Water source heat exchanger and freeze removal method using the same

Abstract

A water heat exchanger capable of rapidly removing freezing by arranging a separate freezing removal path independent of the operating path inside the water heat exchanger, and a freezing removal method using the same are disclosed. A water source heat exchanger comprises: a water source port connected to a water source pipe for supplying a water source, a heat medium port connected to a heat medium pipe for introducing a heat medium, and a heating fluid port for supplying a heating fluid; a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates, and a plurality of heat medium flow paths, a plurality of water source flow paths, and a heating fluid flow path disposed between the heat exchange plates, wherein the heating fluid flow path is disposed between the plurality of water source flow paths.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water heat exchanger, and more specifically, to a water heat exchanger capable of preventing freezing of a water source in a low-temperature environment and a method for removing freezing using the same. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, water source heat pump systems are high-efficiency energy systems that perform heating and cooling by absorbing or releasing heat from water sources (such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater) that are more stable than the ambient temperature. The core component of such systems, the water heat exchanger, primarily utilizes a plate-type heat exchanger constructed by stacking multiple thin metal heat transfer plates with corrugated surfaces to maximize the heat transfer surface area.

[0003] However, during the winter season, the temperature of the heat source drops sharply due to the influence of ambient temperature, and especially in low-temperature sections where the water temperature drops below 5℃, freezing is likely to occur in the water flow path on the heat source side during the heat exchange process. Due to the characteristics of plate heat exchangers, the spacing of the flow paths is narrow and complex, so once freezing begins, the flow paths become blocked, which not only causes a sharp decrease in system efficiency but can also lead to failures such as deformation or damage to the heat transfer plates due to the volume expansion of the ice.

[0004] Conventional technologies adopt passive operation methods to prevent such freezing, such as forcibly stopping the heat pump or excessively increasing the flow rate when the temperature of the supplied heat source drops below a set value (typically 5°C). This prevents the system from operating when the winter heating load is most needed, causing a decrease in the overall operating rate.

[0005] In addition, some technologies perform defrosting by operating the heat pump in a reverse cycle to send high-temperature gas to a heat exchanger, but this has the disadvantage of requiring a temporary suspension of the heating supply and complicating the system configuration.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional technology lacked a method to detect in real-time whether freezing was actually occurring inside the heat exchanger, making it impossible to predict the occurrence of freezing in advance or respond at an early stage. A method that simply monitors the inlet temperature of the heat source cannot detect localized freezing phenomena inside the heat exchanger, and consequently, the problem was frequently recognized only after freezing had already progressed significantly.

[0007] Furthermore, since no structural measures were in place to rapidly remove freezing when it occurred, maintenance required significant time and cost, such as shutting down the entire system for an extended period or disassembling the heat exchanger to physically thaw it.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a heat exchanger with a new structure that allows for continued operation even in low-temperature environments, while enabling immediate and physical thawing of frozen areas without system shutdown or complex mode switching when signs of freezing are detected or freezing occurs. Prior art literature

[0009] Published Patent No. 2025-0069275 (May 19, 2025) The problem to be solved

[0010] The present invention has been devised to solve the problems of the prior art as described above. The objective of the present invention is to provide a water heat exchanger capable of rapidly removing freezing by arranging a separate freezing removal path independent of the operating path inside the water heat exchanger, and a freezing removal method using the same.

[0011] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0012] In order to solve the problem described above, a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a water source port connected to a water source pipe for supplying a water source; a heat medium port connected to a heat medium pipe for introducing a heat medium; a heating fluid port for supplying a heating fluid; a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates; and a plurality of heat medium flow paths, a plurality of water source flow paths, and a heating fluid flow path disposed between the heat exchange plates, wherein the heating fluid flow path is disposed between the plurality of water source flow paths.

[0013] The plurality of heat exchange plates includes a plurality of first heat exchange plates forming the heat medium flow path; a plurality of second heat exchange plates forming the water source flow path; and a plurality of third heat exchange plates forming the heating fluid flow path, and the second heat exchange plates may be disposed on both sides of the third heat exchange plates.

[0014] The above-mentioned heat source flow path may be configured to exchange heat with the heat medium flow path through the first heat exchange plate during normal operation, and to exchange heat with the heating fluid flow path through the third heat exchange plate during freeze removal operation.

[0015] It includes a pair of frame plates each coupled to a heat exchange plate positioned at both ends of a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates, wherein the heat source port and the heat medium port are provided in one of the pair of frame plates, and the heating fluid port may be provided in the other of the pair of frame plates.

[0016] In order to solve the problem described above, a water heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a heat exchanger body; a heat medium port and a water source port disposed on one side of the heat exchanger body; a heating fluid port disposed on the other side of the heat exchanger body; a plurality of heat exchange plates stacked and disposed inside the heat exchanger body; and a heat medium flow path, a water source flow path, and a heating fluid flow path disposed between the plurality of heat exchange plates, wherein the heating fluid flow path is disposed adjacent to the water source flow path.

[0017] Each of the plurality of heat exchange plates comprises: a pair of water source passages connected to the water source flow path; a pair of heat medium passages connected to the heat medium flow path; and a pair of heating fluid passages connected to the heating fluid flow path, wherein the pair of water source passages, the pair of heat medium passages, and the pair of heating fluid passages can each penetrate the heat exchange plate in the thickness direction.

[0018] The plurality of heat exchange plates may include: a first heat exchange plate including a heat medium guide that guides the flow of the heat medium between the pair of heat medium passages; a second heat exchange plate including a water source guide that guides the flow of the water source between the pair of water source passages; and a third heat exchange plate including a heating fluid guide that guides the flow of the heating fluid between the pair of heating fluid passages.

[0019] In order to solve the problem described above, a method for removing freezing according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises, in the method for removing freezing using the above-described water heat exchanger: (a) a step of performing heat exchange by flowing a heat medium through the heat medium channel and flowing a water source through the water source channel; (b) a step of detecting freezing of the water source by measuring the temperature of the water source passing through the water source port and the temperature of the heat medium passing through the heat medium port; and (c) a step of removing freezing by heat transfer through the plurality of heat exchange plates by supplying a heating fluid to the heating fluid channel when freezing is detected.

[0020] In step (c) above, hot water produced by a heating device or hot water produced by a renewable energy supply device can be used as the heating fluid. Effects of the invention

[0021] According to the present invention, a water heat exchanger is provided with a freeze removal path through which a heating fluid flows, in addition to an operating path for heat exchange between a water source and a heat medium, so that even if freezing of the water source occurs in a low-temperature environment, the freezing can be actively removed.

[0022] In addition, according to the present invention, stable and continuous operation is possible even in a low-temperature environment, thereby maximizing the system's operating rate and reducing energy costs.

[0023] In addition, according to the present invention, since the heat exchange operation can be continued without interrupting the supply of the water source and the heat medium even during the freeze removal operation, the operating rate of the water heat exchanger and the system including it can be increased.

[0024] The various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and even more diverse effects are included in this specification. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing the configuration of a water source heat pump system to which a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the flow direction of the heat medium and heat source inside a heat exchanger and the heat exchange principle accordingly. Figure 4 is a graph showing the trend of temperature change according to the length of the heat source path and the heat medium path during heat exchange in a water heat exchanger. Figure 5 is a graph showing the change in the inlet and outlet temperatures of the heat source and heat medium over time during normal operation. Figure 6 is a graph showing the change in heat medium outlet temperature observed at the initial stage of freezing. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the heat exchanger body of a hydrothermal heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the front portion of the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the rear portion of the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a side view showing the heat exchanger body of a hydrothermal heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a water heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a partial configuration of a water heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for removing freezing from a hydrothermal heat exchanger according to the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] The advantages and features of this specification and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, this specification is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms, and these embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of this specification is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of this specification.

[0027] Shapes, areas, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. disclosed in the drawings for explaining the embodiments of this specification are exemplary, and this specification is not limited to the depicted details. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Furthermore, in describing this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art could unnecessarily obscure the essence of this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Where terms such as "includes," "has," or "is made up" are used in this specification, other parts may be added unless "only" is used. Where a component is expressed in the singular, it includes cases where it is included in the plural unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0028] In interpreting the components, they are interpreted to include a margin of error even in the absence of a separate explicit statement.

[0029] In the case of describing a positional relationship, for example, when the positional relationship between two parts is described using expressions such as 'on,' 'upper,' 'lower,' or 'next to,' one or more other parts may be located between the two parts unless 'immediately' or 'directly' is used.

[0030] Additionally, modifiers such as first, second, main, and sub are used to distinguish various components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another.

[0031] The area and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are illustrated for convenience of explanation and are not necessarily limited to the area and thickness of the components illustrated in this specification.

[0032] In the embodiments, a 'module' or 'part' performs at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, a plurality of 'modules' or a plurality of 'parts' may be integrated into at least one module, except for the 'module' or 'part' that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0033] The features of each of the various embodiments of this specification may be combined or combined with one another, either partially or wholly, and may technically enable various interlocking and operation. Each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or may be implemented together in an associated relationship.

[0034] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing the configuration of a water source heat pump system to which a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] As shown in the drawing, a water heat exchanger (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied to a water source heat pump system (100) and performs the role of recovering or releasing thermal energy from a water source such as river water, lake, sea, or groundwater. The water heat exchanger (200) according to the present invention is a device in which heat exchange takes place between a water source and a heat medium, and is configured to operate stably without freezing even in a low-temperature environment during the winter season.

[0037] A water source heat pump system (100) is a system that supplies heating and cooling to a place of use (U), such as a building or facility, using thermal energy from a water source. The water source heat pump system (100) may include a water heat exchanger (200), a heat pump (300), a thermal storage tank (600), a supply heat exchanger (700), a heating device (400), and a renewable energy device (500).

[0038] The heat source is supplied from the heat source supply unit (150) to the heat source heat exchanger (200) via the filtration device (280) by the heat source pump (270), and the heat medium exchanged in the heat source heat exchanger (200) can be transferred to the heat pump (300). The heat pump (300) generates cooling and heating water using the thermal energy received from the heat medium, and the generated cooling and heating water can be stored in the thermal storage tank (600). The cooling and heating water stored in the thermal storage tank (600) can be heat-exchanged through the supply heat exchanger (700) and utilized for cooling and heating at the place of use (U).

[0039] The water heat exchanger (200) includes a heat exchanger body (202) comprising a plurality of water source ports, a plurality of heat medium ports, and a plurality of heating fluid ports.

[0040] A plurality of heat source ports include a heat source inlet port (204) and a heat source outlet port (205). The heat source inlet port (204) and the heat source outlet port (205) are connected to a heat source pipe. The heat source pipe includes a heat source supply pipe (236) and a heat source discharge pipe (237), and the heat source inlet port (204) is connected to the heat source supply pipe (236), and the heat source outlet port (205) is connected to the heat source discharge pipe (237). A heat source can be supplied to a heat source flow path (213) inside a heat exchanger body (202) through the heat source inlet port (204). The heat source that has passed through the heat source flow path (213) can be discharged from the heat exchanger body (202) through the heat source outlet port (205) and released to the outside or recirculated through the heat source discharge pipe (237).

[0041] A heat source pump (270) for pumping the heat source may be installed in the heat source supply pipe (236), and a filtration device (280) for removing foreign substances contained in the heat source may be additionally provided.

[0042] A plurality of heat medium ports include a heat medium inlet port (207) and a heat medium outlet port (208). The heat medium inlet port (207) and the heat medium outlet port (208) are connected to a heat medium pipe. The heat medium pipe includes a heat medium inlet pipe (239) and a heat medium return pipe (240), and the heat medium inlet port (207) is connected to the heat medium inlet pipe (239), and the heat medium outlet port (208) is connected to the heat medium return pipe (240). Through the heat medium inlet port (207), the heat medium can be introduced into the heat medium flow path (215) inside the heat exchanger body (202). Then, the heat medium that has passed through the heat medium flow path (215) is discharged from the heat exchanger body (202) through the heat medium outlet port (208) and supplied to the heat pump (300) through the heat medium return pipe (240).

[0043] A plurality of heating fluid ports include a heating fluid inlet port (210) and a heating fluid outlet port (211). The heating fluid inlet port (210) and the heating fluid outlet port (211) are connected to a heating fluid pipe. The heating fluid pipe includes a heating fluid supply pipe (242) and a heating fluid discharge pipe (243), and the heating fluid inlet port (210) is connected to the heating fluid supply pipe (242), and the heating fluid outlet port (211) is connected to the heating fluid discharge pipe (243). Through the heating fluid inlet port (210), the heating fluid flows into the heating fluid path (217) inside the heat exchanger body (202) and can heat a heat source passing through the heat source path (213). And the heating fluid that has passed through the heating fluid path (217) is discharged from the heat exchanger body (202) through the heating fluid outlet port (211) and can be recovered to a heating device (400), a renewable energy device (500), or a thermal storage tank (600) through the heating fluid discharge pipe (243).

[0044] The heating fluid is not supplied during normal operation, but is selectively supplied only when freezing is detected to perform a freeze removal operation. It is preferable to use hot water as the heating fluid so that the frozen water source can be thawed quickly, but it is not limited thereto, and various high-temperature fluids may be used depending on the degree of freezing and the temperature of the water source.

[0045] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the flow direction of the heat medium and heat source inside a heat exchanger and the heat exchange principle accordingly.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the water heat exchanger (200) can perform heat exchange in a counter-flow manner in which the water source and the heat medium flow in opposite directions. In one embodiment, the water source may be introduced into the lower part of the heat exchanger body (202), flow upward along the water source path (213) to exchange heat with the heat medium, and then be discharged from the upper part of the heat exchanger body (202). On the other hand, the heat medium may be introduced into the upper part of the heat exchanger body (202), flow downward along the heat medium path (215) to exchange heat with the water source, and then be discharged from the lower part of the heat exchanger body (202).

[0047] The flow directions of the heat source and the heat medium are not limited to the counter-flow method of this embodiment and can be changed to other methods, such as parallel flow or cross-flow, as needed. In addition, the inlet and outlet locations of the heat source and the heat medium are not limited to those depicted and can be varied depending on the design of the heat exchanger and the piping configuration of the system. For example, the system may be configured so that the heat source flows in through the top and is discharged through the bottom, and the heat medium flows in through the bottom and is discharged through the top.

[0048] During normal operation, the temperature of the heat source is higher than the temperature of the heat medium, so heat is transferred from the heat source to the heat medium. In this process, the heat source releases heat and its temperature decreases (T_i > T_o), and the heat medium absorbs heat and its temperature increases (t_o > t_i). The heated heat medium can be supplied to the heat pump (300) and used as a heat source required for heating.

[0049] Figure 4 is a graph showing the trend of temperature change according to the length of the heat source path and the heat medium path during heat exchange in a heat exchanger, and Figure 5 is a graph showing the change in inlet and outlet temperatures of the heat source and the heat medium over time in a normal operating state.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, under normal operating conditions, heat exchange between the heat source and the heat medium is performed smoothly. That is, the heat source is introduced at the heat source inlet port (204) at the heat source inlet temperature (T_i), moves along the heat source path (213) to perform heat exchange with the heat medium, and is discharged at the heat source outlet port (205) at the heat source outlet temperature (T_o). During this process, the temperature of the heat source gradually decreases. The heat medium is introduced at the heat medium inlet port (207) at the heat medium inlet temperature (t_i), moves along the heat medium path (215) to absorb heat from the heat source, and is discharged at the heat medium outlet port (208) at the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o). During this process, the temperature of the heat medium gradually increases.

[0051] Under normal operating conditions, the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) can be maintained at a higher level than the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) (t_o > T_o). As shown in the graph of Fig. 4, the heat medium continuously absorbs heat from the heat source, causing its temperature to rise, and thus the final outlet temperature (t_o) of the heat medium can be maintained at a higher level than the heat source outlet temperature (T_o).

[0052] Referring to Fig. 5, under normal operating conditions, the heat source inlet temperature (T_i), heat source outlet temperature (T_o), heat medium inlet temperature (t_i), and heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) are each maintained at constant values ​​even as time passes.

[0053] The temperature relationship in normal operating conditions can be expressed as follows. In the case of a heat source, the inlet temperature is higher than the outlet temperature (T_i > T_o), and in the case of a heat medium, the outlet temperature is higher than the inlet temperature (t_o > t_i). Additionally, the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) can be maintained higher than the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) (t_o > T_o). When this temperature relationship is maintained normally, the heat exchanger (200) efficiently transfers heat and operates stably without the risk of freezing.

[0054] Meanwhile, when freezing of the heat source occurs in a low-temperature environment, heat exchange between the heat source and the heat medium is not smooth. When freezing of the heat source begins, the flow of the heat source in the heat source path (213) is obstructed, and as a result, the heat transfer efficiency between the heat source and the heat medium is reduced.

[0055] Figure 6 is a graph showing the change in heat medium outlet temperature observed at the initial stage of freezing.

[0056] As shown in the graph of Fig. 6, when freezing begins to occur, a characteristic change pattern appears in the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o). Under normal operating conditions, the water source inlet temperature (T_i), water source outlet temperature (T_o), heat medium inlet temperature (t_i), and heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) are all maintained at constant values, but from the point when freezing begins, a phenomenon is observed in which the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) periodically drops sharply. This drop in temperature is due to the fact that heat transfer from the water source passing through the water source path (213) to the heat medium is not smooth.

[0057] Looking more closely at the graph in Fig. 6, the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) repeatedly drops from the normal operating temperature level and falls below the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) (t_o < T_o). This means that the temperature relationship (t_o > T_o) in the normal operating state is reversed. The temperature drop shows a pattern of temporary occurrence followed by recovery, which is presumed to be because heat transfer is temporarily resumed as locally formed ice partially melts or moves due to the flow of the heat source.

[0058] The present invention is configured to detect the pattern of rapid change in the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o), particularly the frequency of occurrence of the temperature inversion phenomenon (t_o < T_o), in real time, thereby enabling the early detection of the initial stage of freezing. That is, in the present invention, if the temperature inversion phenomenon (t_o < T_o) occurs more than a reference number of times during a preset time, it is determined that freezing has started, and an operation to remove freezing is performed by supplying a heating fluid through the heating fluid channel (217). A detailed explanation thereof will be provided later.

[0059] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the front portion of the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the rear portion of the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a side view showing the heat exchanger body of a water heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, the heat exchanger body (202) of the hydrothermal heat exchanger (200) includes a pair of frame plates (220, 222) and a plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) disposed between the pair of frame plates (220, 222).

[0061] In this specification, a pair of frame plates can be described by dividing them into a front frame plate (220) and a rear frame plate (222).

[0062] The front frame plate (220) constitutes the front portion of the heat exchanger body (202). The front frame plate (220) is provided with a heat source inlet port (204), a heat source outlet port (205), a heat medium inlet port (207), and a heat medium outlet port (208). The front frame plate (220) is connected to external heat source supply pipe (236), heat source discharge pipe (237), heat medium inlet pipe (239), and heat medium recovery pipe (240) to perform the function of supplying and discharging the heat source and heat medium into and out of the heat exchanger body (202).

[0063] The rear frame plate (222) forms the rear portion of the heat exchanger body (202). The rear frame plate (222) is provided with a heating fluid inlet port (210) and a heating fluid outlet port (211). The rear frame plate (222) is connected to an external heating fluid supply pipe (242) and a heating fluid discharge pipe (243) to supply and discharge heating fluid into and out of the heat exchanger body (202).

[0064] A plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) are stacked and arranged between the front frame plate (220) and the rear frame plate (222). The plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) have a structure that induces the flow of a heat medium, a water source, and a heating fluid.

[0065] Specifically, some of the plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) are configured to form a heat medium flow path (215), some are configured to form a water source flow path (213), and others are configured to form a heating fluid flow path (217). By configuring different fluids to flow through the space between each heat exchange plate in this way, heat exchange between the heat medium and the water source during normal operation and heating of the water source by the heating fluid during freezing removal can both be achieved within a single heat exchanger body (202).

[0066] In the present specification, among a plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c), the one configured to form a heat medium flow path (215) may be referred to as the first heat exchange plate (224a) or heat medium heat exchange plate, the one configured to form a water source flow path (213) may be referred to as the second heat exchange plate (224b) or water source heat exchange plate, and the one configured to form a heating fluid flow path (217) may be referred to as the third heat exchange plate (224c) or heating fluid heat exchange plate.

[0067] The first heat exchange plate (224a) is configured to form a heat medium flow path (215). The first heat exchange plate (224a) may be formed in the form of a thin plate. The first heat exchange plate (224a) includes a plurality of passages penetrating in the direction of its thickness.

[0068] Specifically, the first heat exchange plate (224a) includes a pair of water source passages (225a, 226a), a pair of heat medium passages (228a, 229a), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231a, 232a).

[0069] In this specification, a pair of water source passages (225a, 226a) may be described as the first water source passage (225a) and the second water source passage (226a), a pair of heat medium passages (228a, 229a) as the first heat medium passage (228a) and the second heat medium passage (229a), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231a, 232a) as the first heating fluid passage (231a) and the second heating fluid passage (232a).

[0070] The first heat source passage (225a) and the second heat source passage (226a) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the first heat exchange plate (224a) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow a heat source to pass through. The first heat source passage (225a) is positioned to face the heat source inlet port (204) to provide a path for the heat source to flow, and the second heat source passage (226a) is positioned to face the heat source outlet port (205) to provide a path for the heat source to flow. No heat source flow occurs between the first heat source passage (225a) and the second heat source passage (226a) in the first heat exchange plate (224a).

[0071] The first heat medium passage (228a) and the second heat medium passage (229a) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the first heat exchange plate (224a) in the thickness direction. The first heat medium passage (228a) is positioned to face the heat medium inlet port (207) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow, and the second heat medium passage (229a) is positioned to face the heat medium outlet port (208) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow. A heat medium flow can occur between the first heat medium passage (228a) and the second heat medium passage (229a) in the first heat exchange plate (224a).

[0072] The first heating fluid passage (231a) and the second heating fluid passage (232a) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the first heat exchange plate (224a) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow heating fluid to pass through. The first heating fluid passage (231a) is positioned to face the heating fluid inlet port (210) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow, and the second heating fluid passage (232a) is positioned to face the heating fluid outlet port (211) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow. No heating fluid flow occurs between the first heating fluid passage (231a) and the second heating fluid passage (232a) in the first heat exchange plate (224a).

[0073] On one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a), only the heat medium flow between the first heat medium passage (228a) and the second heat medium passage (229a) occurs, and no other fluid flow occurs. That is, on one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a), the water source flow between the first water source passage (225a) and the second water source passage (226a) and the heating fluid flow between the first heating fluid passage (231a) and the second heating fluid passage (232a) do not occur.

[0074] The heat medium passing through the first heat medium passage (228a) on one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a) flows along the surface of the first heat exchange plate (224a), performs heat exchange with an adjacent other heat exchange plate, and flows into the second heat medium passage (229a). On the other hand, the water source and the heating fluid passing through the first water source passage (225a) and the first heating fluid passage (231a), respectively, in the first heat exchange plate (224a) do not flow along one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a) but move to another heat exchange plate adjacent to the first heat exchange plate (224a).

[0075] A flow guide (234a) is provided on one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a). The flow guide (234a) induces the flow of a heat medium and may also be referred to as a heat medium guide. The flow guide (234a) is an uneven structure formed on one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a) that induces the flow of the heat medium and generates turbulence to improve heat transfer efficiency. The flow guide (234a) may be formed in various shapes such as a herringbone pattern, a wave pattern, a protrusion shape, or a groove shape, but is not limited thereto. By inducing the flow of the heat medium through the flow guide (234a), a heat medium flow path (215) is formed between one side of the first heat exchange plate (224a) where the flow guide (234a) is placed and another heat exchange plate or frame plate facing it, through which the heat medium flows.

[0076] The second heat exchange plate (224b) is configured to form a heat source flow path (213). The second heat exchange plate (224b) may be formed in the form of a thin plate. The second heat exchange plate (224b) includes a plurality of passages penetrating in the direction of its thickness.

[0077] Specifically, the second heat exchange plate (224b) includes a pair of water source passages (225b, 226b), a pair of heat medium passages (228b, 229b), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231b, 232b).

[0078] In the present specification, a pair of water source passages (225b, 226b) provided in the second heat exchange plate (224b) may be described as the first water source passage (225b) and the second water source passage (226b), a pair of heat medium passages (228b, 229b) as the first heat medium passage (228b) and the second heat medium passage (229b), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231b, 232b) as the first heating fluid passage (231b) and the second heating fluid passage (232b).

[0079] The first heat source passage (225b) and the second heat source passage (226b) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the second heat exchange plate (224b) in the thickness direction. The first heat source passage (225b) is positioned to face the heat source inlet port (204) to provide a path for the heat source to flow, and the second heat source passage (226b) is positioned to face the heat source outlet port (205) to provide a path for the heat source to flow. A flow of heat source can occur between the first heat source passage (225b) and the second heat source passage (226b) on one side of the second heat exchange plate (224b).

[0080] The first heat medium passage (228b) and the second heat medium passage (229b) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the second heat exchange plate (224b) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow the heat medium to pass through. The first heat medium passage (228b) is positioned to face the heat medium inlet port (207) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow, and the second heat medium passage (229b) is positioned to face the heat medium outlet port (208) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow. No heat medium flow occurs between the first heat medium passage (228b) and the second heat medium passage (229b) on one side of the second heat exchange plate (224b).

[0081] The first heating fluid passage (231b) and the second heating fluid passage (232b) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the second heat exchange plate (224b) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow heating fluid to pass through. The first heating fluid passage (231b) is positioned to face the heating fluid inlet port (210) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow, and the second heating fluid passage (232b) is positioned to face the heating fluid outlet port (211) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow. No heating fluid flow occurs between the first heating fluid passage (231b) and the second heating fluid passage (232b) on one side of the second heat exchange plate (224b).

[0082] On one side of the second heat exchange plate (224b), only the heat source flow between the first heat source passage (225b) and the second heat source passage (226b) occurs, and no other fluid flow occurs. That is, on one side of the second heat exchange plate (224b), the heat medium flow between the first heat medium passage (228b) and the second heat medium passage (229b) and the heating fluid flow between the first heating fluid passage (231b) and the second heating fluid passage (232b) do not occur.

[0083] The heat source passing through the first heat source passage (225b) in the second heat exchange plate (224b) flows along the surface of the second heat exchange plate (224b) to perform heat exchange with an adjacent heat exchange plate, and can move to another heat exchange plate through the second heat source passage (226b). On the other hand, the heat medium and the heating fluid passing through the first heat medium passage (228a) and the first heating fluid passage (231a), respectively, in the second heat exchange plate (224b) do not flow along the surface of the second heat exchange plate (224b) but move to another heat exchange plate adjacent to the second heat exchange plate (224b).

[0084] A flow guide (234b) is provided on the dlf surface of the second heat exchange plate (224b). The flow guide (234b) induces the flow of a heat source and may also be referred to as a heat source guide. The flow guide (234b) is an uneven structure formed on one surface of the second heat exchange plate (224b) that induces the flow of a heat source and generates turbulence to improve heat transfer efficiency. The flow guide (234b) may be formed in various shapes such as a herringbone pattern, a wave pattern, a protrusion shape, or a groove shape, but is not limited thereto. By inducing the flow of a heat source with the flow guide (234b), a heat source flow path (213) is formed between one surface of the second heat exchange plate (224b) where the flow guide (234b) is placed and another heat exchange plate or frame plate facing it, through which the heat source flows.

[0085] The heat source path (213) acts as an operating path for performing heat exchange between the heat source and the heat medium together with the heat medium path (215) when the heat heat exchanger (200) is operating normally.

[0086] The third heat exchange plate (224c) is configured to form a heating fluid channel (217). The third heat exchange plate (224c) may be formed in the form of a thin plate. The third heat exchange plate (224c) includes a plurality of passages penetrating in the thickness direction.

[0087] Specifically, the third heat exchange plate (224c) includes a pair of water source passages (225c, 226c), a pair of heat medium passages (228c, 229c), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231c, 232c).

[0088] In the present specification, a pair of water source passages (225c, 226c) provided in the third heat exchange plate (224c) may be described as the first water source passage (225c) and the second water source passage (226c), a pair of heat medium passages (228c, 229c) as the first heat medium passage (228c) and the second heat medium passage (229c), and a pair of heating fluid passages (231c, 232c) as the first heating fluid passage (231c) and the second heating fluid passage (232c).

[0089] The first heat source passage (225c) and the second heat source passage (226c) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the third heat exchange plate (224c) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow a heat source to pass through. The first heat source passage (225c) is positioned to face the heat source inlet port (204) to provide a path for the heat source to flow, and the second heat source passage (226c) is positioned to face the heat source outlet port (205) to provide a path for the heat source to flow. No heat source flow occurs between the first heat source passage (225c) and the second heat source passage (226c) on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c).

[0090] The first heat medium passage (228c) and the second heat medium passage (229c) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the third heat exchange plate (224c) in the thickness direction and are configured to allow the heat medium to pass through. The first heat medium passage (228c) is positioned to face the heat medium inlet port (207) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow, and the second heat medium passage (229c) is positioned to face the heat medium outlet port (208) to provide a path for the heat medium to flow. No heat medium flow occurs between the first heat medium passage (228c) and the second heat medium passage (229c) on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c).

[0091] The first heating fluid passage (231c) and the second heating fluid passage (232c) are formed in the shape of holes penetrating the third heat exchange plate (224c) in the thickness direction. The first heating fluid passage (231c) is positioned to face the heating fluid inlet port (210) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow, and the second heating fluid passage (232c) is positioned to face the heating fluid outlet port (211) to provide a path for the heating fluid to flow. A heating fluid flow between the first heating fluid passage (231c) and the second heating fluid passage (232c) can occur on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c).

[0092] On one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c), only the heat fluid flow between the first heat fluid passage (231c) and the second heat fluid passage (232c) occurs, and no other fluid flow occurs. That is, on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c), the heat source flow between the first heat source passage (225c) and the second heat source passage (226c) and the heat medium flow between the first heat medium passage (228c) and the second heat medium passage (229c) do not occur.

[0093] The heating fluid passing through the first heating fluid passage (231c) in the third heat exchange plate (224c) flows along one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c) to heat an adjacent other heat exchange plate, and can move to another heat exchange plate through the second heating fluid passage (232c). For example, the heating fluid can transfer heat to the second heat exchange plate (224b) through the third heat exchange plate (224c) and heat the water source flowing through the second heat exchange plate (224b) to remove freezing. On the other hand, the water source and the heat medium passing through the first water source passage (225c) and the first heat medium passage (228c) of the third heat exchange plate (224c), respectively, do not flow along one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c) but move to another heat exchange plate adjacent to the third heat exchange plate (224c).

[0094] A flow guide (234c) is provided on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c). The flow guide (234c) induces the flow of a heating fluid and may also be referred to as a heating fluid guide. The flow guide (234c) is an uneven structure formed on one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c) that induces the flow of a heating fluid and generates turbulence to improve heat transfer efficiency. The flow guide (234c) may be formed in various shapes, such as a herringbone pattern, a wave pattern, a protrusion shape, or a groove shape, but is not limited thereto. By inducing the flow of the heating fluid through the flow guide (234c), a heating fluid channel (217) is formed between one side of the third heat exchange plate (224c) where the flow guide (234c) is placed and another heat exchange plate or frame plate facing it, through which the heating fluid flows.

[0095] The heating fluid path (217) remains in an inactive state when the water heat exchanger (200) is operating normally, and acts as a freeze removal path that is activated to heat the water source when the water heat exchanger (200) is operating in a freeze removal state.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 10, a plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) are stacked and arranged in a specific order between a front frame plate (220) and a rear frame plate (222). Specifically, the plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) can be repeatedly stacked in the order of a first heat exchange plate (224a), a second heat exchange plate (224b), a third heat exchange plate (224c), and a second heat exchange plate (224b). That is, the heat exchanger body (202) can have a structure in which the heat exchanger is stacked in the order of a front frame plate (220), a first heat exchange plate (224a), a second heat exchange plate (224b), a third heat exchange plate (224c), a second heat exchange plate (224b), a first heat exchange plate (224a), ... and finally finished with a rear frame plate (222).

[0097] Due to this stacked structure, a heat medium channel (215), a water source channel (213), and a heating fluid channel (217) are alternately arranged between the front frame plate (220) and the rear frame plate (222). Specifically, a water source channel (213) is arranged on both sides of a heating fluid channel (217). During normal operation, heat exchange occurs only between the water source channel (213) and the heat medium channel (215), and the heating fluid channel (217) remains in an inactive state. However, when freezing is detected, a high-temperature heating fluid is supplied through the heating fluid channel (217) to heat the water source channel (213).

[0098] Since the heat source channels (213) are arranged adjacently on both sides of the heating fluid channel (217), the heating fluid channel (217) can simultaneously supply heat to both heat source channels (213). Therefore, when freezing occurs, the freezing can be removed quickly and efficiently, and the thermal energy of the heating fluid can be utilized efficiently.

[0099] Meanwhile, the stacking order of the plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) is not limited to that shown and can be varied according to the required heat exchange performance and freeze removal performance. In addition, the arrangement order of the heat medium channel (215), the water source channel (213), and the heating fluid channel (217) can also be varied.

[0100] In addition, the number and arrangement of the heat source passage, heat medium passage, and heating fluid passage provided in each of the plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c) can be varied, and accordingly, the number and arrangement of the heat source port, heat medium port, and heating fluid port provided in the frame plate (220, 222) can be varied.

[0101] For example, the heat source port, the heat medium port, and the heating fluid port may all be placed on the front frame plate (220) or the rear frame plate (222). Additionally, the heat source port and the heat medium port may each be provided on different frame plates. Furthermore, the relative positions of the heat source inlet port (204) and the heat source outlet port (205) may be changed, the relative positions of the heat medium inlet port (207) and the heat medium outlet port (208) may be changed, and the relative positions of the heating fluid inlet port (210) and the heating fluid outlet port (211) may be changed.

[0102] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a water heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a part of the configuration of a water heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, a water heat exchanger (800) according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises a heat exchanger body (202), a plurality of temperature sensors (802, 803, 805, 806), a control unit (814), and an alarm unit (816). The plurality of temperature sensors (802, 803, 805, 806) include a water source inlet temperature sensor (802), a water source outlet temperature sensor (803), a heat medium inlet temperature sensor (805), and a heat medium outlet temperature sensor (806).

[0104] The heat exchanger body (202) includes a water source inlet port (204), a water source outlet port (205), a heat medium inlet port (207), a heat medium outlet port (208), a heating fluid inlet port (210), a heating fluid outlet port (211), a water source flow path (213), a heat medium flow path (215), and a heating fluid flow path (217). The structure of the heat exchanger body (202) and the configuration of each port and flow path are the same as described above.

[0105] The heat source inlet port (204) and the heat source outlet port (205) are each connected to the heat source supply pipe (236) and the heat source discharge pipe (237), and the heat medium inlet port (207) and the heat medium outlet port (208) are each connected to the heat medium inlet pipe (239) and the heat medium recovery pipe (240), and the heating fluid inlet port (210) and the heating fluid outlet port (211) are each connected to the heating fluid supply pipe (242) and the heating fluid discharge pipe (243).

[0106] A heat source inlet temperature sensor (802) is installed in the heat source supply pipe (236). The heat source inlet temperature sensor (802) is configured to measure the heat source inlet temperature (T_i) of the heat source flowing into the heat source inlet port (204) and to transmit the measured data to the control unit (814). The installation location of the heat source inlet temperature sensor (802) can be changed to another location where the temperature of the heat source flowing into the heat exchanger body (202) can be measured. For example, the heat source inlet temperature sensor (802) can be installed inside or near the heat source inlet port (204).

[0107] A heat source pump (270) is installed in the heat source supply pipe (236) to allow the heat source to flow into the heat exchanger body (202). The heat source pump (270) is controlled by a control unit (814) to regulate the flow rate of the heat source and is configured to continue supplying the heat source even when freezing is detected.

[0108] A heat source outlet temperature sensor (803) is installed in the heat source discharge pipe (237). The heat source outlet temperature sensor (803) is configured to measure the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) of the heat source discharged from the heat source outlet port (205) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (814). The installation location of the heat source outlet temperature sensor (803) can be changed to another location where the temperature of the heat source discharged from the heat exchanger body (202) can be measured. For example, the heat source outlet temperature sensor (803) may be installed inside or near the heat source outlet port (205).

[0109] A heat medium inlet temperature sensor (805) is installed in the heat medium inlet pipe (239). The heat medium inlet temperature sensor (805) is configured to measure the heat medium inlet temperature (t_i) of the heat medium flowing into the heat medium inlet port (207) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (814). The installation location of the heat medium inlet temperature sensor (805) can be changed to another location where the temperature of the heat medium flowing into the heat exchanger body (202) can be measured.

[0110] A heat medium outlet temperature sensor (806) is installed in the heat medium recovery pipe (240). The heat medium outlet temperature sensor (806) is configured to measure the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) of the heat medium discharged from the heat medium outlet port (208) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (814). The installation location of the heat medium outlet temperature sensor (806) can be changed to another location where the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heat exchanger body (202) can be measured.

[0111] In addition, a flow control valve (808) may be installed in the heat source discharge pipe (237). The flow control valve (808) can be controlled by the control unit (814) to regulate the flow rate of the heat source. Furthermore, a differential pressure sensor (810) may be installed between the heat source supply pipe (236) and the heat source discharge pipe (237). The differential pressure sensor (810) is configured to measure the pressure difference between the heat source supply pipe (236) and the heat source discharge pipe (237) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (814). The control unit (814) can calculate the flow rate of the heat source using the differential pressure data received from the differential pressure sensor (810) and control the flow control valve (808) to regulate the supply of an appropriate flow rate. Additionally, a flow meter (812) is installed in the heat source discharge pipe (237). The flow meter (812) is configured to measure the flow rate of the heat source and transmit the measurement data to the control unit (814).

[0112] The control unit (814) is configured to analyze temperature data received from a plurality of temperature sensors (802, 803, 805, 806) to determine whether freezing has occurred, and if freezing is detected, to supply a heating fluid and to activate the alarm unit (816) to generate a freezing alarm. The control unit (814) may be implemented as a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), or a dedicated control circuit, and may include memory and an input / output interface for performing a necessary control algorithm.

[0113] The control unit (814) can be integrated into the main control unit of the water source heat pump system (100), or can be configured separately from the main control unit for controlling the operation of the water source heat exchanger (800).

[0114] When the control unit (814) is integrated into the main control unit, the main control unit can integrally perform functions such as controlling the heat pump (300), various pumps and valves, receiving data from the temperature sensor of the water heat exchanger (800), executing a freeze detection algorithm, and controlling the supply of heating fluid.

[0115] If the control unit (814) is configured separately from the main control unit, the control unit (814) may be solely responsible for the freezing detection and freezing removal functions of the water heat exchanger (800). Even if the control unit (814) is configured separately from the main control unit, the control unit (814) may be connected to the main control unit via communication. The control unit (814) transmits freezing detection status, freezing removal operation status, measurement data from various sensors, etc., to the main control unit, and the main control unit receives this information and can adjust the overall system operation strategy. For example, if freezing occurs frequently, the main control unit may take measures such as adjusting the flow rate of the heat medium.

[0116] The alarm unit (816) is configured to notify the user of the occurrence of freezing in a visual, auditory, or electronic manner upon receiving a freezing alarm signal from the control unit (814). The alarm unit (816) may include an LED indicator, a buzzer, an alarm sound generating device, a display screen, or a remote communication module. For example, the alarm unit (816) may notify the on-site manager of the occurrence of freezing by illuminating a warning light or generating an alarm sound, or it may transmit an alarm message to a remote management system or the user's mobile device via wireless communication.

[0117] Hereinafter, a method for removing freezing using a hydrothermal heat exchanger according to the present invention will be described.

[0118] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for removing freezing from a hydrothermal heat exchanger according to the present invention.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 13, a method for removing freezing from a water-based heat exchanger includes a heat exchange performance step (S10), a freezing detection step (S20), and a freezing removal step (S30).

[0120] The heat exchange execution step (S10) is a step of performing heat exchange by allowing a heat medium to flow through the heat medium channel (215) and allowing a heat source to flow through the heat source channel (213). Specifically, the heat source is introduced into the heat source channel (213) through the heat source inlet port (204), performs heat exchange with the heat medium, and is discharged through the heat source outlet port (205). The heat medium is introduced into the heat medium channel (215) through the heat medium inlet port (207), absorbs heat from the heat source, and is discharged through the heat medium outlet port (208). In the case of normal operation, smooth heat exchange between the heat source and the heat medium is achieved, and the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) is maintained at a higher state than the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) (t_o > T_o). The heating fluid is not supplied to the heating fluid channel (217).

[0121] The freezing detection step (S20) is a step of detecting freezing of the heat source by measuring the temperature of the heat source passing through the heat source ports (204, 205) and the temperature of the heat medium passing through the heat medium ports (207, 208). Specifically, the heat source inlet temperature sensor (802) measures the heat source inlet temperature (T_i), the heat source outlet temperature sensor (803) measures the heat source outlet temperature (T_o), the heat medium inlet temperature sensor (805) measures the heat medium inlet temperature (t_i), and the heat medium outlet temperature sensor (806) measures the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o). The control unit (814) can determine freezing of the heat source by analyzing the measured temperature data.

[0122] For example, the control unit (814) can determine freezing by comparing the heat source outlet temperature (T_o) and the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o). Specifically, the control unit (814) counts the frequency of occurrence of the temperature inversion phenomenon (t_o < T_o), and can determine that freezing has started if the temperature inversion phenomenon occurs more than a reference number (e.g., 3 times) during a preset time (e.g., 1000ms).

[0123] The freeze removal step (S30) is a step of removing the freeze by supplying a heating fluid to the heating fluid path (217) when freezing is detected, and transferring heat through a plurality of heat exchange plates (224a, 224b, 224c). When freezing is detected, the control unit (814) causes the heating fluid to be supplied to the heating fluid path (217) through the heating fluid inlet port (210). As the heating fluid flows through the heating fluid path (217), it removes the freeze by heating the heat source flowing through the adjacent heat source path (213). At this time, since the heating fluid path (217) is positioned between the plurality of heat source paths (213), one heating fluid path (217) can simultaneously heat the heat source paths (213) on both sides, thereby maximizing the freeze removal efficiency. The heating fluid can be discharged through the heating fluid outlet port (211) and recovered to a heating device (400), a renewable energy device (500), or a thermal storage tank (600).

[0124] In the freeze removal step (S30), the supply of the heat source and the inflow of the heat medium can be sustained. That is, even during the freeze removal operation, the heat source pump (270) continues to operate to supply the heat source to the heat source flow path (213). This allows the frozen parts to be thawed quickly and the thawed heat source to be discharged immediately, thereby enhancing the freeze removal effect. Additionally, as the flow of the heat source is maintained, the heat transfer efficiency is improved, which can shorten the time required for freeze removal.

[0125] In this way, even during the freeze removal step (S30), the supply of the heat source and the inflow of the heat medium are not interrupted, and the heat exchange operation of the heat source heat exchanger (800) can be continued, so there is no need to stop the operation of the heat source heat pump system (100). Conventional heat source heat exchangers had to stop the supply of the heat source and heat medium and completely stop the heat exchange when freezing occurred, and then perform a separate thawing operation. Consequently, the heat supply to the heat pump (300) was interrupted during the time required for freeze removal, which resulted in a decrease in the operating rate of the entire system and a problem of interrupting the supply of heating and cooling to the place of use (U). However, in the present invention, since the flow of the heat source and heat medium is maintained even during the freeze removal operation, the problem of a decrease in the operating rate of the heat source heat pump system (100) can be prevented.

[0126] While the freeze removal step (S30) is being performed, the control unit (814) can continuously receive temperature data from a plurality of temperature sensors (802, 803, 805, 806) to monitor the progress of freeze removal. When the freeze is completely removed and the temperature relationship returns to a normal state (t_o > T_o), the control unit (814) can stop the supply of the heating fluid. The determination of freeze removal completion may be based on the fact that the temperature inversion phenomenon does not occur for a set period of time, but is not limited thereto, and other determination criteria may be used.

[0127] Additionally, when freezing is detected, the control unit (814) can activate the alarm unit (816) to notify the user of the occurrence of freezing. The alarm unit (816) can generate a freezing alarm in one or more ways, such as a visual warning (e.g., LED lighting), an auditory warning (e.g., alarm sound), or electronic communication (e.g., transmission of a remote alarm message). This allows the user to recognize the occurrence of freezing and take necessary measures. For example, the user can adjust the flow rate of the heat source and the flow rate of the heat medium during the freezing removal step (S30).

[0128] As described above, according to the present invention, a water heat exchanger (200, 800) is provided with a freeze removal path (217) through which a heating fluid flows, in addition to an operating path (213, 215) for heat exchange between a water source and a heat medium, so that even if freezing of the water source occurs under low water temperature conditions, the operation can be actively removed without stopping.

[0129] In addition, according to the present invention, since the heat exchange operation can be continued without interrupting the supply of the water source and the heat medium even during the freeze removal operation, the operating rate of the water heat exchanger and the system including it can be increased.

[0130] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the temperature inversion phenomenon (t_o < T_o), where the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o) becomes lower than the heat source outlet temperature (T_o), is recognized as an inherent pattern of freezing, thereby enabling the accurate capture of the actual moment when freezing begins. While conventional methods simply shut down the system because the temperature of the heat source was low, the present invention detects the temperature inversion phenomenon or rapid temperature fluctuations in the heat medium outlet temperature (t_o), allowing for precise and early detection of freezing signs; thus, preemptive action is possible before a fatal freezing accident occurs.

[0131] In addition, according to the present invention, when freezing is detected, a heating fluid is supplied to thaw the frozen area without intervention by a manager, and a self-healing ability is implemented to automatically return to a normal operating mode when the temperature is restored to a normal range. Through this, the safety of the system can be significantly enhanced even in an unmanned operation environment, and management personnel and maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0132] In addition, according to the present invention, the water heat exchanger (200, 800) can be utilized to the fullest extent, thereby improving overall energy efficiency and performance coefficients, by moving away from conservative operation methods such as stopping the system in advance or supplying excessive flow rates due to concerns about freezing. In particular, stable and continuous operation is possible even in low-temperature environments during the winter, so the system's operating rate is maximized and energy costs can be reduced.

[0133] Although the embodiments of this specification have been described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings, this specification is not necessarily limited to these embodiments and may be modified in various ways within the scope of the technical spirit of this specification. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are intended to explain, not to limit, the technical spirit of this specification, and the scope of the technical spirit of this specification is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Explanation of the symbols

[0134] 100 : Hydrogen source heat pump system 200, 800 : Water heat exchanger 202 : Heat exchanger body 204 : Heat source inlet port 205 : Heat source outlet port 207 : Heat transfer fluid inlet port 208 : Heat transfer fluid outlet port 210: Heating fluid inlet port 211: Heating fluid outlet port 213 : Water source flow path 215 : Heat transfer fluid flow path 217 : Heating fluid flow path 220 : Front frame plate 222 : Rear frame plate 224a: First heat exchange plate 224b: Second heat exchange plate 224c: 3rd heat exchange plate 225a, 225b, 225c: First water source passage 226a, 226b, 226c: Second water source passage 228a, 228b, 228c: First heat transfer channel 229a, 229b, 229c: Second heat transfer pathway 231a, 231b, 231c: First heating fluid passage 232a, 232b, 232c: Second heating fluid passage 234a, 234b, 234c: Flow guide 236 : Heat source supply pipe 237 : Heat source discharge pipe 239 : Heat transfer fluid inlet pipe 240 : Heat transfer fluid recovery pipe 242 : Heating fluid supply pipe 243 : Heated fluid discharge pipe 270 : Water source pump 280: Filtration device 300 : Heat pump 400 : Heating device 500 : Renewable energy device 600 : Thermal storage tank 700: Supply heat exchanger 802: Heat source inlet temperature sensor 803: Heat source outlet temperature sensor 805: Heat transfer fluid inlet temperature sensor 806 : Heat transfer fluid outlet temperature sensor 808 : Flow control valve 810: Differential pressure sensor 812 : Flow meter 814 : Control unit 816 : Alarm section T_i : Heat source inlet temperature T_o : Heat source outlet temperature Tr: Reference heat source temperature t_i : Inlet temperature of the heat medium t_o : heat medium outlet temperature tr : Reference heat transfer fluid temperature U : Usage

Claims

Claim 1 A water heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of water source ports connected to water source pipes for supplying and discharging a water source; a plurality of heat medium ports connected to heat medium pipes for inflow and outflow of a heat medium; a plurality of heating fluid ports for supplying and discharging a heating fluid; a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates; and a plurality of heat medium flow paths, a plurality of water source flow paths, and a heating fluid flow path disposed between the heat exchange plates, wherein the water source flow paths are disposed on both sides of the heating fluid flow paths, and during normal operation, the heating fluid flow paths are maintained in an inactive state, and during freeze removal operation, the heating fluid flow paths are activated to heat a water source flowing along the water source flow paths. Claim 2 A water heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of heat exchange plates comprises: a plurality of first heat exchange plates forming the heat medium flow path; a plurality of second heat exchange plates forming the water source flow path; and a plurality of third heat exchange plates forming the heating fluid flow path, wherein the second heat exchange plates are disposed on both sides of the third heat exchange plates. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the water source flow path is configured to exchange heat with the heat medium flow path through the first heat exchange plate during normal operation, and to exchange heat with the heating fluid flow path through the third heat exchange plate during freeze removal operation. Claim 4 A heat exchanger according to claim 1, comprising a pair of frame plates each coupled to a heat exchange plate disposed at both ends of a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates, wherein the heat source port and the heat medium port are provided in one of the pair of frame plates, and the heating fluid port is provided in the other of the pair of frame plates. Claim 5 A water heat exchanger comprising: a heat exchanger body; a plurality of heat medium ports and a plurality of water source ports disposed on one side of the heat exchanger body; a plurality of heating fluid ports disposed on the other side of the heat exchanger body; a plurality of heat exchange plates stacked and disposed inside the heat exchanger body; and a heat medium flow path, a water source flow path, and a heating fluid flow path disposed between the plurality of heat exchange plates, wherein the water source flow path is disposed on both sides of the heating fluid flow path, and during normal operation, the heating fluid flow path is maintained in an inactive state, and during freeze removal operation, the heating fluid flow path is activated to heat a water source flowing along the water source flow path. Claim 6 In claim 5, each of the plurality of heat exchange plates comprises: a pair of water source passages connected to the water source flow path; a pair of heat medium passages connected to the heat medium flow path; and a pair of heat fluid passages connected to the heat fluid flow path, wherein the pair of water source passages, the pair of heat medium passages, and the pair of heat fluid passages each penetrate the heat exchange plates in the thickness direction, forming a water heat exchanger. Claim 7 In claim 6, the plurality of heat exchange plates comprises: a first heat exchange plate including a heat medium guide that guides the flow of the heat medium between the pair of heat medium passages; a second heat exchange plate including a water source guide that guides the flow of the water source between the pair of water source passages; and a third heat exchange plate including a heating fluid guide that guides the flow of the heating fluid between the pair of heating fluid passages. Claim 8 A method for removing freezing using a water heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: (a) a step of performing heat exchange by flowing a heat medium through the heat medium channel and flowing a water source through the water source channel; (b) a step of detecting freezing of the water source by measuring the temperature of the water source passing through the water source port and the temperature of the heat medium passing through the heat medium port; and (c) a step of removing freezing by supplying a heating fluid to the heating fluid channel when freezing is detected, thereby transferring heat through the plurality of heat exchange plates. Claim 9 In claim 8, a method for removing freezing using a water heat exchanger that utilizes hot water produced by a heating device or hot water produced by a renewable energy supply device as a heating fluid in step (c).

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