanger plates 100 will be described below. Figure 7 As shown, the first heat exchanger plate 100 may include a pair of heat-shielding recesses 500:14 for each second port hole 160, wherein the heat-shielding recesses 500:14 extend to the surrounding environment by extending to the outer periphery 106 of the first heat exchanger plate 100. In this way, pressure fluctuations in the heat-shielding recesses 500:14 can be offset. The heat-shielding recesses 500:14 may be as described above. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The type described.

[0114] Correspondingly, one or more heat-shielding recesses 500 leading to the surrounding environment can be provided in Figure 3 On the second heat exchanger plate 200. Therefore, the above text, in conjunction with... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 One or more heat shielding recesses 500 of the type described herein may be provided such that one or more heat shielding recesses 500 open to the surrounding environment.

[0115] Now go to Figure 8 . Figure 8 A printed circuit heat exchanger 1 is illustrated by way of example. Figure 8 The printed heat exchanger 1 described above includes the above-described printed heat exchanger 1. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The described type of core 10. However, Figure 8 The printed heat exchanger 1 may include a core 10 of different designs. For example, Figure 8 The printed heat exchanger 1 may include a component made of Figure 5 and Figure 6The first heat exchanger plate 100 and the second heat exchanger plate 200 shown form a core. In addition to the core 10, the printed heat exchanger 1 also includes a first end plate 300 and a second end plate 400. As seen along the stacking direction S, the first end plate is provided at a first end of the heat exchanger core 10. As seen along the stacking direction S, the second end plate 400 is provided at a second end of the heat exchanger core 10. Therefore, as seen along the stacking direction S, the first end plate 300 and the second end plate 400 are provided at opposite ends of the core 10.

[0116] like Figure 8 As shown, the first end plate 300 includes a pair of first openings 170 and a pair of second openings 180. The first openings 170 are in fluid communication with corresponding port hole channels formed by the first port hole 150. Correspondingly, the second openings 180 are in fluid communication with corresponding port hole channels formed by the second port hole 160. Thus, a first medium can be supplied into the core 10 via one of the first openings 170 and extracted from the core via the other of the first openings 170. Therefore, a first medium can be supplied between the first openings 170. Correspondingly, a second medium can be supplied into the core 10 via one of the second openings 180 and extracted from the core via the other of the second openings 180. Therefore, a second medium can be supplied between the second openings 180. In this way, heat can be exchanged between the first medium and the second medium.

[0117] It will be understood that the first opening 170 and the second opening 180 need not be provided at the first end plate 300. In fact, the first opening 170 can be as follows: Figure 8 The first opening 170 is provided at the first end plate 300 or at the second end plate 400. Furthermore, one of the first openings 170 may be provided at the first end plate 300, and the other of the first openings 170 may be provided at the second end plate 400. Correspondingly, the second opening 180 may be as shown... Figure 8 The opening shown is provided at the first end plate 300 or at the second end plate 400. Furthermore, one of the second openings 180 may be provided at the first end plate 300, and the other of the second openings 180 may be provided at the second end plate 400. For example, the first opening 170 and the second opening 180 may be provided at opposite end plates 300 and 400. For example, one of the first openings 170 and 180 may be provided at the first end plate 300, while the other of the second openings 180 may be provided at the second end plate 400. For example, one of the second openings 180 and the first opening 170 may be provided at the first end plate 300, while the other of the first openings 170 may be provided at the second end plate 400.

[0118] As can be seen from the above description, although various embodiments of the present invention have been described and shown, the present invention is not limited thereto, but may be embodied in other ways.

[0119] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 may be provided in a single heat exchanger plate 100, 200 of the core 10.

[0120] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 may be provided in some of the heat exchanger plates 100, 200 of the core 10.

[0121] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 may be provided in some of the first heat exchanger plates 100 of the core 10.

[0122] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 may be provided in some of the second heat exchanger plates 100, 200 of the core 10.

[0123] For example, one or more thermal shielding recesses 500 may be provided near a single port hole 150, 160 of one or more heat exchanger plates 100, 200 of the core 10.

[0124] For example, one or more thermal shielding recesses 500 may be provided near more than one port hole 150, 160 of one or more heat exchanger plates 100, 200 of the core 10.

[0125] For example, one or more heat-shielding recesses 500 with different designs or constructions may be provided near different port holes 150, 160.

[0126] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 with different designs or constructions may be provided at different first heat exchanger plates 100 of the core 10.

[0127] For example, one or more heat shielding recesses 500 with different designs or constructions may be provided at different second heat exchanger plates 200 of the core 10.

[0128] It will be appreciated that the inventive concept is not limited to the variations and examples shown. Therefore, various modifications and variations are contemplated within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger core (10) for a printed circuit type heat exchanger (1), comprising: The first heat exchanger plate (100) and the second heat exchanger plate (200) are alternately stacked on top of each other and connected to each other along the stacking direction (S). Each of the first heat exchanger plate (100) and the second heat exchanger plate (200) includes a pair of first port holes (150) and a pair of second port holes (160). Each of the first heat exchanger plates (100) includes a first heat exchange region (A1), the first heat exchange region (A1) including a first groove (102) forming a first passage (104) for a first medium, the first passage (104) extending between first port holes (150) of the first heat exchanger plates (100). Each of the second heat exchanger plates (200) includes a second heat exchange region (A2), the second heat exchange region (A2) including a second groove (202) forming a second passage (204) for a second medium, the second passage (204) extending between the second port holes (160) of the second heat exchanger plates (200). One or more of the first heat exchanger plates (100) and / or one or more of the second heat exchanger plates (200) include one or more heat shielding recesses (500), said one or more heat shielding recesses being provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole (150) and extending along said at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole (150), and / or adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole (160) and extending along said at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole (160).

2. The heat exchanger core (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The heat shielding groove (500) in the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided to be adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first heat exchange region (A1) and extends along the at least portion of the periphery of the associated first heat exchange region (A1), and / or the heat shielding groove (500) in the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided to be adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second heat exchange region (A2) and extends along the at least portion of the periphery of the associated second heat exchange region (A2).

3. The heat exchanger core (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The heat shielding groove (500) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) surrounds the associated first port hole (150), and / or the heat shielding groove (500:12) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) surrounds the associated second port hole (160).

4. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The heat shielding groove (500:1) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole (150) and extends along the at least portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole (150), and the heat shielding groove (500:2) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole (160) and extends along the at least portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole (160).

5. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A corresponding heat shielding groove (500:1) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of each associated first port hole (150) and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of each associated first port hole (150), and / or a corresponding heat shielding groove (500:2) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is provided adjacent to at least a portion of the periphery of each associated second port hole (160) and extends along at least a portion of the periphery of each associated second port hole (160).

6. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, As seen along the stacking direction (S), the heat shielding groove (500:1) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) of the first heat exchanger plate (100) and the heat shielding groove (500:2) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) of the adjacent second heat exchanger plate (200) at least partially overlap each other.

7. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the first heat exchanger plate (100) and the second heat exchanger plate (200) includes one or more heat shielding recesses (500).

8. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second port hole (160) has an elongated shape, and each first heat exchanger plate (100) includes a heat shielding groove (500:1c) in one or more heat shielding grooves (500) for each second port hole (160), the heat shielding groove extending between the second port hole (160) and the first heat exchange region (A1) along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated second port hole (160).

9. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each second heat exchanger plate (200) has a first port hole (150) having a circular shape, a semi-circular shape, an elliptical shape, a semi-elliptical shape, an oval shape, or a rectangular shape, and wherein each second heat exchanger plate (200) includes a heat shielding groove (500:2) for each first port hole (150), the heat shielding groove extending between the first port hole (150) and the second heat exchange region (A2) along at least a portion of the periphery of the associated first port hole (150).

10. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The heat shielding recesses (500:13, 500:14) in one or more heat shielding recesses (500) of the first heat exchanger plate (100) open to the surrounding environment by extending to the outer periphery (106) of the first heat exchanger plate (100), and / or the heat shielding recesses (500:23) in one or more heat shielding recesses (500) of the second heat exchanger plate (200) open to the surrounding environment by extending to the outer periphery (206) of the second heat exchanger plate (200).

11. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The heat shielding groove (500) in the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) has a depth in the range of 20% to 90%, preferably 25% to 80%, more preferably 30% to 50% of the thickness of the associated first heat exchanger plate (100) or second heat exchanger plate (200).

12. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, As seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate (100) or second heat exchanger plate (200), the minimum lateral distance (d1) between the heat shielding grooves (500) in the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) is at least 15%, preferably at least 40%, of the thickness of the associated first heat exchanger plate (100) or second heat exchanger plate (200).

13. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, As seen along the main surface of the associated first heat exchanger plate (100) or second heat exchanger plate (200), the minimum lateral distance (d2) between the heat shielding groove (500) of the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) and the associated first port hole (150) or associated second port hole (160) is at least 15%, preferably at least 40%, of the thickness of the associated first heat exchanger plate (100) or second heat exchanger plate (200).

14. The heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first heat exchanger plate (100) and the second heat exchanger plate (200) are formed of a metal-containing material, and the one or more heat shielding grooves (500) are formed by etching the metal-containing material.

15. A printed circuit type heat exchanger (1), comprising: Heat exchanger core (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. As seen along the stacking direction (S), a first end plate (300) is provided at the first end of the heat exchanger core (10), and A second end plate (400) is provided at the second end of the heat exchanger core (10) as seen along the stacking direction (S). One end plate (300, 400) of the first end plate (300) and the second end plate (400) includes a first opening (170) in fluid communication with a first port hole (150), and One of the end plates (300, 400) of the first end plate (300) and the second end plate (400) includes a second opening (180) in fluid communication with a second port hole (160).

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