Heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E) having a heat exchanger block (2) which comprises a plurality of heat transfer passages (3, 4), a distributor (6) for distributing a process medium (5) among the heat transfer passages (3, 4), and a differential pressure generating device (12A, 12B, 12C) which is designed to generate a differential pressure of the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

Description

[0001] HEAT EXCHANGER

[0002] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger.

[0003] According to internal company knowledge, heat exchangers, particularly so-called plate heat exchangers, comprise a heat exchanger block with a plurality of heat transfer passages in which process media can be conducted, between which heat is transferred during operation of the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger block is arranged between a distributor for distributing the respective process medium to the heat transfer passages and a collector for collecting the process medium exiting the heat transfer passages.

[0004] If the process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger at high or low pressure and / or with a fluctuating flow rate, this can result in the process medium not flowing evenly through all heat transfer passages. So-called inactive areas can form in the heat exchanger block, through which the process medium does not flow or only insufficiently. These inactive areas can lead to the heat exchanger not being able to operate efficiently, as the inactive areas can negatively influence heat transfer within the heat exchanger block. The objective is therefore to achieve the most even flow through the heat exchanger block possible, even if the pressure and / or flow rate of the process medium changes.

[0005] Against this background, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger.

[0006] Accordingly, a heat exchanger is proposed comprising a heat exchanger block having a plurality of heat transfer passages, a distributor for distributing a process medium to the heat transfer passages, and a pressure difference generating device configured to generate a pressure difference of the process medium between the heat exchanger block and the distributor.

[0007] Because the pressure difference generation device creates a pressure difference between the heat exchanger block and the distributor, a controlled pressure loss can be achieved between the heat exchanger block and the distributor, which leads to an even distribution of the process medium among the heat transfer passages. This applies in particular when the process medium is supplied to the heat exchanger with a fluctuating pressure and / or a fluctuating volume flow. Inactive areas within the heat exchanger are thus avoided. This improves the efficiency of heat transfer within the heat exchanger block.

[0008] The heat exchanger can be part of a vehicle. However, the heat exchanger can also be used for any other application. In particular, the heat exchanger can also be used in immobile applications, especially in building technology. The heat exchanger is preferably a microstructure heat exchanger and can therefore also be referred to as such. The heat exchanger is particularly preferably a so-called plate heat exchanger and can therefore also be referred to as such. The heat exchanger can also be referred to as a heat exchanger.

[0009] The heat exchanger block is preferably cuboid-shaped. Alternatively, the heat exchanger block can also be cylindrical. However, the following assumes that the heat exchanger block is cuboid-shaped. The heat exchanger block is constructed, in particular, from alternating heating surface elements, in particular so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and separating plates. The heating surface elements can be made of corrugated or ribbed aluminum sheets, whereas the separating plates can be made of smooth aluminum sheets. However, materials other than aluminum can also be used.

[0010] With the help of the heating surface elements and the separating plates, a plurality of parallel heat transfer passages can be formed in the heat exchanger block, through which different process media can flow and indirectly transfer heat to process media conducted in adjacent heat transfer passages. For example, all heat transfer passages located in a plane spanned by a width direction or x-direction of the heat exchanger and a height direction or z-direction of the heat exchanger are traversed by the same process medium. Viewed along a depth direction or y-direction of the heat exchanger, several such planes with heat transfer passages are arranged one above the other or next to one another, through which different process media can flow. The x-direction, the y-direction, and the z-direction together form a coordinate system of the heat exchanger.

[0011] Any number of heat transfer passages can be provided. As previously mentioned, the heat transfer passages can be arranged in different planes viewed along the y-direction. A process medium can flow through each plane. In particular, at least two different process media are provided, between which heat exchange takes place during operation of the heat exchanger. In the following, reference is made to only one process medium. The process medium can be a coolant or a refrigerant. For example, the process medium can be oil or water. The heat exchanger block is arranged between the distributor and a header. The distributor and the header can each be referred to as a header. The distributor and the header can be welded and / or soldered to the heat exchanger block. With the help of the distributor, the process medium is distributed as evenly as possible between the heat transfer passages.The collector collects the process medium escaping from the heat transfer passages. The process medium to be distributed can be fed to the distributor via an inlet. The collected process medium can be discharged from the collector via an outlet.

[0012] The pressure difference generating device is preferably configured to generate a pressure loss of the process medium between the distributor and the heat exchanger block. In particular, the pressure difference generating device is configured to accumulate the process medium in the distributor. Particularly preferably, the pressure difference is a pressure loss. The pressure difference is generated, in particular, in the process medium. The pressure difference generating device can therefore also be referred to as a pressure loss generating device. Accordingly, the terms "pressure difference generating device" and "pressure loss generating device" can be interchanged arbitrarily in this context.

[0013] A "pressure difference" is understood here as a difference in a pressure profile between two predetermined measuring points in a system, in this case the heat exchanger. The measuring points can be provided, for example, in or on the distributor or in or on the heat exchanger block. The fact that a pressure difference of the process medium is generated between the heat exchanger block and the distributor is understood here in particular to mean that the process medium has a different pressure in the heat exchanger block than in the distributor. This means, in particular, that the pressure difference is generated in the process medium. According to one embodiment, the pressure difference generation device is arranged within the distributor.

[0014] This means, in particular, that the pressure difference generating device is surrounded by the distributor. The pressure difference generating device can also be arranged, in particular, between the heat exchanger block and the distributor. The pressure difference generating device can be permanently connected to the heat exchanger block and / or to the distributor. However, this is not mandatory.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating device has a variable cross-sectional area through which the process medium can flow during operation of the heat exchanger.

[0016] In this context, the "variable" cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generation device is understood to mean, in particular, that the cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generation device can be increased or decreased. This change in the cross-sectional area can occur continuously. If, for example, the cross-sectional area is reduced while maintaining a constant volume flow of the process medium, the process medium accumulates in the distributor, and the pressure of the process medium in the heat exchanger block decreases compared to a state in which the pressure difference generation device has a larger cross-sectional area.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating device comprises a first perforated plate with a first perforation and a second perforated plate with a second perforation, wherein the perforated plates are displaceable relative to one another to change the cross-sectional area. "Displaceable" is understood here in particular to mean that the first perforated plate and the second perforated plate are either linearly displaceable relative to one another and / or rotationally rotatable relative to one another. An adjusting element can be provided for this purpose. The perforations each have a plurality of openings. The openings penetrate the first perforated plate or the second perforated plate, so that the process medium can flow through the openings, through the first perforated plate and / or through the second perforated plate. The openings can be bores. In principle, however, the openings can have any desired geometry.The openings can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or the like. The openings can all have the same geometry. Alternatively, the openings can also have different geometries. For example, the openings can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, the openings can be placed next to each other in a row. Additionally, viewed along the y-direction, several rows of openings can be placed one above the other. Along the z-direction, the first perforated plate and the second perforated plate are preferably arranged one above the other. The perforated plates can be designed in a grid-like or sieve-like manner.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the heat exchanger has an adjusting element for displacing the perforated plates relative to one another.

[0019] In particular, the actuating element is configured to displace the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate. In this case, the first perforated plate is stationary. Conversely, however, the actuating element can also be configured to displace the first perforated plate relative to the second perforated plate. In this case, the second perforated plate is stationary. The actuating element can be an electric motor or the like. The actuating element can also be a magnet, in particular an electromagnet. The actuating element can be placed inside or outside the heat exchanger. The actuating element can also be referred to as an actuator.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the adjusting element is operatively connected directly or indirectly to one of the perforated plates by means of an operative connection.

[0021] With the help of the actuating element and the operative connection, the second perforated plate, in particular, can be moved relative to the first perforated plate or vice versa. In the case where the operative connection is "direct," the actuating element can be, for example, an electric motor, and the operative connection a rack, a rod assembly, or a threaded spindle. In this case, the actuating element in the form of the electric motor is thus directly operatively connected or coupled to the respective perforated plate with the help of the rack, the rod assembly, or the threaded spindle. In the case where the operative connection is "indirect," the actuating element can be, for example, a magnet, in particular an electromagnet, which magnetically interacts with one of the perforated plates, in particular with the second perforated plate, in order to move it.In contrast to the direct operative connection, the indirect operative connection does not provide a direct or mechanical operative connection, for example, in the form of a rod, gearing, or rack, between the actuator and the respective perforated plate. The indirect operative connection can also be referred to as a contactless or non-contact operative connection. However, this does not preclude the actuator from being able to contact the respective perforated plate, at least temporarily, even with the indirect operative connection.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the adjusting element is designed to displace the perforated plates linearly and / or rotationally relative to one another.

[0023] The actuator can, for example, move the second perforated plate linearly relative to the first perforated plate. Alternatively, the actuator can also rotate or twist one of the perforated plates relative to the other perforated plate. For example, the actuator can rotate the second perforated plate relative to the first perforated plate. Alternatively, a combined linear and rotary movement of one of the perforated plates relative to the other perforated plate can also be provided.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the actuating element is arranged completely or partially within the distributor.

[0025] If the adjusting element is arranged entirely within the distributor, an opening in the distributor through which the adjusting element is passed can advantageously be omitted. If the adjusting element is arranged partially within the distributor, the adjusting element is arranged, in particular, at least partially within and at least partially outside the distributor. The adjusting element can be attached or mounted to the distributor.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, the heat exchanger has a sensor system for pressure detection and a control and regulating device for controlling the actuating element based on sensor signals from the sensor system.

[0027] The sensor system can comprise pressure sensors, which can be provided in or on the heat exchanger block, in or on the distributor and / or in or on the collector. With the aid of the actuating element, the sensor system, and the regulating and control device, a control loop can be implemented such that the pressure difference is generated with the aid of the pressure difference generation device as a function of sensor signals from the sensor system. This means that the heat exchanger can always be operated efficiently, even with fluctuating pressure and / or a fluctuating volume flow of the supplied process medium. For example, control can be implemented such that the pressure of the process medium within the heat exchanger block always remains constant or consistent during operation of the heat exchanger, even with fluctuating pressure and / or a fluctuating volume flow of the supplied process medium.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating device can be moved from an open state to a partially closed state and vice versa by displacing the perforated plates relative to one another, wherein the cross-sectional area in the open state is larger than in the partially closed state.

[0029] The open state can also be referred to as the fully open state. In the open state, the openings of the perforated plates are positioned one above the other in such a way that they are aligned. "Aligned" in this context means that the openings of the perforated plates completely overlap each other. This results in a maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure difference generation device, through which the process medium can flow from the distributor through the pressure difference generation device into the heat exchanger block. This cross-sectional area corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the openings of the first perforated plate or the openings of the second perforated plate.The pressure difference generating device can be moved from the open state to the partially closed state, or vice versa, with the aid of the actuating element and the operative connection by displacing one of the perforated plates, in particular the second perforated plate, relative to the other perforated plate, in particular the first perforated plate. The partially closed state differs from the open state in that the second perforated plate is displaced relative to the first perforated plate, so that the openings in the perforations only partially overlap one another. The pressure difference generating device can particularly preferably be continuously adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states between the open state and the partially closed state can be provided.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, one of the perforated plates is fixedly connected to the heat exchanger block or to the distributor.

[0031] "Stationary" in this context means that the respective perforated plate cannot move relative to the heat exchanger block or the distributor. For example, the first perforated plate is permanently connected to the heat exchanger block or the distributor. The second perforated plate, on the other hand, is not stationary and can be moved relative to the first perforated plate and thus also relative to the heat exchanger block and / or the distributor. However, a reverse arrangement is also possible, in which the second perforated plate is stationary and the first perforated plate is movable.

[0032] According to a further embodiment, the perforated plates are polygonal, in particular rectangular, circular, elliptical or star-shaped.

[0033] In principle, however, the perforated plates can have any desired geometry. The term "polygonal" can be replaced with the term "polygonal." If the perforated plates are rectangular, the perforated plates are moved linearly relative to one another to move the pressure difference generating device from the open state to the partially closed state and vice versa. If the perforated plates are circular, the perforated plates are rotated relative to one another to move the pressure difference generating device from the open state to the partially closed state and vice versa. A combined linear and rotary movement can also be performed to move the perforated plates from the open state to the partially closed state and vice versa.According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating device comprises a pressure difference generating element made of an open-pore metal foam.

[0034] Alternatively, an open-pore plastic foam or an open-pore ceramic foam can be used for the pressure difference generation element. In particular, a metal-coated plastic foam can also be used. "Open-pore" in this context means that the pressure difference generation element is fluid-permeable, allowing the process medium to flow through the pressure difference generation element. The pressure difference generation element can be block-shaped or mat-shaped. Alternatively, the pressure difference generation element can also be wedge-shaped. An aluminum foam can be used for the pressure difference generation element. The pressure difference generation element is arranged, in particular, between the distributor and the heat exchanger block. The pressure difference generation element can be firmly connected to the heat exchanger block and / or to the distributor.

[0035] According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating element is wedge-shaped.

[0036] In this context, "wedge-shaped" is understood in particular to mean that the height or thickness of the pressure difference generating element extending along the z-direction changes when viewed along the x-direction. Viewed along the x-direction, the thickness of the pressure difference generating element can thus decrease or increase.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the pressure difference generating element is displaceable in order to move the pressure difference generating device from a first state in which the pressure difference generating element is arranged such that a thickness of the pressure difference generating element decreases starting from an inlet of the distributor in the direction of the heat exchanger block, to a second state in which the pressure difference generating element is arranged such that the thickness of the pressure difference generating element increases starting from the inlet of the distributor in the direction of the heat exchanger block, and vice versa.

[0038] An actuating element as mentioned above is provided for displacing the pressure difference generating element. To move the pressure difference generating device from the first state to the second state or vice versa, the actuating element can rotate and / or linearly displace the pressure difference generating element. The first state can also be referred to as the low-pressure state, since the pressure difference generating device is moved to the first state when the process medium pressure is low. The second state can also be referred to as the high-pressure state, since the pressure difference generating device is moved to the second state when the process medium pressure is high. The pressure difference generating device can be continuously adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states between the first state and the second state can be provided.

[0039] "One" in this case is not necessarily limited to a single element. Rather, multiple elements, such as two, three, or more, may be included. Any other counting term used here should not be understood as implying a limitation to the exact number of elements mentioned. Rather, numerical deviations upwards and downwards are possible, unless otherwise stated.

[0040] Further possible implementations of the heat exchanger also include combinations of features or embodiments described above or below with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned. In this case, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the heat exchanger.

[0041] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the heat exchanger are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the heat exchanger described below. The heat exchanger is explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0042] Fig. 1 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a heat exchanger!

[0043] Fig. 2 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger according to Fig. 1;

[0044] Fig. 3 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger according to the section line III -III of Fig. 2;

[0045] Fig. 4 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger, also along section line III-III of Fig. 2;

[0046] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger!

[0047] Fig. 6 shows another schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger according to Fig. 5!

[0048] Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger! Fig. 8 shows another schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger according to Fig. 7!

[0049] Fig. 9 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger!

[0050] Fig. 10 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger! and

[0051] Fig. 11 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger according to Fig. 10.

[0052] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference numerals unless otherwise stated.

[0053] Fig. 1 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 2 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger 1A. Reference is made below to Figs. 1 and 2 simultaneously.

[0054] The heat exchanger 1A can also be referred to as a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 1A can be part of a vehicle. However, the heat exchanger 1A can also be used for any other application. In particular, the heat exchanger 1A can also be used in immobile applications, especially in building services engineering. The heat exchanger 1A is preferably a microstructure heat exchanger.

[0055] The heat exchanger lA is assigned a coordinate system with a width direction or x-direction x, a depth direction or y-direction y, and a height direction or z-direction z. The directions x, y, and z are oriented perpendicular to each other.

[0056] The heat exchanger 1A is, in particular, a so-called plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 1A comprises a cuboid heat exchanger block 2, which can be constructed from alternatingly arranged heating surface elements, in particular so-called fins or heat transfer fins, and separating plates. The heating surface elements can be made of corrugated or ribbed aluminum sheets, whereas the separating plates can be made of smooth aluminum sheets. However, materials other than aluminum can also be used. The heat exchanger block 2 does not necessarily have to be cuboid. The heat exchanger block 2 can, for example, also be cylindrical, in particular circular-cylindrical.

[0057] With the aid of the heating surface elements and the separating plates, the heat exchanger 1A forms a plurality of parallel heat transfer passages 3, 4 through which process media 5 can flow and indirectly transfer heat to process media conveyed in adjacent heat transfer passages (not shown). All of the heat transfer passages 3, 4 shown in the sectional view of Figs. 1 and 2 can be flowed through by the same process medium 5.

[0058] In Figs. 1 and 2, only two of the heat transfer passages 3, 4 are provided with a reference numeral. Any number of heat transfer passages 3, 4 can be provided. The heat transfer passages 3, 4 run along the z-direction z. Viewed along the x-direction x, the heat transfer passages 3, 4 are arranged next to one another or one above the other. Furthermore, only one process medium 5 is shown in Figs. 1 and 2, although at least two different process media 5 are provided, between which heat exchange takes place during operation of the heat exchanger 1A. As previously mentioned, however, all of the heat transfer passages 3, 4 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are flowed through by the same process medium 5. The process medium 5 can be a coolant or a refrigerant.

[0059] For example, all heat transfer passages 3, 4 located in a plane spanned by the x-direction x and the z-direction z are flowed through by the same process medium 5. Viewed along the y-direction y, several such planes with further heat transfer passages 3, 4 are arranged one above the other or next to each other, through which different process media 5 can flow.

[0060] The heat exchanger block 2 is arranged between a distributor 6 and a collector 7. The distributor 6 and the collector 7 can each also be referred to as a header. The distributor 6 and the collector 7 can be welded and / or soldered to the heat exchanger block 2. With the help of the distributor 6, the process medium 5 is distributed as evenly as possible between the heat transfer passages 3, 4. The collector 7 collects the process medium 5 emerging from the heat transfer passages 3, 4. The process medium 5 to be distributed is fed to the distributor 6 via an inlet 8. The collected process medium 5 is discharged from the collector 7 via an outlet 9.

[0061] Fig. 1 shows the heat exchanger 1A in a first state in which the process medium 5 is supplied to the heat exchanger 1A at a high pressure and / or a large volume flow. Fig. 2 shows the heat exchanger 1A in a second state in which the process medium 5 is supplied to the heat exchanger 1A at a low pressure and / or a small volume flow. In both states, the heat exchanger block 2 is not efficiently flushed with the process medium 5. Inactive regions 10, 11 can form in the heat exchanger block 2 through which the process medium 5 does not flow or through which it flows only insufficiently. The inactive regions 10, 11 are enclosed by dash-dotted lines in Figs. 1 and 2. The inactive areas 10, 11 ensure that the heat exchanger 1A cannot be operated efficiently, since the inactive areas 10, 11 negatively influence the heat transfer within the heat exchanger block 2.The objective is therefore to achieve the most uniform flow possible through the heat exchanger block 2, even when the pressure and / or volume flow of the process medium 5 changes. This is intended to eliminate the inactive areas 10, 11.

[0062] To achieve this uniform flow through the heat exchanger block 2, it is desirable to create a controlled or defined pressure drop before the process medium 5 enters the heat exchanger block 2. This pressure drop can be achieved—as explained below—by distributing a defined volume flow of the process medium 5 over a larger area.

[0063] In other words, the desired pressure drop can be generated by increasing the area through which the process medium 5 flows into the heat exchanger block 2. This controlled pressure drop results in a uniform distribution of the process medium 5 before it enters the heat exchanger block 2. Furthermore, increasing the area also increases the period of time over which the process medium 5 is in the heat exchanger block 2. The inactive regions 10, 11 can be eliminated. This, in turn, increases the efficiency of the heat exchanger 1A.

[0064] Fig. 3 shows a further sectional view of the heat exchanger 1A according to the

[0065] Section line III-III of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 also shows a further sectional view of the heat exchanger 1A according to the section line III-III of Fig. 2.

[0066] In the following, reference is made to Figs. 3 and 4 simultaneously.

[0067] The heat exchanger 1A has a pressure difference generating device 12A for the equal distribution of the process medium 5 to the heat transfer passages 3,

[0068] 4 of the heat exchanger block 2. The pressure difference generating device 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 generating device 12A is arranged between the distributor 6 and the heat exchanger block 2. For example, the pressure difference generating device 12A is connected to the distributor 6 and / or the heat exchanger block 2.

[0069] The pressure difference generating device 12A has a first perforated plate 13, which is mounted in a stationary manner. 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 14 with a plurality of openings 15, 16, of which only two are provided with a reference numeral in Fig. 4. The openings 15, 16 penetrate the first perforated plate 13, so that the process medium

[0070] 5 can flow through the openings 15, 16 through the first perforated plate 13. The first perforated plate 13 can be rectangular.

[0071] The openings 15, 16 can be bores. In principle, however, the openings 15, 16 can have any desired geometry. The openings 15, 16 can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or the like. The openings 15, 16 can all have the same geometry. Alternatively, the openings 15, 16 can also have different geometries. For example, the openings 15, 16 can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction x, the openings 15, 16 are placed next to one another in a row. Additionally, viewed along the y-direction y, several rows of openings 15, 16 can be placed one above the other.

[0072] Furthermore, the pressure difference generating device 12A has a second perforated plate 17. The second perforated plate 17 can also be rectangular. The two perforated plates 13, 17 are placed one on top of the other. Viewed along the z-direction z, the second perforated plate 17 is arranged on the first perforated plate 13. However, the second perforated plate 17 is not stationary, but can be displaced relative to the first perforated plate 13 along and counter to the x-direction x, as indicated in Figs. 3 and 4 by a double arrow 18.

[0073] The second perforated plate 17 has a second perforation 19 with a plurality of openings 20, 21, of which only two are provided with a reference numeral in Figs. 3 and 4. The openings 20, 21 penetrate the second perforated plate 17, so that the process medium 5 can flow through the openings 20, 21 through the second perforated plate 17.

[0074] The openings 15, 16 and the openings 20, 21 can be identically designed. However, this is not mandatory. The openings 20, 21 can be bores. In principle, however, the openings 20, 21 can have any desired geometry. The openings 20, 21 can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or the like. The openings 20, 21 can all have the same geometry. Alternatively, the openings 20, 21 can also have different geometries. For example, the openings 20, 21 can have different diameters. Viewed along the x-direction, the openings 20, 21 are arranged next to one another in a row. Additionally, viewed along the y-direction, several rows of openings 20, 21 can be arranged one above the other. The pressure difference generating device 12A further comprises an actuator, an actuator, or an actuating element 22.The actuating element 22 can be an electric motor or the like. The actuating element 22 can also be a magnet, in particular an electromagnet. The actuating element 22 can be placed inside or outside the heat exchanger 1A. The actuating element 22 is operatively connected to the second perforated plate 17 by means of an operative connection 23. With the aid of the actuating element 22 and the operative connection 23, the second locking plate 17 can be moved relative to the first perforated plate 13, as indicated by the double arrow 18.

[0075] The operative connection 23 can be direct or indirect. If the operative connection 23 is direct, it can also be referred to as a mechanical operative connection. If the operative connection 23 is indirect, it can also be referred to as a contactless or non-contact operative connection. If the operative connection 23 is direct, the actuating element 22 can be, for example, an electric motor and the operative connection a rack, a rod assembly, or a threaded spindle. The actuating element 22 can also be a magnet, in particular an electromagnet, which can be connected to the second perforated plate 17 by means of a suitable mechanism, for example in the form of a rod assembly.In the event that the operative connection 23 is indirect, the actuating element 22 can, for example, also be a magnet, in particular an electromagnet, which, however, interacts with the second perforated plate 17 only magnetically, i.e. without a connecting mechanism, in order to move it.

[0076] The function of the pressure difference generating device 12A is explained below. Figure 3 shows the pressure difference generating device 12A in a fully open state ZI. In the fully open state ZI, the openings 15, 16, 20, 21 of the perforations 14, 19 are positioned one above the other in such a way that they are aligned. This results in a hatched maximum cross-sectional area Al of the pressure difference generating device 12A, through which the process medium 5 can flow from the distributor 6 through the pressure difference generating device 12A into the heat exchanger block 2. The cross-sectional area Al corresponds to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the openings 15, 16 or the openings 20, 21.

[0077] Fig. 4, however, shows the pressure difference generating device 12A in a partially closed state Z2. The pressure difference generating device 12A can be moved from the fully open state Z1 to the partially closed state Z2 and vice versa with the aid of the actuating element 22 and the operative connection 23 by displacing the second perforated plate 17 relative to the first perforated plate 13, as indicated by the double arrow 18. The partially closed state Z2 differs from the fully open state Z2 in that the second perforated plate 17 is displaced to the right in the orientation of Fig. 4.

[0078] The adjustment of the second perforated plate 17 with the aid of the adjusting element 22 and the operative connection 23 can be carried out continuously, so that in addition to the fully open state Z1, an infinite number of partially closed states Z2 can be provided. Only a partially closed state Z2 will be discussed below. In the partially closed state Z2, the openings 15, 16 of the first perforation 14 and the openings 20, 21 of the second perforation 19 partially overlap, so that the pressure difference generating device 12A in the partially closed state Z2 has a cross-sectional area A2 that is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1.

[0079] In the partially closed state Z2, the process medium 5 is dammed up in the distributor 6 compared to the fully open state ZI, whereby the pressure of the process medium 5 in the heat exchanger block 2 decreases. Since in the partially closed state Z2 the cross-sectional area A2 is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1 in the fully open state ZI, the amount of process medium 5 that can flow through the pressure difference generating device 12A per unit of time at a constant pressure can be reduced. In other words, a volume flow of the process medium 5 can also be controlled. It is thus 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, 11 and thus operate the heat exchanger 1A more efficiently.

[0080] The actuator 22 can be controlled, for example, based on a sensor system 24 (Figs. 1 and 2) of the heat exchanger 1A. The sensor system 24 can comprise pressure sensors that can be provided in or on the heat exchanger block 2, the distributor 6, and / or the collector 7. To control the actuator 22, a control and regulation device 25 can be provided, which controls the actuator 22 based on sensor signals from the sensor system 24.

[0081] A volume flow Q of the process medium 5 is related to an average flow velocity v A by the respective cross-sectional area Al, A2 as follows:

[0082] Q = v A * A

[0083] A stands for the respective cross-sectional area Al, A2. For a given volume flow Q, for example, the average flow velocity v Awhen the cross-sectional area Al is reduced to the cross-sectional area A2 by moving the pressure difference generating device 12A from the fully open state ZI to the partially closed state Z2.

[0084] The perforated plates 13, 17 do not necessarily have to be rectangular. Alternatively, the perforated plates 13, 17 can also be round, in particular annular. In this case, the perforated plates 13, 17 are rotated relative to one another to move the pressure difference generating device 12A from the fully open state Z1 to the partially closed state Z2 and vice versa.

[0085] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger 1B. Fig. 6 shows another schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger 1B. Reference is made below to Figs. 5 and 6 simultaneously.

[0086] The functionality of heat exchanger 1B corresponds to that of the previously explained heat exchanger 1A. Heat exchanger 1B differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that the actuating element 22 is mounted on the distributor 6. The actuating element 22 can extend partially into and partially out of the distributor 6. In this case, the actuating element 22 can be, for example, an electric motor coupled to the second perforated plate 17 by means of the operative connection 23. Fig. 5 shows heat exchanger 1B at a low pressure of the process medium 5. Fig. 6 shows heat exchanger 1B at a high pressure of the process medium 5.

[0087] Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a further embodiment of a heat exchanger 1C. Fig. 8 shows a further schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger 1C. Reference is made below to Figs. 7 and 8 simultaneously.

[0088] The functionality of heat exchanger 1C corresponds to that of the previously described heat exchanger 1A. Heat exchanger 1C differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that the control element 22 is arranged entirely within the distributor 6. This eliminates the need for a hole in the distributor 6 for mounting the control element 22. Fig. 7 shows heat exchanger 1C at a low pressure of the process medium 5. Fig. 8 shows heat exchanger 1C at a high pressure of the process medium 5.

[0089] In this case, the actuating element 22 is a magnet, in particular an electromagnet. To move the pressure difference generating device 12A from the fully open state ZI shown in Fig. 7 to the partially closed state Z2 shown in Fig. 8, the magnet in the form of the actuating element 22 is switched on or activated. To move the pressure difference generating device 12A from the partially closed state Z2 back to the fully open state ZI, a return device in the form of a spring can be provided.

[0090] Fig. 9 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger ID.

[0091] Heat exchanger ID differs from heat exchanger 1A only in that heat exchanger ID has an alternative embodiment of a pressure difference generating device 12B. Pressure difference generating device 12B has a block-shaped or mat-shaped 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 a pressure loss. An aluminum foam can be used for the pressure difference generating element 26.

[0092] The pressure difference generating device 12B is arranged between the heat exchanger block 2 and the distributor 6 and ensures that the process medium 5 accumulates in the distributor 6. A pressure loss can also be generated with the pressure difference generating device 12B. Furthermore, the pressure difference generating device 12B ensures a uniform distribution of the process medium 5 to the heat transfer passages 3, 4. The pressure difference generating device 12B can be permanently connected to the heat exchanger block 2 and / or the distributor 6. The pressure difference generating device 12B can have the pressure difference generating element 26 as a single component. Accordingly, the pressure difference generating element 26 can be identical to the pressure difference generating device 12B. Alternatively, the pressure difference generating device 12B can also have multiple pressure difference generating elements 26.The control element 22, the active connection 23, the sensors 24 and the control and regulation device 25 can be omitted.

[0093] Fig. 10 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a heat exchanger IE. Fig. 11 shows another schematic sectional view of the heat exchanger IE. Reference is made below to Figs. 10 and 11 simultaneously.

[0094] The functionality of the heat exchanger IE corresponds to that of the previously explained heat exchanger ID. Fig. 10 shows the heat exchanger IE at a low pressure of the process medium 5. Fig. 11 shows the heat exchanger IE at a high pressure of the process medium 5. The heat exchanger IE differs from the heat exchanger ID only in that the heat exchanger IE has an alternative embodiment of a pressure difference generation device 12C.

[0095] The pressure difference generating device 12C has a pressure difference generating element 27, which—like the pressure difference generating element 26 of the pressure difference generating device 12B—is made of an open-pore metal foam. However, the pressure difference generating element 27 is not block-shaped or mat-shaped like the pressure difference generating element 26 of the pressure difference generating device 12B, but rather wedge-shaped. "Wedge-shaped" is understood here to mean that a height or thickness d (Fig. 11) of the pressure difference generating element 27 extending along the z-direction z changes along the x-direction x and / or along the y-direction y. Viewed along the x-direction x and / or along the y-direction y, the thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 can decrease or increase.

[0096] Furthermore, the pressure difference generating element 27 is not stationary, but movable. For example, the pressure difference generating element 27 can be moved and / or rotated. For this purpose, an actuating element 22 as previously explained can be provided, which is controlled based on sensor signals from a sensor system 24 with the aid of a control and regulation device 25. A combined linear and rotary movement for the pressure difference generating element 27 can also be provided.

[0097] By moving and / or rotating the pressure difference generating element 27 as mentioned above, the pressure difference generating device 12C can be moved from a first state Z10 shown in Fig. 10 to a second state Z20 shown in Fig. 11 and back. The first state Z10 can also be referred to as a low-pressure state. The second state Z20 can also be referred to as a high-pressure state. Any number of intermediate states are provided between the states Z10 and Z20, so that the pressure difference generating element 27 can be continuously adjusted.

[0098] For example, the heat exchanger block 2—as previously mentioned—can have a cylindrical geometry, wherein the pressure difference generating element 27 can be round, in particular circular. In this case, the actuating element 22 can rotate the pressure difference generating element 27 in order to move the pressure difference generating device 12C from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa. The pressure difference generating element 27 can also be moved linearly to move the pressure difference generating device 12C from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa. Any desired mechanism, for example, comprising a control cam of any shape, can be provided for moving or displacing the pressure difference generating element 27.

[0099] In the first state Z10, the pressure difference generating element 27 is arranged such that its thickness d, viewed along the x-direction x, decreases or diminishes starting from the inlet 8. The thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 therefore becomes smaller in the first state Z10, starting from the inlet 8. In the second state Z20, in contrast to the first state Z10, the pressure difference generating element 27 is arranged such that its thickness d, viewed along the x-direction x, increases starting from the inlet 8. The thickness d of the pressure difference generating element 27 therefore becomes larger in the second state Z20, starting from the inlet 8.

[0100] When the pressure of the process medium 5 is low, the pressure difference generating device 12C is accordingly moved to the first state Z10. When the pressure of the process medium 5 is high, the pressure difference generating device 12C is accordingly moved to the second state Z20. The pressure difference generating device 12C can be continuously adjusted. This means that any number of intermediate states between the states Z10 and Z20 can be provided.

[0101] It is also possible for the pressure difference generating element 27 to be made of an elastically deformable material, for example, a metal-coated plastic foam. In this case, the actuating element 22 can be a magnet, for example. If the actuating element 22 acts magnetically on the pressure difference element 27, the latter deforms. The material of the pressure difference element 27 can thus be attracted to or repelled by the actuating element 22. The pressure difference generating device 12C can thus be moved from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa by elastically deforming the pressure difference generating element 27. In other words, the pressure difference generating element 27 can be deformed from the first state Z10 to the second state Z20 and vice versa.

[0102] Although the present invention has been described using exemplary embodiments, it can be modified in many ways.

[0103] LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0104] 1A heat exchanger

[0105] 1B Heat exchanger

[0106] 1C heat exchanger

[0107] ID heat exchanger

[0108] IE heat exchanger

[0109] 2 heat exchanger block

[0110] 3 Heat transfer passage

[0111] 4 Heat transfer passage

[0112] 5 Process medium

[0113] 6 distributors

[0114] 7 collectors

[0115] 8 Inlet

[0116] 9 Procedure

[0117] 10 Area

[0118] 11 Area

[0119] 12A Pressure difference generating device

[0120] 12B Pressure difference generating device

[0121] 12 C pressure difference generating device

[0122] 13 perforated plate

[0123] 14 holes

[0124] 15 Breakthrough

[0125] 16 Breakthrough

[0126] 17 perforated plate

[0127] 18 Double arrow

[0128] 19 holes

[0129] 20 Breakthrough

[0130] 21 Breakthrough

[0131] 22 Control element 23 Active connection

[0132] 24 Sensor technology

[0133] 25 Control and regulation device

[0134] 26 Pressure difference generating element 27 Pressure difference generating element

[0135] Al cross-sectional area

[0136] A2 Cross-sectional area d Thickness x x-direction y y-direction z z-direction

[0137] ZI condition

[0138] Z2 condition Z10 condition

[0139] Z20 condition

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Heat exchanger (1A, 1B, 1C, ID, IE) with 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) which is designed to generate a pressure difference of the process medium (5) between the heat exchanger block (2) and the distributor (6).

2. Heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A, 12B, 12C) is arranged within the distributor (6).

3. Heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A) has a variable cross-sectional area (A1, A2) through which the process medium (5) can flow during operation of the heat exchanger (1A, 1B, 1C).

4. Heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A) has a first perforated plate (13) with a first perforation (14) and a second perforated plate (17) with a second perforation (19), wherein the perforated plates (13, 17) are displaceable relative to one another to change the cross-sectional area (A1, A2).

5. Heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized by an adjusting element (22) for displacing the perforated plates (13, 17) relative to one another.

6. Heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that the adjusting element (22) is operatively connected directly or indirectly to one of the perforated plates (13, 17) by means of an operative connection (23).

7. Heat exchanger according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the adjusting element (22) is designed to displace the perforated plates (13, 17) linearly and / or rotationally relative to one another.

8. Heat exchanger according to one of claims 5 - 7, characterized in that the adjusting element (22) is arranged completely or partially within the distributor (6).

9. Heat exchanger according to one of claims 5 - 8, characterized by a sensor system (24) for pressure detection and a regulating and control device (25) for controlling the actuating element (22) based on sensor signals from the sensor system (24).

10. Heat exchanger according to one of claims 4 - 9, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12A) can be moved from an open state (Z1) into a partially closed state (Z2) and vice versa by means of a displacement of the perforated plates (13, 17) relative to one another, wherein the cross-sectional area (Al, A2) in the open state (Zl) is larger than in the partially closed state (Z2).

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

12. Heat exchanger according to one of claims 4 - 11, characterized in that the perforated plates (13, 17) are polygonal, in particular rectangular, circular, elliptical or star-shaped.

13. Heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure difference generating device (12B, 12C) has a pressure difference generating element (26, 27) which is made of an open-pore metal foam.

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

15. Heat exchanger according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressure difference generating element (27) is displaceable in order 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 a thickness (d) of the pressure difference generating element (27) decreases starting from an inlet (8) of the distributor (6) in the direction of the heat exchanger block (2), into a second state (Z10) in which the pressure difference generating element (27) is arranged such that the thickness (d) of the pressure difference generating element (27) increases starting from the inlet (8) of the distributor (6) in the direction of the heat exchanger block (2), and vice versa.

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