Air-air heat exchanger, indirect evaporative cooling system and data center

Abstract

The utility model provides an air-air heat exchanger, an indirect evaporative cooling system and a data center, and belongs to the technical field of refrigeration. The air-air heat exchanger comprises a middle heat exchange part, a first heat exchange part and a second heat exchange part. The middle heat exchange part comprises a plurality of indoor side air ducts and a plurality of outdoor side air ducts. The first heat exchange part is provided with an indoor air return side and an outdoor air outlet side, the first heat exchange part comprises a plurality of first air pipes, the indoor air return side and an indoor side air duct, one pair of the outdoor air outlet side and the outdoor side air duct is communicated through the multiple first air pipes, and the other pair of the outdoor air outlet side and the outdoor side air duct is communicated through gaps among the multiple first air pipes. The second heat exchange part is provided with an outdoor air inlet side and an indoor air supply side, the second heat exchange part comprises a plurality of second air pipes, the outdoor air inlet side and an outdoor side air duct, one pair of the indoor air supply side and the indoor side air duct is communicated through the second air pipes, and the other pair of the indoor air supply side and the indoor side air duct is communicated through gaps among the second air pipes. In the middle heat exchange part, the flowing directions of indoor air and outdoor air are opposite, and the heat exchange efficiency is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of refrigeration technology, and in particular to an air-to-air heat exchanger, an indirect evaporative cooling system, and a data center. Background Technology

[0002] The air-to-air heat exchanger is the core component of an indirect evaporative cooling system. It comprises an indoor return air side, an indoor supply air side, an outdoor inlet air side, and an outdoor outlet air side. The indoor return air side and the indoor supply air side are connected via an indoor side duct, while the outdoor inlet air side and the outdoor outlet air side are connected via an outdoor side duct. Indoor air flows into the indoor side duct through the indoor return air side and exits through the indoor supply air side. Outdoor air flows into the outdoor side duct through the outdoor inlet air side and exits through the outdoor outlet air side. Heat exchange occurs between the indoor air flowing through the indoor side duct and the outdoor air flowing through the outdoor side duct, thereby cooling the indoor air.

[0003] In related technologies, if the indoor and outdoor air ducts are arranged in an intersecting manner, the flow directions of indoor and outdoor air will be intersected, which will result in a lower heat exchange efficiency of the air-to-air heat exchanger. Utility Model Content

[0004] This disclosure provides an air-to-air heat exchanger, an indirect evaporative cooling system, and a data center. The air-to-air heat exchanger employs a counter-current heat exchange method, resulting in high heat exchange efficiency. The technical solutions for the air-to-air heat exchanger, the indirect evaporative cooling system, and the data center are described below.

[0005] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides an air-to-air heat exchanger. The air-to-air heat exchanger includes an intermediate heat exchange section, a first heat exchange section, and a second heat exchange section. The intermediate heat exchange section is arranged between the first and second heat exchange sections, and includes multiple indoor-side air ducts and multiple outdoor-side air ducts extending in the same direction. The first heat exchange section has an indoor return air side and an outdoor outlet air side, and includes multiple spaced-apart first air ducts, an indoor return air side, and indoor-side air ducts. One pair of the outdoor outlet air side and outdoor-side air ducts are connected through the multiple first air ducts, and another pair are connected through gaps between the multiple first air ducts. The second heat exchange section has an outdoor inlet air side and an indoor supply air side, and includes multiple spaced-apart second air ducts, an outdoor inlet air side, and outdoor-side air ducts. One pair of the indoor supply air side and indoor-side air ducts are connected through the multiple second air ducts, and another pair are connected through gaps between the multiple second air ducts.

[0006] The technical solution provided in this disclosure involves indoor air flowing from the indoor return air side through multiple first air ducts or gaps between multiple first air ducts into the indoor side air duct, and the indoor air in the indoor side air duct flowing out from the indoor return air side through multiple second air ducts or gaps between multiple second air ducts. Outdoor air flows from the outdoor air intake side through multiple second air ducts or gaps between multiple second air ducts into the outdoor side air duct, and the outdoor air in the outdoor side air duct flowing out from the outdoor air outlet side through multiple first air ducts or gaps between multiple first air ducts.

[0007] In the first heat exchange section, one of the indoor air and the outdoor air flows through the first duct, while the other flows through the gaps between multiple first ducts, thus exchanging heat between the indoor and outdoor air through the duct walls. In the second heat exchange section, one of the indoor air and the outdoor air flows through the second duct, while the other flows through the gaps between multiple second ducts, thus exchanging heat between the indoor and outdoor air through the duct walls. In the intermediate heat exchange section, the indoor air flowing in the indoor side duct and the outdoor air flowing in the outdoor side duct flow in opposite directions, resulting in counter-current heat exchange and higher heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, the air-to-air heat exchanger provided in this disclosure is a tubular heat exchanger, which also contributes to its high heat exchange efficiency.

[0008] In one implementation, a first angle is formed between the indoor return air side and the outdoor air supply side, with the opening of the first angle facing the central heat exchange section. A second angle is formed between the outdoor air intake side and the indoor air supply side, with the opening of the second angle facing the central heat exchange section.

[0009] In one implementation, the indoor return air side and the outdoor air inlet side are arranged opposite each other in the extension direction of the indoor and outdoor air ducts, and the outdoor air outlet side and the indoor air supply side are arranged opposite each other.

[0010] In one implementation, one end of the first duct is connected to the indoor air duct, and the other end extends towards the indoor return air side. Multiple first ducts are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air outlet side, and the length of each row of first ducts gradually decreases. Alternatively, one end of the first duct is connected to the outdoor air duct, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air outlet side. Multiple first ducts are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor return air side, and the length of each row of first ducts gradually decreases. In this way, the indoor return air side and the outdoor air outlet side are arranged at an angle.

[0011] In one implementation, one end of the second duct is connected to the outdoor air duct, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air intake side. Multiple second ducts are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor air supply side, with the length of each row of second ducts gradually decreasing. Alternatively, one end of the second duct is connected to the indoor air duct, and the other end extends towards the indoor air supply side. Multiple second ducts are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air intake side, with the length of each row of second ducts gradually decreasing. This arrangement creates an angle between the indoor return air side and the outdoor air supply side.

[0012] In one implementation, a first duct connects the indoor air duct and the indoor return air duct. Coolant (such as cooling water) sprayed from the sprinkler system first sprays onto the outer wall of the first duct, then flows downwards along the outer wall. The coolant then flows into the outdoor air duct and evaporates, absorbing heat to cool the outdoor air in the outdoor air duct. Furthermore, the coolant, while flowing along the outer wall of the first duct, also cools the indoor air inside the first duct.

[0013] In one implementation, the first heat exchange section further includes a first end plate located on one side of the indoor return air side and the outdoor air outlet side, connecting to the first air duct. The first end plate includes multiple first openings, and multiple first air ducts respectively connect to or pass through the multiple first openings, with the first end plate sealing the gap between the ends of the multiple first air ducts. In this way, the indoor air on the indoor return air side and the outdoor air on the outdoor air outlet side are separated, preventing outdoor air from contaminating the indoor air.

[0014] In one implementation, the second heat exchange section further includes a second end plate located on the side connecting the second air duct between the outdoor air inlet side and the indoor air supply side. The second end plate includes multiple second openings, through which multiple second air ducts respectively connect or pass, and the second end plate seals the gap between the ends of the multiple second air ducts. In this way, the outdoor air on the outdoor air inlet side and the indoor air on the indoor air supply side are separated, preventing outdoor air from contaminating the indoor air.

[0015] In one implementation, indoor and outdoor air ducts are arranged alternately along a first direction and a second direction. The first, second, and third directions are mutually perpendicular, with the third direction being the extension direction of both the indoor and outdoor air ducts. Thus, except for the indoor and outdoor air ducts located at the edges, each indoor air duct is surrounded by outdoor air ducts, and each outdoor air duct is surrounded by indoor air ducts. Furthermore, the airflow directions of the indoor and outdoor air ducts are opposite, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency between the indoor and outdoor air in the central heat exchange section.

[0016] In one implementation, the indoor return air side and the outdoor air outlet side are arranged along a first direction, as are the outdoor air inlet side and the indoor supply air side. The first heat exchange section also includes two first side plates, and along a second direction, a plurality of first air ducts are arranged between the two first side plates. The first side plates are used to seal the gaps between the plurality of first air ducts, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The second heat exchange section also includes two second side plates, and along the second direction, a plurality of second air ducts are arranged between the two second side plates. The second side plates are used to seal the gaps between the plurality of second air ducts. This isolates the indoor air from the outdoor air.

[0017] In one implementation, each indoor air duct, except for those located at the periphery, is surrounded by multiple outdoor air ducts, and each outdoor air duct, except for those located at the periphery, is surrounded by multiple indoor air ducts. This improves the heat exchange efficiency between indoor and outdoor air.

[0018] Secondly, this disclosure provides an indirect evaporative cooling system. The indirect evaporative cooling system includes a housing and an air-to-air heat exchanger as described in any of the first aspects, the air-to-air heat exchanger being located inside the housing. The housing may be a container.

[0019] In one implementation, the indirect evaporative cooling system further includes a compressor refrigeration system, which includes an evaporator located on the indoor air supply side of the air-to-air heat exchanger. In this way, the air output from the indoor air supply side of the air-to-air heat exchanger first flows through the evaporator and is cooled by it before being delivered to the computer room, further reducing the temperature of the cold air delivered to the computer room.

[0020] In one implementation, a first heat exchange section is located above an intermediate heat exchange section, and a second heat exchange section is located below an intermediate heat exchange section. A first duct connects the indoor side air duct and the indoor return air side. The indirect evaporative cooling system also includes a spray device for spraying liquid onto the first duct. Thus, the coolant (such as cooling water) sprayed by the spray device first sprays onto the outer wall of the first duct, and then flows downwards along the outer wall of the first duct. Afterwards, the coolant flows into the outdoor side air duct and evaporates, absorbing heat to cool the outdoor air in the outdoor side air duct. Furthermore, as the coolant flows along the outer wall of the first duct, it can also cool the indoor air inside the first duct.

[0021] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a data center. The data center includes a server room, servers, and an indirect evaporative cooling system as described in any of the second aspects. The indoor return air side of the indirect evaporative cooling system is connected to the hot air duct of the server room, and the indoor supply air side of the indirect evaporative cooling system is connected to the cold air duct of the server room. The outdoor intake air side and outdoor exhaust air side of the indirect evaporative cooling system are connected to the outside of the server room. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a data center in related technologies;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a data center provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of an air-to-air heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of a hidden end plate and side plate of an air-to-air heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of an air-to-air heat exchanger with concealed end plates and side plates, provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of an air-to-air heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first type of air-to-air heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the second type of air-to-air heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the third type of air-to-air heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth type of air-to-air heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an end plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the first arrangement of indoor and outdoor air ducts provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0034] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the second arrangement of indoor and outdoor air ducts provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0035] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the third arrangement of indoor and outdoor air ducts provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of an indirect evaporative cooling system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a spray device and an air-to-air heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another indirect evaporative cooling system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0039] Legend

[0040] 1000, Computer room; 1001, Cold air duct; 1002, Hot air duct; 2000, Server; 3000, Indirect evaporative cooling system; 100, Shell; 200, Air-to-air heat exchanger; 210, Indoor return air side; 220, Indoor supply air side; 230, Outdoor air inlet side; 240, Outdoor air outlet side; 300, Compressor; 400, Evaporator; 500, Condenser; 600, Spray device; 700, Supply fan; 800, Exhaust fan;

[0041] 1. Intermediate heat exchange section; 11. Indoor side air duct; 12. Outdoor side air duct;

[0042] 2. First heat exchange section; 20. First gap; 21. First air duct; 22. First end plate; 221. First opening; 23. First side plate;

[0043] 3. Second heat exchange section; 30. Second gap; 31. Second air duct; 32. Second end plate; 321. Second opening; 33. Second side plate.

[0044] X, first direction; Y, second direction; Z, third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Data centers typically dissipate heat through indirect evaporative cooling systems (IEC). Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a data center is shown, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the data center includes a server room 1000, servers 2000, and an indirect evaporative cooling system 3000. Servers 2000 are located in server room 1000 and generate a large amount of heat during operation. The indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 supplies cool air to the cool air duct 1001 of server room 1000. The cool air is heated by passing through servers 2000 and flows into hot air duct 1002. Then, the hot air flows from hot air duct 1002 into the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000. The indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 cools the hot air before supplying it back into the cool air duct 1001 of server room 1000.

[0046] like Figure 1As shown, in the related technology, the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 includes a shell 100 and an air-to-air heat exchanger 200, which is located inside the shell 100. The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 includes an indoor return air side 210, an indoor supply air side 220, an outdoor intake air side 230, and an outdoor exhaust air side 240, which are separated from each other. The indoor return air side 210 is connected to the hot air duct 1002 of the machine room 1000, and the indoor supply air side 220 is connected to the cold air duct 1001 of the machine room 1000. The indoor return air side 210 and the indoor supply air side 220 are connected through an indoor side air duct (not shown in the figure). The outdoor intake air side 230 and the outdoor exhaust air side 240 are connected through an outdoor side air duct (not shown in the figure).

[0047] The heat exchange principle of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is as follows: hot air (solid arrow) output from the hot air duct 1002 flows into the indoor side air duct through the indoor return air side 210, while cold air (dashed arrow) flows into the outdoor side air duct through the outdoor air inlet side 230. The hot air in the indoor side air duct and the hot air in the outdoor side air duct exchange heat, thus cooling the hot air in the indoor side air duct into cold air, which is then input into the cold air duct 1001 of the machine room 1000 through the indoor supply air side 220.

[0048] The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is a core component of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000, and its heat exchange efficiency greatly affects the cooling efficiency of the system. Figure 1 As can be seen, indoor air (solid arrow) and outdoor air (dashed arrow) exchange heat in a cross-flow manner. Furthermore, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is a plate heat exchanger, which suffers from the technical problem of low heat exchange efficiency.

[0049] Based on the flow direction of indoor and outdoor air, the heat exchanger 200 can be categorized into cross-flow heat exchange, co-flow heat exchange, and counter-flow heat exchange. Cross-flow heat exchange refers to a heat exchange method where the flow direction of the hotter fluid (e.g., indoor air) is perpendicular to that of the colder fluid (e.g., outdoor air). Figure 1 (As shown). Co-current heat transfer refers to a heat transfer method where the hotter fluid with a higher temperature flows in the same direction as the colder fluid with a lower temperature. Counter-current heat transfer refers to a heat transfer method where the hotter fluid with a higher temperature flows in the opposite direction to the colder fluid with a lower temperature. Counter-current heat transfer is more efficient than cross-flow heat transfer, and cross-flow heat transfer is more efficient than co-current heat transfer. Furthermore, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 can be further classified into plate heat exchangers and tube heat exchangers. The heat transfer efficiency of plate heat exchangers is generally lower than that of tube heat exchangers.

[0050] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides an air-to-air heat exchanger 200, an indirect evaporative cooling system 3000, and a data center. Figure 2A schematic diagram of a data center provided by an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. From Figure 2 As can be seen, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 adopts a counter-current heat exchange method, resulting in high heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is a tubular heat exchanger. The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 provided in the embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in more detail.

[0051] Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 with the end plates and side plates concealed is shown. Figure 6 An exploded view of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is shown. Figure 7 yes Figures 3-6 The schematic diagram of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is shown. Figures 3-7 As shown, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 includes an intermediate heat exchange section 1, a first heat exchange section 2, and a second heat exchange section 3, with the intermediate heat exchange section 1 arranged between the first heat exchange section 2 and the second heat exchange section 3. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the intermediate heat exchange section 1 includes multiple indoor side air ducts 11 and multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, which extend in the same direction (denoted as the third direction Z). The first heat exchange section 2 has an indoor return air side 210 and an outdoor air outlet side 240. The first heat exchange section 2 includes multiple spaced-apart first air ducts 21, which connect the indoor return air side 210 and the indoor side air ducts 11, and the outdoor air outlet side 240 and the outdoor side air ducts 12, which connect through gaps (i.e., first gaps 20) between the multiple first air ducts 21. The second heat exchange section 3 has an outdoor air inlet side 230 and an indoor air supply side 220. The second heat exchange section 3 includes multiple spaced-apart second air ducts 31, which connect the indoor air supply side 220 and the indoor side air ducts 11, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the outdoor side air ducts 12, which connect through gaps (i.e., second gaps 30) between the multiple second air ducts 31.

[0052] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figures 3-5 and Figure 7 As shown, indoor air (solid arrow) flows from the indoor return air side 210 through multiple first air ducts 21 into multiple indoor side air ducts 11, and then flows out from the indoor supply air side 220 through multiple second air ducts 31. Outdoor air (dashed arrow) flows from the outdoor intake air side 230 through the second gap 30 between the multiple second air ducts 31 into multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, and then flows out from the outdoor outlet air side 240 through the first gap 20 between the multiple first air ducts 21.

[0053] In the first heat exchange section 2, the indoor air flowing through the first duct 21 and the outdoor air flowing through the first gap 20 between the multiple first ducts 21 exchange heat through the pipe wall of the first duct 21, which is a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the second heat exchange section 3, the indoor air flowing through the second duct 31 and the outdoor air flowing through the second gap 30 between the multiple second ducts 31 exchange heat through the pipe wall of the second duct 31, which is also a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the intermediate heat exchange section 1, the indoor air flowing in the indoor side duct 11 and the outdoor air flowing in the outdoor side duct 12 flow in opposite directions, which is counter-current heat exchange, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency. In addition, the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 provided in this embodiment is a tubular heat exchanger, which also contributes to its high heat exchange efficiency.

[0054] The following is an exemplary description of the arrangement of the indoor return air side 210, the outdoor air supply side 240, the outdoor air intake side 230, and the indoor supply air side 220. In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, a first angle A is formed between the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air outlet side 240, with the opening of the first angle A facing the central heat exchange section 1. A second angle B is formed between the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the indoor air supply side 220, with the opening of the second angle B facing the central heat exchange section 1.

[0055] In some examples, such as Figures 3-7 As shown, in the extension direction (i.e., the third direction Z) of the indoor air duct 11 and the outdoor air duct 12, the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air inlet side 230 are arranged opposite each other, and the outdoor air outlet side 240 and the indoor supply air side 220 are arranged opposite each other. Of course, in some other examples, the indoor return air side 210 and the indoor supply air side 220 may be arranged opposite each other in the third direction Z, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 may be arranged opposite each other.

[0056] The following is an exemplary description of the shapes of the first duct 21 and the second duct 31.

[0057] In some examples, such as Figures 4-7 As shown, one end of the first duct 21 is connected to the indoor side air duct 11, and the other end extends towards the indoor return air side 210 (i.e., the first duct 21 is an inclined duct). Multiple first ducts 21 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air outlet side 240, with the length of each row of first ducts 21 gradually decreasing. One end of the second duct 31 is connected to the indoor side air duct 11, and the other end extends towards the indoor supply air side 220 (i.e., the second duct 31 is an inclined duct). Multiple second ducts 31 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air inlet side 230, with the length of each row of second ducts 31 gradually decreasing. This arrangement results in the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 being set at an angle, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the indoor supply air side 220 being set at an angle.

[0058] In addition to the above-mentioned technical solution where the first duct 21 connects the indoor side air duct 11 and the indoor return air side 210, and the second duct 31 connects the indoor side air duct 11 and the indoor supply air side 220, the second duct 21 and the second duct 31 can also connect the outdoor side air duct 12 and other sides. An exemplary description follows.

[0059] In some examples, such as Figure 8 As shown, the indoor return air side 210 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected through gaps between multiple first air ducts 21, and the indoor supply air side 220 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected through gaps between multiple second air ducts 31. The outdoor air intake side 230 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected through second air ducts 31, and the outdoor air outlet side 240 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected through multiple first air ducts 21.

[0060] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 8 As shown, indoor air (solid arrow) flows from the indoor return air side 210 through the gaps between the multiple first air ducts 21 into the multiple indoor side air ducts 11, and then flows out from the indoor supply air side 220 through the gaps between the multiple second air ducts 31. Outdoor air (dashed arrow) flows from the outdoor intake air side 230 through the multiple second air ducts 31 into the multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, and then flows out from the outdoor outlet air side 240 through the multiple first air ducts 21.

[0061] In the first heat exchange section 2, the outdoor air flowing through the first duct 21 and the indoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple first ducts 21 exchange heat through the duct wall of the first duct 21, which is a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the second heat exchange section 3, the outdoor air flowing through the second duct 31 and the indoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple second ducts 31 exchange heat through the duct wall of the second duct 31, which is also a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the intermediate heat exchange section 1, the indoor air flowing in the indoor side duct 11 and the outdoor air flowing in the outdoor side duct 12 flow in opposite directions, which is a counter-flow heat exchange method, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency.

[0062] In some examples, such as Figure 8 As shown, one end of the first duct 21 is connected to the outdoor air duct 12, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air outlet side 240 (i.e., the first duct 21 is an inclined duct). Multiple first ducts 21 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor return air side 210, and the length of each row of first ducts 21 gradually decreases. One end of the second duct 31 is connected to the outdoor air duct 12, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air inlet side 230 (i.e., the second duct 31 is an inclined duct). Multiple second ducts 31 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor supply air side 220, and the length of each row of second ducts 31 gradually decreases. This arrangement results in the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 being set at an angle, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the indoor supply air side 220 being set at an angle.

[0063] In some examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, the indoor return air side 210 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected by a first air duct 21, and the indoor supply air side 220 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected by gaps between multiple second air ducts 31. The outdoor air intake side 230 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected by multiple second air ducts 31, and the outdoor air outlet side 240 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected by gaps between multiple first air ducts 21.

[0064] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 9 As shown, indoor air (solid arrow) flows from the indoor return air side 210 through multiple first air ducts 21 into multiple indoor side air ducts 11, and then flows out from the indoor supply air side 220 through the gaps between multiple second air ducts 31. Outdoor air (dashed arrow) flows from the outdoor intake air side 230 through multiple second air ducts 31 into multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, and then flows out from the outdoor outlet air side 240 through the gaps between multiple first air ducts 21.

[0065] In the first heat exchange section 2, the indoor air flowing within the first duct 21 and the outdoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple first ducts 21 exchange heat through the duct wall of the first duct 21, which is a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the second heat exchange section 3, the outdoor air flowing within the second duct 31 and the indoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple second ducts 31 exchange heat through the duct wall of the second duct 31, which is also a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the intermediate heat exchange section 1, the indoor air flowing within the indoor-side duct 11 and the outdoor air flowing within the outdoor-side duct 12 flow in opposite directions, which is a counter-flow heat exchange method, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency.

[0066] In some examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, one end of the first duct 21 is connected to the indoor side air duct 11, and the other end extends towards the indoor return air side 210 (i.e., the first duct 21 is an inclined duct). Multiple first ducts 21 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air outlet side 240, and the length of each row of first ducts 21 gradually decreases. One end of the second duct 31 is connected to the outdoor side air duct 12, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air inlet side 230 (i.e., the second duct 31 is an inclined duct). Multiple second ducts 31 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor air supply side 220, and the length of each row of second ducts 31 gradually decreases. This arrangement results in the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 being set at an angle, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the indoor air supply side 220 being set at an angle.

[0067] In some examples, such as Figure 10As shown, the indoor return air side 210 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected through gaps between multiple first air ducts 21, and the indoor supply air side 220 and the indoor air duct 11 are connected through multiple second air ducts 31. The outdoor air intake side 230 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected through gaps between multiple second air ducts 31, and the outdoor air outlet side 240 and the outdoor air duct 12 are connected through first air ducts 21.

[0068] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 10 As shown, indoor air (solid arrow) flows from the indoor return air side 210 through the gaps between the multiple first air ducts 21 into the multiple indoor side air ducts 11, and then flows out from the indoor supply air side 220 through the multiple second air ducts 31. Outdoor air (dashed arrow) flows from the outdoor intake air side 230 through the gaps between the multiple second air ducts 31 into the multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, and then flows out from the outdoor outlet air side 240 through the multiple first air ducts 21.

[0069] In the first heat exchange section 2, the outdoor air flowing within the first duct 21 and the indoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple first ducts 21 exchange heat through the duct wall of the first duct 21, which is a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the second heat exchange section 3, the indoor air flowing within the second duct 31 and the outdoor air flowing through the gaps between the multiple second ducts 31 exchange heat through the duct wall of the second duct 31, which is also a cross-flow heat exchange method. In the intermediate heat exchange section 1, the indoor air flowing within the indoor-side duct 11 and the outdoor air flowing within the outdoor-side duct 12 flow in opposite directions, which is a counter-flow heat exchange method, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency.

[0070] In some examples, such as Figure 10 As shown, one end of the first duct 21 is connected to the outdoor air duct 12, and the other end extends towards the outdoor air outlet side 240 (i.e., the first duct 21 is an inclined duct). Multiple first ducts 21 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the indoor return air side 210, and the length of each row of first ducts 21 gradually decreases. One end of the second duct 31 is connected to the indoor air duct 11, and the other end extends towards the indoor air supply side 220 (i.e., the second duct 31 is an inclined duct). Multiple second ducts 31 are arranged in multiple rows along the direction away from the outdoor air inlet side 230, and the length of each row of second ducts 31 gradually decreases.

[0071] To ensure that indoor and outdoor air are isolated from each other, in some examples, such as Figure 3 and Figure 11As shown, the first heat exchange section 2 also includes a first end plate 22, which is located on the indoor return air side 210. The first end plate 22 includes a plurality of first openings 221, and a plurality of first air ducts 21 are respectively connected to or pass through the plurality of first openings 221, and the first end plate 22 seals the gap between the ends of the plurality of first air ducts 21. In this way, the indoor air flowing into the indoor return air side 210 will only flow into the interior of the indoor side air duct 11 through the plurality of first air ducts 21, and will not flow into the outdoor side air duct 12 through the gap between the plurality of first air ducts 21, and the outdoor air will not flow into the indoor return air side 210 through the gap between the plurality of first air ducts 21, thus ensuring the isolation between indoor air and outdoor air.

[0072] In other examples, for the case where the first duct 21 is connected to the outdoor air outlet side 240 (e.g.) Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the first end plate 22 is located on the outdoor air outlet side 240. The first end plate 22 includes a plurality of first openings 221, and a plurality of first air ducts 21 are respectively connected to or pass through the plurality of first openings 221, and the first end plate 22 seals the gap between the ends of the plurality of first air ducts 21. In this way, the indoor air flowing into the indoor return air side 210 will only flow into the indoor air duct 11 through the gap between the plurality of first air ducts 21, and will not flow into the outdoor air outlet side 240. The outdoor air flowing out from the outdoor air outlet side 240 will also not flow into the indoor return air side 210 through the gap between the plurality of first air ducts 21, ensuring the isolation between indoor air and outdoor air.

[0073] Correspondingly, in some examples, such as Figure 11 As shown, the second heat exchange section 3 also includes a second end plate 32, which is located on the outdoor air inlet side 230 or the indoor air supply side 220. The second end plate 32 includes a plurality of second openings 321, and a plurality of second air ducts 31 are respectively connected to or pass through the plurality of second openings 321, and the second end plate 32 closes the gap between the ends of the plurality of second air ducts 31.

[0074] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first heat exchange section 2 also includes two first side plates 23. Along the second direction Y, a plurality of first air ducts 21 are arranged between the two first side plates 23, and the first side plates 23 are used to seal the gaps between the plurality of first air ducts 21. In this way, the isolation between indoor air and outdoor air is further ensured. Wherein, the second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X, and the indoor return air side 210 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 are arranged along the first direction X.

[0075] In some examples, such as Figure 3As shown, the second heat exchange section 3 also includes two second side plates 33. Along the second direction Y, a plurality of second air ducts 31 are arranged between the two second side plates 33, and the second side plates 33 are used to seal the gaps between the plurality of second air ducts 31. In this way, the isolation between indoor air and outdoor air is further ensured. Wherein, the second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X, and the outdoor air inlet side 230 and the indoor air supply side 220 are arranged along the first direction X.

[0076] In some examples, the first side plate 23 and the second side plate 33 are triangular.

[0077] The arrangement of the indoor side air duct 11 and the outdoor side air duct 12 will be described below as an example.

[0078] In some examples, such as Figure 12 As shown, along the first direction X, indoor air ducts 11 and outdoor air ducts 12 are arranged alternately. Along the second direction Y, indoor air ducts 11 and outdoor air ducts 12 are also arranged alternately, wherein the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other. Thus, except for the indoor air ducts 11 and outdoor air ducts 12 located at the edges, each indoor air duct 11 is surrounded by outdoor air ducts 12, and each outdoor air duct 12 is surrounded by indoor air ducts 11. Furthermore, the flow directions of the indoor air ducts 11 and outdoor air ducts 12 are opposite, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency between the indoor and outdoor air in the intermediate heat exchange section 1.

[0079] In some examples, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, along the second direction Y, the indoor air duct 11 and the outdoor air duct 12 are arranged alternately. Of course, in other examples, the indoor air duct 11 and the outdoor air duct 12 can also be arranged alternately along the first direction X. Wherein, because... Figure 13 and Figure 14 The indoor side air duct 11 and outdoor side air duct 12 have triangular or parabolic cross-sectional shapes. Therefore, although the indoor side air duct 11 and outdoor side air duct 12 are not staggered in both the first direction X and the second direction Y, the indoor side air duct 11 is surrounded by multiple outdoor side air ducts 12, and the outdoor side air duct 12 is surrounded by multiple indoor side air ducts 11. This improves the heat exchange efficiency between indoor and outdoor air.

[0080] It should be noted that the arrangement of the aforementioned indoor side air ducts 11 and outdoor side air ducts 12 can be summarized as follows: each indoor side air duct 11, except for the one located at the edge, is surrounded by multiple outdoor side air ducts 12. Each outdoor side air duct 12, except for the one located at the edge, is surrounded by multiple indoor side air ducts 11.

[0081] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shapes of the indoor side air duct 11 and the outdoor side air duct 12 are not limited in this embodiment. In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 12 As shown, the indoor-side air duct 11 and the outdoor-side air duct 12 have rectangular cross-sections. In this case, the first air duct 21 and the second air duct 31 are rectangular tubes. In other examples, such as Figure 13 As shown, the indoor-side air duct 11 and the outdoor-side air duct 12 have triangular cross-sectional shapes. In this case, the first air duct 21 and the second air duct 31 are triangular tubes. In other examples, such as Figure 14 As shown, the cross-sectional shapes of the indoor air duct 11 and the outdoor air duct 12 are parabolic. In this case, the first air duct 21 and the second air duct 31 are parabolic ducts.

[0082] This disclosure does not limit the processing method of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200. In some examples, the intermediate heat exchange section 1 includes a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates, each heat exchange plate including a row of air ducts, which includes an indoor side air duct 11 and an outdoor side air duct 12. In some examples, the plurality of heat exchange plates are stacked along a first direction X (e.g., Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, each heat exchange plate includes a row of air ducts arranged along the second direction Y. In other examples, multiple heat exchange plates are stacked along the second direction Y, and each heat exchange plate includes a row of air ducts arranged along the first direction X. The heat exchange plates can be made of high-polymer non-metallic materials and can be manufactured using an extrusion process. The first air duct 21 and the second air duct 31 can be manufactured using extrusion or vacuum forming processes, and the first air duct 21 and the second air duct 31 can be connected to the intermediate heat exchange section 1 by bonding or welding.

[0083] In other examples, multiple first air ducts 21 and multiple second air ducts 31 can be integrally injection molded and connected to the intermediate heat exchange section 1 by integral bonding or welding, thereby improving processing efficiency.

[0084] It should be noted that the air-to-air heat exchanger 200 provided in this embodiment can be applied in an indirect evaporative cooling system 3000, or in an outdoor power module or cooling tower.

[0085] This disclosure also provides an indirect evaporative cooling system. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 includes a housing 100 and the aforementioned air-to-air heat exchanger 200. The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is located inside the housing 100. The housing 100 can be a container.

[0086] In some examples, such as Figure 2As shown, with the third direction Z being the vertical direction, the indoor air flows from top to bottom through the air-to-air heat exchanger 200, and the outdoor air flows from bottom to top through the air-to-air heat exchanger 200.

[0087] In some examples, such as Figure 15 As shown, the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 also includes a compressor refrigeration system to enhance its cooling efficiency. The compressor refrigeration system includes a compressor 300, an evaporator 400, and a condenser 500. The evaporator 400 is located on the indoor air supply side 220 of the air-to-air heat exchanger 200. Thus, the air output from the indoor air supply side 220 is first cooled by the evaporator 400 before being delivered to the cold air duct 1001 of the machine room 1000, further reducing the temperature of the cold air within the cold air duct 1001.

[0088] In some examples, such as Figure 15 As shown, the condenser 500 is located on the outdoor air outlet side 240.

[0089] In some examples, such as Figure 15 As shown, the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 also includes a spray device 600, which sprays liquid into the outdoor air duct 12 to reduce the temperature of the outdoor air and thus reduce the temperature of the indoor air. This embodiment does not limit the method by which the spray device 600 sprays liquid into the outdoor air duct 12.

[0090] In some examples, for an air-to-air heat exchanger 200 in which the first duct 21 connects the indoor side air duct 11 and the indoor return air side 210, for example, Figure 8 (or Figure 16 )and Figure 10 The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is shown. A spray device 600 is used to spray liquid onto the first air duct 21. Thus, as... Figure 16 As shown, the coolant (such as cooling water) sprayed by the spray device 600 first sprays onto the outer wall of the first air duct 21, and then flows downward along the outer wall of the first air duct 21 (such as...). Figure 16 (As indicated by the arrow in the diagram). Then, the coolant flows into the outdoor side air duct 12 and evaporates, absorbing heat to cool the outdoor air in the outdoor side air duct 12. Furthermore, as the coolant flows along the outer wall of the first air duct 21, it also cools the indoor air inside the first air duct 21.

[0091] In other examples, for an air-to-air heat exchanger 200 in which the first duct 21 connects the outdoor air duct 12 and the outdoor air outlet 240, for example, Figure 9 and Figure 11The air-to-air heat exchanger 200 is shown. The spray device 600 is used to spray liquid into the interior of the first air duct 21. In this way, the coolant (such as cooling water) sprayed by the spray device 600 first sprays onto the inner wall of the first air duct 21, and then flows down along the inner wall of the first air duct 21 into the outdoor side air duct 12 to cool the outdoor air in the outdoor side air duct 12.

[0092] In some examples, such as Figure 17 As shown, the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 also includes a supply fan 700 and an exhaust fan 800. The supply fan 700 is located on the indoor air supply side 220 and is used to drive the air output from the indoor air supply side 220 to flow into the cold air duct 1001 of the machine room 1000. The exhaust fan 800 is located on the outdoor air outlet side 240 and is used to drive the outdoor air flow.

[0093] It should be noted that the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 provided in this embodiment can achieve three modes: dry mode, wet mode and mixed mode.

[0094] In dry mode (e.g., when the dry bulb temperature is <15℃), the compressor system and spray device 600 are not started, while the supply fan 700 and exhaust fan 800 are started, and the high-temperature indoor air and low-temperature outdoor air are indirectly exchanged by the air-to-air heat exchanger 200.

[0095] In wet mode (e.g., when the dry bulb temperature is >15℃ and the wet bulb temperature is <19℃), the compressor system does not start, but the spray device 600, the blower fan 700 and the exhaust fan 800 start. The coolant sprayed by the spray device 600 evaporates and absorbs heat in the outdoor side air duct 12, thereby reducing the temperature of the outdoor air and thus reducing the temperature of the indoor air.

[0096] In mixed mode (e.g., when the wet-bulb temperature is >19°C), the compressor system, spray device 600, supply fan 700, and exhaust fan 800 are all started, and the compressor system can perform mechanical supplemental cooling, which further improves the refrigeration efficiency of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000.

[0097] This disclosure also provides a data center. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the data center includes a server room 1000, servers 2000, and the aforementioned indirect evaporative cooling system 3000. The indoor return air side 210 of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 connects to the hot air duct 1002 of the server room 1000, and the indoor supply air side 220 of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 connects to the cold air duct 1001 of the server room 1000. The outdoor air intake side 230 and the outdoor air outlet side 240 of the indirect evaporative cooling system 3000 connect to the outside of the server room 1000.

[0098] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An air-to-air heat exchanger, characterized in that, The air-to-air heat exchanger (200) includes an intermediate heat exchange section (1), a first heat exchange section (2), and a second heat exchange section (3); The intermediate heat exchange section (1) is arranged between the first heat exchange section (2) and the second heat exchange section (3). The intermediate heat exchange section (1) includes a plurality of indoor side air ducts (11) and a plurality of outdoor side air ducts (12). The indoor side air ducts (11) and the outdoor side air ducts (12) extend in the same direction. The first heat exchange unit (2) has an indoor return air side (210) and an outdoor air outlet side (240). The first heat exchange unit (2) includes a plurality of spaced first air ducts (21). The indoor return air side (210) and the indoor side air duct (11), as well as the outdoor air outlet side (240) and the outdoor side air duct (12), are connected by a pair of the plurality of first air ducts (21) and another pair are connected by the gap between the plurality of first air ducts (21). The second heat exchange unit (3) has an outdoor air inlet side (230) and an indoor air supply side (220). The second heat exchange unit (3) includes a plurality of spaced second air ducts (31). The outdoor air inlet side (230) and the outdoor side air duct (12), as well as the indoor air supply side (220) and the indoor side air duct (11), are connected by a pair of the plurality of second air ducts (31) and another pair are connected by the gap between the plurality of second air ducts (31).

2. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first angle (A) is formed between the indoor return air side (210) and the outdoor air outlet side (240), and the opening of the first angle (A) faces the intermediate heat exchange section (1); A second angle (B) is formed between the outdoor air intake side (230) and the indoor air supply side (220), and the opening of the second angle (B) faces the intermediate heat exchange section (1).

3. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the extending directions of the indoor side air duct (11) and the outdoor side air duct (12), the indoor return air side (210) and the outdoor air inlet side (230) are arranged opposite to each other, and the outdoor air outlet side (240) and the indoor air supply side (220) are arranged opposite to each other.

4. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, One end of the first duct (21) is connected to the indoor side air duct (11), and the other end extends toward the indoor return air side (210). Along the direction away from the outdoor air outlet side (240), multiple first ducts (21) are arranged in multiple rows, and the length of each row of first ducts (21) gradually decreases; or, one end of the first duct (21) is connected to the outdoor side air duct (12), and the other end extends toward the outdoor air outlet side (240). Along the direction away from the indoor return air side (210), multiple first ducts (21) are arranged in multiple rows, and the length of each row of first ducts (21) gradually decreases; One end of the second duct (31) is connected to the outdoor side air duct (12), and the other end extends toward the outdoor air intake side (230). Along the direction away from the indoor air supply side (220), multiple second ducts (31) are arranged in multiple rows, and the length of each row of second ducts (31) gradually decreases; or, one end of the second duct (31) is connected to the indoor side air duct (11), and the other end extends toward the indoor air supply side (220). Along the direction away from the outdoor air intake side (230), multiple second ducts (31) are arranged in multiple rows, and the length of each row of second ducts (31) gradually decreases.

5. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The first air duct (21) connects the indoor side air duct (11) and the indoor return air side (210).

6. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first heat exchange section (2) further includes a first end plate (22), which is located on the side of the indoor return air side (210) and the outdoor air outlet side (240) that connects to the first air duct (21). The first end plate (22) includes a plurality of first openings (221), and the plurality of first air ducts (21) respectively connect to or pass through the plurality of first openings (221). The first end plate (22) closes the gap between the ends of the plurality of first air ducts (21). The second heat exchange section (3) further includes a second end plate (32), which is located on the side of the outdoor air inlet side (230) and the indoor air supply side (220) that connects to the second air duct (31). The second end plate (32) includes a plurality of second openings (321), and the plurality of second air ducts (31) respectively connect to or pass through the plurality of second openings (321). The second end plate (32) closes the gap between the ends of the plurality of second air ducts (31).

7. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to claim 6, characterized in that, The indoor return air side (210) and the outdoor air outlet side (240) are arranged along the first direction (X), and the outdoor air inlet side (230) and the indoor air supply side (220) are arranged along the first direction (X); The first heat exchange section (2) further includes two first side plates (23). Along the second direction (Y), a plurality of first air ducts (21) are arranged between the two first side plates (23). The first side plates (23) are used to close the gap between the plurality of first air ducts (21). The second direction (Y) is perpendicular to the first direction (X). The second heat exchange section (3) also includes two second side plates (33). Along the second direction (Y), a plurality of second air ducts (31) are arranged between the two second side plates (33). The second side plates (33) are used to close the gap between the plurality of second air ducts (31).

8. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Along the first direction (X), the indoor side air duct (11) and the outdoor side air duct (12) are arranged alternately, and along the second direction (Y), the indoor side air duct (11) and the outdoor side air duct (12) are arranged alternately, wherein the first direction (X), the second direction (Y) and the third direction (Z) are perpendicular to each other, and the third direction (Z) is the extension direction of the indoor side air duct (11) and the outdoor side air duct (12).

9. The air-to-air heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Each indoor side duct (11) except for the indoor side duct (11) located at the edge is surrounded by multiple outdoor side ducts (12), and each outdoor side duct (12) except for the outdoor side duct (12) located at the edge is surrounded by multiple indoor side ducts (11).

10. An indirect evaporative cooling system, characterized in that, The indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) includes a housing (100) and an air-to-air heat exchanger (200) as described in any one of claims 1-9, the air-to-air heat exchanger (200) being located inside the housing (100).

11. The indirect evaporative cooling system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) also includes a compressor refrigeration system, which includes an evaporator (400) located on the indoor air supply side (220) of the air-to-air heat exchanger (200).

12. The indirect evaporative cooling system according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The first heat exchange section (2) is located above the intermediate heat exchange section (1), and the second heat exchange section (3) is located below the intermediate heat exchange section (1); The first air duct (21) connects the indoor side air duct (11) and the indoor return air side (210). The indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) also includes a spray device (600) for spraying liquid onto multiple first air ducts (21).

13. A data center, characterized in that, The data center includes a computer room (1000), servers (2000), and an indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) as described in any one of claims 10-12; The indoor return air side (210) of the indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) is connected to the hot air duct (1002) of the machine room (1000), and the indoor supply air side (220) of the indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) is connected to the cold air duct (1001) of the machine room (1000). The outdoor air inlet side (230) and outdoor air outlet side (240) of the indirect evaporative cooling system (3000) are connected to the outside of the machine room (1000).

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