heat exchanger

Abstract

(heat exchanger) A heat exchanger (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E) is provided, comprising: a heat exchanger block (2) having a plurality of heat transfer passages (3, 4); a distributor (6) for distributing a process medium (5) to the heat transfer passages (3, 4); and a pressure difference generating device (12A, 12B, 12C) configured to generate a pressure difference in the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger. [Background Art]

[0002] According to an in-house investigation, a heat exchanger, particularly a so-called plate heat exchanger, comprises a heat exchanger block having a plurality of heat transfer passages, a process medium can be guided inside the plurality of heat transfer passages, and heat is transferred between the plurality of heat transfer passages during operation of the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger block is disposed between a distributor for distributing each process medium to the heat transfer passages and a collector for collecting the process medium flowing out from the heat transfer passages.

[0003] When a process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger at high pressure or low pressure and / or with a fluctuating volumetric flow rate, the process medium does not necessarily flow evenly through all the heat transfer passages. So-called inactive regions, in which no or insufficient process medium flows, may be formed within the heat exchanger block. These inactive regions can adversely affect heat transfer in the heat exchanger block, which may hinder efficient operation of the heat exchanger. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to achieve as uniform a flow as possible within the heat exchanger block even when the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the process medium changes. [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Against this background, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] Accordingly, there is provided a heat exchanger comprising: a heat exchanger block including a plurality of heat transfer passages; a distributor for distributing a process medium to the heat transfer passages; and a pressure difference generator configured to generate a pressure difference of the process medium between the heat exchanger block and the distributor.

[0006] The pressure difference generator creates a pressure difference between the heat exchanger block and the distributor, which in turn allows for controlled pressure loss between the heat exchanger block and the distributor, thereby ensuring even distribution of the process medium through the heat transfer passages. This is especially true when the process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger at fluctuating pressure and / or fluctuating volumetric flow rates. This prevents the formation of inactive regions within the heat exchanger. Thus, the efficiency of heat transfer within the heat exchanger block is improved.

[0007] A heat exchanger can be part of a vehicle. However, heat exchangers can also be used for any other application. In particular, heat exchangers can be used in fixed applications, especially in building services engineering. A heat exchanger is preferably a microstructure heat exchanger, and can therefore be called so. A heat exchanger is particularly preferably a so-called plate heat exchanger, and can therefore be called so. A heat exchanger can also be called a heat transfer device.

[0008] The heat exchanger block is preferably rectangular in shape. Alternatively, the heat exchanger block may be cylindrical. However, in the following description, the heat exchanger block will be assumed to be rectangular in shape. The heat exchanger block is composed of alternatingly arranged heating surface elements, specifically so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and a separator plate. The heating surface elements can be formed from corrugated or ribbed aluminum sheets, while the separator plate can be formed from a smooth aluminum sheet. However, materials other than aluminum may be used.

[0009] By utilizing heating surface elements and separation plates, numerous parallel heat transfer passages can be formed within a heat exchanger block. Different process media can flow through these passages, indirectly transferring heat to the process media flowing through adjacent passages. For example, all heat transfer passages located on a single plane spanning the width (x-direction) and height (z-direction) of the heat exchanger carry the same process media. Viewed along the depth (y-direction) of the heat exchanger, several planes containing such heat transfer passages, capable of carrying different process media, are arranged vertically or adjacently to one another. The x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction are combined to form the coordinate system of the heat exchanger.

[0010] Any number of heat transfer passages can be provided. As mentioned above, the heat transfer passages can be arranged in different planes when viewed along the y-direction. One type of process medium can flow through each plane. In particular, at least two different process mediums are provided, and heat exchange takes place between them during the operation of the heat exchanger. Below, we will refer to only one type of process medium. This process medium may be a coolant or refrigerant. For example, the process medium may be oil or water.

[0011] The heat exchanger block is located between the distributor and the recoverer. The distributor and recoverer can also be called a header. The distributor and recoverer can be welded and / or soldered to the heat exchanger block. The distributor distributes the process medium as evenly as possible through the heat transfer passages. The recoverer recovers the process medium flowing out of the heat transfer passages. The distributed process medium can be supplied to the distributor through an inlet. The recovered process medium can be discharged from the recoverer through an outlet.

[0012] A pressure difference generator is preferably configured to generate a pressure loss in the process medium between a distributor and a heat exchanger block. In particular, the pressure difference generator is configured to store the process medium in the distributor. The pressure difference is especially preferably a pressure loss. The pressure difference occurs particularly in the process medium. Therefore, a pressure difference generator can also be called a pressure loss generator. Thus, the terms "pressure difference generator" and "pressure loss generator" are interchangeable in this context.

[0013] In this context, “pressure difference” is understood to be the pressure difference between two predetermined measurement points within the system (in this example, the heat exchanger). The measurement points may be, for example, located inside or above the distributor and inside or above the heat exchanger block. In this embodiment, the existence of a pressure difference in the process medium between the heat exchanger block and the distributor should be understood to mean, in particular, that the pressure of the process medium within the heat exchanger block is different from the pressure within the distributor. This specifically means that a pressure difference exists in the process medium.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the pressure difference generating device is placed inside the distributor.

[0015] This specifically means that the pressure difference generator is surrounded by the distributor. The pressure difference generator may be positioned between the heat exchanger block and the distributor. The pressure difference generator may be permanently connected to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the pressure difference generator has a variable cross-sectional area through which the process medium can flow during the operation of the heat exchanger.

[0017] In this context, the fact that the cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generator is "variable" specifically means that it is possible to increase or decrease the cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generator. This change in the cross-sectional area can be done continuously. For example, if the cross-sectional area is reduced while the volumetric flow rate of the process medium is constant, the process medium will accumulate in the distributor, and the pressure of the process medium in the heat exchanger block will decrease compared to when the pressure difference generator has a larger cross-sectional area.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the pressure difference generating device comprises a first perforated plate having a first perforation and a second perforated plate having a second perforation, wherein these perforated plates are displaceable relative to each other in order to change the cross-sectional area.

[0019] In this context, “displaceable” should be understood to mean, in particular, that the first perforated plate and the second perforated plate are linearly displaceable relative to each other and / or rotatable relative to each other. Actuating elements may be provided for this purpose. Each perforation includes a plurality of through-holes. Each through-hole penetrates either the first or second perforated plate, thereby allowing the process medium to flow through the through-holes and through the first and / or second perforated plates. The through-holes can be holes. However, in principle, the through-holes can have any shape. They can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or similar shapes. All through-holes can have the same shape. Alternatively, the through-holes may have different shapes. For example, the through-holes can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, the through-holes can be arranged in a row. Furthermore, viewed along the y-direction, several rows of through-holes can be arranged vertically to each other. Preferably, the first perforated plate and the second perforated plate are arranged vertically relative to each other along the z-direction. The perforated plates can be designed in a grid or sieve-like pattern.

[0020] In another embodiment, the heat exchanger includes an actuation element for displacing the perforated plates relative to each other.

[0021] In particular, the actuation element is configured to displace the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate. In this case, the first perforated plate remains stationary. However, conversely, the actuation element can also be configured to displace the first perforated plate relative to the second perforated plate. In this case, the second perforated plate remains stationary. The actuation element may be an electric motor or the like. The actuation element may also be a magnet, especially an electromagnet. The actuation element can be positioned inside or outside the heat exchanger. The actuation element may also be called a actuator or actuator.

[0022] In another embodiment, the operating element is connected directly or indirectly to one of the perforated plates by an effective connector.

[0023] Using the actuating element and the effective connection, it is possible to move, in particular, the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate, or vice versa. When the effective connection is "direct," the actuating element is, for example, an electric motor, and the effective connection may be a rack, a link mechanism, or a screw-in spindle. In this case, the actuating element in the form of an electric motor is directly connected or coupled to each perforated plate by the rack, a link mechanism, or a screw-in spindle. When the effective connection is "indirect," the actuating element is, for example, a magnet, specifically an electromagnet, which can magnetically interact with one of the perforated plates, particularly the second perforated plate, in order to move that plate. In contrast to a direct effective connection, in the case of an indirect effective connection, there is no direct or mechanical effective connection between the actuating element and each perforated plate, for example, in the form of a link mechanism, gears, or rack. An indirect effective connection can also be called a contactless or non-contact effective connection. However, this does not rule out the possibility that the operating element may come into contact with each perforated plate, at least temporarily, even in the case of an indirect effective connection.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the actuating element is configured to displace the perforated plates linearly and / or rotatably relative to each other.

[0025] The actuating element can, for example, linearly move the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate. Alternatively, the actuating element can displace or rotate one of the perforated plates relative to the other perforated plate. For example, the actuating element can rotate the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate. Alternatively, it can also provide a combined motion of linear motion and rotational motion of one of the perforated plates relative to the other perforated plate.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the actuating element is fully or partially arranged in the distributor. When the actuating element is fully arranged in the distributor, there is an advantage that it is no longer necessary to provide the distributor with a through hole for guiding the actuating element. When the actuating element is partially arranged in the distributor, the actuating element is at least partially arranged inside the distributor and at least partially arranged outside the distributor. The actuating element can be fixed or attachable to the distributor.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the heat exchanger includes a sensor device for pressure detection, and a control and operating device for controlling the actuating element based on sensor signals from the sensor device.

[0028] The sensor equipment may include pressure sensors that can be installed in or on the heat exchanger block, in or on the distributor, and / or in or on the recoverer. A control loop may be implemented using the actuating elements, sensor equipment, and control / operating devices to generate a pressure difference in response to sensor signals from the sensor equipment. This ensures that the heat exchanger always operates efficiently, even when the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the supplied process medium fluctuates. For example, it is possible to control the process medium pressure in the heat exchanger block to remain constant during heat exchanger operation, or to keep it constant even if the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the supplied process medium fluctuates.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the pressure difference generating device can transition from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa by displacing the perforated plates relative to each other, in which case the cross-sectional area in the open state is larger than in the partially closed state.

[0030] The open state can also be called the fully open state. In the open state, the through-holes of the perforations in the perforated plates overlap each other in an aligned manner. In this context, "aligned" means that the through-holes of the perforated plates completely cover each other. This creates the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generator, which allows the process medium to flow from the distributor through the pressure difference generator to the heat exchanger block. This cross-sectional area corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the through-holes of the first perforated plate, or the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the through-holes of the second perforated plate. The pressure difference generator can be moved from the open state to the partially closed state, or vice versa, by moving one of the perforated plates, particularly the second perforated plate, relative to the other perforated plate, particularly the first perforated plate, using the actuating elements and effective connectors. Thus, the partially closed state differs from the open state in that the second perforated plate is displaced relative to the first perforated plate, and the through-holes of the perforations only partially overlap each other. The pressure difference generator can be continuously adjusted, which is particularly preferable. This means that any number of intermediate states can be established between the open state and the partially closed state.

[0031] In another embodiment, one of the perforated plates is fixedly connected to a heat exchanger block or a distributor.

[0032] In this context, "fixed" means that the perforated plate cannot move relative to the heat exchanger block or the distributor. For example, the first perforated plate is fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block or fixedly connected to the distributor. On the other hand, the second perforated plate is not fixed and is movable relative to the first perforated plate, and therefore also movable relative to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor. However, the reverse assembly is also possible, in which the second perforated plate is fixed and the first perforated plate is movable.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the perforated plate is polygonal, particularly rectangular, circular, elliptical, or star-shaped.

[0034] However, in principle, perforated plates can have any shape. The term "polygon" can be replaced with the term "polygonal shape." If the perforated plates are rectangular, they are moved linearly relative to each other from an open state to a partially closed state, or vice versa, in order to move the pressure difference generator. If the perforated plates are circular, they are rotated relative to each other to transition the pressure difference generator from an open state to a partially closed state, or vice versa. It is also possible to transition the perforated plates from an open state to a partially closed state, or vice versa, by combining linear and rotational motion.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the pressure difference generating device comprises a pressure difference generating element made of an open-pore type metal foam.

[0036] Alternatively, open-pore plastic foam or open-pore ceramic foam can be used as the pressure difference generating element. In particular, metal-clad plastic foam can also be used. In this context, "open-pore" means that the pressure difference generating element is fluid-permeable and that the process medium can flow through it. The pressure difference generating element can be in block or mat form. However, alternatively, the pressure difference generating element may be wedge-shaped. Aluminum foam may be used as the pressure difference generating element. The pressure difference generating element is positioned particularly between the distributor and the heat exchanger block. The pressure difference generating element may be rigidly connected to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor.

[0037] In another embodiment, the pressure difference generating element is wedge-shaped.

[0038] In this context, "wedge-shaped" specifically refers to the change in height or thickness of the pressure difference generating element extending along the z-direction when viewed along the x-direction. When viewed along the x-direction, the thickness of the pressure difference generating element may decrease or increase.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the pressure difference generating element is displaceable, thereby allowing the pressure difference generating device to transition from a first state in which the pressure difference generating element is positioned such that the thickness of the pressure difference generating element decreases from the distributor inlet toward the heat exchanger block to a second state in which the thickness of the pressure difference generating element increases from the distributor inlet toward the heat exchanger block, or vice versa.

[0040] An operating element, as described above, is provided to move the pressure difference generating element. The operating element can rotate and / or move the pressure difference generating element linearly to move the pressure difference generating device from a first state to a second state, or vice versa. When the process medium is at low pressure, the pressure difference generating device moves to the first state; therefore, the first state can also be called the low-pressure state. When the process medium is at high pressure, the pressure difference generating device moves to the second state; therefore, the second state can also be called the high-pressure state. The pressure difference generating device is continuously adjustable. This means that any number of intermediate states can be established between the first and second states.

[0041] "One" should not necessarily be understood as being limited to exactly one element. Rather, it may refer to two, three, or more elements. The other quantitative terms used here should also not be interpreted as being strictly limited to the number of elements listed. Rather, unless otherwise specified, the numerical values ​​can vary up or down.

[0042] Further possible embodiments of the heat exchanger include combinations of features or embodiments described above or below, with respect to embodiments not expressly mentioned. Those skilled in the art may also add individual embodiments as improvements or additions to each basic form of the heat exchanger.

[0043] Further advantageous designs and embodiments of the heat exchanger are the subject of the dependent claims and the embodiments of the heat exchanger described below. The heat exchanger will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, based on preferred embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3]This is another schematic cross-section of the heat exchanger along the cutting line III-III in Figure 2. [Figure 4] This is another schematic cross-section of the heat exchanger along the cutting line III-III in Figure 2. [Figure 5] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger in another embodiment. [Figure 6] This is another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger in another embodiment. [Figure 8] This is another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger in another embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger in another embodiment. [Figure 11] This is another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 10. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] In drawings, identical or functionally identical components are indicated by the same reference numeral unless otherwise specified.

[0046] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger 1A according to one embodiment. Figure 2 shows another schematic cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger 1A. Hereafter, Figures 1 and 2 will be referred to together.

[0047] The heat exchanger 1A can also be called a heat transfer device. The heat exchanger 1A may be part of a vehicle. However, the heat exchanger 1A can be used for any other application. In particular, the heat exchanger 1A can be used for fixed applications, especially in building services engineering. The heat exchanger 1A is preferably a microstructured heat exchanger.

[0048] The heat exchanger 1A is assigned a coordinate system having a width direction or x direction x, a depth direction or y direction y, and a height direction or z direction z. These directions x, y, and z are oriented perpendicular to each other.

[0049] The heat exchanger 1A is specifically a so-called plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 1A comprises a rectangular parallelepiped heat exchanger block 2 which may consist of alternately arranged heating surface elements, specifically so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and a separating plate. The heating surface elements can be formed from corrugated or ribbed aluminum sheets, while the separating plate can be formed from a smooth aluminum sheet. However, materials other than aluminum may be used. The heat exchanger block 2 does not necessarily have to be a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, the heat exchanger block 2 may be cylindrical, specifically cylindrical.

[0050] By utilizing the heating surface element and the separation plate, the heat exchanger 1A forms multiple parallel heat transfer passages 3 and 4, through which the process medium 5 flows, allowing for indirect heat transfer to the process medium flowing in adjacent heat transfer passages (not shown). All of the heat transfer passages 3 and 4 shown in the cross-sectional views of Figures 1 and 2 are capable of carrying the same process medium 5.

[0051] In Figures 1 and 2, only two of the heat transfer passages 3 and 4 are labeled with reference numbers. Any number of heat transfer passages 3 and 4 can be provided. Heat transfer passages 3 and 4 extend along the z direction z. When viewed along the x direction x, heat transfer passages 3 and 4 are arranged adjacent to each other or vertically. Furthermore, although only one process medium 5 is shown in Figures 1 and 2, at least two different process mediums 5 are provided, and heat exchange takes place between them during the operation of the heat exchanger 1A. However, as mentioned above, the same process medium 5 flows through all the heat transfer passages 3 and 4 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The process medium 5 can be a coolant or refrigerant.

[0052] For example, all heat transfer passages 3 and 4 existing on a single plane spanning the x-direction x and the z-direction z carry the same process medium 5. When viewed along the y-direction y, several planes with further such heat transfer passages 3 and 4, through which different process mediums 5 can flow, are arranged vertically or adjacently to one another.

[0053] The heat exchanger block 2 is located between the distributor 6 and the recoverer 7. The distributor 6 and the recoverer 7 can also be called a header. The distributor 6 and the recoverer 7 can be welded and / or soldered to the heat exchanger block 2. The distributor 6 distributes the process medium 5 as evenly as possible to the heat transfer passages 3 and 4. The recoverer 7 recovers the process medium 5 flowing out of the heat transfer passages 3 and 4. The distributed process medium 5 is supplied to the distributor 6 via the inlet 8. The recovered process medium 5 is discharged from the recoverer 7 to the heat exchanger block 2 via the outlet 9.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a heat exchanger 1A in a first state where the process medium 5 is supplied to the heat exchanger 1A at high pressure and / or high volumetric flow rate. Figure 2 shows a heat exchanger 1A in a second state where the process medium 5 is supplied to the heat exchanger 1A at low pressure and / or low volumetric flow rate.

[0055] In either state, the process medium 5 does not flow efficiently through the heat exchanger block 2. Inactive regions 10 and 11 may form within the heat exchanger block 2 where the process medium 5 does not flow or flows only insufficiently. These inactive regions 10 and 11 are enclosed by dotted lines in Figures 1 and 2. Since these inactive regions 10 and 11 adversely affect heat transfer within the heat exchanger block 2, it is certain that the heat exchanger 1A will not operate efficiently. Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to achieve the most uniform flow possible within the heat exchanger block 2, even when the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the process medium 5 changes. This is intended to eliminate the inactive regions 10 and 11.

[0056] To achieve a uniform flow through the heat exchanger block 2, it is desirable to generate a controlled or specified pressure drop before the process medium 5 enters the heat exchanger block 2. This pressure drop can be achieved by distributing the specified volumetric flow rate of the process medium 5 over a wider area, as will be described later.

[0057] In other words, by increasing the area over which the process medium 5 flows into the heat exchanger block 2, a desired pressure drop can be achieved. This controlled pressure drop ensures that the process medium 5 is uniformly distributed before entering the heat exchanger block 2. Furthermore, increasing this area also extends the time that the process medium 5 stays within the heat exchanger block 2. This makes it possible to eliminate inactive regions 10 and 11. As a result, the efficiency of the heat exchanger 1A is increased.

[0058] Figure 3 shows another cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1A along the cutting line III-III in Figure 2. Figure 4 also shows another cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1A along the cutting line III-III in Figure 2. Hereafter, Figures 3 and 4 will be referred to together.

[0059] The heat exchanger 1A includes a pressure difference generator 12A for evenly distributing the process medium 5 to the heat transfer passages 3 and 4 of the heat exchanger block 2. The pressure difference generator 12A is also configured to generate a pressure difference in the process medium 5 between the distributor 6 and the heat exchanger block 2. The pressure difference generator 12A is located between the distributor 6 and the heat exchanger block 2. For example, the pressure difference generator 12A is connected to the distributor 6 and / or the heat exchanger block 2.

[0060] The pressure difference generator 12A includes a first perforated plate 13 that is fixedly mounted. For example, the first perforated plate 13 is welded or soldered onto the heat exchanger block 2. The first perforated plate 13 has a first perforation section 14 having a plurality of through holes 15, 16, of which only two are reference numerals in Figure 4. The through holes 15, 16 penetrate the first perforated plate 13, thereby allowing the process medium 5 to flow through the through holes 15, 16 and through the first perforated plate 13. The first perforated plate 13 may be rectangular.

[0061] The through holes 15 and 16 can be holes. However, in principle, the through holes 15 and 16 may have any shape. The through holes 15 and 16 can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, etc. It is possible that all the through holes 15 and 16 have the same shape. Alternatively, the through holes 15 and 16 may have different shapes. For example, the through holes 15 and 16 may have different diameters. When viewed along the x-direction x, the through holes 15 and 16 are arranged in a row. Furthermore, when viewed along the y-direction y, several rows of the through holes 15 and 16 may be arranged vertically.

[0062] Furthermore, the pressure difference generating device 12A includes a second perforated plate 17. The second perforated plate 17 may also be rectangular. The two perforated plates 13 and 17 are arranged overlapping each other. When viewed along the z-direction z, the second perforated plate 17 is positioned on the first perforated plate 13. However, the second perforated plate 17 is not fixed in a predetermined position and is displaceable along the x-direction x and toward the x-direction x relative to the first perforated plate 13, as shown by the double arrow 18 in Figures 3 and 4.

[0063] The second perforated plate 17 is provided with a second perforation section 19 having a plurality of through holes 20, 21, and in Figures 3 and 4, only two of these through holes are given reference numerals. The through holes 20, 21 penetrate the second perforated plate 17, thereby allowing the process medium 5 to flow through the through holes 20, 21 and through the second perforated plate 17.

[0064] The through holes 15, 16 and through holes 20, 21 can be of the same design. However, this is not absolutely necessary. The through holes 20, 21 can be holes. However, in principle, the through holes 20, 21 may have any shape. The through holes 20, 21 may be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or similar shapes. It is possible for all the through holes 20, 21 to have the same shape. Alternatively, the through holes 20, 21 may have different shapes. For example, the through holes 20, 21 may have different diameters. When viewed along the x-direction x, the through holes 20, 21 are arranged in a row. Furthermore, when viewed along the y-direction y, it is possible for several rows of through holes 20, 21 to be arranged vertically to each other.

[0065] The pressure difference generator 12A further comprises a actuator, or actuation element 22. The actuation element 22 may be an electric motor or the like. The actuation element 22 may also be a magnet, specifically an electromagnet. The actuation element 22 can be positioned inside or outside the heat exchanger 1A. The actuation element 22 is connected to the second perforated plate 17 by an effective connection 23. Using the actuation element 22 and the effective connection 23, the second perforated plate 17 can be moved relative to the first perforated plate 13, as indicated by the double arrow 18.

[0066] The effective connection part 23 can be direct or indirect. If the effective connection part 23 is direct, it can also be called a mechanical effective connection part. If the effective connection part 23 is indirect, it can also be called a contactless or non-contact effective connection part. If the effective connection part 23 is direct, the actuating element 22 is, for example, an electric motor, and the effective connection part can be a rack, a link mechanism, or a screw-in spindle. The actuating element 22 may be a magnet, specifically an electromagnet, which is connected to the second perforated plate 17 by a suitable mechanism, for example, in the form of a link mechanism. If the effective connection part 23 is indirect, the actuating element 22 may be a magnet, specifically an electromagnet, which interacts with the second perforated plate 17 only magnetically, i.e., without a connection mechanism, in order to move the second perforated plate 17.

[0067] The function of the pressure difference generator 12A is described below. Figure 3 shows the pressure difference generator 12A in the fully open state Z1. In the fully open state Z1, the through holes 15, 16, 20, and 21 of the perforations 14 and 19 overlap each other and are positioned to coincide. This forms the maximum cross-sectional area A1 of the pressure difference generator 12A, indicated by hatching, through which the process medium 5 can flow from the distributor 6 through the pressure difference generator 12A to the heat exchanger block 2. This cross-sectional area A1 corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the through holes 15, 16 or the through holes 20, 21.

[0068] On the other hand, Figure 4 shows the pressure difference generator 12A in a partially closed state Z2. The pressure difference generator 12A can be moved from a fully open state Z1 to a partially closed state Z2, and vice versa, by moving the second perforated plate 17 relative to the first perforated plate 13 in the direction indicated by the double arrow 18 using the operating element 22 and the effective connection part 23. The partially closed state Z2 differs from the fully open state Z1 in that the second perforated plate 17 is displaced to the right in the orientation shown in Figure 4.

[0069] The second perforated plate 17 is continuously adjustable by the actuation element 22 and the effective connection part 23, and in addition to the fully open state Z1, an infinite number of partially closed states Z2 can be provided. Below, only one partially closed state Z2 will be described. In the partially closed state Z2, the through holes 15 and 16 of the first perforation part 14 and the through holes 20 and 21 of the second perforation part 19 partially overlap, so that the pressure difference generator 12A in the partially closed state Z2 has a cross-sectional area A2 that is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1.

[0070] In the partially closed state Z2, compared to the fully open state Z1, the process medium 5 is stored in the distributor 6, so the pressure of the process medium 5 in the heat exchanger block 2 decreases. In the partially closed state Z2, the cross-sectional area A2 is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1 in the fully open state Z1, so the amount of process medium 5 that can pass through the pressure difference generator 12A per unit time under constant pressure may decrease. In other words, a controller can be used to control the volumetric flow rate of the process medium 5. This makes it possible to variably define the pressure of the process medium 5 in the heat exchanger block 2 in order to eliminate the inactive regions 10 and 11 and to operate the heat exchanger 1A more efficiently.

[0071] The actuating element 22 may be controlled, for example, based on a sensor device 24 (Figures 1 and 2) of the heat exchanger 1A. The sensor device 24 may include a pressure sensor that can be installed in or on the heat exchanger block 2, the distributor 6, and / or the recovery unit 7. A control / operator device 25 may be provided to control the actuating element 22, which controls the actuating element 22 based on sensor signals from the sensor device 24.

[0072] The volumetric flow rate Q of the process medium 5 is equal to the average flow velocity v passing through each cross-sectional area A1, A2. A The following relationships exist: Q&V A ×A A represents the respective cross-sectional areas A1 and A2. Given a volumetric flow rate Q, if, for example, the pressure difference generator 12A is moved from a fully open state Z1 to a partially closed state Z2, thereby reducing the cross-sectional area A1 to the cross-sectional area A2, the average flow velocity v A It increases.

[0073] The perforated plates 13 and 17 do not necessarily have to be rectangular. Instead, the perforated plates 13 and 17 may be circular, specifically ring-shaped. In this case, in order to move the pressure difference generator 12A from a fully open state Z1 to a partially closed state Z2, or vice versa, the perforated plates 13 and 17 are rotated relative to each other.

[0074] Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1B in another embodiment. Figure 6 shows another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1B. Hereafter, Figures 5 and 6 will be referred to together.

[0075] The function of heat exchanger 1B corresponds to the function of heat exchanger 1A described above. Heat exchanger 1B differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that the operating element 22 is attached to the distributor 6. The operating element 22 can partially intrude into the distributor 6 and partially protrude from the distributor 6. In this case, the operating element 22 may be, for example, an electric motor connected to the second perforated plate 17 by an effective connection part 23. Figure 5 shows heat exchanger 1B in a low-pressure state of the process medium 5. Figure 6 shows heat exchanger 1B in a high-pressure state of the process medium 5.

[0076] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1C in another embodiment. Figure 8 shows another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1C. Hereafter, Figures 7 and 8 will be referred to together.

[0077] The function of heat exchanger 1C corresponds to the function of heat exchanger 1A described above. Heat exchanger 1C differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that the operating element 22 is located entirely inside the distributor 6. This eliminates the need to provide a through hole in the distributor 6 for mounting the operating element 22. Figure 7 shows heat exchanger 1C under low-pressure conditions of the process medium 5. Figure 8 shows heat exchanger 1C under high-pressure conditions of the process medium 5.

[0078] In this case, the operating element 22 is a magnet, specifically an electromagnet. The magnet in the form of the operating element 22 is turned on or activated in order to move the pressure difference generator 12A from the fully open state Z1 shown in Figure 7 to the partially closed state Z2 shown in Figure 8. A reset device in the form of a spring may be provided to return the pressure difference generator 12A from the partially closed state Z2 to the fully open state Z1.

[0079] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger 1D in another embodiment.

[0080] Heat exchanger 1D differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that heat exchanger 1D includes a pressure difference generator 12B of an alternative embodiment. The pressure difference generator 12B comprises a block-type or mat-type pressure difference generating element 26. In particular, the pressure difference generating element 26 is an open-pore metal foam through which the process medium 5 can flow with pressure loss. Aluminum foam can be used for the pressure difference generating element 26.

[0081] The pressure difference generator 12B is positioned between the heat exchanger block 2 and the distributor 6, and stores the process medium 5 in the distributor 6. It is also possible to generate pressure loss using the pressure difference generator 12B. Furthermore, the pressure difference generator 12B ensures that the process medium 5 is evenly distributed to the heat transfer passages 3 and 4.

[0082] The pressure difference generator 12B may be permanently connected to the heat exchanger block 2 and / or the distributor 6. The pressure difference generator 12B may include a pressure difference generating element 26 as a single component. Therefore, the pressure difference generating element 26 may be identical to the pressure difference generator 12B. Alternatively, the pressure difference generator 12B may include several pressure difference generating elements 26. The operating element 22, effective connection part 23, sensor equipment 24, and control / operation device 25 may be omitted.

[0083] Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1E in another embodiment. Figure 11 shows another schematic cross-sectional view of heat exchanger 1E. Hereafter, Figures 10 and 11 will be referred to together.

[0084] The function of heat exchanger 1E corresponds to the function of heat exchanger 1D described above. Figure 10 shows heat exchanger 1E under low-pressure conditions of process medium 5. Figure 11 shows heat exchanger 1E under high-pressure conditions of process medium 5. Heat exchanger 1E differs from heat exchanger 1D only in that heat exchanger 1E is equipped with a pressure difference generator 12C of an alternative embodiment.

[0085] The pressure difference generator 12C includes a pressure difference generating element 27 made of open-pore metal foam, similar to the pressure difference generating element 26 of the pressure difference generator 12B. However, the pressure difference generating element 27 is wedge-shaped, rather than block-shaped or mat-shaped like the pressure difference generating element 26 of the pressure difference generator 12B. In this context, "wedge-shaped" means that the height or thickness d (Figure 11) of the pressure difference generating element 27 extending along the z-direction z changes when viewed along the x-direction x and / or the y-direction y. When viewed along the x-direction x and / or the y-direction y, the thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 may decrease or increase.

[0086] Furthermore, the pressure difference generating element 27 is not fixed in a predetermined position but is movable. For example, the pressure difference generating element 27 can be moved and / or rotated. For this purpose, an operating element 22 as described above can be provided. This operating element 22 is controlled by a control / operation device 25 based on sensor signals from a sensor device 24. The pressure difference generating element 27 may also be provided with motion that combines linear motion and rotational motion.

[0087] As described above, by moving and / or rotating the pressure difference generating element 27, the pressure difference generating device 12C can be moved from the first state Z10 shown in Figure 10 to the second state Z20 shown in Figure 11, and vice versa. The first state Z10 can also be called the low-pressure state. The second state Z20 can also be called the high-pressure state. Any number of intermediate states are provided between states Z10 and Z20, and the pressure difference generating element 27 can be continuously adjusted.

[0088] For example, the heat exchanger block 2 may have a cylindrical shape as described above, where the pressure difference generating element 27 may be round, specifically circular. In this case, the operating element 22 can rotate the pressure difference generating element 27 to move the pressure difference generating device 12C from a first state Z10 to a second state Z20, or vice versa. The pressure difference generating element 27 can also be moved linearly to move the pressure difference generating device 12C from a first state Z10 to a second state Z20, or vice versa. Any mechanism may be provided to move or displace the pressure difference generating element 27, for example, including a control cam of any shape.

[0089] In the first state Z10, the pressure difference generating element 27 is positioned such that its thickness d decreases or shrinks from the inlet 8 when viewed along the x-direction x. Therefore, in the first state Z10, the thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 begins to decrease from the inlet 8. In the second state Z20, in contrast to the first state Z10, the pressure difference generating element 27 is positioned such that its thickness d increases from the inlet 8 when viewed along the x-direction x. Therefore, in the second state Z20, the thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 begins to increase from the inlet 8.

[0090] When the pressure of the process medium 5 is low, the pressure difference generator 12C transitions to a first state Z10 accordingly. When the pressure of the process medium 5 is high, the pressure difference generator 12C transitions to a second state Z20 accordingly. The pressure difference generator 12C can be continuously adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states can be established between state Z10 and state Z20.

[0091] Furthermore, the pressure difference generating element 27 can also be made from an elastically deformable material, such as a metal-clad plastic foam. In this case, the actuating element 22 can be, for example, a magnet. When the actuating element 22 acts magnetically on the pressure difference generating element 27, the pressure difference generating element 27 deforms. Therefore, the material of the pressure difference generating element 27 can be attracted to or repelled by the actuating element 22. In other words, the pressure difference generating device 12C can transition from a first state Z10 to a second state Z20, and vice versa, by the elastic deformation of the pressure difference generating element 27.

[0092] The present invention has been described with reference to embodiments, but many modifications are possible. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 1A heat exchanger 1B Heat exchanger 1C heat exchanger 1D heat exchanger 1E Heat exchanger 2 Heat exchanger block 3 Heat transfer passages 4 Heat transfer passages 5. Process medium 6 distributor 7. Recovery unit 8 Inlet 9 Outlet 10 areas 11 areas 12A Pressure Difference Generator 12B Pressure Difference Generator 12C Pressure Difference Generator 13 Perforated plate 14 Perforation 15 Through holes 16 Through holes 17 Perforated plate 18 Double arrow 19 Perforation 20 Through holes 21 Through hole 22 Actuating elements 23 Effective connection section 24 Sensor Equipment 25 Control and Steering Devices 26 Pressure difference generation elements 27 Pressure difference generation elements A1 Section Area A2 Section Area d thickness xx direction yy direction zz direction Z1 condition Z2 condition Z10 condition Z20 condition

Claims

1. Heat exchangers (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E), A heat exchanger block (2) having multiple heat transfer passages (3, 4), A distributor (6) for distributing the process medium (5) to the heat transfer passages (3, 4), A heat exchanger comprising pressure difference generating devices (12A, 12B, 12C) configured to generate a pressure difference in the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure difference generating devices (12A, 12B, 12C) are arranged within the distributor (6).

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A) includes variable cross-sectional areas (A1, A2) through which the process medium (5) can flow while the heat exchangers (1A, 1B, 1C) are operating.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, wherein the pressure difference generating device (12A) comprises a first perforated plate (13) having a first perforation (14) and a second perforated plate (17) having a second perforation (19), and the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) are displaceable relative to each other in order to change the cross-sectional areas (A1, A2).

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized by comprising an actuation element (22) for displacing the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) relative to each other.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that the operating element (22) is directly or indirectly connected to one of the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) by an effective connecting portion (23).

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the operating element (22) is configured to displace the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) linearly and / or rotatably relative to each other.

8. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the operating element (22) is located entirely or partially within the distributor (6).

9. A heat exchanger according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized by comprising a pressure detection sensor device (24) and a control / operation device (25) for controlling the operating element (22) based on a sensor signal from the sensor device (24).

10. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A) can transition from an open state (Z1) to a partially closed state (Z2) or vice versa by displacing the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) relative to each other, and the cross-sectional area (A1, A2) in the open state (Z1) is larger than that in the partially closed state (Z2).

11. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 10, characterized in that one of the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) is fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block (2) or the distributor (6).

12. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that the first and second perforated plates (13, 17) are polygonal, particularly rectangular, circular, elliptical, or star-shaped.

13. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12B, 12C) comprises pressure difference generating elements (26, 27) made of open-pore metal foam.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 13, characterized in that the pressure difference generating element (27) is wedge-shaped.

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressure difference generating element (27) is displaceable so as to move the pressure difference generating device (12C) from a first state (Z10) in which the pressure difference generating element (27) is arranged such that the thickness (d) of the pressure difference generating element (27) decreases in the direction from the inlet (8) of the distributor (6) to the heat exchanger block (2), to a second state (Z10) in which the thickness (d) of the pressure difference generating element (27) increases in the direction from the inlet (8) of the distributor (6) to the heat exchanger block (2), or vice versa.

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