heat exchanger

Abstract

This prevents refrigerant from leaking into the gap between the flow path member and the spacer in a heat exchanger. [Solution] The heat exchanger (1) comprises a plate-shaped flow path member (40) and a spacer (50) surrounding the outer periphery (41) of the flow path member (40). An inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the outer periphery (41) at intervals from each other. A refrigerant passage (45) is provided on the surface (44) of the flow path member (40) through which the refrigerant (W1) flows from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43). A leak passage (60) is formed in the gap (H) between the outer periphery (41) and the spacer (50) through which the refrigerant (W1) leaks from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43). The leak passage (60) has a meandering section (70) that causes the flow of the refrigerant (W1) to meander.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a heat exchanger.

Background Art

[0002] Various technologies regarding heat exchangers have been disclosed. For example, the heat exchanger disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a structure in which fluid passages are formed in multiple stages by stacking tube plates with a pair of spacer bars sandwiched therebetween. In each fluid passage, corrugated fins are arranged along the flow direction thereof.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in this type of heat exchanger, a configuration in which a refrigerant passage is provided on the surface of a plate-like flow path member is known. If there is a blank portion that does not constitute a refrigerant passage on the outer peripheral portion of the surface of the flow path member, it is disadvantageous in terms of cost. From the viewpoint of cost reduction, it is desirable that the surface of the flow path member has as few blank portions as possible and is occupied by the refrigerant passages.

[0005] Therefore, a plate-like flow path member provided with a refrigerant passage on the surface and a spacer surrounding the outer peripheral portion of the flow path member are divided into separate members. Since the blank portion (not constituting the refrigerant passage) on the outer peripheral portion of the surface of the flow path member can be reduced, it is advantageous in terms of cost.

[0006] However, an inevitable gap occurs between the flow path member and the spacer. Instead of flowing into the refrigerant passage on the surface of the flow path member, the refrigerant leaks into the gap between the flow path member and the spacer.

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to suppress the leakage of refrigerant into the gap between the flow path member and the spacer in a heat exchanger. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1). This heat exchanger (1) comprises a plate-shaped flow channel member (40) and a spacer (50) surrounding the outer periphery (41) of the flow channel member (40), wherein an inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the outer periphery (41) spaced apart from each other, a refrigerant passage (45) through which a refrigerant (W1) flows from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43) is provided on the surface (44) of the flow channel member (40), a leak passage (60) is formed in the gap (H) between the outer periphery (41) and the spacer (50) through which the refrigerant (W1) leaks from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43), and the leak passage (60) has a meandering section (70) that causes the flow of the refrigerant (W1) to meander.

[0009] According to the first embodiment, the resistance of the leak passage (60) in the gap (H) between the flow path member (40) and the spacer (50) is increased by the meandering section (70) that causes the flow of the refrigerant (W1) to meander. This makes it less likely for the refrigerant (W1) to leak into the leak passage (60). In the heat exchanger (1), leakage of the refrigerant (W1) into the gap (H) between the flow path member (40) and the spacer (50) can be suppressed.

[0010] A second aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to the first aspect. In this heat exchanger (1), the meandering portion (70) is composed of irregularities (71).

[0011] According to the second embodiment, the meandering portion (70) can be easily formed by the irregularities (71).

[0012] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to the second aspect. In this heat exchanger (1), the outer periphery (41) is provided with a protrusion (71a), and the spacer (50) is provided with a recess (71b).

[0013] According to the third embodiment, by providing a protrusion (71a) on the outer periphery (41) of the flow path member (40), a large space can be secured for arranging the refrigerant passage (45) provided on the surface (44) of the flow path member (40).

[0014] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the first to third aspects. In this heat exchanger (1), the outer periphery (41) includes a first side (41a) and a second side (41b) extending in a first direction (X) and aligned in a second direction (Y) intersecting the first direction (X), and a third side (41c) and a fourth side (41d) extending in the second direction (Y) and aligned in the first direction (X). The inlet (42) and the outlet (43) are located on the first side (41a), and the meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) in the leak passage (60) and the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) in the leak passage (60).

[0015] According to the fourth aspect, when the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the flow channel member (40) widens, the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the flow channel member (40) narrows. Conversely, when the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the flow channel member (40) widens, the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the flow channel member (40) narrows. This prevents the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the outer circumference (41) of the flow channel member (40) from becoming excessively wide.

[0016] A fifth aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to the fourth aspect. In this heat exchanger (1), the meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) in the leak passage (60) and in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the second side (41b) in the leak passage (60).

[0017] According to the fifth embodiment, the meandering section (70) is arranged to correspond to all of the first side (41a), second side (41b), third side (41c), and fourth side (41d), which is advantageous in increasing the resistance of the leak passage (60).

[0018] A sixth aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to the fifth aspect. In this heat exchanger (1), the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) in the leak passage (60) is greater than the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the second side (41b) in the leak passage (60), the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) in the leak passage (60), and the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) in the leak passage (60).

[0019] According to the sixth embodiment, an inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the first side (41a) of the flow path member (40). The refrigerant (W1) tends to flow through the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the flow path member (40). By increasing the number of meandering sections (70) per unit length on the first side (41a), measures can be taken to make it more difficult for the refrigerant (W1) to flow through the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the flow path member (40).

[0020] A seventh aspect of this disclosure relates to a heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the first to sixth aspects. In this heat exchanger (1), the refrigerant passage (45) is formed by etching on the surface (44) of the flow path member (40).

[0021] According to the seventh aspect, when the refrigerant passage (45) is formed on the surface (44) of the flow path member (40) by etching, if there is a margin portion that does not constitute the refrigerant passage (45) on the outer peripheral portion (41) of the surface (44) of the flow path member (40), it is disadvantageous in terms of cost. Therefore, the plate-like flow path member (40) provided with the refrigerant passage (45) on the surface (44) and the spacer (50) surrounding the outer peripheral portion (41) of the flow path member (40) are divided into separate members. Since the margin portion (not constituting the refrigerant passage (45)) on the outer peripheral portion (41) of the surface (44) of the flow path member (40) can be reduced, it is advantageous in terms of cost.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows the first laminate (10) of the heat exchanger (1) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows the second laminate (20) of the heat exchanger (1) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows the intermediate plate (31) of the heat exchanger (1) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the assembly of the heat exchanger (1) according to the first embodiment. <舍 [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows the meandering portion (70) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the meandering portion (70) according to the second embodiment. [[ID:24]] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows the meandering portion (70) according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows the meandering portion (70) according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows the first flow path member (40) according to the fifth embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual explanation of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

[0024] <First Embodiment> (heat exchanger) The first embodiment will be described. The first direction (X), the second direction (Y), and the third direction (Z) intersect each other (more specifically, are orthogonal) (see Figure 4). The heat exchanger (1) is made up of multiple layer members stacked in the third direction (Z).

[0025] The heat exchanger (1) comprises a first laminate (10), a second laminate (20), an intermediate plate (31), an outer plate (32), a first side plate (33), and a second side plate (34).

[0026] (Layer 1) Figure 1 shows the first laminate (10) of the heat exchanger (1). The first laminate (10) of the heat exchanger (1) comprises a first flow channel member (40) and a first spacer (50). The first flow channel member (40) is an example of a flow channel member. The first spacer (50) is an example of a spacer. In Figure 1, for clarity, the gap (H) between the first flow channel member (40) and the first spacer (50) is shown to be larger than it actually is.

[0027] The first flow channel member (40) is plate-shaped. The first flow channel member (40) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The first flow channel member (40) has a rectangular shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0028] The outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40) includes a first side (41a), a second side (41b), a third side (41c), and a fourth side (41d). The first side (41a) and the second side (41b) extend in a first direction (X). The first side (41a) and the second side (41b) are aligned with each other in a second direction (Y). The first side (41a) is located on one side (Y1) of the second direction (Y). The second side (41b) is located on the other side (Y2) of the second direction (Y). The first side (41a) and the second side (41b) are parallel to each other.

[0029] The third side (41c) and the fourth side (41d) extend in the second direction (Y). The third side (41c) and the fourth side (41d) are aligned with each other in the first direction (X). The third side (41c) is located on one side (X1) of the first direction (X). The fourth side (41d) is located on the other side (X2) of the first direction (X). The third side (41c) and the fourth side (41d) are parallel to each other.

[0030] An inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40). The inlet (42) and the outlet (43) are located on the first side (41a). The inlet (42) and the outlet (43) are spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X) on the first side (41a). The inlet (42) is located one side (X1) of the center of the first direction (X) on the first side (41a). The outlet (43) is located on the other side (X2) of the center of the first direction (X) on the first side (41a).

[0031] The first flow path member (40) includes a surface (44) on one side (Z1) in the third direction (Z) and a back surface on the other side (Z2) in the third direction (Z). A first refrigerant passage (45) is provided on the surface (44) of the first flow path member (40). The first refrigerant passage (45) is an example of a refrigerant passage. A first refrigerant (W1) flows through the first refrigerant passage (45). The first refrigerant (W1) is an example of a refrigerant. The first refrigerant (W1) is, for example, propane or carbon dioxide.

[0032] The first refrigerant passage (45) is formed on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40) by etching. Etching is a molding or surface processing technique that utilizes the corrosive action of chemicals.

[0033] The first refrigerant passage (45) has a folded structure. The starting point of the first refrigerant passage (45) is the inlet (42) on the first side (41a). The ending point of the first refrigerant passage (45) is the outlet (43) on the first side (41a). The first refrigerant passage (45) extends in a zigzag pattern between the inlet (42) and the outlet (43) on the surface (44) of the first flow path member (40).

[0034] In the first refrigerant passage (45), the first refrigerant (W1) flows from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43). More specifically, in the first refrigerant passage (45), the first refrigerant (W1) starts from the inlet (42) on the first side (41a), moves in a zigzag pattern along the surface (44), and reaches the outlet (43) on the first side (41a).

[0035] The first spacer (50) is frame-shaped and plate-shaped. The first spacer (50) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The first spacer (50) is a rectangular frame shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0036] The inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) surrounds the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40). The inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) corresponds to the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40). The inner diameter of the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0037] The first spacer (50) includes a large member (50a) and a small member (50b). The large member (50a) is roughly U-shaped, opening to one side (Y1) in the second direction (Y). The inner circumference (51) of the large member (50a) surrounds the second side (41b), third side (41c), and fourth side (41d) of the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40). The small member (50b) extends in the first direction (X). The inner circumference (51) of the small member (50b) surrounds the middle portion of the first side (41a) of the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) in the first direction (X).

[0038] In the first spacer (50), a first inflow space (53a) is formed between the end of one side (X1) of the small member (50b) in the first direction (X) and the large member (50a). In the first spacer (50), a first outflow space (53c) is formed between the end of the other side (X1) of the small member (50b) in the first direction (X) and the large member (50a). The first inflow space (53a) is in communication with the inlet (42). The first outflow space (53c) is in communication with the outlet (43).

[0039] A notch (54) recessed toward the inner circumference is provided in the portion of the outer circumference (52) of the first spacer (50) corresponding to the third side (41c) of the first flow channel member (40). A notch (54) recessed toward the inner circumference is also provided in the portion of the outer circumference (52) of the first spacer (50) corresponding to the fourth side (41d) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0040] A gap (H) is formed between the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) and the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50). A leak passage (60) is formed in the gap (H). The leak passage (60) has a meandering section (70). Details of these will be described later.

[0041] (Layer 2) Figure 2 shows the second laminate (20) of the heat exchanger (1). The second laminate (20) includes a second flow channel member (21) and a second spacer (22). The second flow channel member (21) is plate-shaped. The second flow channel member (21) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The second flow channel member (21) has a rectangular shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0042] The second flow channel member (21) is a corrugated sheet. The second flow channel member (21) is formed into a corrugated shape by pressing. The second flow channel member (21) vibrates so as to propagate in the second direction (Y) and amplitude in the third direction (Z). A second refrigerant passage (23) is provided on the front and back surfaces of the second flow channel member (21). The second refrigerant passage (23) extends in the first direction (X). A second refrigerant (W2) flows through the second refrigerant passage (23). The second refrigerant (W2) is, for example, water.

[0043] The second spacer (22) is plate-shaped. The second spacer (22) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The second spacer (22) has a rectangular shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0044] The second spacer (22) includes two small spacers (22a). The two small spacers (22a) are arranged side by side with a gap between them in the second direction (Y). The second spacer (22) surrounds one side (Y1) and the other side (Y2) of the outer circumference of the second flow channel member (21) in the second direction (Y) by sandwiching them with the two small spacers (22a).

[0045] Two notches (24) are formed on the outer circumference of a small spacer (22a) located on one side (Y1) in the second direction (Y) of the second spacer (22). The two notches (24) are arranged side by side with a gap between them in the first direction (X). The two notches (24) of the second spacer (22) correspond to the first inlet space (53a) and the first outlet space (53c) of the first spacer (50).

[0046] The end (22b) of the second spacer (22) on the other side (X2) in the first direction (X) protrudes further in the other side (X2) of the second flow channel member (21). A second inflow space (25a) is formed on the inner circumference side of the end (22b) of the second spacer (22) on the other side (X2) of the first direction (X) in the pair of small spacers (22a) (between the ends (22b) of the other side (X2) of the first direction (X) in the first direction (X).

[0047] The end (22b) of the second spacer (22) on one side (X1) in the first direction (X) protrudes further in the first direction (X1) than the second flow channel member (21). A second outflow space (25b) is formed on the inner circumference side of the end (22b) of the second spacer (22) on one side (X1) in the first direction (X) (between the ends (22b) of the pair of small spacers (22a) on one side (X1) in the first direction (X).

[0048] The second inflow space (25a) and the second outflow space (25b) correspond to the notches (54) of the first spacer (50).

[0049] A small gap exists between the outer circumference of the second flow channel member (21) and the inner circumference of the second spacer (22).

[0050] (Intermediate plate) Figure 3 shows the intermediate plate (31) of the heat exchanger (1). The intermediate plate (31) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The intermediate plate (31) has a rectangular shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0051] The contour shape of the outer periphery of the intermediate plate (31) is the same as the contour shape of the outer periphery (52) of the first spacer (50) in the first laminate (10).

[0052] A notch (31a) is provided on the outer periphery of the intermediate plate (31). The notch (31a) of the intermediate plate (31) corresponds to the first inlet space (53a) and the first outlet space (53c) and notch (54) of the first spacer (50), and the notch (24) and the second inlet space (25a) and second outlet space (25b) of the second spacer (22).

[0053] (Assembly of heat exchanger) Figure 4 shows the assembly of the heat exchanger (1). The first stack (10), intermediate plate (31), and second stack (20) are stacked in the third direction (Z) in that order. These constitute one set, and multiple sets may be stacked further. The outer plate (32) is placed on the outermost side (Z1) and the outermost side (Z2) of the third direction (Z), respectively.

[0054] The outer plate (32) has its thickness in the third direction (Z) and extends in the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y). The outer plate (32) has a rectangular shape with its length in the first direction (X) and its width in the second direction (Y).

[0055] Multiple sets, each consisting of a first laminate (10), an intermediate plate (31), and a second laminate (20), are stacked in a third direction (Z), and these sets are sandwiched between outer plates (32) from one side (Z1) and the other side (Z2) in the third direction (Z). These are joined together by diffusion bonding or brazing to form a joined body.

[0056] The first side plate (33) is positioned on one side (Y1) of the joint in the second direction (Y). The first side plate (33) has the second direction (Y) as the thickness direction and extends in the first direction (X) and the third direction (Z).

[0057] A first inlet pipe (33a) and a first outlet pipe (33b) are provided on the first side plate (33). The first inlet pipe (33a) and the first outlet pipe (33b) are arranged side by side with a gap between them in the first direction (X). The first inlet pipe (33a) is located on one side (X1) of the first direction (X). The first outlet pipe (33b) is located on the other side (X2) of the first direction (X).

[0058] The first inlet pipe (33a) communicates with the inlet (42) on the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40) through the first inlet space (53a) of the first spacer (50) and the notch (24) of the second spacer (22). The first outlet pipe (33b) communicates with the outlet (43) on the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40) through the first outlet space (53c) of the first spacer (50) and the notch (24) of the second spacer (22).

[0059] The second side plates (34) are positioned on one side (X1) and the other side (X2) of the joint in the first direction (Y). The second side plates (34) have the first direction (X) as the thickness direction and extend in the second direction (Y) and the third direction (Z).

[0060] A second inlet pipe (34a) is provided in the second side plate (34) located on the other side (X2) of the first direction (X). The second inlet pipe (34a) communicates with the second flow channel member (21) through the second inlet space (25a) of the second spacer (22) and the notch (54) of the first spacer (50).

[0061] A second outflow pipe (34b) is provided on a second side plate (34) located on one side (X1) in the first direction (X). The second outflow pipe (34b) communicates with the second flow channel member (21) through the second outflow space (25b) of the second spacer (22) and the notch (54) of the first spacer (50).

[0062] (Refrigerant flow) The first refrigerant (W1) flows through the first inlet pipe (33a) of the first side plate (33), and through the first inlet space (53a) of the first spacer (50) and the notch (24) of the second spacer (22), to the inlet (42) of the first flow path member (40) on the first side (41a).

[0063] The first refrigerant (W1) flows into the first refrigerant passage (45) on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40) through the inlet (42). The first refrigerant (W1) flows through the first refrigerant passage (45) from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43), zigzagging from one side (X1) to the other side (X2) in the first direction (X). The first refrigerant (W1) flows out of the first refrigerant passage (45) through the outlet (43) on the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0064] The first refrigerant (W1) flows through the first outlet space (53c) of the first spacer (50) and the notch (24) of the second spacer (22) to the first outlet pipe (33b) of the first side plate (33).

[0065] The second refrigerant (W2) flows through the second inlet pipe (34a) of the second side plate (34) on the other side (X2) of the first direction (X), and flows into the second refrigerant passage (23) on the front and back surfaces of the second flow path member (21) through the second inlet space (25a) of the second spacer (22) and the notch (54) of the first spacer (50). The second refrigerant (W2) flows through the second refrigerant passage (23) of the second flow path member (21) from the other side (X2) of the first direction (X) to the one side (X1).

[0066] The second refrigerant (W2) flows out from the second refrigerant passage (23) on the front and back surfaces of the second flow channel member (21), and flows through the second outflow space (25b) of the second spacer (22) and the notch (54) of the first spacer (50) to the second outflow pipe (34b) of the second side plate (34) on one side (X1) in the first direction (X).

[0067] The first refrigerant (W1) flowing through the first refrigerant passage (45) and the second refrigerant (W2) flowing through the second refrigerant passage (23) exchange heat with each other.

[0068] (Leak passage) As mentioned above, a gap (H) is formed between the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) and the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50). The gap (H) is minute, for example, 1 mm or less. The gap (H) is unavoidable due to manufacturing constraints.

[0069] A leak passage (60) is formed in the gap (H) between the outer circumference (41) of the first flow path member (40) and the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50). In the leak passage (60), the first refrigerant (W1) leaks from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43).

[0070] The leak passage (60) includes a shortest route (61) and a detour route (62). The shortest route (61) connects the inlet (42) to the outlet (43) by the shortest distance along the first side (41a). The detour route (62) connects the inlet (42) to the outlet (43) by a longer route along the third side (41c), the second side (41b), and the fourth side (41d).

[0071] When some of the first refrigerant (W1) flows from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43), it bypasses the first refrigerant passage (45) on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40) and leaks through a shortcut into the leak passage (60) in the gap (H) between the first flow channel member (40) and the first spacer (50). This leakage of the first refrigerant (W1) into the leak passage (60) is undesirable because it reduces the heat exchange performance of the heat exchanger (1). We want to suppress the leakage of the first refrigerant (W1) into the leak passage (60).

[0072] (Meandering section) The meandering section (70) prevents the first refrigerant (W1) from leaking into the leak passage (60). The meandering section (70) will be explained with reference to Figures 1 and 5. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the meandering section (70). Note that the first refrigerant passage (45) is not shown in Figure 5.

[0073] The leak passage (60) has a meandering section (70). The meandering section (70) causes the flow of the first refrigerant (W1) in the leak passage (60) to meander. There are multiple meandering sections (70). Meandering is the process of moving in a winding, snake-like manner.

[0074] The meandering section (70) is composed of irregularities (71). The outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) is provided with a convex portion (71a). The inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) is provided with a concave portion (71b). The convex portion (71a) and the concave portion (71b) fit together.

[0075] The meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60). The meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the second side (41b) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60). The meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60). The meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60).

[0076] In this example, there are three meandering sections (70) on the first side (41a), two on the second side (41b), one on the third side (41c), and one on the fourth side (41d).

[0077] The number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60) is greater than the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the second side (41b) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60), the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60), and the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the first flow channel member (40) in the leak passage (60). The number of meandering sections (70) per unit length is the number density of meandering sections (70).

[0078] (Effects and Benefits) The resistance of the leak passage (60) in the gap (H) between the outer circumference (41) of the first flow path member (40) and the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) is increased by the meandering section (70) which causes the flow of the first refrigerant (W1) to meander. This makes it less likely for the first refrigerant (W1) to leak into the leak passage (60). In the heat exchanger (1), leakage of the first refrigerant (W1) into the gap (H) between the outer circumference (41) of the first flow path member (40) and the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) can be suppressed.

[0079] The meandering section (70) can be easily formed by the irregularities (71).

[0080] By providing a protrusion (71a) on the outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40), a larger space can be secured for arranging the first refrigerant passage (45) on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40), compared to the case where a recess (71b) is provided on the outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0081] When the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the first flow channel member (40) widens, the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the first flow channel member (40) narrows. Conversely, when the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) of the first flow channel member (40) widens, the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the third side (41c) of the first flow channel member (40) narrows. This prevents the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) from becoming excessively wide.

[0082] Since the meandering section (70) is positioned to correspond to all of the first side (41a), second side (41b), third side (41c), and fourth side (41d), it is advantageous in increasing the resistance of the leak passage (60).

[0083] An inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40). The first refrigerant (W1) tends to flow easily into the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40). By increasing the number of meandering sections (70) per unit length on the first side (41a), measures can be taken to make it more difficult for the first refrigerant (W1) to flow into the gap (H) between the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) and the first side (41a) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0084] When the first refrigerant passage (45) is formed by etching on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40), the presence of a blank area on the outer periphery (41) of the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40) that does not constitute the first refrigerant passage (45) is disadvantageous in terms of cost. Therefore, the plate-shaped first flow channel member (40) on which the first refrigerant passage (45) is provided on the surface (44) and the first spacer (50) surrounding the outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40) are separated into separate components. This makes it possible to reduce the blank area (that does not constitute the first refrigerant passage (45)) on the outer periphery (41) of the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40), which is advantageous in terms of cost.

[0085] <Second Embodiment> A second embodiment will now be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the above embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Figure 6 shows the meandering section (70).

[0086] The meandering section (70) is composed of irregularities (71). The outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) is provided with a recess (71b). The inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) is provided with a convex portion (71a). The convex portion (71a) and the recess (71b) fit together.

[0087] The other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0088] <Third Embodiment> A third embodiment will now be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Figure 7 shows the meandering section (70).

[0089] The meandering section (70) is composed of hook-shaped sections (72). The hook shape is curved like a hook. A hook (72a) is provided on the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40). A hook (72a) is provided on the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50). The hooks (72a) are engaged with each other.

[0090] The other configurations are the same as those of the first and second embodiments.

[0091] <Fourth Embodiment> A fourth embodiment will now be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Figure 8 shows the meandering section (70).

[0092] The meandering section (70) is composed of a wavy section (73). The wavy section has a shape resembling the undulations of a wave. A wave (73a) is provided on the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40). A wave (73a) is provided on the inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50). The waves (73a) face each other and extend parallel to each other.

[0093] The other configurations are the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0094] <Fifth Embodiment> A fifth embodiment will now be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Figure 9 shows the first flow channel member (40).

[0095] The first flow channel member (40) is a corrugated sheet. The first flow channel member (40) is formed in a corrugated shape by pressing. A first refrigerant passage (45) is provided on the surface (44) of the first flow channel member (40). Furthermore, a first refrigerant passage (45) is also provided on the back surface (46) of the first flow channel member (40).

[0096] The outer periphery (41) of the first flow channel member (40) is provided with protrusions (71a) for forming a meandering section (70) (concave and convex (71)).

[0097] The other configurations are the same as those of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0098] <Other Embodiments> The inner circumference (51) of the first spacer (50) may surround only two sides of the outer circumference (41) of the first flow channel member (40) that are parallel to each other, sandwiching them from both sides.

[0099] The first flow channel member (40) and the first spacer (50) do not have to be rectangular in shape. For example, the first flow channel member (40) and the first spacer (50) may be polygonal in shape other than a rectangle, or circular in shape, etc.

[0100] The meandering section (70) may be just one.

[0101] Although embodiments have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The above embodiments, modifications, and elements of other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0102] The designations "1st," "2nd," "3rd," etc., mentioned above are used to distinguish between the terms to which these designations are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] X 1st direction Y Second direction H gap W1 First refrigerant (refrigerant) 1 heat exchanger 40 First flow channel member (flow channel member) 41 Outer periphery 41a First side 41b Second side 41c Third side 41d Fourth side 42 Inlet 43 Outlet 44 Surface 45. First refrigerant passage (refrigerant passage) 50. First Spacer (Spacer) 60 Leakage Channels 70. Meandering section 71 Unevenness 71a Convex part 71b recess

Claims

1. A plate-shaped flow channel member (40), The flow channel member (40) is provided with a spacer (50) surrounding its outer periphery (41), An inlet (42) and an outlet (43) are provided on the outer periphery (41) at intervals from each other. A refrigerant passage (45) is provided on the surface (44) of the flow channel member (40) through which the refrigerant (W1) flows from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43). A leak passage (60) is formed in the gap (H) between the outer peripheral portion (41) and the spacer (50), through which the refrigerant (W1) leaks from the inlet (42) to the outlet (43). A heat exchanger having a meandering section (70) in the leak passage (60) that causes the flow of the refrigerant (W1) to meander.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the meandering portion (70) is composed of irregularities (71).

3. The outer periphery (41) is provided with a protrusion (71a), The heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein the spacer (50) is provided with a recess (71b).

4. The outer peripheral portion (41) is A first side (41a) and a second side (41b) extend in a first direction (X) and are aligned in a second direction (Y) that intersects the first direction (X), It includes a third side (41c) and a fourth side (41d) that extend in the second direction (Y) and are aligned in the first direction (X), The inlet (42) and outlet (43) are arranged on the first side (41a), The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) in the leak passage (60) and the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) in the leak passage (60).

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 4, wherein the meandering portion (70) is formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) in the leak passage (60) and the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the second side (41b) in the leak passage (60).

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, wherein the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the first side (41a) in the leak passage (60) is greater than the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the second side (41b) in the leak passage (60), the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the third side (41c) in the leak passage (60), and the number of meandering portions (70) per unit length formed in the gap (H) between the spacer (50) and the fourth side (41d) in the leak passage (60).

7. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the refrigerant passage (45) is formed by etching on the surface (44) of the flow path member (40).

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