Constituting unit of air conditioning device

Abstract

To restrain corrosion of flow dividers (100a and 150a) in a constituting unit of an air conditioning device.SOLUTION: A refrigerant tube (120) is connected to the flow divider (100a). The material of the flow divider (100a) is aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The material of the refrigerant tube (120) is copper or a copper alloy. A first connection port (111) opened downward is formed in the flow divider (100a). A second connection port (121) opened upward is formed in the refrigerant tube (120). The first connection port (111) opened downward in the flow divider (100a) is connected to the second connection port (121) opened upward in the refrigerant tube (120).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a constituent unit that constitutes an air conditioning apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] In the structural units of an air conditioner, the piping through which the refrigerant flows may contain a mixture of parts made of aluminum or aluminum alloy (aluminum pipe parts) and parts made of copper or copper alloy (copper pipe parts). Aluminum has a higher ionization tendency than copper. Therefore, if condensed water containing copper ions generated on the surface of the copper pipe parts adheres to the aluminum pipe parts, there is a risk that the aluminum pipe parts will corrode.

[0003] In order to address the above-mentioned problems, Patent Document 1 (see, in particular, FIG. 2) discloses providing a U-shaped or inverted U-shaped tube between an aluminum heat transfer tube provided in a heat exchanger and a copper pipe. In this structure, condensed water generated on the surface of the copper pipe is blocked by the U-shaped or inverted U-shaped tube and cannot reach the aluminum heat transfer tube. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5853203 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Typically, a heat exchanger is provided with a plurality of heat transfer tubes. A flow divider for distributing a refrigerant to the plurality of heat transfer tubes is connected to the heat exchanger. The flow divider may be made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and the refrigerant tubes connected to the flow divider may be made of copper or a copper alloy. In this case, a structure for suppressing corrosion of the flow divider made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy has not been considered up to now.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to inhibit corrosion of current shunts made of aluminum or aluminum alloys. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a structural unit (20, 30) that constitutes an air conditioner (10), the structural unit comprising: a heat exchanger (65) having a plurality of heat transfer tubes (66); refrigerant pipes (120, 170); and a flow divider (100a, 150a) that connects the heat exchanger (65) and the refrigerant pipes (120, 170) and distributes the refrigerant flowing in from the refrigerant pipes (120, 170) to the plurality of heat transfer tubes (66), the heat transfer tubes (66) and the flow divider (100a, 150a) being made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, the refrigerant pipes (120, 170) being made of copper or a copper alloy, and the flow divider (100a, 150a) being made of A first connection port (111, 161) that opens downward when the component unit (20, 30) is installed is formed, and one end of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a second connection port (121, 171) that opens upward when the component unit (20, 30) is installed. The second connection port (121, 171) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is directly connected to the first connection port (111, 161) of the flow divider (100a, 150a) or is connected via a metal pipe (106, 156) made of a material different from that of the flow divider (100a, 150a) and the refrigerant pipe (120, 170).

[0008] In the first aspect of the present disclosure, the second connection port (121, 171) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) opening upward is connected to the first connection port (111, 161) of the flow divider (100a, 150a) opening downward. A portion of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) near the second connection port (121, 171) is located lower than a portion of the flow divider (100a, 150a) near the first connection port (111, 161). Therefore, condensed water containing copper ions generated on the surface of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) flows downward by gravity and does not adhere to the flow divider (100a, 150a) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0009] The flow dividers (100a, 150a) and the heat transfer tubes (66) to which the flow dividers (100a, 150a) are connected are each made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Condensed water generated on the surfaces of the heat transfer tubes (66) may adhere to the flow dividers (100a, 150a), but this condensed water does not contain copper ions.

[0010] In this manner, condensed water containing copper ions does not adhere to the flow distributor (100a, 150a) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Therefore, according to the first aspect, corrosion of the flow distributor (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions can be suppressed.

[0011] A second aspect of the present disclosure is related to the first aspect, in which the diverter (100a, 150a) has a diverter body (101, 151) connected to the heat exchanger (65) and distributing the flow-in refrigerant to the heat transfer tubes (66), and a collecting pipe (110, 160) having one end connected to the diverter body (101, 151) and the other end constituting the first connection port (111, 161).

[0012] In the second aspect, the flow divider (100a, 150a) has a flow divider body (101, 151) and a collecting pipe (110, 160). A portion of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) near the second connection port (121, 171) is located lower than a portion of the collecting pipe (110, 160) near the first connection port (111, 161). Therefore, condensed water containing copper ions generated on the surface of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) does not adhere to the collecting pipe (110, 160) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0013] A third aspect of the present disclosure is the second aspect, wherein the collecting pipe (110, 160) is located below the flow distributor body (101, 151) when the structural unit (20, 30) is installed.

[0014] In the flow distributor (100a, 150a) of the third embodiment, a collecting pipe (110, 160) is located below a flow distributor body (101, 151).

[0015] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the second aspect, wherein a part or all of the collecting pipe (110, 160) is a first vertical pipe section (112, 162) extending in the vertical direction, and the lower end of the first vertical pipe section (112, 162) is the first connection port (111, 161).

[0016] In the fourth aspect, the lower end of the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) is the first connection port (111, 161). A portion of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) near the second connection port (121, 171) is located lower than the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162). As a result, condensed water containing copper ions produced on the surface of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) does not adhere to the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) of the collecting pipe (110, 160) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0017] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the fourth aspect, wherein the entire collecting pipe (110, 160) is the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162).

[0018] In the fifth aspect, the entire collecting pipe (110, 160) has a shape extending in the vertical direction. The lower end of the collecting pipe (110, 160) is the first connection port (111, 161). In this aspect, the entire collecting pipe (110, 160) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy is disposed above the second connection port (121, 171) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) made of copper or a copper alloy. This makes it possible to suppress corrosion of the collecting pipe (110, 160) of the distributor (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0019] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the fourth or fifth aspect, wherein the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) is a straight pipe.

[0020] In the sixth aspect, the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) is a straight pipe. This makes it possible to reduce the portion of the internal space of the structural unit (20, 30) that is occupied by the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162). Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the size of the structural unit (20, 30) and to suppress corrosion of the flow distributor (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0021] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is the sixth aspect, wherein, in a state in which the structural unit (20, 30) is installed, the extension direction of the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) is a vertical direction.

[0022] In the seventh aspect, when the constituent unit (20, 30) is installed, the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) extends vertically. This makes it possible to further reduce the portion of the internal space of the constituent unit (20, 30) occupied by the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162). Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the size of the constituent unit (20, 30) and to suppress corrosion of the flow distributor (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0023] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein a part of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a second vertical pipe section (122, 172) extending in the vertical direction, and an upper end of the second vertical pipe section (122, 172) is the second connection port (121, 171).

[0024] In the eighth embodiment, the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is located lower than a portion of the flow divider (100a, 150a) near the first connection port (111, 161). Therefore, condensed water generated on the surface of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) made of copper or a copper alloy does not adhere to the flow divider (100a, 150a) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0025] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is the eighth aspect, wherein the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) is a straight pipe.

[0026] In the ninth aspect, the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) which is a part of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a straight pipe. This makes it possible to reduce the portion of the internal space of the structural unit (20, 30) that is occupied by the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170). Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the size of the structural unit (20, 30) and to suppress corrosion of the flow divider (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0027] A tenth aspect of the present disclosure is the ninth aspect, wherein, in a state in which the structural unit (20, 30) is installed, the extension direction of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) is a vertical direction.

[0028] In the tenth aspect, with the structural unit (20, 30) installed, the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) extends in the vertical direction. Condensed water containing copper ions adhering to the surface of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) flows downward along the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) extending in the vertical direction and does not reach the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) located above the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172).

[0029] An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is the seventh aspect, wherein a part of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a second vertical pipe section (122, 172) which is a straight pipe extending in the vertical direction, the upper end of the second vertical pipe section (122, 172) is the second connection port (121, 171), and the first vertical pipe section (112, 162) and the second vertical pipe section (122, 172) are arranged in a straight line.

[0030] In the eleventh aspect, the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) of the collecting pipe (110, 160) and the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) are arranged in a straight line. This makes it possible to reduce the portion of the internal space of the constituent unit (20, 30) occupied by the first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) and the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172). Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the size of the constituent unit (20, 30) and to suppress corrosion of the flow distributor (100a, 150a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0031] A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is formed with a U-shaped pipe portion (123) that is a U-shaped part continuing from the lower end of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172).

[0032] In the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) of the twelfth embodiment, a U-shaped pipe portion (123) is continuous with the lower end of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172).

[0033] A thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is the fourth aspect, in which the collecting pipe (110, 160) is a pipe having a vertically meandering shape, and a part of the collecting pipe (110, 160) is the first vertical pipe section (112, 162).

[0034] In the thirteenth aspect, a part of the vertically meandering collecting pipe (110, 160) serves as a first vertical pipe section (112, 162) including a first connection port (111, 161).

[0035] A fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the refrigerant pipe (120) is a pipe through which a refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state or a single-liquid phase state flows during operation of the structural units (20, 30).

[0036] A refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state or a liquid single-phase state flows through the refrigerant pipe (120) of the fourteenth embodiment during operation of the structural units (20, 30).

[0037] A fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the refrigerant pipe (170) is a pipe through which a single-phase gas refrigerant flows during operation of the structural units (20, 30).

[0038] A single-phase gas refrigerant flows through the refrigerant pipe (170) of the fifteenth embodiment during operation of the structural units (20, 30).

[0039] A sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, further comprises a casing (35) that houses the heat exchanger (65), and the first connection port (111, 161) of the distributor (100a, 150a) and the second connection port (121, 171) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) are disposed inside the casing (35).

[0040] In the sixteenth aspect, a heat exchanger (65), a first connection port (111, 161) of a flow divider (100a, 150a), and a second connection port (121, 171) of a refrigerant pipe (120, 170) are arranged inside a casing (35).

[0041] A seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure is the sixteenth aspect, wherein the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) has an end opposite the second connection port (121, 171) exposed to the outside of the casing (35), and is provided with a covering member (105, 155) that covers a portion of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) and seals a gap between the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) and the casing (35).

[0042] In the seventeenth aspect, the gap between the casing (35) and the refrigerant pipes (120, 170) arranged across the inside and outside of the casing (35) is blocked by a covering member (105, 155). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0043] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a piping diagram showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the indoor unit as viewed diagonally from below. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the indoor unit with the top plate of the casing body omitted. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the indoor unit showing a cross-section taken along line IV-O-IV in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the main part of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the liquid pipe unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the liquid pipe unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view of the gas pipe unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of a liquid pipe unit according to the first modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view of a liquid pipe unit according to the second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front view of a liquid pipe unit according to the third modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front view of a liquid pipe unit according to the fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a front view of a liquid pipe unit according to the fourth modified example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0044] An air conditioner (10) of the embodiment will be described.

[0045] -Air conditioning equipment- As shown in Fig. 1, the air conditioner (10) includes an outdoor unit (20) and an indoor unit (30). Each of the outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (30) is a constituent unit that constitutes the air conditioner (10).

[0046] The outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (30) are connected to each other via a pair of communication pipes (12). In the air conditioner (10), the outdoor unit (20), the indoor unit (30), and the communication pipes (12) form a refrigerant circuit (11) that performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0047] <Outdoor unit> The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors and includes a compressor (21), a four-way switching valve (22), an outdoor heat exchanger (23), an outdoor fan (25), an expansion valve (24), a liquid-side shut-off valve (26), and a gas-side shut-off valve (27).

[0048] The compressor (21) is, for example, a scroll or rotary hermetic compressor. The compressor (21) draws in and compresses a low-pressure refrigerant and discharges the compressed and high-pressure refrigerant (high-pressure refrigerant).

[0049] The four-way switching valve (22) is a valve for switching the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11). The four-way switching valve (22) switches between a first state shown by a solid line in Fig. 1 and a second state shown by a dashed line in Fig. 2. In the first state, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger (23), and low-pressure refrigerant flowing in from the indoor unit (30) is sent to the compressor (21). In the second state, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) is sent to the indoor unit (30), and low-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger (23) is sent to the compressor (21).

[0050] The outdoor heat exchanger (23) is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and outdoor air. The outdoor heat exchanger (23) is, for example, a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The outdoor fan (25) is a fan that supplies outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger (23). The expansion valve (24) is an electrically-operated expansion valve whose opening degree is variable.

[0051] <Indoor unit> The indoor unit (30) is installed in a room which is a space to be air-conditioned. The indoor unit (30) includes an indoor heat exchanger (65) and an indoor fan (50). The indoor unit (30) will be described in detail later.

[0052] <Driving Operation> The air conditioner (10) selectively performs cooling operation and heating operation.

[0053] In the cooling operation, the four-way switching valve (22) is set to the first state, and the refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit (11). In the refrigerant circuit (11), the outdoor heat exchanger (23) functions as a radiator, and the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as an evaporator. The indoor unit (30) cools air sucked from the indoor space in the indoor heat exchanger (65) and blows the cooled air into the indoor space.

[0054] In the heating operation, the four-way switching valve (22) is set to the second state, and the refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit (11). In the refrigerant circuit (11), the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as a radiator, and the outdoor heat exchanger (23) functions as an evaporator. The indoor unit (30) heats air drawn from the indoor space in the indoor heat exchanger (65) and blows the heated air into the indoor space.

[0055] -Indoor unit configuration- As shown in Fig. 2, the indoor unit (30) of this embodiment is a ceiling-embedded indoor unit. As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the indoor unit (30) includes a casing (35), an indoor fan (50), an indoor heat exchanger (65), a drain pan (55), and a bell-mouth (52).

[0056] A liquid pipe unit (100) and a gas pipe unit (150) are joined to the indoor heat exchanger (65). The indoor heat exchanger (65), the liquid pipe unit (100), and the gas pipe unit (150) constitute a heat exchanger assembly (60).

[0057] <Casing> The casing (35) includes a casing body (36) and a decorative panel (40). The casing (35) accommodates an indoor fan (50), an indoor heat exchanger (65), a drain pan (55), and a bellmouth (52).

[0058] The casing body (36) is a generally rectangular box-shaped member that is open at the bottom. The casing body (36) has a generally flat top plate (36a) and side plates (36b) that extend downward from the peripheral edge of the top plate (36a). The decorative panel (40) will be described later.

[0059] <Indoor fan> As shown in Fig. 4, the indoor fan (50) is a so-called turbo fan. The indoor fan (50) draws air from below and blows it outward in the radial direction. The indoor fan (50) is disposed in the center of the interior of the casing body (36). The indoor fan (50) is driven by an indoor fan motor (51). The indoor fan motor (51) is fixed to the center of the top plate (36a).

[0060] <Bellmouth> The bellmouth (52) is disposed below the indoor fan (50). The bellmouth (52) is a member for guiding the air that has flowed into the casing (35) to the indoor fan (50). The bellmouth (52), together with the drain pan (55), divides the interior space of the casing (35) into a primary space (37a) located on the suction side of the indoor fan (50) and a secondary space (37b) located on the blowing side of the indoor fan (50).

[0061] <Indoor heat exchanger> The indoor heat exchanger (65) is a so-called cross-fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger. As shown in Fig. 3, the indoor heat exchanger (65) is formed in a square cylindrical shape and disposed so as to surround the indoor fan (50). The indoor heat exchanger (65) is disposed in the secondary space (37b). The indoor heat exchanger (65) exchanges heat between the air passing through it from the inside to the outside and the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit.

[0062] <Drain pan> The drain pan (55) is a member made of so-called polystyrene foam. As shown in FIG. 4, the drain pan (55) is disposed so as to close the lower end of the casing body (36). A water groove (56) is formed in the upper surface of the drain pan (55) along the lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (65). The lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (65) fits into the water groove (56). The water groove (56) receives drain water generated in the indoor heat exchanger (65).

[0063] 2, the drain pan (55) is formed with four main outlet passages (57) and four auxiliary outlet passages (58). The main outlet passages (57) and the auxiliary outlet passages (58) are passages through which air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (65) flows, and they vertically penetrate the drain pan (55).

[0064] The main outlet passage (57) is a through hole having a long and narrow rectangular cross section. One main outlet passage (57) is disposed along each of the four sides of the casing body (36). The auxiliary outlet passage (58) is a through hole having a slightly curved rectangular cross section. One auxiliary outlet passage (58) is disposed at each of the four corners of the casing body (36).

[0065] <Decorative Panel> The decorative panel (40) is a resin member formed in the shape of a thick rectangular plate. The lower part of the decorative panel (40) is formed in a square shape that is slightly larger than the top plate (36a) of the casing body (36). The decorative panel (40) is disposed so as to cover the lower surface of the casing body (36). The lower surface of the decorative panel (40) is exposed to the indoor space.

[0066] 2 and 4, a single square-shaped suction inlet (41) is formed in the center of the decorative panel (40). The suction inlet (41) passes through the decorative panel (40) from top to bottom and communicates with the primary space (37a) inside the casing (35). A lattice-shaped suction grill (45) is provided in the suction inlet (41). A filter (46) is disposed above the suction grill (45).

[0067] A generally rectangular ring-shaped air outlet (44) is formed in the decorative panel (40) so as to surround the inlet (41). As shown in Fig. 2, the air outlet (44) is divided into four main air outlet openings (42) and four sub air outlet openings (43).

[0068] The main outlet openings (42) are elongated rectangular openings. One main outlet opening (42) is disposed along each of the four sides of the decorative panel (40). The main outlet openings (42) of the decorative panel (40) correspond one-to-one to the main outlet passages (57) of the drain pan (55). Each main outlet opening (42) communicates with the corresponding main outlet passage (57). Each main outlet opening (42) is provided with an airflow direction adjustment vane (47).

[0069] The secondary outlet openings (43) are quarter-circular arc-shaped openings. One secondary outlet opening (43) is disposed at each of the four corners of the decorative panel (40). The secondary outlet openings (43) of the decorative panel (40) correspond one-to-one to the secondary outlet passages (58) of the drain pan (55). Each secondary outlet opening (43) communicates with a corresponding secondary outlet passage (58).

[0070] <Liquid pipe unit> As shown in Fig. 5, the liquid pipe unit (100) includes one liquid side distributor (100a), one liquid side refrigerant pipe (120), and a plurality of liquid side branch pipes (103). Note that only one liquid side branch pipe (103) is shown in Fig. 5.

[0071] The liquid-side flow distributor (100a) is connected to one end of the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) and one end of each of the liquid-side branch pipes (103). The liquid-side flow distributor (100a) is a member that distributes the refrigerant flowing in from the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) to the multiple liquid-side branch pipes (103).

[0072] The other end of each liquid-side branch pipe (103) is connected to a heat transfer pipe (66) of the corresponding indoor heat exchanger (65). The liquid-side branch pipe (103) connects the liquid-side divider (100a) to the heat transfer pipe (66) of the indoor heat exchanger (65).

[0073] The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) passes through a through hole formed in the side plate (36b) of the casing body (36) and extends to the outside of the casing body (36). The other end of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is exposed to the outside of the casing body (36).

[0074] A liquid side covering member (105) is attached to the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120). The liquid side covering member (105) is a cylindrical member made of foamed resin. The liquid side covering member (105) covers a portion of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) that extends from the inside to the outside of the casing body (36) and closes a gap between the edge of the through hole formed in the side plate (36b) and the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120).

[0075] <Gas pipe unit> As shown in Fig. 5, the gas pipe unit (150) includes one gas side distributor (150a), one gas side refrigerant pipe (170), and a plurality of gas side branch pipes (153). Note that only one gas side branch pipe (153) is shown in Fig. 5.

[0076] One end of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) and one end of each of the gas side branch pipes (153) are connected to the gas side distributor (150a). The gas side distributor (150a) is a member that distributes the refrigerant flowing in from the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) to the plurality of gas side branch pipes (153). The gas side distributor (150a) is a so-called gas header.

[0077] The other end of each gas-side branch pipe (153) is connected to a heat transfer pipe (66) of a corresponding indoor heat exchanger (65). The gas-side branch pipe (153) connects the gas-side distributor (150a) to the heat transfer pipe (66) of the indoor heat exchanger (65).

[0078] The gas side refrigerant pipe (170) passes through a through hole formed in the side plate (36b) of the casing body (36) and extends to the outside of the casing body (36). The other end of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is exposed to the outside of the casing body (36).

[0079] A gas side covering member (155) is attached to the gas side refrigerant pipe (170). The gas side covering member (155) is a cylindrical member made of foamed resin. The gas side covering member (155) covers a portion of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) that extends from the inside to the outside of the casing body (36) and closes a gap between the edge of the through hole formed in the side plate (36b) and the gas side refrigerant pipe (170).

[0080] <Air flow in the indoor unit> The indoor fan (50) rotates while the indoor unit (30) is in operation. When the indoor fan (50) rotates, indoor air in the indoor space flows through the inlet (41) into the primary space (37a) in the casing (35). The air that has flowed into the primary space (37a) is sucked into the indoor fan (50) and blown out into the secondary space (37b).

[0081] The air flowing into the secondary space (37b) is cooled or heated while passing through the indoor heat exchanger (65) and then splits into four main outlet passages (57) and four auxiliary outlet passages (58). The air flowing into the main outlet passage (57) is blown out into the indoor space through the main outlet opening (42). The air flowing into the auxiliary outlet passage (58) is blown out into the indoor space through the auxiliary outlet opening (43).

[0082] -Liquid pipe unit- The liquid pipe unit (100) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0083] As described above, the liquid pipe unit (100) includes one liquid side distributor (100a), one joint pipe (106), one liquid side refrigerant pipe (120), and a plurality of liquid side branch pipes (103). When the outdoor unit (20) including the liquid pipe unit (100) is installed, the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is connected to the lower end of the liquid side distributor (100a), and the liquid side branch pipe (103) is connected to the upper end of the liquid side distributor (100a).

[0084] <Liquid side flow divider> The liquid-side flow distributor (100a) includes a liquid-side flow distributor body (101) and a liquid-side collecting pipe (110). The liquid-side flow distributor body (101) and the liquid-side collecting pipe (110) are each made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0085] <Liquid side flow divider body> The liquid-side distributor body (101) is a distributor body that distributes the incoming refrigerant to a plurality of liquid-side branch pipes (103).

[0086] The liquid-side distributor body (101) has a small diameter portion (101a), an intermediate portion (101b), and a large diameter portion (101c). The small diameter portion (101a), the intermediate portion (101b), and the large diameter portion (101c) are arranged in this order from bottom to top in the liquid-side distributor body (101).

[0087] The small diameter portion (101a) is a slightly thick-walled cylindrical portion. The middle portion (101b) is an inverted truncated cone portion. The small diameter end (lower end) of the middle portion (101b) is continuous with the upper end of the small diameter portion (101a). The large diameter end (upper end) of the middle portion (101b) is continuous with the lower end of the large diameter portion (101c). The large diameter portion (101c) is a cylindrical portion. A plurality of connection holes (101d) are formed in the large diameter portion (101c).

[0088] Each of the connection holes (101d) opens into the upper end surface of the large diameter portion (101c). The connection holes (101d) are arranged at equal intervals along the outer periphery of the upper end surface of the large diameter portion (101c). A communication space is formed inside the liquid-side distributor body (101) to connect the internal space of the small diameter portion (101a) to all of the connection holes (101d).

[0089] <Liquid side collecting pipe> The liquid-side collecting pipe (110) is a collecting pipe connected to the liquid-side distributor body (101).

[0090] The liquid collecting pipe (110) is a straight circular pipe. One end (upper end) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is inserted into the lower end of the small diameter portion (101a) of the liquid side distributor body (101). The liquid collecting pipe (110) is joined to the small diameter portion (101a) of the liquid side distributor body (101) by brazing. The liquid collecting pipe (110) communicates with the internal space of the liquid side distributor body (101).

[0091] The liquid collecting pipe (110) is disposed substantially coaxially with the liquid dividing body (101). The central axial direction (extension direction) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is substantially vertical. The other end (lower end) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is a first connection port (111) that opens downward. The entire liquid collecting pipe (110) is a first vertical pipe section (112) that extends in the vertical direction and includes the first connection port (111).

[0092] <Liquid side branch pipe> The liquid side branch pipe (103) is a circular pipe with a relatively small diameter. The liquid side branch pipe (103) is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The number of the liquid side branch pipes (103) is the same as the number of the connection holes (101d) of the liquid side distributor body (101). Only three liquid side branch pipes (103) are shown in Figs. 6 and 7.

[0093] One end of each liquid-side branch pipe (103) is inserted into a connection hole (101d) of the corresponding liquid-side distributor body (101) and joined to the liquid-side distributor body (101) by brazing. The other end of each liquid-side branch pipe (103) is joined to a heat transfer tube (66) of the corresponding indoor heat exchanger (65) by brazing. Each liquid-side branch pipe (103) connects the internal space of the liquid-side distributor body (101) to the heat transfer tube (66) of the corresponding indoor heat exchanger (65).

[0094] <Joint pipe> The joint pipe (106) is a relatively short, cylindrical member. The joint pipe (106) is disposed substantially coaxially with the liquid-side collecting pipe (110). An upper end of the joint pipe (106) is joined by brazing to a first connection port (111), which is a lower end of the liquid-side collecting pipe (110).

[0095] The joint pipe 106 is a metal pipe. The material of the joint pipe 106 is stainless steel. The main component of stainless steel is iron (Fe). The ionization tendency of iron (Fe) is higher than that of copper (Cu) and lower than that of aluminum (Al).

[0096] <Liquid side refrigerant pipe> The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is a refrigerant pipe through which a refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state or a single-liquid phase state flows during operation of the indoor unit (30).

[0097] The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is a circular tubular member bent at two points. The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) includes a second vertical pipe portion (122), a U-shaped pipe portion (123), and an inverted L-shaped pipe portion (124). The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is made of copper or a copper alloy.

[0098] The second vertical pipe portion (122) is a straight, short, cylindrical portion. The central axis direction (extension direction) of the second vertical pipe portion (122) is substantially vertical. The second vertical pipe portion (122) is disposed substantially coaxially with the joint pipe (106). The upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (122) is a second connection port (121) that opens upward. This second connection port (121) is joined to the lower end of the joint pipe (106) by brazing.

[0099] The U-shaped pipe portion (123) is a cylindrical portion bent into a U-shape. One end of the U-shaped pipe portion (123) is connected to the lower end of the second vertical pipe portion (122).

[0100] The inverted-L-shaped pipe portion (124) is a cylindrical portion bent into an inverted L shape. One end of the inverted-L-shaped pipe portion (124) is continuous with the other end of the U-shaped pipe portion (123). A flare joint (107) is attached to the other end of the inverted-L-shaped pipe portion (124). The flare joint (107) is made of brass.

[0101] <Arrangement of the first and second vertical pipes> In the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, the second vertical pipe section (122) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is disposed below the first vertical pipe section (112) of the liquid side collecting pipe (110). The first vertical pipe section (112), the second vertical pipe section (122), and the joint pipe (106) are disposed on a straight line. The central axes of the first vertical pipe section (112), the second vertical pipe section (122), and the joint pipe (106) are substantially vertical. The first vertical pipe section (112), the second vertical pipe section (122), and the joint pipe (106) are located inside the casing (35) of the indoor unit (30). Therefore, the first connection port (111) of the liquid side collecting pipe (110) and the second connection port (121) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) are located inside the casing (35) of the indoor unit (30).

[0102] <Refrigerant flow in liquid pipe unit> During cooling operation of the air conditioner (10) in which the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state that has passed through the expansion valve (24) flows through the liquid pipe unit (100).

[0103] Specifically, the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve (24) and flowing into the liquid pipe unit (100) flows through the liquid refrigerant pipe (120) into the liquid-side flow divider (100a) and is distributed to all the liquid-side branch pipes (103) connected to the liquid-side flow divider body (101). The refrigerant flowing through each liquid-side branch pipe (103) flows into the heat transfer pipe (66) of the corresponding indoor heat exchanger (65).

[0104] In this manner, the refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state that has flowed into the liquid pipe unit (100) flows vertically upward through the second vertical pipe portion (122), the joint pipe (106), and the first vertical pipe portion (112) in that order, and then flows into the liquid-side flow divider main body (101). Therefore, the refrigerant flowing through the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) flows into the liquid-side flow divider main body (101) in a state in which the liquid refrigerant and the gas refrigerant are mixed together approximately uniformly. In the liquid-side flow divider main body (101), the liquid refrigerant and the gas refrigerant are each distributed approximately equally to each of the liquid-side branch pipes (103).

[0105] During heating operation of the air conditioner (10) in which the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as a radiator, the refrigerant in a single-phase liquid state flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger (65) flows through the liquid pipe unit (100).

[0106] Specifically, the refrigerant flowing out of the heat transfer tube (66) of the indoor heat exchanger (65) flows through the liquid branch pipe (103) into the liquid divider body (101) of the liquid divider (100a). In the liquid divider body (101), the refrigerant flowing in from each liquid branch pipe (103) is joined. The refrigerant joined in the liquid divider body (101) flows through the liquid collecting pipe (110) and the liquid refrigerant pipe (120) in this order, and then flows out of the indoor unit (30).

[0107] -Gas pipe unit- The gas pipe unit (150) will now be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0108] As described above, the gas pipe unit (150) includes one gas side distributor (150a), one joint pipe (156), one gas side refrigerant pipe (170), and a plurality of gas side branch pipes (153).

[0109] <Gas side flow divider> The gas-side flow distributor (150a) includes a gas-side flow distributor body (151) and a gas-side collecting pipe (160). The gas-side flow distributor body (151) and the gas-side collecting pipe (160) are each made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0110] <Gas side flow divider body> The gas-side distributor body (151) is a distributor body that distributes the incoming refrigerant to the plurality of gas-side branch pipes (153).

[0111] The gas-side flow distributor body (151) is a so-called gas header. The gas-side flow distributor body (151) is an elongated cylindrical member with both ends closed. The gas-side flow distributor body (151) is installed in an orientation in which the central axis direction is substantially vertical.

[0112] <Gas side manifold> The gas-side collecting pipe (160) is a collecting pipe connected to the gas-side distributor body (151).

[0113] The gas side collecting pipe (160) is a vertically meandering circular pipe. The gas side collecting pipe (160) is formed with a first semicircular portion (163a) and a second semicircular portion (163b). The gas side collecting pipe (160) is also formed with a first vertical pipe portion (162).

[0114] One end of the gas-side collecting pipe (160) is formed into a straight pipe extending in a substantially horizontal direction. One end of the gas-side collecting pipe (160) is joined to a side portion of the gas-side flow distributor body (151). The internal space of the gas-side collecting pipe (160) communicates with the internal space of the gas-side flow distributor body (151).

[0115] The first semicircular portion (163a) is an upward semicircular portion. The first semicircular portion (163a) is disposed toward one end of the gas side collecting pipe (160). The second semicircular portion (163b) is a downward semicircular portion. The second semicircular portion (163b) is disposed toward the other end of the gas side collecting pipe (160). One end of the first semicircular portion (163a) and one end of the second semicircular portion (163b) are connected via a straight pipe portion.

[0116] The first vertical pipe portion (162) is a straight, circular pipe portion. The central axis direction (extension direction) of the first vertical pipe portion (162) is substantially vertical. The upper end of the first vertical pipe portion (162) is continuous with the other end of the second semicircular portion (163b). The lower end of the first vertical pipe portion (162) is the first connection port (161) that opens downward.

[0117] <Gas side branch pipe> The gas side branch pipe (153) is a circular pipe formed in a U-shape. The gas side branch pipe (153) is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0118] The gas side branch pipe (153) is disposed with its open end facing horizontally. The gas side branch pipes (153) are arranged in a row in the central axis direction (vertical direction) of the gas side distributor body (151). The curved portion of each gas side branch pipe (153) is joined to the gas side distributor body (151). The internal space of each gas side branch pipe (153) communicates with the internal space of the gas side distributor body (151). A pair of open ends (153a) of each gas side branch pipe (153) is joined to the corresponding heat transfer tube (66) of the indoor heat exchanger (65) by brazing.

[0119] <Joint pipe> The joint pipe (156) is a relatively short, cylindrical member. The joint pipe (156) is disposed substantially coaxially with the first vertical pipe portion (162) of the gas side collecting pipe (160). An upper end of the joint pipe (156) is joined by brazing to a first connection port (161), which is the lower end of the first vertical pipe portion (162).

[0120] The joint pipe (156) is a metal pipe, and is made of stainless steel, like the joint pipe (106) of the liquid pipe unit (100).

[0121] <Gas side refrigerant pipe> The gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is a refrigerant pipe through which single-phase gas refrigerant flows during operation of the indoor unit (30).

[0122] The gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is a circular pipe bent into an L shape. The gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is made of copper or a copper alloy.

[0123] One end (upward end) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is a second connection port (171) that opens upward. A straight pipe portion of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) including the second connection port (171) is a second vertical pipe portion (172). The central axis direction (extension direction) of the second vertical pipe portion (172) is substantially vertical. The second vertical pipe portion (172) is disposed substantially coaxially with the joint pipe (106). The second connection port (171), which is an upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (172), is joined to the lower end of the joint pipe (156) by brazing.

[0124] A flare joint 157 is attached to the other end (the horizontal end) of the gas side refrigerant pipe 170. The flare joint 157 is made of brass.

[0125] <Arrangement of the first and second vertical pipes> In the gas pipe unit (150) of this embodiment, the second vertical pipe section (172) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) is disposed below the first vertical pipe section (162) of the gas side manifold pipe (160). The first vertical pipe section (162), the second vertical pipe section (172), and the joint pipe (156) are disposed in a straight line. The central axes of the first vertical pipe section (162), the second vertical pipe section (172), and the joint pipe (156) are substantially vertical. The first vertical pipe section (162), the second vertical pipe section (172), and the joint pipe (156) are disposed inside the casing (35) of the indoor unit (30).

[0126] <Refrigerant flow in gas pipe unit> During cooling operation of the air conditioner (10) in which the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant in a single-phase gas state flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger (65) flows through the liquid pipe unit (100).

[0127] Specifically, the refrigerant flowing out of the heat transfer tube (66) of the indoor heat exchanger (65) flows through the corresponding gas side branch pipe (153) into the gas side flow distributor body (151). The refrigerant flowing from each gas side branch pipe (153) into the gas side flow distributor body (151) joins together and then flows through the gas side collecting pipe (160) and the gas side refrigerant pipe (170), in that order, to flow out of the indoor unit (30).

[0128] During heating operation of the air conditioner (10) in which the indoor heat exchanger (65) functions as a radiator, the refrigerant in a single-phase gas state discharged from the compressor (21) flows through the gas pipe unit (150).

[0129] Specifically, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) and flowing into the gas pipe unit (150) passes through the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) and the gas side manifold pipe (160) in this order, flows into the gas side distributor body (151), and is distributed to all the gas side branch pipes (153). The refrigerant flowing into each gas side branch pipe (153) is distributed to two open ends (153a) and flows into the heat transfer pipes (66) of the corresponding indoor heat exchangers (65).

[0130] -Features of the embodiment (1)- In the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, a liquid refrigerant pipe (120) is connected to a liquid collecting pipe (110) of a liquid side distributor (100a). A first connection port (111) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is connected to a second connection port (121) of the liquid refrigerant pipe (120) via a joint pipe (106). A first vertical pipe section (112) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) includes a first connection port (111). A second vertical pipe section (122) of the liquid refrigerant pipe (120) includes a second connection port (121).

[0131] When the indoor unit (30) is installed, the second vertical pipe portion (122) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) made of copper or a copper alloy is located below the first vertical pipe portion (112) of the liquid side collecting pipe (110) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Condensed water containing copper ions produced on the surface of the second vertical pipe portion (122) flows downward due to gravity and does not adhere to the first vertical pipe portion (112).

[0132] The heat transfer tube (66) to which the liquid-side distributor (100a) is connected is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Condensed water generated on the surface of the heat transfer tube (66) may adhere to the liquid-side distributor (100a), but the condensed water does not contain copper ions.

[0133] In this manner, the condensed water containing copper ions does not adhere to the liquid-side distributor (100a), and therefore, according to the present embodiment, corrosion of the liquid-side distributor (100a) caused by the adhesion of the condensed water containing copper ions can be suppressed.

[0134] -Features of the embodiment (2)- When a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows through the liquid pipe unit (100), in order to distribute the liquid refrigerant and the gas refrigerant evenly to the liquid-side branch pipes (103) in the liquid-side distributor body (101), it is preferable to set the central axis direction of the pipe that introduces the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant to the liquid-side distributor body (101) in the vertical direction. In other words, it is preferable to provide a portion that extends vertically in the pipe that introduces the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant to the liquid-side distributor body (101).

[0135] On the other hand, in the liquid pipe unit (100) of the present embodiment, the first vertical pipe section (112) of the liquid-side collecting pipe (110) and the second vertical pipe section (122) of the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) are arranged in a straight line with their central axes substantially aligned vertically. This allows the flow direction of the refrigerant passing through the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) and the liquid-side collecting pipe (110) in this order and flowing into the liquid-side flow divider body (101) to be substantially vertically upward. As a result, the liquid refrigerant and the gas refrigerant can be evenly distributed to the liquid-side branch pipes (103) in the liquid-side flow divider body (101).

[0136] In addition, since the first vertical pipe portion (112) of the liquid-side collecting pipe (110) and the second vertical pipe portion (122) of the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) are aligned vertically, the condensed water containing copper ions generated on the surface of the second vertical pipe portion (122) can be reliably caused to flow downward by gravity. As a result, the condensed water containing copper ions can be reliably prevented from adhering to the first vertical pipe portion (112) of the liquid-side distributor (100a).

[0137] -Features of the embodiment (3)- In the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, the first vertical pipe section (112) of the liquid collecting pipe (110) and the second vertical pipe section (122) of the liquid refrigerant pipe (120) are each formed as a straight pipe and are arranged in a straight line with their central axes substantially in the vertical direction. This makes it possible to minimize the size of the area occupied by the first vertical pipe section (112) and the second vertical pipe section (122) in the internal space of the casing (35). Therefore, this embodiment makes it possible to reduce the size of the indoor unit (30) and to suppress corrosion of the liquid side distributor (100a) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0138] -Features of the embodiment (4)- In the gas pipe unit (150) of this embodiment, a first connection port (161) of a gas side collector pipe (160) of the gas side distributor (150a) is connected to a second connection port (171) of a gas side refrigerant pipe (170) via a joint pipe (156). A first vertical pipe section (162) of the gas side collector pipe (160) includes a first connection port (161). A second vertical pipe section (172) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) includes a second connection port (171).

[0139] When the indoor unit (30) is installed, the second vertical pipe portion (172) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) made of copper or a copper alloy is located below the first vertical pipe portion (162) of the gas side collecting pipe (160) made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Condensed water containing copper ions produced on the surface of the second vertical pipe portion (172) flows downward due to gravity and does not adhere to the first vertical pipe portion (162).

[0140] Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress corrosion of the gas side collecting pipe (160) caused by adhesion of condensed water containing copper ions.

[0141] -Features of the embodiment (5)- In the gas pipe unit (150) of this embodiment, the first vertical pipe section (162) of the gas-side collecting pipe (160) and the second vertical pipe section (172) of the gas-side refrigerant pipe (170) are arranged in a straight line with their central axes substantially aligned vertically. This allows the condensed water containing copper ions generated on the surface of the second vertical pipe section (172) to flow downward by gravity. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the condensed water containing copper ions from adhering to the first vertical pipe section (162) of the gas-side distributor (150a).

[0142] -Modification 1 of the embodiment- 9, in the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, the first connection port (111) of the liquid side collecting pipe (110) and the second connection port (121) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) may be directly joined together. In this case, the joint pipe (106) is omitted in the liquid pipe unit (100).

[0143] In the gas pipe unit (150) of the present embodiment, the first connection port (161) of the gas side manifold pipe (160) and the second connection port (171) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) may be directly joined together. In this case, the joint pipe (156) is omitted in the gas pipe unit (150).

[0144] -Modification 2 of the embodiment- 10, in the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, the second vertical pipe section (122) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) may be omitted. In this case, one end of the U-shaped pipe section (123) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) serves as a second connection port (121) that opens upward.

[0145] In the gas pipe unit (150) of this embodiment, the second vertical pipe section (172) of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) may be omitted. In this case, the end of the quarter arc-shaped section of the gas side refrigerant pipe (170) serves as the second connection port (171) that opens upward.

[0146] -Modification 3 of the embodiment- 11, in the liquid pipe unit (100) of this embodiment, the liquid collecting pipe (110) of the liquid distributor (100a) may be a circular pipe that meanders up and down. The liquid collecting pipe (110) of this modification is formed with one first semicircular portion (113a) and one second semicircular portion (113b).

[0147] In this modified example, one end of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is formed into a straight pipe extending in a substantially vertical direction. One end of the liquid collecting pipe (110) is joined to the lower end of the liquid-side flow divider body (101). The internal space of the liquid collecting pipe (110) communicates with the internal space of the liquid-side flow divider body (101).

[0148] The first semicircular portion (113a) is an upward semicircular portion. The first semicircular portion (113a) is disposed toward one end of the liquid side collecting pipe (110). The second semicircular portion (113b) is a downward semicircular portion. The second semicircular portion (113b) is disposed toward the other end of the liquid side collecting pipe (110). One end of the first semicircular portion (113a) and one end of the second semicircular portion (113b) are connected via a straight pipe portion.

[0149] The first vertical pipe portion (112) is a straight, circular pipe portion. The central axis of the first vertical pipe portion (112) is substantially vertical. The upper end of the first vertical pipe portion (112) of this modified example is continuous with the other end of the second semicircular portion (113b). The lower end of the first vertical pipe portion (112) is a first connection port (111) that opens downward, and is joined to the joint pipe (106).

[0150] The liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) of this modified example is a circular pipe bent into an L-shape. One end (upward end) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) is a second connection port (121) that opens upward. A straight pipe portion of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120) including the second connection port (121) is a second vertical pipe section (122). The central axis direction of the second vertical pipe section (122) is substantially vertical. The second vertical pipe section (122) is disposed substantially coaxially with the joint pipe (106). The second connection port (121), which is the upper end of the second vertical pipe section (122), is joined to the lower end of the joint pipe (106) by brazing. A flare joint (107) is attached to the other end (horizontal end) of the liquid side refrigerant pipe (120).

[0151] -Modification 4 of the embodiment- As shown in FIG. 12, in the liquid pipe unit (100) of the present embodiment, the liquid collecting pipe (110) and the joint pipe (106) of the liquid distributor (100a) may be omitted.

[0152] In the liquid pipe unit (100) of this modified example, the liquid-side flow divider (100a) is constituted only by the liquid-side flow divider body (101), and the lower end of the small diameter portion (101a) of the liquid-side flow divider body (101) serves as a first connection port (111) that opens downward. In the liquid pipe unit (100) of this modified example, the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) is directly connected to the liquid-side flow divider body (101). The second connection port (121), which is the upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (122) of the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120), is joined by brazing to the lower end of the small diameter portion (101a) of the liquid-side flow divider body (101).

[0153] The liquid pipe unit (100) of this modified example may include a joint pipe (106) as shown in Fig. 13. In this case, a first connection port (111) which is a lower end of the small diameter portion (101a) of the liquid-side distributor body (101) is joined to an upper end of the joint pipe (106) by brazing, and a second connection port (121) which is an upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (122) of the liquid-side refrigerant pipe (120) is joined to the lower end of the joint pipe (106) by brazing.

[0154] -Modification 5 of the embodiment- In the liquid pipe unit (100) of the present embodiment, the shape of each of the first vertical pipe portion (112) and the second vertical pipe portion (122) is not limited to a straight pipe shape. As long as each of the first vertical pipe portion (112) and the second vertical pipe portion (122) has a pipe shape extending in the up-down direction, the shape of each of the first vertical pipe portion (112) and the second vertical pipe portion (122) may be slightly curved or slightly bent.

[0155] In the gas pipe unit (150) of the present embodiment, the shape of each of the first vertical pipe portion (162) and the second vertical pipe portion (172) is not limited to a straight pipe shape. As long as each of the first vertical pipe portion (162) and the second vertical pipe portion (172) has a pipe shape extending in the up-down direction, the shape of each of the first vertical pipe portion (162) and the second vertical pipe portion (172) may be slightly curved or slightly bent.

[0156] -Modification 6 of the embodiment- In the liquid pipe unit (100) of the present embodiment, the extension direction of each of the first vertical pipe section (112) and the second vertical pipe section (122) is not limited to the vertical direction, and may be a direction slightly inclined (diagonal) relative to the vertical direction.

[0157] In the gas pipe unit (150) of the present embodiment, the extension direction of each of the first vertical pipe section (162) and the second vertical pipe section (172) is not limited to the vertical direction, and may be a direction slightly inclined (diagonal) relative to the vertical direction.

[0158] -Modification 7 of the embodiment- In this embodiment, one or both of the liquid pipe unit (100) and the gas pipe unit (150) may be connected to a heat transfer tube of an outdoor heat exchanger (23) provided in an outdoor unit (20) which is a constituent unit.

[0159] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications of form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. In addition, the elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be appropriately combined or substituted. In addition, the descriptions "first," "second," "third," etc. in the specification and claims are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words. [Industrial Applicability]

[0160] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a constituent unit of an air conditioner. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 10. Air conditioning equipment 20 Outdoor unit (component unit) 30 Indoor unit (component unit) 35 Casing 65 Indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 66 Heat transfer tube 100a liquid side flow divider 101 Liquid side flow divider body (flow divider body) 105 Covering material 106 Joint pipe (metal pipe) 110 Liquid side collecting pipe (collecting pipe) 111 First Connection Port 112 1st vertical pipe section 120 Liquid side refrigerant pipe (refrigerant pipe) 121 Second Connection Port 122 2nd vertical pipe section 123 U-shaped tube section 150a Gas side divider 151 Gas side flow divider body (flow divider body) 155 Covering material 156 Joint pipe (metal pipe) 160 Gas side collector pipe (collection pipe) 161 First Connection Port 162 1st vertical pipe section 170 Gas side refrigerant pipe (refrigerant pipe) 171 Second Connection Port 172 2nd vertical pipe section

Claims

1. A structural unit (30) constituting an air conditioner (10), The structural unit (30) is an indoor unit, a heat exchanger (65) having a plurality of heat transfer tubes (66); a refrigerant pipe (120); a flow divider (100a) connecting the heat exchanger (65) and the refrigerant pipe (120) and distributing the refrigerant flowing in from the refrigerant pipe (120) to the plurality of heat transfer pipes (66), the heat transfer tube (66) and the flow divider (100a) are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy; The refrigerant pipe (120) is made of copper or a copper alloy, The flow divider (100a) is formed with a first connection port (111) that opens downward when the structural unit (30) is installed, One end of the refrigerant pipe (120) is a second connection port (121) that opens upward when the structural unit (30) is installed, A flare joint (107) is attached to the other end of the refrigerant pipe (120), the second connection port (121) of the refrigerant pipe (120) is connected to the first connection port (111) of the flow divider (100a) directly or via a metal pipe (106) made of a material different from that of the flow divider (100a) and the refrigerant pipe (120); The flow divider (100a) a flow divider body (101) connected to the heat exchanger (65) and distributing the refrigerant flowing thereinto to the plurality of heat transfer tubes (66); a collecting pipe (110) having one end connected to the flow divider body (101) and the other end constituting the first connection port (111), The collecting pipe (110) is located below the flow divider body (101) when the structural unit (30) is installed. A part of the refrigerant pipe (120) is a second vertical pipe section (122) extending in the vertical direction, the upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (122) is the second connection port (121); The refrigerant pipe (120) has a U-shaped pipe portion (123) that is continuous with the lower end of the second vertical pipe portion (122). Configuration unit.

2. A structural unit (30) constituting an air conditioner (10), The structural unit (30) is an indoor unit, a heat exchanger (65) having a plurality of heat transfer tubes (66); Refrigerant pipes (120, 170), a flow divider (100a, 150a) that connects the heat exchanger (65) and the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) and distributes the refrigerant flowing in from the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) to the plurality of heat transfer pipes (66), the heat transfer tube (66) and the flow dividers (100a, 150a) are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy; the refrigerant pipes (120, 170) are made of copper or a copper alloy; The flow divider (100a, 150a) is formed with a first connection port (111, 161) that opens downward when the structural unit (30) is installed, one end of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a second connection port (121, 171) that opens upward when the structural unit (30) is installed; the second connection port (121, 171) of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is connected to the first connection port (111, 161) of the flow divider (100a, 150a) directly or via a metal pipe (106, 156) made of a material different from that of the flow divider (100a, 150a) and the refrigerant pipe (120, 170); The flow divider (100a, 150a) a flow divider body (101, 151) connected to the heat exchanger (65) and distributing the refrigerant flowing thereinto to the plurality of heat transfer tubes (66); a collecting pipe (110, 160) having one end connected to the flow divider body (101, 151) and the other end forming the first connection port (111, 161); The collecting pipe (110, 160) is a first semicircular portion (113a, 163a) which is an upwardly facing semicircular arc-shaped portion located near one end of the collecting pipe (110, 160); a second semicircular portion (113b, 163b) which is a downward semicircular arc-shaped portion located near the other end of the collecting pipe (110, 160); a first vertical pipe portion (112, 162) extending in the vertical direction, the upper end of which is continuous with the end of the second semicircular portion (113b, 163b), and the lower end of which constitutes the first connection port (111, 161); a part of the refrigerant pipe (120, 170) is a second vertical pipe section (122, 172) extending in the vertical direction; The upper end of the second vertical pipe portion (122, 172) is the second connection port (121, 171). Configuration unit.

3. a part or the whole of the collecting pipe (110) is a first vertical pipe section (112) extending in the vertical direction; The lower end of the first vertical pipe section (112) is the first connection port (111). The structural unit according to claim 1 .

4. The entire collecting pipe (110) is the first vertical pipe section (112). The structural unit according to claim 3 .

5. The first vertical pipe section (112) is a straight pipe. A structural unit according to claim 2 or 3.

6. When the structural unit (30) is installed, the extension direction of the first vertical pipe section (112) is vertical. The structural unit according to claim 5 .

7. The second vertical pipe portion (122) is a straight pipe. A structural unit according to claim 1 or 2.

8. When the structural unit (30) is installed, the extension direction of the second vertical pipe section (122) is vertical. The structural unit according to claim 7.

9. The second vertical pipe portion (122) is a straight pipe, The first vertical pipe section (112) and the second vertical pipe section (122) are arranged in a straight line. The structural unit according to claim 6.

10. The refrigerant pipe (120) is a pipe through which a refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state or a liquid single-phase state flows during operation of the component unit (30). A structural unit according to claim 1 or 2.

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