Heat source unit and refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

An outdoor unit (20) includes: a partition structure part (70) that partitions the inside of a casing (40) into a machine chamber (S1) and a blower chamber (S2); a compressor (30) that is disposed in the machine chamber; and a blower (22) and an outdoor heat exchanger (21) that are disposed in the blower chamber. The outdoor heat exchanger has a plurality of flat tubes (52), fins (55) that partition a space between the adjacent flat tubes into a plurality of ventilation paths (56), and a first header (60) to which ends of the plurality of flat tubes are connected. The partition structure part includes the first header, a first partition part (71) that partitions a windward side of the first header, and a second partition part (100) that partitions a leeward side of the first header.

Description

Heat source unit and refrigeration cycle device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat source unit and a refrigeration cycle device.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an outdoor unit that constitutes a refrigeration cycle device. The outdoor unit includes a housing, a compressor, a blower fan, and a heat exchanger. A partition member is provided inside the housing to separate the interior of the housing into a fan chamber and a machine chamber. The machine chamber houses the compressor. The fan chamber houses the blower fan and the heat exchanger.

[0003] International Publication No. 2023 / 007603

[0004] In heat source units such as outdoor units, the compressor generates noise. In addition to the noise generated by the compressor, for example, radiated noise and vibration noise are generated from an accumulator installed in the machine room together with the compressor. When the machine room is partially open to the outside, such as on the rear side of the housing, as in the outdoor unit of Patent Document 1, the noise generated in the machine room leaks out.

[0005] Here, since noise regulation standards have become stricter in recent years, the inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research into new structures for improving the soundproofing effect of heat source units.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to suppress noise generated in the machine room of a heat source unit from leaking to the outside.

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a heat source unit (20). The heat source unit (20) of the first aspect includes a casing (40), a partition structure (70) that divides the interior of the casing (40) into a machine chamber (S1) and a blower chamber (S2), a compressor (30) arranged in the machine chamber (S1), and a blower (22) and a heat exchanger (21) arranged in the blower chamber (S2). The heat exchanger (21) allows air transported by the blower (22) to pass through and exchanges heat between the passing air and a refrigerant therein. The heat exchanger (21) includes a plurality of flat tubes (52) having refrigerant flow paths (54) formed therein, fins (55) that divide the adjacent flat tubes (52) into a plurality of ventilation passages (56) through which air flows, and headers (60) to which ends of the flat tubes (52) are connected. The partition structure (70) includes the header (60), a first partition (71) that partitions the windward side of the header (60), and a second partition (100) that partitions the leeward side of the header (60).

[0008] In this first aspect, the interior of the casing (40) is divided into a machine room (S1) and a blower room (S2) by a partition structure (70). The partition structure (70) includes a header (60) that is part of the heat exchanger (21). The windward side of the header (60) is divided by a first partition (71). The leeward side of the header (60) is divided by a second partition (100). By using the header (60) as the partition structure (70) and dividing both sides of the header (60) in this manner, the machine room (S1) can be closed and isolated from the outside. This makes it possible to prevent noise generated in the machine room (S1) from leaking to the outside.

[0009] A second aspect of the present disclosure is the heat source unit (20) of the first aspect, further comprising at least one non-metallic fixture (80) attached to the header (60). The first partition (71) includes a plate member (90) fixed to the fixture (80) without contacting the header (60), and a first sealant (96) that seals a second gap (g2) between the plate member (90) and the header (60).

[0010] In this second aspect, a nonmetallic fixture (80) is attached to the header (60). The plate member (90) forming the first partition (71) is fixed to the fixture (80) without contacting the header (60). If the header (60) and the plate member (90) are made of different metal materials, direct contact between them may cause electrical corrosion and accelerate deterioration. However, the header (60) and the plate member (90) are kept out of contact via the fixture (80), thereby preventing electrical corrosion between the header (60) and the plate member (90). The first gap (g1) between the plate member (90) and the header (60) is sealed by a first sealant (96). This ensures soundproofing of the first partition (71).

[0011] A third aspect of the present disclosure is the heat source unit (20) of the first or second aspect, further comprising at least one non-metallic fixture (80) attached to the header (60). The second partition (100) includes a partition plate (101) fixed to the fixture (80) without contacting the header (60), and a second sealant (106) that seals a second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the header (60).

[0012] In this third aspect, a nonmetallic fixture (80) is attached to the header (60). The partition plate (101) forming the second partition portion (100) is fixed to the fixture (80) without contacting the header (60). If the header (60) and the partition plate (101) are made of different metal materials, direct contact between them may cause electrical corrosion and accelerate deterioration. However, the header (60) and the partition plate (101) are kept out of contact via the fixture (80), thereby preventing electrical corrosion between the header (60) and the partition plate (101). The second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the header (60) is sealed by the second sealant (106). This ensures soundproofing of the second partition portion (100).

[0013] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a refrigeration cycle apparatus (1). The refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) of the fourth aspect includes the heat source unit (20) of any one of the first to third aspects.

[0014] The fourth aspect includes the heat source unit (20) according to any one of the first to third aspects. The heat source unit (20) has a high soundproofing effect against noise generated in the machine room (S1). Therefore, it is possible to provide a refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) in which the heat source unit (20) is made quieter.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a refrigerant circuit diagram of a refrigeration cycle apparatus of an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit as viewed from the front side. FIG. 3 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit as viewed from above. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an outdoor heat exchanger. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a fin of the outdoor heat exchanger as viewed from the side. FIG. 7 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view of a main portion of the outdoor unit surrounded by VII in FIG. 3. FIG. 8 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of Modified Example 1 as viewed from the front side. FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of Modified Example 2 as viewed from the front side. FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of Modified Example 3 as viewed from the front side. FIG. 12 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit of Modified Example 3 as viewed from above.

[0016] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, in the drawings, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified to facilitate understanding of the technology of the present disclosure.

[0017] 1, a refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) is a refrigeration cycle apparatus for hot water supply having an outdoor unit (20) as a heat source unit. The outdoor unit (20) has a refrigerant circuit (2). The refrigerant circuit (2) is filled with, for example, a flammable natural refrigerant. The flammable natural refrigerant is, for example, propane. Propane is a refrigerant with a higher specific gravity than air. The refrigerant circuit (2) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant.

[0018] <Fluid Circuit> The refrigeration cycle device (1) has a fluid circuit (12). Water flows through the fluid circuit (12) as a heat medium. A water heat exchanger (15) and a fluid pump (16) are connected to the fluid circuit (12). The fluid pump (16) circulates the water in the fluid circuit (12). The fluid heated by the water heat exchanger (15) is supplied to a hot water supply tank, which is the supply destination. The water in the hot water supply tank returns to the fluid circuit (12) and is heated again by the water heat exchanger (15).

[0019] <Outdoor Unit> The outdoor unit (20) includes a refrigerant cylinder (5), a water heat exchanger (15), an outdoor heat exchanger (21), an outdoor fan (22), an expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), an accumulator (25), and a compressor (30). The outdoor heat exchanger (21), the expansion valve (23), the four-way switching valve (24), and the compressor (30) are connected by a pipe (26).

[0020] The refrigerant cylinder (5) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant cylinder (5) is connected, for example, to a pipe branching off from a pipe (26) connecting the four-way selector valve (24) and the accumulator (25). After the outdoor unit (20) is transported to the installation site, the refrigerant cylinder (5) opens the on-off valve (6) of the refrigerant cylinder (5) to fill the refrigerant circuit (2) with refrigerant. This arrangement can prevent flammable refrigerant from leaking from the refrigerant circuit (2) during transportation of the outdoor unit (20).

[0021] The water heat exchanger (15) is connected to a pipe (26) of the refrigerant circuit (2). The water heat exchanger (15) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the pipe (26) and the water flowing through a fluid pipe (17) of the fluid circuit (12). The outdoor fan (22) is, for example, a propeller fan. The outdoor fan (22) generates an air flow and transports the air to be passed through the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The outdoor fan (22) is an example of a blower.

[0022] The outdoor heat exchanger (21) is a microchannel heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger (21) passes air transported by the outdoor fan (22) and exchanges heat between the passing air and the refrigerant flowing inside. The outdoor heat exchanger (21) is an example of a heat exchanger. The expansion valve (23) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (23) is, for example, an electronic expansion valve.

[0023] The four-way switching valve (24) has a first port (P1), a second port (P2), a third port (P3), and a fourth port (P4). The four-way switching valve (24) is in a state where the first port (P1) communicates with the third port (P3) and where the second port (P2) communicates with the fourth port (P4) (the state shown by the solid lines in FIG. 1).

[0024] The compressor (30) compresses the refrigerant. The compressor (30) is, for example, a rotary compressor such as a scroll compressor. A four-way switching valve (24) is connected to a pipe on the discharge side of the compressor (30). An accumulator (25) is connected to a pipe (26) on the suction side of the compressor (30).

[0025] In this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) is described as an apparatus having a refrigerant circuit (2) and a fluid circuit (12), but is not limited to this. For example, the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) may be an air conditioner having a single refrigerant circuit (2).

[0026] <Internal Configuration of Outdoor Unit> In the following description, arrows are used in each drawing to indicate up / down, front / rear, left / right directions. Unless otherwise specified, the up / down directions will be described according to the directions indicated by the arrows in each drawing.

[0027] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the outdoor unit (20) includes a casing (40). The casing (40) is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box having six sides. The casing (40) is formed, for example, by combining metal plates. The casing (40) includes a top panel (43), a bottom panel (44), a front panel (45), a rear panel (46), a left panel (47), and a right panel (48).

[0028] The outdoor unit (20) includes a partition structure (70). The partition structure (70) separates the interior of the casing (40) into a machine chamber (S1) and a fan chamber (S2). The partition structure (70) is formed using a part of the outdoor heat exchanger (21) and is provided so as to extend the entire length of the interior of the casing (40) in the front-to-rear direction from the front panel (45) to the rear panel (46). The detailed configuration of the partition structure (70) will be described later.

[0029] The casing (40) is formed with an inlet (41) and an outlet (42). The inlet (41) includes a first inlet (41A) and a second inlet (41B). The first inlet (41A) is formed in a left portion of the rear panel (46) corresponding to the fan chamber (S2). The second inlet (41B) is formed in the left panel (47). The outlet (42) is formed in a left portion of the front panel (45) corresponding to the fan chamber (S2).

[0030] The machine room (S1) is a space inside the casing (40) to the right of the partition structure (70) in Fig. 2. The machine room (S1) accommodates a refrigerant cylinder (5), a pipe group (8), a water heat exchanger (15), an accumulator (25), and a compressor (30).

[0031] The compressor (30) has support legs (31). The support legs (31) are supported by a plurality of first vibration-isolating members (32). The first vibration-isolating members (32) are made of, for example, rubber or urethane. The first vibration-isolating members (32) are supported on the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40). As a result, even if the compressor (30) vibrates during operation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1), the vibration is damped by the first vibration-isolating members (32) before being transmitted to the bottom plate (44).

[0032] The refrigerant cylinder (5) and the water heat exchanger (15) are supported on the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40). The accumulator (25) is supported by a stay (not shown) at a position spaced apart from the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40).

[0033] The piping group (8) includes a valve (9) and a pipe (26). The valve (9) includes an expansion valve (23), a four-way selector valve (24), and a solenoid valve (29). The piping group (8) may include an internal heat exchanger for exchanging heat between refrigerants, a muffler, a filter, etc. The valve (9) may include an electric valve, a check valve, a three-way valve, etc.

[0034] The fan chamber (S2) is a space inside the casing (40) to the left of the partition structure (70) in Fig. 2. The fan chamber (S2) includes an air passage (AP) through which air flows from the inlet (41) to the outlet (42). An outdoor fan (22) and an outdoor heat exchanger (21) are disposed in the fan chamber (S2).

[0035] The outdoor fan (22) is disposed near the front of the blower chamber (S2). The outdoor fan (22) has a fan motor (22a). The fan motor (22a) is located behind the outdoor fan (22). The outdoor heat exchanger (21) is disposed so as to extend continuously behind and to the left of the outdoor fan (22), and is located upstream of the outdoor fan (22) in the air passage (AP).

[0036] When the outdoor fan (22) is rotated, air drawn into the blower chamber (S2) through the inlet (41) passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (21). At this time, heat is exchanged between the air passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (21) and the refrigerant flowing inside the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The air after heat exchange is blown out of the outdoor unit (20) through the outlet (42). In Figure 3, the air flow is indicated by white arrows.

[0037] <Outdoor Heat Exchanger> As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the outdoor heat exchanger (21) has an L-shaped outer shape in a plan view. The outdoor heat exchanger (21) includes a heat exchange section (50), a first header (60), and a second header (65). The heat exchange section (50) is a section in the outdoor heat exchanger (21) that exchanges heat with the air refrigerant. The heat exchange section (50) includes a first heat exchange section (50A) and a second heat exchange section (50B).

[0038] The first heat exchange section (50A) is a main heat exchange section located rearward of the outdoor fan (22). The first heat exchange section (50A) has a first ventilation surface (51a). The first ventilation surface (51a) is formed along the rear panel (46) or the first suction port (41A). The second heat exchange section (50B) is an auxiliary heat exchange section located to the side of the outdoor fan (22). The second heat exchange section (50B) has a second ventilation surface (51b). The second ventilation surface (51b) is formed along the left panel (47) or the second suction port (41B). The area of ​​the second ventilation surface (51b) is smaller than the area of ​​the first ventilation surface (51a).

[0039] The heat exchange section (50) includes a plurality of flat tubes (52) and a plurality of fins (55).

[0040] Each of the flat tubes (52) extends between the first header (60) and the second header (65). In this example, the flat tubes (52) are formed in an L-shape in plan view. The flat tubes (52) are made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 5, the flat tubes (52) are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the air flow, specifically in the vertical direction. The width direction of the flat tubes (52) corresponds to the air flow direction. A wide first surface (53a) is formed at one end in the thickness direction (vertical direction) of each of the flat tubes (52). A wide second surface (53b) is formed at the other end in the thickness direction of each of the flat tubes (52). In adjacent flat tubes (52), the first surface (53a) of one flat tube (52) faces the second surface (53b) of the other flat tube (52).

[0042] As shown in Figure 6, the cross section of the flat tube (52) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is elliptical, oval, or substantially rectangular, extending in the direction of air flow. A plurality of refrigerant flow paths (54) are formed inside the flat tube (52). The plurality of flow paths (54) are arranged in the direction of air flow. In this manner, the flat tube (52) constitutes a flat perforated pipe. This increases the refrigerant flow path area in the flat tube (52), thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger (21).

[0043] The fins (55) are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the flat tubes (52). The fins (55) are made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The fins (55) are formed in a plate shape. The thickness direction of each fin (55) corresponds to the arrangement direction of the fins (55). The fins (55) partition the space between adjacent flat tubes (52) into a plurality of ventilation passages (56) through which air flows.

[0044] The fins (55) are formed in a rectangular shape extending in the arrangement direction of the flat tubes (52). A plurality of notches (57) are formed on one side of the fins (55) in the width direction (air flow direction). The plurality of notches (57) are formed at equal intervals in the vertical direction. In this example, the notches (57) are open on the upstream side of the fins (55). One flat tube (52) is inserted into and held in each notch (57).

[0045] The fin (55) has a continuous portion (58) and a plurality of intermediate portions (59). The continuous portion (58) extends in the longitudinal direction (up-down direction) of the fin (55). The intermediate portions (59) each extend from the continuous portion (58) in the width direction of the fin (55) and are arranged adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the fin (55) via a notch. In this example, the intermediate portions (59) are located upstream of the fin (55), and the continuous portion (58) is located downstream of the fin (55). The ventilation passages (56) are formed between adjacent flat tubes (52) and adjacent intermediate portions (59).

[0046] The heat exchange section (50) is not limited to the heat exchange section (50) of the type employing insert fins as the fins (55) as described above, but may be a heat exchange section of the type employing corrugated fins as the fins.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first header (60) is located at one side end of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). Specifically, the first header (60) is disposed to correspond to the right side of the heat exchange section (50) and constitutes the right end of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The first header (60) is a member extending in the vertical direction. The first header (60) is made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. One end (the right end in this example) of each of the plurality of flat tubes (52) is connected to the first header (60).

[0048] The first header (60) is configured in a shape that is roughly a combination of a semi-cylinder and one side of a flat rectangular parallelepiped. The first header (60) is disposed so that the cylindrical portion faces the side (right side) of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The first header (60) has a front side surface (61) and a rear side surface (62). The front side surface (61) is a flat surface facing the front side of the rectangular parallelepiped portion of the first header (60). The rear side surface (62) is a flat surface facing the rear side of the rectangular parallelepiped portion of the first header (60).

[0049] A refrigerant flow path is formed inside the first header (60). A gas refrigerant pipe (63) is connected to the vertical middle of the first header (60). A liquid refrigerant pipe (64) is connected to the lower part of the first header (60). The first header (60) connects the gas refrigerant pipe (63) and the liquid refrigerant pipe (64) to different flat tubes (52), thereby enabling refrigerant to flow between the gas refrigerant pipe (63) and the flat tubes (52) and between the liquid refrigerant pipe (64) and the flat tubes (52). The first header (60) is positioned closer to the machine chamber (S1) (to the right in this example) than a portion of the blower chamber (S2) corresponding to the front side of the first suction port (41A). The first header (60) constitutes a part of the partition structure (70).

[0050] The second header (65) is located at the other side end of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). Specifically, the second header (65) is disposed at the left front side end of the heat exchange section (50) so as to correspond to the side end, and constitutes the left front end of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The second header (65) is a member extending in the vertical direction. The second header (65) is made of a metal material having high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0051] The second header (65) is connected to the other end (front left end) of each of the flat tubes (52). A refrigerant flow path is formed inside the second header (65). This flow path includes a communication path that connects the ends of certain flat tubes (52). The second header (65) enables refrigerant to flow between the flat tubes (52) whose right ends are connected to the gas refrigerant pipe (63) via the first header (60) and the flat tubes (52) whose right ends are connected to the liquid refrigerant pipe (64) via the first header (60).

[0052] <Partition Structure> As shown in Fig. 3 , the partition structure (70) is formed by utilizing the first header (60) of the outdoor heat exchanger (21). Specifically, the partition structure (70) includes a first header (60), a first partition (71), and a second partition (100). At least one fixture (80) is attached to the first header (60). The fixture (80) is a non-metallic member attached to the first header (60).

[0053] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the outdoor unit (20) of this example includes a first fastener (80A) and a second fastener (80B) as the fasteners (80). The first fastener (80A) is attached to the upper end of the first header (60). The first fastener (80A) is also indicated by a two-dot chain line in Figure 3. The second fastener (80B) is attached to the lower end of the first header (60) (see Figure 8). The first fastener (80A) and the second fastener (80B) are formed of, for example, synthetic resin.

[0054] The first fixing device (80A) has a cover portion (81), a first leg portion (83), and a second leg portion (86). The cover portion (81), the first leg portion (83), and the second leg portion (86) are integrally formed. The cover portion (81) covers the upper end portion of the first header (60) of the first fixing device (80A). A recess (82) is formed in the lower surface of the cover portion (81) and fits into the upper end portion of the first header (60). The recess (82) is formed in a shape corresponding to the upper end portion of the first header (60).

[0055] The first leg portion (83) is formed in the shape of a plate extending downward from the front edge portion of the cover portion (81). A first hooking piece (84) is provided on the outer surface of the first leg portion (83). The first hooking piece (84) extends from the right end portion of the first leg portion (83) to the left. A concave first holding portion (85) is formed between the first hooking piece (84) and the first leg portion (83). The first holding portion (85) is open on both the top and bottom sides and on the left side. A first claw (84a) is provided on the tip end of the first hooking piece (84). The first claw (84a) protrudes into the first holding portion (85).

[0056] The second leg portion (86) is formed in the shape of a plate extending downward from the rear edge portion of the cover portion (81). A second hooking piece (87) is provided on the outer surface of the first leg portion (83). The second hooking piece (87) extends rightward from a portion of the first leg portion (83) near the left end. A concave second holding portion (88) is formed between the second hooking piece (87) and the second leg portion (86). The second holding portion (88) is open on both the top and bottom sides and the right side. A second claw (87a) is provided on the tip of the second hooking piece (87). The second claw (87a) protrudes into the second holding portion (88).

[0057] The second fixing device (80B) has a configuration corresponding to that of the first fixing device (80A). Detailed description of the individual components of the second fixing device (80B) will be omitted, and components corresponding to those of the first fixing device (80A) will be denoted by the same reference numerals. The second fixing device (80B) has a cover portion (81), a first leg portion (83), and a second leg portion (86). The cover portion (81) covers the lower end portion of the first header (60) of the second fixing device (80B). The first leg portion (83) is provided with a first hooking piece (84) having a first claw (84a). The second leg portion (86) is provided with a second hooking piece (87) having a second claw (87a).

[0058] The first partition (71) is a part of the partition structure (70) that separates the windward side of the first header (60). Here, the "windward side of the first header (60)" refers to a part of the heat exchanger (50) adjacent to the first header (60), i.e., in this example, the upstream side in the direction in which air passing through the first heat exchanger (50) flows toward the outlet (42). As shown in Fig. 7 , the first partition (71) includes a frame member (90) and a first sealant (96).

[0059] The frame member (90) is an example of a plate member. The frame member (90) is made of a long, narrow metal plate. The frame member (90) is made of, for example, steel. The frame member (90) has a main plate portion (91) and a fixing piece (92). The main plate portion (91) has a shallow recessed shape. The fixing piece (92) extends from one end of the main plate portion (91) toward the side where the recessed opening faces, and then protrudes laterally. The frame member (90) is installed in an upright position so that the longitudinal direction corresponds to the up-down direction.

[0060] The frame member (90) is fixed to the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40) with the concave opening of the main plate portion (91) facing rearward. The rear panel (46) of the casing (40) is fixed to the fixing pieces (92) of the frame member (90) at multiple locations spaced apart in the longitudinal direction using fasteners (95) such as bolts. This allows the frame member (90) to support the rear panel (46). First latched portions (93) are provided at the upper and lower ends of the main plate portion (91) of the frame member (90). Each first latched portion (93) has a first latch hole (94) formed therein.

[0061] The upper first latched portion (93) is fitted into the second holding portion (88) of the first fixing device (80A). The second claw (87a) of the second latching piece (87) of the first fixing device (80A) is inserted into and hooked onto the first latching hole (94) of the upper first latched portion (93). The lower first latched portion (93) is fitted into the second holding portion (88) of the second fixing device (80B). The second claw (87a) of the second latching piece (87) of the second fixing device (80B) is inserted into and hooked onto the first latching hole (94) of the lower first latched portion (93).

[0062] In this way, the frame member (90) is fixed to the first fixing device (80A) and the second fixing device (80B) without contacting the first header (60). A first gap (g1) is provided between the frame member (90) and the first header (60). The main plate portion (91) of the frame member (90) and the rear side surface of the first header (60) face each other with the first gap (g1) interposed therebetween.

[0063] The first seal (96) is provided in the first gap (g1) between the frame member (90) and the first header (60) and is sandwiched between the main plate portion (91) of the frame member (90) and the rear side surface (62) of the first header (60). As a result, the first gap (g1) between the frame member (90) and the first header (60) is sealed by the first seal (96). The first seal (96) is made of an air-impermeable material. The first seal (96) is made of, for example, closed-cell urethane.

[0064] The second partition (100) is a part of the partition structure (70) that separates the leeward side of the first header (60). Here, the "leeward side of the first header (60)" refers to a part of the heat exchanger (50) adjacent to the first header (60), that is, in this example, the downstream side in the direction in which air passing through the first heat exchanger (50) flows toward the outlet (42). The second partition (100) includes a partition plate (101) and a second sealant (106).

[0065] The partition plate (101) is made of a metal plate material. The partition plate (101) is formed of, for example, steel. The partition plate (101) is installed in an upright position and fixed to the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40). The partition plate (101) extends rearward from the rear surface of the front panel (45), and its rear portion has a shape that curves to the right. Second latching portions (102) are provided at the rear end of the partition plate (101), i.e., at the upper and lower ends of the right end of the curved shape. Each second latching portion (102) is formed with a second latching hole (103).

[0066] The upper second latched portion (102) is fitted into the first holding portion (85) of the first fixing device (80A). The first claw (84a) of the first latching piece (84) of the first fixing device (80A) is inserted into and hooked onto the second latching hole (103) of the upper second latched portion (102). The lower second latched portion (102) is fitted into the first holding portion (85) of the second fixing device (80B). The first claw (84a) of the first latching piece (84) of the second fixing device (80B) is inserted into and hooked onto the second latching hole (103) of the lower second latched portion (102).

[0067] In this way, the partition plate (101) is fixed to the first fixture (80A) and the second fixture (80B) without contacting the first header (60). A second gap (g2) is provided between the partition plate (101) and the first header (60). The curved portion of the partition plate (101) and the front side surface (61) of the first header (60) face each other via the second gap (g2).

[0068] The second seal (106) is provided in the second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the first header (60) and is sandwiched between the curved portion of the partition plate (101) and the front side surface (61) of the first header (60). As a result, the second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the first header (60) is sealed by the second seal (106). The second seal (106) is made of an air-impermeable material. The second seal (106) is made of, for example, closed-cell urethane.

[0069] -Features of the embodiment- In the outdoor unit (20) of this embodiment, the interior of the casing (40) is partitioned into a machine chamber (S1) and a blower chamber (S2) by a partition structure (70). The partition structure (70) includes a first header (60) that is part of the heat exchanger (21). The windward side of the first header (60) is partitioned by a first partition (71). The leeward side of the first header (60) is partitioned by a second partition (100). By using the first header (60) as the partition structure (70) to partition both sides of the first header (60), the machine chamber (S1) can be closed and isolated from the outside. This prevents noise generated in the machine chamber (S1) from leaking to the outside.

[0070] In the outdoor unit (20) of this embodiment, a non-metallic first fixing member (80A) and a second fixing member (80B) are attached to the first header (60). The frame member (90) forming the first partition (71) is fixed to the first fixing member (80A) and the second fixing member (80B) without contacting the first header (60). This prevents electrical corrosion between the first header (60) and the frame member (90). The first gap (g1) between the frame member (90) and the first header (60) is sealed by a first sealing material (96). This ensures soundproofing of the first partition (71).

[0071] In the outdoor unit (20) of this embodiment, a non-metallic first fixing member (80A) and a second fixing member (80B) are attached to the first header (60). The partition plate (101) forming the second partition portion (100) is fixed to the first fixing member (80A) and the second fixing member (80B) without contacting the first header (60). This prevents electrical corrosion between the first header (60) and the partition plate (101). The second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the first header (60) is sealed by a second sealing material (106). This ensures soundproofing of the second partition portion (100).

[0072] The refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) of this embodiment includes an outdoor unit (20). The outdoor unit (20) has a high soundproofing effect against noise generated in the machine room (S1). Therefore, it is possible to provide a refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) with an outdoor unit (20) that is quieter.

[0073] <<Modification 1>> As shown in Fig. 9, the outdoor unit (20) of Modification 1 includes a sound-insulating member (110) and a first sound-absorbing material (120). The sound-insulating member (110) is disposed in a machine room (S1) inside the casing (40). The sound-insulating member (110) is formed in a box shape that is open downward. The sound-insulating member (110) is supported on the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40). The sound-insulating member (110) is made of an air-impermeable member. The sound-insulating member (110) is made of, for example, a metal plate or a rubber sheet.

[0074] The sound-insulating member (110) defines an accommodation space (115) that accommodates the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25). The sound-insulating member (110) covers the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25). The accommodation space (115) of the sound-insulating member (110) accommodates the refrigerant cylinder (5), the piping group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15) in addition to the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25). The sound-insulating member (110) covers the refrigerant cylinder (5), the piping group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15).

[0075] A gap is provided between the outer surface of the sound-insulating member (110) and the inner surface of the casing (40). The inner surface of the casing (40) includes the surface of the partition structure (70) facing the machine room (S1). A first sound-absorbing material (120) is provided in the gap between the outer surface of the sound-insulating member (110) and the inner surface of the casing (40). The first sound-absorbing material (120) is made of, for example, urethane. The first sound-absorbing material (120) is respectively arranged on the outer surface sides of the upper wall, front wall, rear wall, and right wall of the sound-insulating member (110).

[0076] The outdoor unit (20) of the first modified example has a double sound-insulating structure of the sound-insulating member (110) and the casing (40), which can prevent radiated sound and vibration sound from the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) from leaking to the outside. In addition, the first sound-absorbing material (120) can prevent a decrease in sound-insulating performance due to the low-frequency resonance transmission phenomenon, thereby improving the soundproofing effect.

[0077] Specifically, when two plates form a double structure with a hollow space between them, the two plates become two masses, and the air in the hollow space acts as a spring connecting them, causing them to vibrate, resulting in a resonance phenomenon. In this case, the transmission loss is lower than the mass law, and sound insulation performance deteriorates. This phenomenon generally occurs in the low frequency range, so it is called the low frequency resonance transmission phenomenon.

[0078] In contrast to this, in this example, a first sound-absorbing material (120) is provided in the gap between the outer surface of the sound-insulating member (110) and the inner surface of the casing (40), thereby suppressing the occurrence of the resonance phenomenon in which the air in the gap between the sound-insulating member (110) and the casing (40) acts as a spring and vibrates.

[0079] In the outdoor unit (20) of the first modified example, the sound insulating member (110) can prevent the sound generated in the water heat exchanger (15) from leaking outside the machine room (S1).

[0080] In the outdoor unit (20) of the first modified example, the sound insulating member (110) can prevent the refrigerant passing sound, which is generated when the refrigerant passes through the valve body (9), from leaking out of the machine room (S1).

[0081] <<Modification 2>> As shown in Fig. 10 , the outdoor unit (20) of Modification 2 includes a sound-insulating member (110) and a first sound-absorbing material (120) similar to Modification 1, and further includes a second sound-absorbing material (130). The second sound-absorbing material (130) is provided on the inner surface of the sound-insulating member (110). The second sound-absorbing material (130) is formed of, for example, urethane. The second sound-absorbing materials (130) are respectively arranged on the inner surfaces of the upper wall, front wall, rear wall, left wall, and right wall of the sound-insulating member (110).

[0082] According to the outdoor unit (20) of the second modified example, the second sound-absorbing material (130) absorbs the radiated sound and vibration sound from the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25), thereby improving the soundproofing effect.

[0083] Specifically, when the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) as sound sources are enclosed in a sound-insulating member (110) that is a box-shaped member, the sound is reflected by the sound-insulating member (110), causing a phenomenon known as build-up, in which the sound pressure level around the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) increases compared to when the sound-insulating member (110) is not present.

[0084] As a result, the sound pressure level outside the sound insulating member (110) is equal to the sound pressure level without the sound insulating member (110) minus the transmission loss and buildup of the sound insulating member (110). Therefore, the amount of sound reduction achieved by providing the sound insulating member (110) is smaller than the amount expected based on the transmission loss.

[0085] Therefore, in this embodiment, a second sound absorbing material (130) is provided on the inner surface of the sound insulating member (110) to attenuate the sound pressure level inside the sound insulating member (110), thereby suppressing buildup.

[0086] <<Variation 3>> As shown in Fig. 11 , the outdoor unit (20) of Variation 3 has a double vibration-isolating structure for supporting the compressor (30). The compressor (30) has support legs (31). The support legs (31) are supported by a plurality of first vibration-isolating members (32). The first vibration-isolating members (32) are supported by a first support member (34). The first support member (34) is supported by a plurality of second vibration-isolating members (33). The second vibration-isolating members (33) are supported by a second support member (35). In the example shown in Fig. 11 , the second support member (35) is the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40).

[0087] The first vibration-isolating member (32) and the second vibration-isolating member (33) are made of rubber or urethane. The material and spring constant of the first vibration-isolating member (32) and the material and spring constant of the second vibration-isolating member (33) may be the same or different from each other.

[0088] The compressor (30) is disposed on a double vibration-isolating structure including a first vibration-isolating member (32), a first support member (34), and a second vibration-isolating member (33). Therefore, even if the compressor (30) vibrates during operation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1), transmission of the vibration and generation of noise are suppressed.

[0089] The refrigerant cylinder (5) and the water heat exchanger (15) are supported by a first support member (34). The accumulator (25) is supported by a stay (not shown) at a position spaced apart from the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40).

[0090] The outdoor unit (20) of this third modification, like the second modification, includes a sound insulating member (110), a first sound absorbing material (120), and a second sound absorbing material (130).

[0091] The sound insulating member (110) is supported on the bottom plate (44) of the casing (40). As shown in Fig. 12, the sound insulating member (110) accommodates the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), the refrigerant cylinder (5), the pipe group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15) in the accommodation space (115). The sound insulating member (110) covers the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), the refrigerant cylinder (5), the pipe group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15).

[0092] A gap is provided between the outer surface of the sound insulating member (110) and the inner surface of the casing (40). A first sound absorbing material (120) is provided in the gap between the outer surface of the sound insulating member (110) and the inner surface of the casing (40). A second sound absorbing material (130) is provided on the inner surface of the sound insulating member (110). The first sound absorbing material (120) and the second sound absorbing material (130) are made of, for example, urethane.

[0093] According to the outdoor unit (20) of the third modified example, the compressor (30) is supported by a double vibration-isolating structure in which the first vibration-isolating member (32) and the second vibration-isolating member (33) are stacked, thereby damping vibrations of the compressor (30). This reduces vibrations transmitted from the compressor (30) to the first support member (34) and the second support member (35) and vibrations transmitted from the compressor (30) to the piping (26), thereby suppressing the generation of vibration noise caused by vibrations of the first support member (34) and the second support member (35) and the piping (26).

[0094] Other Embodiments In the above-described embodiment and each of the modifications, the following configurations may be adopted.

[0095] The first partition (71) may be configured to include a plate member other than the frame member (90). For example, the first partition (71) may include a partition plate as a plate member instead of or in addition to the frame member (90).

[0096] A third non-metallic (e.g., synthetic resin) fastener may be provided as the fastener (80) in the middle of the first header (60) in the longitudinal direction. The third fastener fastens one or both of the frame member (90) and the partition plate (101) without contacting the first header (60). The third fastener may be provided in addition to the first fastener (80A) and the second fastener (80B), or may be provided instead of one or both of the first fastener (80A) and the second fastener (80B).

[0097] Each of the fasteners (80), such as the first fastener (80A), the second fastener (80B), and the third fastener, may be formed from a non-metallic material other than synthetic resin, such as elastomer or rubber.

[0098] The refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) may supply the water heated in the water heat exchanger (15) to a supply target other than a hot water tank, such as a bath, a shower, a floor heating system, or an air heat exchanger.

[0099] The heat source unit (20) of the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1) may not have a water heat exchanger, and may be connected to a utilization unit via a refrigerant pipe to form a refrigerant circuit. The utilization unit has a utilization heat exchanger that adjusts the temperature of air using a refrigerant. The utilization unit may be an air conditioning unit that conditions the air in a target space. In this case, the air conditioning unit may be a ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or floor-standing type. The utilization unit may be a cooling unit that cools the air inside a storage unit. The cooling unit may cool the interior of a shipping container for sea or land use.

[0100] The heat source unit (20) does not necessarily have to be installed outdoors, but may be installed indoors. In this case, the heat source side heat exchanger is not the outdoor heat exchanger (21), but is configured as a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a heat medium such as water and a refrigerant.

[0101] The sound insulating member (110) may cover only the compressor (30), or may cover only the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), and the piping connecting the two.

[0102] The water heat exchanger (15) and the refrigerant cylinder (5) may be supported by a first vibration isolating member (32) or a second vibration isolating member (33), respectively.

[0103] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0104] In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. in the specification and claims are used to distinguish between the terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the terms.

[0105] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for heat source units and refrigeration cycle devices.

[0106] S1 Machine room S2 Blower room 1 Refrigeration cycle device 20 Outdoor unit (heat source unit) 21 Outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 22 Outdoor fan (blower) 30 Compressor 40 Casing 52 Flat tube 54 Refrigerant flow path 55 Fin 60 First header (header) 70 Partition structure part 71 First partition part 80 Fixing tool 90 Frame member (plate member) 96 First seal material 100 Second partition part 101 Partition plate 106 Second seal material

Claims

1. A heat source unit comprising: a casing (40); a partition structure (70) that divides the inside of the casing (40) into a machine chamber (S1) and a blower chamber (S2); a compressor (30) arranged in the machine chamber (S1); and a blower (22) and a heat exchanger (21) arranged in the blower chamber (S2), wherein the heat exchanger (21) is a heat source unit that passes air transported by the blower (22) and exchanges heat between the passing air and a refrigerant inside, the heat exchanger (21) having a plurality of flat tubes (52) in which a refrigerant flow path (54) is formed, fins (55) that divide the spaces between the adjacent flat tubes (52) into a plurality of ventilation passages (56) through which air flows, and headers (60) to which ends of the plurality of flat tubes (52) are connected, The partition structure (70) of the heat source unit includes the header (60), a first partition (71) that separates the windward side of the header (60), and a second partition (100) that separates the leeward side of the header (60).

2. A heat source unit as described in claim 1, further comprising at least one non-metallic fixing device (80) attached to the header (60), and the first partition portion (71) is configured to include a plate member (90) fixed to the fixing device (80) without contacting the header (60), and a first sealing material (96) that seals a first gap (g1) between the plate member (90) and the header (60).

3. A heat source unit as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one non-metallic fixing device (80) attached to the header (60), wherein the second partition portion (100) comprises a partition plate (101) fixed to the fixing device (80) without contacting the header (60), and a second sealant (106) that seals a second gap (g2) between the partition plate (101) and the header (60).

4. A refrigeration cycle device comprising a heat source unit (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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