Heat exchanger and refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

To provide a heat exchanger capable of reducing an imbalance in the amount of a refrigerant flowing in a heat transfer pipe, and a refrigerant cycle device.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a heat exchanger includes: a plurality of heat transfer pipes having a refrigerant flow passage through which a refrigerant flows; and a header connected to the heat transfer pipes. The header includes: a first plate to which a refrigerant introduction pipe for guiding the refrigerant is connected; one or more intermediate plates with a space flow passage for introducing the refrigerant formed therein; and a second plate to which the heat transfer pipes are connected. The spatial flow passage includes a branch flow passage, a first inflow space and a second inflow space, and a communication space. The branch flow passage branches the introduced refrigerant. The refrigerant branched by the branch flow passage is made to flow into the first inflow space and the second inflow space. The communication space is formed at a position higher than the first inflow space and the second inflow space to communicate with the first inflow space and the second inflow space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Heat exchangers are used in air conditioning equipment, refrigeration equipment, and the like. For example, a heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes and a header. The heat transfer tubes have refrigerant flow paths. The header is provided at the end of the heat transfer tube. In a heat exchanger with the above structure, for example, a refrigerant may be distributed from one refrigerant port to a plurality of heat transfer tubes. In a heat exchanger with the above structure, there is a possibility that the amount of refrigerant distributed to the plurality of heat transfer tubes may be uneven. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-179308 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle device that can reduce unevenness in the amount of refrigerant flowing through heat transfer tubes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes each having a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant flows, and a header connected to the heat transfer tubes. The header includes a first plate member connected to a refrigerant inlet pipe for guiding the refrigerant, one or more intermediate plates each having a spatial flow path through which the refrigerant is introduced, and a second plate member connected to the heat transfer tubes. The spatial flow path includes a branch flow path, a first inlet space, a second inlet space, and a communication space. The branch flow path branches the introduced refrigerant. The refrigerant branched by the branch flow path flows into the first inlet space and the second inlet space. The communication space is formed at a higher position than the first inlet space and the second inlet space, and connects the first inlet space and the second inlet space.

[0006] The heat exchanger of this embodiment includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes having refrigerant flow paths through which a refrigerant flows, and a header connected to the heat transfer tubes. The header includes a first plate member to which a refrigerant inlet pipe for guiding the refrigerant is connected, one or more intermediate plates having spatial flow paths into which the refrigerant is introduced, and a second plate member to which the heat transfer tubes are connected. The spatial flow paths include a distribution path for distributing the refrigerant and a first and second compartments into which the refrigerant distributed by the distribution path flows. The plurality of heat transfer tubes include a lower heat transfer tube and an upper heat transfer tube arranged vertically. The intermediate plate member is formed with a first outlet hole for guiding the refrigerant in the first compartment to the lower heat transfer tube, and a second outlet hole for guiding the refrigerant in the second compartment to the upper heat transfer tube. The first outlet hole and the second outlet hole are located at the same height. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the internal structure of a first header in the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6]FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 includes a compressor 2, a four-way valve 3, an outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 4, an expansion device 5, and an indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 6. The components of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 are connected by piping 7. In Fig. 1, the flow direction of the refrigerant (heat medium) during cooling operation is indicated by solid arrows, and the flow direction of the refrigerant during heating operation is indicated by dashed arrows.

[0010] The compressor 2 comprises a compressor main body 2A and an accumulator 2B. The compressor main body 2A compresses the low-pressure gas refrigerant taken in to produce high-temperature, high-pressure gas refrigerant. The accumulator 2B separates the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and supplies the gas refrigerant to the compressor main body 2A.

[0011] The four-way valve 3 reverses the flow direction of the refrigerant to switch between cooling and heating operation. During cooling operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, four-way valve 3, outdoor heat exchanger 4, expansion device 5, and indoor heat exchanger 6 in this order. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as an evaporator.

[0012] During heating operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, four-way valve 3, indoor heat exchanger 6, expansion device 5, and outdoor heat exchanger 4 in this order. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator.

[0013] The condenser converts the high-temperature, high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 into high-pressure liquid refrigerant by condensing it through heat transfer to the outside air. The expansion device 5 reduces the pressure of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant sent from the condenser, converting it into low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant. The evaporator converts the low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant sent from the expansion device 5 into low-pressure gas refrigerant by absorbing heat from the outside air and vaporizing it.

[0014] In the refrigeration cycle device 1, the refrigerant, which is the working fluid, circulates while changing phase between gaseous and liquid refrigerants. The refrigerant releases heat during the phase change from gaseous to liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat during the phase change from liquid to gaseous refrigerant. The refrigeration cycle device 1 performs heating, cooling, defrosting, etc. by utilizing the heat release or absorption of the refrigerant.

[0015] 2 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment. For example, the heat exchanger according to the embodiment is used as one or both of the outdoor heat exchanger 4 and the indoor heat exchanger 6 (see FIG. 1) of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1. Hereinafter, a case where the heat exchanger according to the embodiment is used as the outdoor heat exchanger 4 (see FIG. 1) of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 will be described as an example. The outdoor heat exchanger 4 will be simply referred to as the "heat exchanger 4."

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the heat exchanger 4 has a first header 10 and a plurality of heat transfer tubes 30 (heat transfer portion). The first header 10 is connected to the end (one end) of the heat transfer tube 30 on the +X side.

[0017] The X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are defined as follows: The Z direction is the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first header 10. The Z direction is the height direction. For example, the Z direction is the vertical direction. +Z is one direction of the Z direction. +Z is upward. -Z is downward. The X direction is the central axis direction (extension direction) of the heat transfer tube. The X direction is perpendicular to the Z direction. For example, the X direction is the horizontal direction. +X is one direction of the X direction. +X is the direction from the heat transfer tube 30 toward the first header 10. -X is the direction opposite to +X.

[0018] The Y direction is perpendicular to the X and Z directions. The Y direction is the left-right direction. +Y is one direction of the Y direction. -Y is the opposite direction to +Y. For example, the Y direction is the horizontal direction. The Y direction is the width direction of the first header 10. The Y direction is the first direction. The X direction is the second direction. The Z direction is the third direction. The YZ plane is the plane formed by the Y direction and the Z direction. The XY plane is the plane formed by the X direction and the Y direction.

[0019] The first header 10 is formed in the shape of a flat plate parallel to the YZ plane. For example, when viewed from the X direction, the first header 10 is rectangular. The shape of the first header 10 is a rectangle with its longitudinal direction aligned with the Z direction. The first header 10 is formed from a material with high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity. For example, the first header 10 is formed from a metal such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0020] The first header 10 (header) includes a first plate material 11, a first intermediate plate material 12, a second intermediate plate material 13, a third intermediate plate material 14, and a second plate material 15. The first plate material 11, the first intermediate plate material 12, the second intermediate plate material 13, the third intermediate plate material 14, and the second plate material 15 are stacked in this order.

[0021] The first intermediate plate 12 is placed on the -X side surface of the first plate 11. The second intermediate plate 13 is placed on the -X side surface of the first intermediate plate 12. The third intermediate plate 14 is placed on the -X side surface of the second intermediate plate 13. The second plate 15 is placed on the -X side surface of the third intermediate plate 14. The first plate 11, the first intermediate plate 12, the second intermediate plate 13, the third intermediate plate 14, and the second plate 15 are each substantially rectangular when viewed in the thickness direction (X direction). The first intermediate plate 12, the second intermediate plate 13, and the third intermediate plate 14 can be collectively referred to as "intermediate plate materials 12 to 14."

[0022] The first plate member 11 is formed in a flat plate shape. One or more connection ports 50 are formed in the first plate member 11. For example, the connection ports 50 are circular. A refrigerant port 51 (refrigerant inlet pipe, refrigerant flow pipe) is connected to the connection port 50. The refrigerant port 51 is attached to the first plate member 11. The refrigerant port 51 has a flow path through which the refrigerant flows. For example, the refrigerant port 51 is perpendicular to the first plate member 11. The inlet port 51a is an opening at the tip of the refrigerant port 51.

[0023] Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the internal structure of the first header 10. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the first intermediate plate 12. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the second intermediate plate 13. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the third intermediate plate 14.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, a spatial flow path 16 is formed by a recess on the outer surface 12a (the surface on the +X side) of the first intermediate plate member 12.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 4, the spatial flow path 16 has a branch flow path 21, a first inflow space 22, a second inflow space 23, and a communication space 24. The branch flow channel 21 is a flow channel that extends in the Y direction. The branch flow channel 21 has a main surface 21a parallel to the YZ plane, an upper side surface 21b formed on the upper edge of the main surface 21a, and a lower side surface 21c formed on the lower edge of the main surface 21a. The upper side surface 21b and the lower side surface 21c are parallel to the XY plane. The inlet 51a of the refrigerant port 51 is located at the center of the branch flow channel 21 in the longitudinal direction when viewed from the X direction. Refrigerant is introduced into the branch flow channel 21 from the refrigerant port 51. The branch flow channel 21 divides the refrigerant into left and right flows and guides them to the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23, respectively.

[0026] The first inflow space 22 is located on the -Y side of the center in the Y direction of the first intermediate plate 12. The first inflow space 22 is located higher than the branch flow path 21. In other words, the first inflow space 22 is located on the +Z side compared to the branch flow path 21.

[0027] The first inflow space 22 has a distribution passage 26, a first compartment 27 (compartment), and a second compartment 28 (compartment).

[0028] The distribution path 26 has a main path 63 extending in the Y direction and a first communication path 61 connecting the main path 63 and the branch path 21. The center portion of the main path 63 in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) communicates with the -Y side end of the branch path 21 via the first communication path 61. Refrigerant is introduced into the main path 63 from the branch path 21 through the first communication path 61. The distribution path 26 divides the refrigerant flowing in from the branch path 21 to the left and right, and distributes the refrigerant to the first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28, respectively.

[0029] The first compartment 27 has a substantially rectangular main chamber 64, a communication flow path 32 connecting the main chamber 64 and the main flow path 63, and a first communication passage 46 connecting the main chamber 64 and the communication space 24. The second sub-chamber 28 has a substantially rectangular main chamber 65, a communication flow path 33 that connects the main chamber 65 with the main flow path 63, and a first communication passage 47 that connects the main chamber 65 with the communication space 24.

[0030] The first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28 are formed side by side in the Y direction. The second compartment 28 is formed on the +Y side of the first compartment 27. The first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28 are located higher than the distribution channel 26. In other words, the first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28 are located on the +Z side of the distribution channel 26.

[0031] The main chamber 64 has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The lower part of the main chamber 64 communicates with the -Y side end of the distribution path 26 via the communication path 32. More specifically, the communication path 32 is connected to a point on the -Y side of the center of the lower edge of the main chamber 64. The refrigerant from the distribution path 26 is introduced into the main chamber 64 through the communication path 32.

[0032] A first outlet hole 34 is formed in the main chamber 64. The first outlet hole 34 is formed so as to penetrate the first intermediate plate member 12 in the thickness direction. More specifically, the first outlet hole 34 is formed in the lower part of the main chamber 64, at a position on the -Y side from the center.

[0033] The first outlet hole 34 is rectangular, with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the first outlet hole 34 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the main chamber 64 in the Y direction. The dimension (height) of the first outlet hole 34 in the Z direction is smaller than the dimension (height) of the main chamber 64 in the Z direction. When viewed from the X direction, the area of ​​the first outlet hole 34 is smaller than the area of ​​the main chamber 64. Therefore, the area of ​​the first sub-chamber 27 is larger than the area of ​​the first outlet hole 34.

[0034] The upper part of the main chamber 64 is in communication with the communication space 24 via a first communication passage 46. Specifically, the first communication passage 46 is connected to the upper edge of the main chamber 64 at a location on the +Y side from the center. The first communication passage 46 extends in the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the first communication passage 46 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the first communication flow path 61 in the Y direction. In other words, the first communication passage 46 is narrower in width than the first communication flow path 61.

[0035] The main chamber 65 has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The lower part of the main chamber 65 communicates with the +Y side end of the distribution path 26 via the communication path 33. More specifically, the communication path 33 is connected to a point on the +Y side of the center of the lower edge of the main chamber 65. The refrigerant from the distribution path 26 is introduced into the main chamber 65 through the communication path 33.

[0036] A second outlet hole 35 is formed in the main chamber 65. The second outlet hole 35 is formed to penetrate the first intermediate plate 12 in the thickness direction. More specifically, the second outlet hole 35 is formed in the lower part of the main chamber 65, at a position on the +Y side from the center.

[0037] The second outlet hole 35 is rectangular, with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the second outlet hole 35 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the main chamber 65 in the Y direction. The dimension (height) of the second outlet hole 35 in the Z direction is smaller than the dimension (height) of the main chamber 65 in the Z direction. When viewed from the X direction, the area of ​​the second outlet hole 35 is smaller than the area of ​​the main chamber 65. Therefore, the area of ​​the second sub-chamber 28 is larger than the area of ​​the second outlet hole 35.

[0038] For example, the height position (position in the Z direction) of the second lead-out hole 35 is the same as the height position of the first lead-out hole 34. For example, the shape of the second lead-out hole 35 is the same as the shape of the first lead-out hole 34. For example, the size of the second lead-out hole 35 is the same as the size of the first lead-out hole 34. The first lead-out hole 34 and the second lead-out hole 35 may have at least a part of the same height position.

[0039] The upper part of the main chamber 65 communicates with the communication space 24 via a first communication passage 47. Specifically, the first communication passage 47 is connected to a location on the upper edge of the main chamber 65 on the -Y side from the center. The first communication passage 47 extends in the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the first communication passage 47 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the first communication flow path 61 in the Y direction. In other words, the width of the first communication passage 47 is narrower than that of the first communication flow path 61.

[0040] The first inflow space 22 is partitioned by a partition wall 29. More specifically, the first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28 are partitioned by the partition wall 29. The partition wall 29 extends in the Z direction. The upper end of the partition wall 29 faces the communication space 24. The lower end of the partition wall 29 faces the main flow path 63. The partition wall 29 partitions the communication flow path 32 and the communication flow path 33. The partition wall 29 partitions the first communication passage 46 and the first communication passage 47. In this embodiment, the partition wall 29 is substantially inverted T-shaped.

[0041] The second inflow space 23 is located on the +Y side of the center in the Y direction of the first intermediate plate 12. The second inflow space 23 is located higher than the branch flow path 21. In other words, the second inflow space 23 is on the +Z side compared to the branch flow path 21.

[0042] The second inflow space 23 has a distribution passage 36, a first compartment 37 (compartment), and a second compartment 38 (compartment).

[0043] The distribution path 36 has a main path 163 extending in the Y direction and a second communication path 62 connecting the main path 163 and the branch path 21. The center portion of the main path 163 in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) communicates with the +Y side end of the branch path 21 via the second communication path 62. Refrigerant is introduced into the main path 163 from the branch path 21 through the second communication path 62. The distribution path 36 divides the refrigerant flowing in from the branch path 21 to the left and right, and distributes the refrigerant to the first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38, respectively.

[0044] The first compartment 37 has a substantially rectangular main chamber 164, a communication passage 42 connecting the main chamber 164 and the main passage 163, and a second communication passage 48 connecting the main chamber 164 and the communication space 24. The second sub-chamber 38 has a substantially rectangular main chamber 165, a communication flow path 43 connecting the main chamber 165 and the main flow path 163, and a second communication passage 49 connecting the main chamber 165 and the communication space 24.

[0045] The first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38 are formed side by side in the Y direction. The second compartment 38 is formed on the +Y side of the first compartment 37. The first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38 are located higher than the distribution channel 36. In other words, the first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38 are located on the +Z side of the distribution channel 36.

[0046] The main chamber 164 has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The lower part of the main chamber 164 communicates with the -Y side end of the distribution path 36 via the communication path 42. More specifically, the communication path 42 is connected to a point on the -Y side of the center of the lower edge of the main chamber 164. The refrigerant from the distribution path 36 is introduced into the main chamber 164 through the communication path 42.

[0047] A first outlet hole 44 is formed in the main chamber 164. The first outlet hole 44 is formed so as to penetrate through the first intermediate plate member 12 in the thickness direction. More specifically, the first outlet hole 44 is formed in the lower part of the main chamber 164, at a position on the -Y side from the center.

[0048] The first outlet hole 44 has a rectangular shape having a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the first outlet hole 44 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the main chamber 164 in the Y direction. The dimension (height) of the first outlet hole 44 in the Z direction is smaller than the dimension (height) of the main chamber 164 in the Z direction. When viewed from the X direction, the area of ​​the first outlet hole 44 is smaller than the area of ​​the main chamber 164. Therefore, the area of ​​the first sub-chamber 37 is larger than the area of ​​the first outlet hole 44.

[0049] The upper part of the main chamber 164 is in communication with the communication space 24 via a second communication passage 48. Specifically, the second communication passage 48 is connected to a location on the upper edge of the main chamber 164 on the +Y side from the center. The second communication passage 48 extends in the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the second communication passage 48 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the second communication flow path 62 in the Y direction. In other words, the second communication passage 48 is narrower in width than the second communication flow path 62.

[0050] The main chamber 165 has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The lower part of the main chamber 165 communicates with the +Y side end of the distribution path 36 via the communication path 43. More specifically, the communication path 43 is connected to a point on the +Y side of the center of the lower edge of the main chamber 165. The refrigerant from the distribution path 36 is introduced into the main chamber 165 through the communication path 43.

[0051] A second outlet hole 45 is formed in the main chamber 165. The second outlet hole 45 is formed so as to penetrate through the first intermediate plate member 12 in the thickness direction. More specifically, the second outlet hole 45 is formed in the lower part of the main chamber 165, at a position on the +Y side from the center.

[0052] The second outlet hole 45 has a rectangular shape having a pair of sides along the Y direction and a pair of sides along the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the second outlet hole 45 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the main chamber 165 in the Y direction. The dimension (height) of the second outlet hole 45 in the Z direction is smaller than the dimension (height) of the main chamber 165 in the Z direction. When viewed from the X direction, the area of ​​the second outlet hole 45 is smaller than the area of ​​the main chamber 165. Therefore, the area of ​​the second sub-chamber 38 is larger than the area of ​​the second outlet hole 45.

[0053] For example, the height position (position in the Z direction) of the second lead-out hole 45 is the same as the height position of the first lead-out hole 44. For example, the shape of the second lead-out hole 45 is the same as the shape of the first lead-out hole 44. For example, the size of the second lead-out hole 45 is the same as the size of the first lead-out hole 44. The first lead-out hole 44 and the second lead-out hole 45 may have at least a portion at the same height position.

[0054] The height positions of the lead-out holes 44, 45 are the same as the height positions of the lead-out holes 34, 35. The lead-out holes 34, 44, 35, 45 may have at least a portion at the same height position. The first lead-out holes 34, 44 and the second lead-out holes 35, 45 are examples of "lead-out holes."

[0055] The upper part of the main chamber 165 is in communication with the communication space 24 via the second communication passage 49. Specifically, the second communication passage 49 is connected to the upper edge of the main chamber 165 at a location on the -Y side from the center. The second communication passage 49 extends in the Z direction. The dimension (width) of the second communication passage 49 in the Y direction is smaller than the dimension (width) of the second communication flow path 62 in the Y direction. In other words, the second communication passage 49 is narrower in width than the second communication flow path 62.

[0056] The second inflow space 23 is partitioned by a partition wall 39. More specifically, the first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38 are partitioned by the partition wall 39. The partition wall 39 extends in the Z direction. The upper end of the partition wall 39 faces the communication space 24. The lower end of the partition wall 39 faces the main flow path 163. The partition wall 39 partitions the communication flow path 42 and the communication flow path 43. The partition wall 39 partitions the second communication passage 48 and the second communication passage 49. In this embodiment, the partition wall 39 is substantially inverted T-shaped.

[0057] For example, the height position of the first inflow space 22 is the same as the height position of the second inflow space 23. For example, the shape of the first inflow space 22 is the same as the shape of the second inflow space 23. For example, the size of the first inflow space 22 is the same as the size of the second inflow space 23.

[0058] The communication space 24 has a rectangular shape extending in the Y direction. The communication space 24 is located higher than the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23. The communication space 24 is located on the +Z side compared to the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23. As described above, the communication space 24 communicates the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23 via the first and second communication passages 46-49.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 5, a first outlet flow path 71, a second outlet flow path 72, a third outlet flow path 73, and a fourth outlet flow path 74 are formed by recesses on the outer surface 13a (the surface on the +X side) of the second intermediate plate 13. The first outlet flow path 71, the second outlet flow path 72, the third outlet flow path 73, and the fourth outlet flow path 74 are formed independently of one another. The openings on the outer surface side (+X side) of the recesses are closed by the first intermediate plate 12 (see Fig. 3).

[0060] The first outlet flow path 71 is L-shaped and includes a first partial flow path 71A extending in the Z direction and a second partial flow path 71B extending in the Y direction. The second partial flow path 71B extends from the lower end of the first partial flow path 71A toward the +Y side. The upper end of the first partial flow path 71A is positioned so as to overlap with the first outlet hole 34 (see FIG. 4). A first outlet hole 76 is formed at the end of the second partial flow path 71B on the +Y side.

[0061] The first outlet hole 76 is formed to penetrate the second intermediate plate member 13 in the thickness direction (X direction). The first outlet flow path 71 introduces the refrigerant from the first outlet hole 34 through the first outlet hole 76 to the first lower compartment 81 (see FIG. 6).

[0062] The second outlet flow path 72 is L-shaped and has a first partial flow path 72A extending in the Y direction and a second partial flow path 72B extending in the Z direction. The second partial flow path 72B extends upward from the -Y side end of the first partial flow path 72A. The +Y side end of the first partial flow path 72A is positioned so as to overlap with the second outlet hole 35 (see FIG. 4). The first partial flow path 72A is positioned at approximately the same height as the upper end of the first partial flow path 71A.

[0063] A second outlet hole 77 is formed at the upper end of the second partial flow path 72B. The second outlet hole 77 is formed to penetrate the second intermediate plate member 13 in the thickness direction. The second outlet hole 77 is located higher than the first outlet hole 76. The second outlet flow path 72 guides the refrigerant from the second outlet hole 35 through the second outlet hole 77 to the first upper secondary chamber 82 (see FIG. 6).

[0064] The third outlet flow path 73 is L-shaped and includes a first partial flow path 73A extending in the Z direction and a second partial flow path 73B extending in the Y direction. The second partial flow path 73B extends from the lower end of the first partial flow path 73A toward the -Y side. The upper end of the first partial flow path 73A is positioned so as to overlap with the second outlet hole 45 (see FIG. 4).

[0065] A third outlet hole 78 is formed at the -Y side end of the second partial flow path 73B. The third outlet hole 78 is formed to penetrate the second intermediate plate member 13 in the thickness direction. The third outlet flow path 73 guides the refrigerant from the second outlet hole 45 through the third outlet hole 78 to the second lower branch chamber 83 (see FIG. 6).

[0066] The fourth outlet flow path 74 is L-shaped and includes a first partial flow path 74A extending in the Y direction and a second partial flow path 74B extending in the Z direction. The second partial flow path 74B extends upward from the +Y side end of the first partial flow path 74A. The -Y side end of the first partial flow path 74A is positioned so as to overlap with the first outlet hole 44 (see FIG. 4). The first partial flow path 74A is positioned at approximately the same height as the upper end of the first partial flow path 73A.

[0067] A fourth outlet hole 79 is formed at the upper end of the second partial flow path 74B. The fourth outlet hole 79 is formed to penetrate the second intermediate plate member 13 in the thickness direction. The fourth outlet hole 79 is located higher than the third outlet hole 78. The fourth outlet flow path 74 guides the refrigerant from the first outlet hole 44 through the fourth outlet hole 79 to the second upper branch chamber 84 (see FIG. 6).

[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, the third intermediate plate 14 is formed with a first lower compartment 81, a first upper compartment 82, a second lower compartment 83, and a second upper compartment 84. The first lower compartment 81, the first upper compartment 82, the second lower compartment 83, and the second upper compartment 84 are collectively referred to as compartments 81 to 84. The compartments 81 to 84 penetrate the third intermediate plate 14 in the thickness direction. Each of the compartments 81 to 84 has an oval shape when viewed from the X direction. The major axis direction of the compartments 81 to 84 is parallel to the Y direction.

[0069] The first upper compartment 82 is located on the +Z side of the first lower compartment 81. The first lower compartment 81 and the first upper compartment 82 are lined up vertically. The second upper compartment 84 is located on the +Z side of the second lower compartment 83. The second lower compartment 83 and the second upper compartment 84 are lined up vertically. The second lower compartment 83 is located on the +Y side of the first lower compartment 81. The first lower compartment 81 and the second lower compartment 83 are lined up horizontally. The second upper compartment 84 is located on the +Y side of the first upper compartment 82. The first upper compartment 82 and the second upper compartment 84 are lined up horizontally.

[0070] As described above, the third intermediate plate 14 is placed on the -X side surface of the second intermediate plate 13. In the stacked third intermediate plate 14 and second intermediate plate 13, the first lower compartment 81 includes the first outlet hole 76 when viewed from the X direction (see FIG. 5). The first upper compartment 82 includes the second outlet hole 77 when viewed from the X direction (see FIG. 5). The second lower compartment 83 includes the third outlet hole 78 when viewed from the X direction (see FIG. 5). The second upper compartment 84 includes the fourth outlet hole 79 when viewed from the X direction (see FIG. 5).

[0071] As shown in Fig. 3, the second plate member 15 has a plurality of outlet ports 41 formed therein. The outlet ports 41 are slit-shaped and extend in the Y direction. The outlet ports 41 include a first lower outlet port 41A, a first upper outlet port 41B, a second lower outlet port 41C, and a second upper outlet port 41D. The outlet ports 41 penetrate the second plate member 15 in the thickness direction.

[0072] The first upper outlet 41B is located on the +Z side of the first lower outlet 41A. The second upper outlet 41D is located on the +Z side of the second lower outlet 41C. The second lower outlet 41C is located on the +Y side of the first lower outlet 41A. The second upper outlet 41D is located on the +Y side of the first upper outlet 41B.

[0073] The first lower outlet 41A is formed at a position corresponding to the first lower compartment 81. The first upper outlet 41B is formed at a position corresponding to the first upper compartment 82. The second lower outlet 41C is formed at a position corresponding to the second lower compartment 83. The second lower outlet 41C is formed at a position corresponding to the second upper compartment 84.

[0074] 2, for example, the heat transfer tube 30 is a flat tube formed into a flat shape. The heat transfer tube 30 has a larger outer dimension (outer diameter) in the Y direction than the outer dimension (outer diameter) in the Z direction. For example, the outer diameter of the heat transfer tube 30 in the Y direction is at least twice the outer diameter in the Z direction. For example, the shape of a cross section (YZ cross section) of the heat transfer tube 30 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is a substantially oval shape or a substantially elliptical shape.

[0075] The heat transfer tube 30 extends in the X direction. One or more refrigerant flow paths 31 are formed inside the heat transfer tube 30. A refrigerant flows through the refrigerant flow paths 31. In the internal space of the heat transfer tube 30, one or more partition walls may form a plurality of refrigerant flow paths 31 arranged in the Y direction (width direction). The heat transfer tube 30 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity. For example, the heat transfer tube 30 is made of a metal such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0076] 3, the plurality of heat transfer tubes 30 include a first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A, a first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B, a second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C, and a second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D. The first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A is connected to a first lower-stage outlet 41A. The first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B is connected to a first upper-stage outlet 41B. The second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C is connected to a second lower-stage outlet 41C. The second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D is connected to a second upper-stage outlet 41D.

[0077] The first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A and the first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B are at different height positions. The first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B is located on the +Z side of the first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A. The first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A and the first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B are arranged side by side vertically. The second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C and the second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D are at different height positions. The second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D is located on the +Z side of the second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C. The second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C and the second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D are arranged side by side vertically. The second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C is located on the +Y side of the first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A. The second upper-stage heat transfer tube 30D is located on the +Y side of the first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B. The first lower-stage heat transfer tube 30A and the second lower-stage heat transfer tube 30C are examples of "lower-stage heat transfer tubes." The first upper heat transfer tube 30B and the second upper heat transfer tube 30D are examples of "upper heat transfer tubes."

[0078] The refrigerant flow path 31 of the first lower heat transfer tube 30A (see FIG. 2) communicates with the first lower sub-chamber 81. The refrigerant flow path 31 of the first upper heat transfer tube 30B communicates with the first upper sub-chamber 82. The refrigerant flow path 31 of the second lower heat transfer tube 30C communicates with the second lower sub-chamber 83. The refrigerant flow path 31 of the second upper heat transfer tube 30D communicates with the second upper sub-chamber 84.

[0079] An outside air flow path is formed along the Y direction between adjacent heat transfer tubes 30 in the vertical direction. For example, the heat exchanger 4 circulates outside air (external gas) through the outside air flow path using a blower fan (not shown) or the like. The heat exchanger 4 can exchange heat between the outside air flowing through the outside air flow path and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 31. The heat exchange is performed indirectly via the heat transfer tubes 30.

[0080] The flow of the refrigerant will be described in detail below. 4, for example, the refrigerant is introduced into branch flow path 21 from inlet 51a of refrigerant port 51. For example, the refrigerant is a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The refrigerant that flows into branch flow path 21 is distributed to the -Y side and the +Y side. That is, the flow direction of the refrigerant changes when it hits main surface 21a of branch flow path 21, and the refrigerant is divided mainly into the -Y side and the +Y side.

[0081] The refrigerant distributed to the -Y side by branch flow path 21 flows into first inflow space 22. More specifically, the refrigerant flows into distribution path 26 through first communication flow path 61, and is distributed to the -Y side and +Y side by distribution path 26. The refrigerant distributed to the -Y side of distribution path 26 flows into main chamber 64 through communication flow path 32. The refrigerant distributed to the +Y side of distribution path 26 flows into main chamber 65 through communication flow path 33.

[0082] The refrigerant distributed to the +Y side by branch flow path 21 flows into second inflow space 23. More specifically, the refrigerant flows into distribution path 36 through second communication flow path 62, and is distributed to the -Y side and +Y side by distribution path 36. The refrigerant distributed to the -Y side of distribution path 36 flows into main chamber 164 through communication flow path 42. The refrigerant distributed to the +Y side of distribution path 36 flows into main chamber 165 through communication flow path 43.

[0083] 3 to 5, a portion of the refrigerant in the main chamber 64 is introduced into the first outlet flow path 71 through the first outlet hole 34. The refrigerant in the first outlet flow path 71 is guided to the first lower branch chamber 81 through the first outlet hole 76. The refrigerant flows from the first lower branch chamber 81 to the first lower heat transfer tube 30A.

[0084] A portion of the refrigerant in the main chamber 65 is introduced into the second outlet flow path 72 through the second outlet hole 35. The refrigerant in the second outlet flow path 72 is guided to the first upper-stage sub-chamber 82 through the second outlet hole 77. The refrigerant flows from the first upper-stage sub-chamber 82 to the first upper-stage heat transfer tube 30B. In this manner, the first outlet flow path 71 and the second outlet flow path 72 guide the refrigerant in the first compartment 27 and the second compartment 28 of the first inflow space 22 to one side and the other side of the heat transfer tubes 30A and 30B, respectively.

[0085] A portion of the refrigerant in the main chamber 164 is introduced into the fourth outlet flow path 74 through the first outlet hole 44. The refrigerant in the fourth outlet flow path 74 is introduced into the second upper sub-chamber 84 through the fourth outlet hole 79. The refrigerant flows from the second upper sub-chamber 84 to the second upper heat transfer tube 30D.

[0086] A portion of the refrigerant in the main chamber 165 is introduced into the third outlet flow path 73 through the second outlet hole 45. The refrigerant in the third outlet flow path 73 is guided to the second lower sub-chamber 83 through the third outlet hole 78. The refrigerant flows from the second lower sub-chamber 83 to the second lower heat transfer tube 30C. In this way, the third outlet flow path 73 and the fourth outlet flow path 74 guide the refrigerant in the first compartment 37 and the second compartment 38 of the second inflow space 23 to one side and the other side of the heat transfer tubes 30C and 30D, respectively.

[0087] In the heat exchanger 4 of this embodiment, the communication space 24 is formed at a position higher than the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23. Therefore, the gas refrigerant can flow between the inflow spaces 22, 23 and the communication space 24. Furthermore, for example, when the communication space 24 is filled with the gas refrigerant, the pressure difference between the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23 can be reduced. Therefore, the difference in the amount of refrigerant flowing from the branch flow path 21 into the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23 can be reduced. Therefore, the unevenness in the amount of refrigerant flowing through the multiple heat transfer tubes 30 can be reduced.

[0088] In the heat exchanger 4 of this embodiment, the flow path connecting to the communication space 24 includes narrow communication passages 46-49. The refrigerant flowing into the sub-chambers 27, 28, 37, and 38 is easily separated into a gas refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant because the communication passages 46-49 are narrow. Therefore, the separated gas refrigerant easily flows between the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23. This makes it possible to reduce the pressure difference between the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23.

[0089] In the heat exchanger 4 of this embodiment, the first and second sub-chambers 27 and 28 of the first inflow space 22 have areas larger than the outlet holes 34 and 35, respectively. The first and second sub-chambers 37 and 38 of the second inflow space 23 have areas larger than the outlet holes 44 and 45, respectively. As described above, the sub-chambers 27, 28, 37, and 38 are formed sufficiently large, allowing the refrigerant to separate into gas and liquid phases in the sub-chambers 27, 28, 37, and 38. This makes it possible to make the state of the two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant flowing into the plurality of heat transfer tubes 30 uniform. Furthermore, the gas refrigerant in the sub-chambers 27, 28, 37, and 38 easily circulates between the sub-chambers 27, 28, 37, and 38 and the communicating space 24 through the communicating passages 46-49.

[0090] In the heat exchanger 4 of this embodiment, a plurality of outlet flow paths 71-74 are formed in the second intermediate plate 13. Therefore, the refrigerant that flows into the compartments 27, 28, 38, and 37 can be guided to the plurality of heat transfer tubes 30 through the compartments 81, 82, 83, and 84, which are located at different heights, by passing through the outlet flow paths 71-74. This makes it possible to reduce the effect of gravity when distributing the refrigerant to the heat transfer tubes 30 (30A-30D) located at different heights. This makes it possible to reduce unevenness in the amount of refrigerant flowing through the plurality of heat transfer tubes 30 located at different heights.

[0091] In the heat exchanger 4 of this embodiment, the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23 are formed at the same height, and the outlet holes 34, 35, 44, and 45 formed in the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23 are also at the same height, which reduces unevenness in the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing into these outlet holes. In addition, it also reduces unevenness in the state of the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the outlet holes 34, 35, 44, and 45. Therefore, in the heat exchanger 4, even though the multiple heat transfer tubes 30 (30A to 30D) include heat transfer tubes 30 at different heights, the refrigerant can flow evenly through the heat transfer tubes 30 (30A to 30D).

[0092] Although the heat exchanger and the refrigeration cycle apparatus according to the embodiment have been described above, the configurations of the embodiment are not limited to the above examples. For example, in the heat exchanger 4 shown in Fig. 2, the first header 10 has three intermediate plates 12 to 14, but the number of intermediate plates may be one or more (any number equal to or greater than two). That is, the number of intermediate plates may be one or more. In the heat exchanger 4, a second header may be provided at the end of the heat transfer tube 30 on the -X side.

[0093] 4, the first intermediate plate 12 has a branch flow path 21, a first inflow space 22, and a second inflow space 23, but the first intermediate plate 12 may have only one of the first inflow space 22 and the second inflow space 23. Also, the first intermediate plate 12 may have a structure in which the communication space 24 is not formed.

[0094] The heat exchanger 4 shown in FIG. 3 has two inflow spaces 22, 23, but the number of inflow spaces may be one. In the heat exchanger 4 shown in FIG. 3, the multiple heat transfer tubes 30 include a heat transfer tube group having heat transfer tubes 30A, 30B and a heat transfer tube group having heat transfer tubes 30C, 30D. In the heat exchanger of the embodiment, all of the heat transfer tubes may be arranged vertically side by side. The heat exchanger 4 shown in FIG. 3 has a communication space 24, but the communication space may not be required.

[0095] For example, a heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes and a header connected to the heat transfer tubes. The header includes a first plate member to which a refrigerant introduction tube is connected, one or more intermediate plates having spatial flow paths formed therein, and a second plate member to which the heat transfer tubes are connected. The spatial flow paths have a distribution path that distributes the refrigerant and a first and second compartments into which the refrigerant distributed by the distribution path flows. The plurality of heat transfer tubes include a lower heat transfer tube and an upper heat transfer tube arranged vertically. The intermediate plate member is formed with a first outlet hole that guides the refrigerant in the first compartment to the lower heat transfer tube, and a second outlet hole that guides the refrigerant in the second compartment to the upper heat transfer tube. The first and second outlet holes are at the same height.

[0096] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the communication space is formed at a position higher than the first inflow space and the second inflow space, allowing the gas refrigerant to flow between the first inflow space, the second inflow space, and the communication space. This reduces the pressure difference between the first inflow space and the second inflow space. This reduces the difference in the amount of refrigerant flowing from the branch flow path into the first inflow space and the second inflow space. This reduces the unevenness in the amount of refrigerant flowing through the multiple heat transfer tubes.

[0097] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1... refrigeration cycle device, 4... heat exchanger, 10... first header (header), 11... first plate material, 12... first intermediate plate material (intermediate plate material), 13... second intermediate plate material (intermediate plate material), 14... third intermediate plate material (intermediate plate material), 15... second plate material, 16... space flow path, 21... branch flow path, 22... first inflow space, 23... second inflow space, 24... communication space, 26, 36... distribution path, 27, 37... first compartment, 28, 38... second compartment, 30... heat transfer tube, 30A... first lower stage heat transfer tube (lower stage heat transfer tube), 30B... first upper stage heat transfer tube ( upper heat transfer tube), 30C...second lower heat transfer tube (lower heat transfer tube), 30D...second upper heat transfer tube (upper heat transfer tube), 31...refrigerant flow path, 34, 44...first outlet hole (outlet hole), 35, 45...second outlet hole (outlet hole), 46, 47...first communication passage, 48, 49...second communication passage, 51...refrigerant port (refrigerant introduction pipe), 61...first connection passage, 62...second connection passage, 71...first outlet passage (outlet passage), 72...second outlet passage (outlet passage), 73...third outlet passage (outlet passage), 74...fourth outlet passage (outlet passage)

Claims

1. a plurality of heat transfer tubes each having a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant flows; a header connected to the heat transfer tube, The header a first plate member to which a refrigerant introduction pipe for introducing the refrigerant is connected; one or more intermediate plates each having a spatial flow path through which the coolant is introduced; a second plate member to which the heat transfer tube is connected, The spatial flow path is a branch flow path that branches the introduced refrigerant; a first inflow space and a second inflow space into which the refrigerant branched by the branch flow path flows; a communication space formed at a position higher than the first inflow space and the second inflow space, the communication space communicating the first inflow space and the second inflow space; having heat exchanger.

2. One end of the branch flow path communicates with the first inflow space through a first communication flow path, the other end of the branch flow path communicates with the second inflow space through a second communication flow path; the first inflow space communicates with the communication space through a first communication passage, the second inflow space communicates with the communication space through a second communication passage, The first communication passage has a width narrower than that of the first communication flow path, The second communication passage has a narrower width than the second communication flow path. The heat exchanger of claim 1.

3. the plurality of heat transfer tubes include a first lower-stage heat transfer tube and a first upper-stage heat transfer tube that are located at different heights, and a second lower-stage heat transfer tube and a second upper-stage heat transfer tube that are located at different heights; the first inflow space and the second inflow space have a distribution path that distributes the refrigerant, and a first compartment and a second compartment into which the refrigerant distributed by the distribution path flows, an outlet hole is formed in the first sub-chamber of the first inflow space to introduce the refrigerant into one of the first lower heat transfer tube and the first upper heat transfer tube; an outlet hole is formed in the second sub-chamber of the first inflow space to introduce the refrigerant into the other of the first lower-stage heat transfer tube and the first upper-stage heat transfer tube; an outlet hole is formed in the first sub-chamber of the second inflow space to introduce the refrigerant into one of the second lower heat transfer tube and the second upper heat transfer tube; an outlet hole is formed in the second sub-chamber of the second inflow space to introduce the refrigerant into the other of the second lower heat transfer tube and the second upper heat transfer tube; an area of ​​the outlet hole formed in the first compartment is smaller than an area of ​​the first compartment in which the outlet hole is formed; an area of ​​the outlet hole formed in the second compartment is smaller than an area of ​​the second compartment in which the outlet hole is formed; The heat exchanger of claim 1.

4. the plurality of intermediate plates include a first intermediate plate in which the spatial flow path is formed and a second intermediate plate superposed on the first intermediate plate, the plurality of heat transfer tubes include a first lower-stage heat transfer tube and a first upper-stage heat transfer tube that are located at different heights, and a second lower-stage heat transfer tube and a second upper-stage heat transfer tube that are located at different heights; the first inflow space and the second inflow space formed in the first intermediate plate member have a distribution path that distributes the refrigerant, and a first compartment and a second compartment into which the refrigerant distributed by the distribution path flows, The second intermediate plate material, a plurality of outlet flow paths that respectively guide the refrigerant in the first compartment and the second compartment of the first inflow space to one of the first lower heat transfer tube and the first upper heat transfer tube; a plurality of outlet flow paths are formed to respectively guide the refrigerant in the first and second compartments of the second inflow space to one of the second lower heat transfer tube and the second upper heat transfer tube, The heat exchanger of claim 1.

5. the outlet hole formed in the first compartment of the first inflow space, the outlet hole formed in the second compartment of the first inflow space, the outlet hole formed in the first compartment of the second inflow space, and the outlet hole formed in the second compartment of the second inflow space are all at the same height position; 4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3.

6. a plurality of heat transfer tubes each having a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant flows; a header connected to the heat transfer tube, The header a first plate member to which a refrigerant introduction pipe for introducing the refrigerant is connected; one or more intermediate plates each having a spatial flow path through which the coolant is introduced; a second plate member to which the heat transfer tube is connected, The spatial flow path includes a distribution path that distributes the refrigerant, a first compartment and a second compartment into which the refrigerant distributed by the distribution path flows; and the plurality of heat transfer tubes include a lower heat transfer tube and an upper heat transfer tube arranged vertically side by side, a first outlet hole that guides the refrigerant in the first compartment to the lower heat transfer tube and a second outlet hole that guides the refrigerant in the second compartment to the upper heat transfer tube, The first outlet hole and the second outlet hole are at the same height position. heat exchanger.

7. A refrigeration cycle device comprising the heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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