Method for manufacturing heat exchanger, and heat exchanger

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, the method comprising the following steps: providing a heat exchanger core which comprises a first collecting tube (1), assembling the heat exchanger core, and performing through-furnace welding on the assembled heat exchanger core in a brazing furnace; taking out and cooling the heat exchanger core to a preset temperature; providing a distribution tube (6), and inserting the distribution tube into the first collecting tube in the lengthwise direction of the first collecting tube; and fixing the distribution tube. A heat exchanger is further disclosed. The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger can reduce the deformation and bending of the distribution tube, so that a refrigerant can be distributed more evenly by the distribution tube.

Description

Heat exchanger manufacturing method and heat exchanger

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority and benefits of Chinese patent application with application number 202311801525.0 and application date December 26, 2023 and Chinese patent application with application number 202323561357.0 and application date December 26, 2023. The entire contents of the above-mentioned Chinese patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of heat exchange technology, and in particular to a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger and the heat exchanger. Background Art

[0004] During the manufacturing process of heat exchangers, after assembly, they are brazed in a high-temperature brazing furnace. During this process, the distribution tube, which is located inside the header, is suspended. During brazing, the header reaches the brazing temperature but the distribution tube does not. After brazing, the header cools down first, but the distribution tube inside it is still expanded. The temperature difference between the distribution tube and the header, as well as the softening of the distribution tube during the brazing process, can cause the portion of the distribution tube suspended inside the header to sag and deform due to the cooling extrusion force, gravity, and material stress. This results in poor uniformity in the distribution tube's refrigerant distribution. Uneven refrigerant distribution can negatively impact the heat exchange performance of the heat exchanger. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A first aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, which can reduce deformation and bending of a distribution pipe, thereby making the distribution pipe distribute the refrigerant more uniformly.

[0006] According to the first aspect of the embodiment of the present application, the manufacturing method of the heat exchanger provided by the present invention comprises the following steps:

[0007] Providing a heat exchanger core, the heat exchanger core comprising a first header, assembling the heat exchanger core, and performing furnace welding on the assembled heat exchanger core in a brazing furnace;

[0008] Taking out the heat exchanger core and cooling it to a preset temperature;

[0009] providing a distribution pipe, and inserting the distribution pipe into the first header along the length direction of the first header;

[0010] The dispensing tube is secured.

[0011] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present application are:

[0012] The heat exchanger manufacturing method provided in the embodiments of the present application first furnace-welds the heat exchanger core and cools it to a preset temperature. The distribution pipe is then inserted into the heat exchanger's first header and then secured. This process lowers the distribution pipe's heating temperature and reduces sagging and deformation caused by cooling pressure, gravity, and material stress. This improves the distribution pipe's straightness and ensures more uniform refrigerant distribution.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger further comprises the following steps:

[0014] providing a first end cover, and disposing a first protrusion on the first end cover;

[0015] Providing a second end cover, wherein a second protrusion and a first hole are provided on the second end cover, wherein the first hole extends along the axial direction of the second protrusion and penetrates the second protrusion;

[0016] When assembling the heat exchanger core, the first end cover is installed at one end of the first header along the length direction, and the second end cover is installed at the other end of the first header along the length direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the distribution pipe is inserted into the first header, the distribution pipe passes through the first hole and is inserted to a preset depth of the first header. At the preset depth, one end of the distribution pipe along the length direction is located within the first protrusion.

[0018] Fixing the distribution pipe includes fixedly connecting the distribution pipe and the first protrusion, and fixedly connecting the distribution pipe and the second protrusion.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first protrusion protrudes outward from one end surface of the first header along the length direction, and / or the second protrusion protrudes outward from the other end surface of the first header along the length direction.

[0020] In some embodiments, the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger further comprises the following steps:

[0021] A positioning portion is provided, which is used to assist in observing whether the distribution tube is inserted to the preset depth; the depth of the first protrusion is defined as D1, and the length of the distribution tube inserted into the first protrusion at the preset depth is H1, then D1 and H1 satisfy: 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1.

[0022] In some embodiments, the positioning portion includes a first piece, the distribution pipe includes a straight pipe section and a curved pipe section, and the curved pipe section is at a preset angle to the straight pipe section;

[0023] When inserting the distribution pipe, the first piece is arranged between the second end cover and the bent pipe section, the distribution pipe is inserted, and after the bent pipe section contacts the first piece, the first piece is removed.

[0024] In some embodiments, the positioning portion includes a positioning mark provided on an outer tube wall of the distribution tube. When the distribution tube is inserted to a preset depth of the first manifold, the positioning mark is at least partially located in the second protrusion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the positioning mark includes a marking point or a marking ring, the marking point includes a convex point or a concave point, and the marking ring includes a convex ring or an annular groove.

[0026] In some embodiments, the direction of gravity is defined as a first direction. When the distribution tube is inserted, the length direction of the first collection tube extends along the first direction. The length direction of the distribution tube is inserted into the first collection tube along the first direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, an internal thread is preset on the inner wall of the first protrusion, and an external thread is preset on the wall of the distribution pipe. After the distribution pipe is inserted into the first manifold, the distribution pipe and the first protrusion are screwed together.

[0028] The second protrusion and the distribution pipe are welded by flame welding or induction welding.

[0029] In some embodiments, the steps include:

[0030] A second hole is provided on the side wall of the first protrusion, the second hole penetrates the side wall of the first protrusion, and the aperture of the second hole gradually increases from the inner wall side to the outer wall side of the first protrusion. After the distribution tube is inserted to a preset depth, solder is filled into the second hole and the first protrusion and the distribution tube are welded;

[0031] The second protrusion and the distribution pipe are welded by flame welding or induction welding.

[0032] In some embodiments, when the distribution pipe is fixed by welding, the first protrusion and the distribution pipe are welded first, and then the second protrusion and the distribution pipe are welded.

[0033] A second aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a heat exchanger, comprising a first header and a distribution pipe, wherein the distribution pipe is arranged on the first header along the length direction of the first header, and the distribution pipe is arranged on the first header by any of the manufacturing methods described above.

[0034] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present application are:

[0035] The heat exchanger provided in the second aspect of the embodiment of the present application is manufactured by the manufacturing method provided in the first aspect embodiment. Since the manufacturing method of the first aspect embodiment improves the straightness of the distribution pipe, the distribution pipe distributes the refrigerant more evenly, the heat exchanger in this embodiment has better heat exchange performance.

[0036] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger further includes a second header, heat exchange tubes and fins. The second header is spaced apart from the first header. There are multiple heat exchange tubes, and the multiple heat exchange tubes connect the first header and the second header. The fins are located between at least partially adjacent two heat exchange tubes.

[0037] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger further comprises:

[0038] a first end cover, the first end cover being located at one end of the first header along the length direction, the first end cover comprising a first convex portion having a first cavity extending along a first direction;

[0039] a second end cover, the second end cover being located at the other end of the first header along the length direction, the second end cover comprising a second protrusion, the second protrusion having a length in a first direction, the first direction being the length direction of the first header;

[0040] The distribution tube has a first end in the length direction, the first end can pass through the second protrusion and extend into the first cavity, the first end of the distribution tube is fixedly connected to the first protrusion, and the tube wall of the distribution tube is fixedly connected to the second protrusion.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first end cover further includes a cover body, the cover body is fixedly connected to one end of the first collecting pipe along the length direction, a guide angle is provided between the cover body and the first protrusion, and the guide angle gradually tilts inward from one side of the cover body to the side of the first protrusion.

[0042] In some embodiments, an inner wall of the first protrusion is provided with an internal thread, an outer wall of the distribution tube near the first end is provided with an external thread, and the distribution tube is threadedly connected to the first protrusion.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first protrusion protrudes outward from the cover, and the protruding direction of the first protrusion is away from the dispensing tube.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first protrusion includes a third hole, and the third hole passes through the end surface of the first protrusion along the first direction;

[0045] The first convex portion is protruding from the cover body, and the protruding direction of the first convex portion is away from the distribution pipe, or the first convex portion is concave from the cover body, and the concave direction of the first convex portion is toward the distribution pipe.

[0046] In some embodiments, a positioning portion is provided on the side wall of the distribution tube, and when the first end is located at a preset position in the first cavity, the positioning portion is at least partially located in the second protrusion.

[0047] In some embodiments, the distribution tube includes a groove located on a side wall of the distribution tube. When the first end is located at a preset position in the first cavity, the groove is located in the first cavity, and welding material is disposed in the groove.

[0048] In some embodiments, the distribution pipe includes a first pipe section, a contraction pipe section, and a transition pipe section, wherein the outer diameter of the contraction pipe section is smaller than the outer diameter of the first pipe section, the transition pipe section connects the first pipe section and the contraction pipe section, and the first end is located at the end of the contraction pipe section;

[0049] When the first end is located at a preset position of the first cavity, the shrinkable tube section is at least partially located in the first cavity, and an outer wall of the shrinkable tube section is provided with welding material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] FIG1 is a schematic flow chart of a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0051] FIG2 is a schematic flow chart of another specific embodiment of the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger provided in the present application;

[0052] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat exchanger core provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0053] FIG4 is a partial enlarged structural diagram of the first end cover and the first header provided by the present application when they are installed;

[0054] FIG5 is a partial enlarged structural diagram of the second end cover and the first header provided by the present application when they are installed;

[0055] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of the distribution pipe and the first header provided by the present application when they are installed;

[0056] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of a first end cover provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0057] FIG8 is a schematic structural diagram of a positioning portion provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0058] FIG9 is a schematic structural diagram of a positioning portion provided in the present application in another specific embodiment;

[0059] FIG10 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat exchanger provided in the present application in a specific embodiment.

[0060] FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat exchanger provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0061] FIG12 is a schematic diagram of a partially enlarged structure of point A in FIG1;

[0062] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the first tube and the second end cover provided by the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0063] FIG14 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the second end cover provided in the present application in a specific embodiment;

[0064] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the second end cover provided in this application in another specific embodiment;

[0065] FIG16 is a schematic diagram of another assembly structure of the first tube and the second end cap provided in the present application;

[0066] FIG17 is a schematic diagram of another assembly structure of the first tube and the second end cap provided by the present application;

[0067] FIG18 is a schematic diagram of the position structure of the positioning portion provided by the present application on the first tube;

[0068] FIG19 is a schematic structural diagram of the first tube provided in the application in a specific embodiment;

[0069] FIG20 is a schematic structural diagram of the first tube provided in the application in another specific embodiment.

[0070] Figure markings: 1. first header; 2. second header; 3. heat exchange tube; 4. second end cover; 41. second convex portion; 42. first hole; 5. first end cover; 51. first convex portion; 511. first cavity; 512. internal thread; 513. second hole; 514. third hole; 52. cover body; 53. guide angle; 6. distribution pipe; 61. first end; 63. groove; 64. first pipe section; 65. contraction pipe section; 66. transition pipe section; 67. straight pipe section; 68. curved pipe section; 7. positioning portion; 71. first piece; 72. positioning mark; 8. fin.

[0071] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] In order to better understand the technical solution of the present application, the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] It should be clear that the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0074] The terms used in the embodiments of the present application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular forms "a", "an", "the" and "the" used in the embodiments of the present application and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0075] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0076] It should be noted that the directional words such as "upper", "lower", "left", and "right" described in the embodiments of the present application are described based on the angles shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be understood as limiting the embodiments of the present application. In addition, in the context, it should be understood that when it is mentioned that an element is connected to another element "on" or "under", it can not only be directly connected to the other element "on" or "under", but also be indirectly connected to the other element "on" or "under" through an intermediate element.

[0077] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger. This article describes the technical solution and technical effects by taking the application of this manufacturing method to the manufacturing process of a heat exchanger as an example. The heat exchanger mentioned in the embodiment of the present application can be a parallel flow heat exchanger or a microchannel tube heat exchanger, but the specific type of heat exchanger is not limited to the description in this article, and can also be other types of heat exchangers that require distribution pipes for refrigerant distribution, which will not be elaborated in this article.

[0078] As shown in Figures 1-10, a first aspect of the present application provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger. The method can significantly reduce deformation and bending of a distribution pipe, thereby making the distribution pipe distribute the refrigerant more uniformly. The method specifically includes the following steps:

[0079] Providing a heat exchanger core, the heat exchanger core including a first header 1, assembling the heat exchanger core, and performing furnace welding on the assembled heat exchanger core in a brazing furnace;

[0080] Take out the heat exchanger core and cool it to the preset temperature;

[0081] Providing a distribution pipe 6, and inserting the distribution pipe 6 into the first header 1 along the length direction of the first header 1;

[0082] The distribution pipe 6 is fixed.

[0083] Specifically, the heat exchanger core in this embodiment includes, in addition to the first header 1, a second header, heat exchange tubes (when the heat exchanger is a microchannel heat exchanger, the heat exchange tubes can be flat tubes with multiple channels), etc. During assembly of the heat exchanger core, the heat exchange tubes are inserted into the mounting grooves of the first header 1 and the second header. This process can be done one by one, or after the heat exchange tubes are arranged, the mounting grooves can be aligned with the heat exchange tubes one by one, and then the header can be operated to install the heat exchange tubes into the mounting grooves.

[0084] For a heat exchanger core containing fins, one form of its assembly process is to first assemble the heat exchange tubes and the header (i.e., the first header 1 and the second header) into one piece, and then insert the fins between the heat exchange tubes according to the fin distribution pattern; another form is to alternately place one heat exchange tube and one fin until the heat exchanger size is reached, and then make the mounting grooves on the header correspond to the heat exchange tubes one by one, and operate on the header to install the heat exchange tubes into the mounting grooves; another form is to cross-assemble the heat exchange tubes, the header, and the fins, insert a heat exchange tube into the mounting groove, and then place a fin immediately thereafter, and assemble them in sequence. In addition, the assembly of other components contained in the heat exchanger core, such as mounting brackets, adapters, pipe sleeves, and other components that need to be furnace-welded, can be assembled before or after the core assembly, and this article does not make specific restrictions on this.

[0085] After the heat exchanger core is assembled, it can be put into the furnace and brazed to achieve the welding between the components in the heat exchanger core. The main brazing area in the brazing furnace generally has a temperature between 550℃ and 620℃, and then passes through a cooling section to lower the core temperature.

[0086] After the temperature drops to the preset temperature, the distribution tube 6 can be inserted into the first header 1 and then secured, completing the main production process of the heat exchanger. It should be noted that the preset temperature mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to the temperature at which the distribution tube 6 is unlikely to deform after being heated. Because this range is wide, it can be room temperature or a temperature above room temperature and below the temperature after cooling in the cooling section, and therefore is not specifically limited herein.

[0087] The heat exchanger manufacturing method provided in the embodiment of the present application first furnace-welds the heat exchanger core and cools it to a preset temperature. The distribution pipe 6 is then inserted into the first header 1 of the heat exchanger and then secured. This process significantly reduces the heating temperature of the distribution pipe 6. Because the distribution pipe 6 is not assembled into the heat exchanger core for integral furnace welding, the portion of the distribution pipe 6 suspended within the first header 1 is not exposed to the high temperatures of furnace welding. This prevents the distribution pipe 6 from sagging and deforming and bending due to the cooling extrusion force, gravity, and material stress during furnace welding. This improves the straightness of the distribution pipe 6 and ensures more uniform distribution of the refrigerant by the distribution pipe 6.

[0088] It should be noted that, because the distribution pipe 6 is not welded in a brazing furnace, its overall straightness after being fixed to the heat exchanger core is almost unchanged from the straightness before being assembled to the heat exchanger core. The distribution pipe 6 with higher straightness can improve the distribution performance, and at the same time can also reduce the abnormal noise generated by the distribution pipe 6 when the refrigerant flows through the distribution pipe 6. The effect it can produce is far better than the manufacturing method of furnace welding the distribution pipe and the heat exchanger core together.

[0089] As shown in FIG2 , in a specific embodiment, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger further includes the following steps:

[0090] Providing a first end cover 5, and setting a first protrusion 51 on the first end cover 5;

[0091] A second end cover 4 is provided, wherein a second protrusion 41 and a first hole 42 are provided on the second end cover 4. The first hole 42 extends along the axial direction of the second protrusion 41 and penetrates the second protrusion 41.

[0092] When assembling the heat exchanger core, the first end cover 5 is installed at one end of the first header 1 along the length direction, and the second end cover 4 is installed at the other end of the first header 1 along the length direction.

[0093] In this embodiment, the first and second end caps 5, 4 are installed on the first header 1 during assembly of the heat exchanger core. During the subsequent furnace welding process, they enter the brazing furnace along with the heat exchanger core. They are welded to the first header 1 to form a single piece, facilitating the subsequent insertion and securing of the distribution pipe 6. It should be noted that the first and second protrusions 51, 41 are added to the existing end caps and can be integrally formed with the end caps through stamping or other methods. Generally speaking, the first and second protrusions 51, 41 extend along the length of the first header 1.

[0094] After the distribution tube 6 is secured to the first protrusion 51 and the second protrusion 41, the first protrusion 51 of the first end cap 5 and the second protrusion 41 of the second end cap 4 can increase the contact area with the distribution tube 6, thereby increasing the stability of the distribution tube 6 after being secured. In a specific embodiment, when the distribution tube 6 is inserted into the first manifold 1, the distribution tube 6 passes through the first hole 42 and is inserted to a preset depth in the first manifold 1. At the preset depth, one end of the distribution tube 6 along the length direction is located within the first protrusion 51. Securing the distribution tube 6 includes securing the distribution tube 6 to the first protrusion 51 and securing the distribution tube 6 to the second protrusion 41. The method for securing the first protrusion 51 and the second protrusion 41 to the distribution tube 6 will be described in detail in subsequent embodiments.

[0095] In this embodiment, the distribution tube 6 is inserted into the first header 1 through the first hole 42 of the second end cover 4. The second protrusion 41 of the second end cover 4 can guide the distribution tube 6 during insertion, facilitating the insertion of the distribution tube 6. In addition, to ensure the effective fixation between the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51, one end of the distribution tube 6 along the length direction needs to be inserted into the first protrusion 51. In this way, after the first protrusion 51 and the distribution tube 6, as well as the second protrusion 41 and the distribution tube 6, are fixed, the distribution tube 6 can form a whole with the heat exchanger core, and the connection between the distribution tube 6 and the two protrusions is also more stable.

[0096] As shown in Figures 3-5, in one specific embodiment, the first protrusion 51 protrudes from one longitudinal end face of the first header 1, and / or the second protrusion 41 protrudes from the other longitudinal end face of the first header 1. Generally, the distribution pipe 6 is secured to the first and second protrusions 51, 41 primarily by welding. Therefore, when the first and second protrusions 51 and 41 protrude from the first header 1, respectively, the welding temperature can directly reach the first and / or second protrusions 41, thereby improving welding efficiency.

[0097] Taking the first protrusion 51 as an example, when the first protrusion 51 is recessed inwardly on an end face of the first collecting pipe 1 along the length direction, the extension direction of the first protrusion 51 is toward the inside of the first collecting pipe 1. Such a first protrusion 51 can still increase the contact area with the distribution pipe 6, thereby achieving a more stable connection. However, when the first protrusion 51 needs to be welded, the welding temperature needs to pass through the first collecting pipe 1 to reach the position of the first protrusion 51. During this process, some temperature will be lost, resulting in the first protrusion 51 being heated more slowly, affecting the welding effect. Therefore, when the first protrusion 51 and the second protrusion 41 protrude outward from the first collecting pipe 1, the temperature can directly reach the position where welding is required, thereby improving the welding efficiency.

[0098] As shown in FIG6 , in a specific embodiment, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger further includes the following steps:

[0099] A positioning portion 7 is provided, which is used to assist in observing whether the distribution tube 6 is inserted to a preset depth; the depth of the first protrusion 51 is defined as D1, and the length of the distribution tube 6 inserted into the first protrusion 51 at the preset depth is defined as H1, then D1 and H1 satisfy: 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1.

[0100] As mentioned above, the length of the distribution tube 6 inserted into the first protrusion 51 will affect the stability of the connection between the two. Therefore, how to confirm whether it is inserted into place is very important for the stability of the connection between the two. In this embodiment, the positioning part 7 can be used to confirm whether the distribution tube 6 is inserted to the preset depth, thereby ensuring the connection between the two.

[0101] More specifically, there are also details that require attention when connecting the two: if the length of the distribution tube 6 within the first protrusion 51 is insufficient, the contact area between the two after welding is small, and the connection is not stable. However, if the distribution tube 6 is inserted too deep, and the end face of the distribution tube 6 contacts the inner end wall of the first protrusion 51 (i.e., H1 = D1), there is no margin between the two. If welding is performed, the distribution tube 6 will expand due to heat and cause extrusion, resulting in local deformation of the distribution tube 6. The deformed distribution tube 6 may affect the distribution performance of the distribution tube 6. Therefore, when the depth D1 of the first protrusion 51 and the length H1 of the distribution tube 6 within the first protrusion 51 meet 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1, the contact area between the two can be guaranteed, while leaving room for deformation during welding, preventing the distribution tube 6 from expanding and deforming due to high-temperature welding. To achieve this insertion depth, a pre-set limiter or a necking can be used, which is not specifically defined in this article.

[0102] As shown in FIG8 , in a specific embodiment, the positioning portion 7 includes a first member 71 , and the distribution pipe 6 includes a straight pipe section 67 and a curved pipe section 68 , wherein the curved pipe section 68 forms a preset angle with the straight pipe section 67 ;

[0103] When inserting the dispensing tube 6 , the first piece 71 is arranged between the second end cap 4 and the bent tube section 68 , and the dispensing tube 6 is inserted. After the bent tube section 68 contacts the first piece 71 , the first piece 71 is removed.

[0104] In this embodiment, the insertion depth of the distribution tube 6 is ensured by the first piece 71, and the size of the first piece 71 is preset so that its size in the length direction of the distribution tube 6 is roughly equal to the size between the second end cover 4 and the curved tube section 68 after the distribution tube 6 is inserted into the preset position. Therefore, when the distribution tube 6 has not been inserted to the preset depth, there will be a certain gap between the curved tube section 68 of the distribution tube 6 and the first piece 71, indicating that the distribution tube 6 has not been inserted to the preset depth and the distribution tube 6 can continue to be inserted. Otherwise, it means that the distribution tube 6 has been inserted to the preset depth and the first piece 71 can be removed to proceed to the next step.

[0105] As shown in Figure 9, in another specific embodiment, the positioning portion 7 includes a positioning mark 72 disposed on the outer wall of the distribution tube 6. When the distribution tube 6 is inserted to a predetermined depth in the first manifold 1, the positioning mark 72 is at least partially located within the second protrusion 41. The positioning mark 72 can include a marking dot or a marking ring. The marking dot can include a convex dot or a concave dot, and the marking ring can include a convex ring or an annular groove. Marking methods such as marking dots, marking rings, convex rings, and annular grooves allow for intuitive identification of the insertion depth of the first tube, while also being relatively cost-effective.

[0106] In this embodiment, the insertion depth of the distribution tube 6 is observed by the positioning mark 72 to prevent the distribution tube 6 from not being inserted into the first protrusion 51 or not being inserted into place. The positioning mark 72 can be set on the outer wall of the distribution tube 6. When the distribution tube 6 is inserted, the insertion depth of the distribution tube 6 can be judged by observing whether the positioning mark 72 is blocked by the second protrusion 41. For example, when the preset depth mentioned above is reached, the length of the distribution tube 6 to be inserted into the first manifold 1 is H2. Then, a positioning mark 72 can be set at a position where the distance from one end of the distribution tube 6 inserted into the first manifold 1 to the tube wall is H2. During the process of inserting the distribution tube 6, when the positioning mark 72 is blocked by the second protrusion 41, it means that the distribution tube 6 has been inserted to the length of H2, that is, the preset depth has been reached, and the distribution tube 6 is no longer inserted.

[0107] In a specific embodiment, if the direction of gravity is defined as the first direction, when the distribution pipe 6 is inserted, the length direction of the first collection pipe 1 extends along the first direction, and the length direction of the distribution pipe 6 is inserted into the first collection pipe 1 along the first direction.

[0108] In this embodiment, the distribution pipe 6 is inserted into the first collecting pipe 1 after the length direction of the first collecting pipe 1 is along the direction of gravity. In this way, gravity can play a certain guiding role on the distribution pipe 6, reducing the tilting phenomenon of the distribution pipe 6 during the insertion process. At the same time, when the direction of gravity is the same as the insertion direction, the distribution pipe 6 can be inserted more quickly, thereby improving the assembly efficiency.

[0109] If the first manifold 1 is inserted into the distribution pipe 6 when it is horizontal, because the tube cavity of the first manifold 1 is small and the length is long, the distribution pipe 6 will be inserted into the first manifold 1. The deeper it is inserted, the more likely the suspended end will gradually tilt downward due to the influence of gravity, resulting in incomplete insertion and low efficiency. However, this problem can be effectively avoided when the first manifold 1 is placed vertically, which can improve the insertion accuracy and assembly efficiency at the same time.

[0110] In a specific embodiment, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger includes the following steps:

[0111] An internal thread is preset on the inner wall of the first protrusion 51, and an external thread is preset on the wall of the distribution pipe 6. After the distribution pipe 6 is inserted into the first header 1, the distribution pipe 6 and the first protrusion 51 are screwed together;

[0112] The second protrusion 41 and the distribution pipe 6 are welded by flame welding or induction welding.

[0113] In this embodiment, the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51 are fixedly connected by matching internal and external threads, thereby omitting the subsequent welding step at this location. Only the second protrusion 41 of the second end cap 4 needs to be welded, thereby improving the efficiency of fixing the distribution tube 6. Generally speaking, the external thread only needs to be provided on the wall of the distribution tube 6 near the insertion end.

[0114] As shown in FIG7 , in a specific embodiment, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger includes the following steps:

[0115] A second hole 513 is provided on the side wall of the first protrusion 51. The second hole 513 penetrates the side wall of the first protrusion 51. After the distribution tube 6 is inserted to a predetermined depth, solder is filled into the second hole 513 to weld the first protrusion 51 and the distribution tube 6.

[0116] The second protrusion 41 and the distribution pipe 6 are welded by flame welding or induction welding.

[0117] The second hole 513 in this embodiment can serve as an observation hole to facilitate observation of whether the dispensing tube 6 is inserted into the first protrusion 51 to the preset position. The second hole 513 can also serve as a soldering hole, through which solder is added to weld the dispensing tube 6 to the first protrusion 51. In addition, to allow the solder to better enter the first protrusion 51, the second hole 513 can be configured as a tapered hole.

[0118] In one specific embodiment, when welding and fixing the distribution tube 6, it is necessary to first weld the first protrusion 51 to the distribution tube 6, and then weld the second protrusion 41 to the distribution tube 6. Because the end of the distribution tube 6 is located within the first protrusion 51, the high temperature during welding will cause the distribution tube 6 to expand due to the heat. Therefore, when the first protrusion 51 and the distribution tube 6 are welded first, the distribution tube 6 will deform toward the second protrusion 41. The first hole 42 of the second protrusion 41 leaves space for the deformation and extension of the distribution tube 6, thereby reducing local extrusion of the distribution tube 6 caused by thermal deformation, which helps to ensure the straightness of the distribution tube 6.

[0119] As shown in Figure 10, a second aspect of the present application provides a heat exchanger comprising a first header 1 and a distribution pipe 6. The distribution pipe 6 is disposed on the first header 1 along its length. The distribution pipe 6 is disposed on the first header 1 using the manufacturing method described in the first aspect. The heat exchanger in this embodiment is fabricated using the manufacturing method described in the first aspect. Because the manufacturing method improves the straightness of the distribution pipe 6, resulting in more uniform refrigerant distribution by the distribution pipe 6, the heat exchanger in this embodiment exhibits improved heat exchange performance.

[0120] As shown in Figure 10, in a specific embodiment, the heat exchanger also includes a second header 2, heat exchange tubes 3 and fins 8. The second header 2 is arranged at an interval with the first header 1, the heat exchange tubes 3 connect the first header 1 and the second header 2, and the fins 8 are located between at least part of two adjacent heat exchange tubes 3.

[0121] It should be noted that the first header 1 and the second header 2 are spaced apart. The spacing between the two headers is primarily for installing the heat exchange tubes 3. Therefore, the distance between the two is the remaining length of the heat exchange tubes 3 after connecting the two headers. In addition, the first header 1 and the second header 2 can be arranged relatively parallel or at a certain angle relative to each other. The specific arrangement can be pre-set based on the installation environment and the use scenario of the heat exchanger, etc., and this is not discussed in detail in this article. However, generally speaking, the first header 1 and the second header 2 are relatively parallel, so this is also shown in the diagram of this embodiment for easier understanding.

[0122] In addition, the fins 8 provided between at least some adjacent heat exchange tubes 3 can be transverse fins or corrugated fins, which can be set in advance according to the size of the heat exchanger and the usage scenario, etc., and are not specifically limited in this article.

[0123] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger further includes a first end cover 5 and a second end cover 4. The second end cover 4 is located at the other end of the first header 1 along the length direction, and the second end cover 4 includes a second protrusion 41. The second protrusion 41 has a length in a first direction, which is the length direction of the first header 1.

[0124] The first end cap 5 is located at one end of the first manifold 1 along its length. The first end cap 5 includes a first protrusion 51, which defines a first cavity 511 extending along the first direction. The distribution pipe 6 extends along the first direction and has a first end 61 along its length. The first end 61 can pass through the second protrusion 41 and extend into the first cavity 511. The first end 61 of the distribution pipe 6 is fixedly connected to the first protrusion 51, and the wall of the distribution pipe 6 is fixedly connected to the second protrusion 41. Specifically, a first hole 42 is defined at the end of the second protrusion 41. The size of the first hole 42 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the distribution pipe 6. The distribution pipe 6 can be inserted into the first manifold 1 through the first hole 42.

[0125] In this embodiment, the first header 1 and the second header 2 are spaced apart. The spacing between the two headers is primarily for installing the heat exchange tubes 3. Therefore, the distance between the two is the remaining length of the heat exchange tubes 3 after connecting the two headers. It should be noted that the first header 1 and the second header 2 can be arranged relatively parallel or at a certain angle relative to each other. The specific arrangement can be pre-set based on the installation environment and the use scenario of the heat exchanger, and this is not described in detail in this article. However, generally speaking, the first header 1 and the second header 2 are relatively parallel, so this is also shown in the diagram of this embodiment for easier understanding.

[0126] In addition, the heat exchange tubes 3 can be microchannel flat tubes with multiple channels, or they can be single-channel conventional heat exchange tubes 3, such as small round tube heat exchange tubes. After the heat exchange tubes 3 connect the first header 1 and the second header 2, the refrigerant in one header can flow into the heat exchange tubes 3 for heat exchange, then be collected in the other header, and finally be collected and discharged, completing a heat exchange process. In this embodiment, a distribution pipe 6 is provided in the first header 1. The distribution pipe 6 is used to distribute the refrigerant so that the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant can be distributed more evenly, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0127] A plurality of distribution holes are arranged at intervals along the length of the side wall of the distribution pipe 6. After entering the inlet end of the distribution pipe 6, the refrigerant is distributed through the distribution holes into the first header 1 and then flows into the heat exchange tube 3 for heat exchange. In order to improve the heat exchange efficiency, fins can also be provided between the heat exchange tubes 3 to increase the contact area between the heat exchanger and the air. In the embodiment of the present application, after the distribution pipe 6 is installed to the first header 1, the second protrusion 41 and the first protrusion 51 can increase the contact area between the second end cover 4 and the first end cover 5 and the distribution pipe 6. After welding, the solder can connect the contact position of the distribution pipe 6 and the second end cover 4, as well as the contact position of the distribution pipe 6 and the first end cover 5 with a larger area, making the connection between the distribution pipe 6 and the two end covers more stable, thereby reducing the abnormal noise caused by the shaking of the distribution pipe 6 during the operation of the heat exchanger.

[0128] As shown in FIG13 , in a specific embodiment, if the depth of the first cavity 511 in the first direction is defined as D1 and the length of the distribution pipe 6 in the first cavity 511 is H1, then D1 and H1 satisfy: 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1.

[0129] When the length of the distribution tube 6 in the first cavity 511 is not enough, the contact area between the two after welding is small and the connection is not stable enough. In addition, the remaining empty first cavity 511 will also cause material waste; however, when the distribution tube 6 is inserted too deep, the first end 61 of the distribution tube 6 contacts the end wall of the first cavity 511 (that is, H1=D1), there is no surplus between the two. Welding will cause the distribution tube 6 to expand due to heat, causing extrusion and deformation of the distribution tube 6. Therefore, when the depth D1 of the first cavity 511 in the first direction and the length H1 of the distribution tube 6 in the first cavity 511 satisfy 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1, it can not only ensure the contact area between the two, but also prevent the distribution tube 6 from being deformed and extruded due to high-temperature welding.

[0130] As shown in FIG14 , in one specific embodiment, the first end cap 5 further includes a cover body 52, which is fixedly connected to the other end of the first header 1 along the longitudinal direction. A guide angle 53 is provided between the cover body 52 and the first protrusion 51, and the guide angle 53 gradually tilts inward from the cover body 52 side toward the first protrusion 51 side. It should be noted that the cover body 52 and the first protrusion 51 can be integrally formed or can be a separate structure fixedly connected. However, an integrally formed cover body 52 and first protrusion 51 have higher strength and stability. Therefore, in this embodiment, the cover body 52 and the first protrusion 51 are integrally formed.

[0131] The guide angle 53 set between the cover body 52 and the first protrusion 51 has an arc surface. After the first end cover 5 is fixedly connected to the end of the first collecting pipe 1 through the cover body 52, the guide angle 53 can guide the distribution pipe 6 when the distribution pipe 6 is inserted into the first cavity 511, so that the distribution pipe 6 can be inserted into the first cavity 511 of the first end cover 5 more smoothly.

[0132] As shown in FIG15 , in one specific embodiment, the inner wall of the first protrusion 51 is provided with an internal thread 512, and the outer wall of the distribution tube 6 near the first end 61 is provided with an external thread, and the distribution tube 6 is threadedly connected to the first protrusion 51. After the distribution tube 6 is inserted into the first end cap 5, the distribution tube 6 is rotated to securely connect the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51 via the matching internal thread 512 and external thread, thereby omitting the subsequent welding step at this location, and only the second protrusion 41 of the second end cap 4 needs to be welded.

[0133] It should be noted that when the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51 are threadedly connected, although welding is no longer required at this location, the depth D1 of the first cavity 511 in the first direction and the length H1 of the distribution tube 6 within the first cavity 511, if 2 / 3 ≤ H1 / D1 < 1, can still reduce the extrusion deformation of the distribution tube 6 during welding. This is because, although the first protrusion 51 does not require welding, welding is still required at the second protrusion 41 of the second end cap 4 to secure the second protrusion 41 to the wall of the distribution tube 6. Therefore, the distribution tube 6 at this location will still deform due to heat, potentially extending toward the first end 61. Therefore, the excess space allows space for the deformation of the distribution tube 6, reducing the extrusion caused by deformation of the distribution tube 6.

[0134] As shown in Figure 7, in one specific embodiment, the first protrusion 51 protrudes outward from the cover 52, and the protrusion direction of the first protrusion 51 faces away from the distribution tube 6. A second hole 513 is provided through the side wall of the first protrusion 51. The diameter of the second hole 513 gradually increases from the inner wall side to the outer wall side of the first protrusion 51, that is, the second hole 513 is in the shape of a tapered hole. During welding, if the first protrusion 51 is recessed into the cover 52, the welding temperature must first pass through the cover 52 before reaching the position of the first protrusion 51. Some temperature loss will cause the first protrusion 51 to heat more slowly, affecting the welding efficiency at this position. Therefore, the first protrusion 51 protruding from the cover 52 can be directly heated during welding, thereby improving welding efficiency.

[0135] In addition, the second hole 513 can be used as an observation hole to facilitate observation of whether the distribution tube 6 is inserted into the first cavity 511 of the first protrusion 51 to a preset position, that is, the depth D1 of the first cavity 511 in the first direction and the length H1 of the distribution tube 6 in the first cavity 511 are in a position where 2 / 3≤H1 / D1<1; at the same time, the second hole 513 can also be used as a solder adding hole, and solder is added through the second hole 513 to weld the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51. The second hole 513 that gradually expands from the inner wall side to the outer wall side of the first protrusion 51 can make it easier to add solder and reduce the aggregation of solder.

[0136] As shown in Figures 16-17, in one specific embodiment, the first protrusion 51 includes a third hole 514 that extends through the end surface of the first protrusion 51 in a first direction. The first protrusion 51 is either protruding outward from the cover 52, with the convex direction of the first protrusion 51 facing away from the distribution tube 6, or recessed inward from the cover 52, with the concave direction of the first protrusion 51 facing the distribution tube 6. The first protrusion 51 with the third hole 514 at the end allows for more intuitive observation of the insertion position of the distribution tube 6. The third hole 514 also leaves a certain amount of excess space for thermal expansion of the distribution tube 6 during welding, thereby reducing thermal deformation of the distribution tube 6.

[0137] As shown in FIG18 , in one embodiment, a positioning portion 7 is provided on the sidewall of the dispensing tube 6. When the first end 61 is located at a predetermined position in the first cavity 511, the positioning portion 7 is at least partially located within the second protrusion 41. The positioning portion 7 allows the insertion depth of the dispensing tube 6 to be monitored during insertion, preventing the dispensing tube 6 from failing to reach the first protrusion 51 or being inserted insufficiently.

[0138] It should be noted that, because the first header 1 is relatively long, the distribution pipe 6 may tilt after being inserted into the first header 1, resulting in the distribution pipe 6 not being inserted into place. This will cause the first end 61 of the first header 1 not to be inserted into the first protrusion 51 or not to be inserted into place during the subsequent welding process, resulting in abnormal noise during the operation of the heat exchanger. The tilted distribution pipe 6 will also affect the uniformity of the distribution. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that the distribution pipe 6 can be inserted into the preset position.

[0139] In this embodiment, a positioning portion 7 is provided at a predetermined distance from the first end 61 of the dispensing tube 6. This positioning portion 7 allows for observation of proper insertion of the dispensing tube 6. Specifically, the positioning portion 7 comprises a marking dot or a marking ring, wherein the marking dot comprises a convex dot or a concave dot, and the marking ring comprises a convex ring or an annular groove 63. Using markings such as the marking dot, the marking ring, the convex ring, or the annular groove 63 allows for intuitive identification of the insertion depth of the dispensing tube 6, while also being relatively inexpensive.

[0140] As shown in FIG19 , in one specific embodiment, the distribution tube 6 includes a groove 63 located in the sidewall of the distribution tube 6. When the first end 61 is located in the predetermined position of the first cavity 511, the groove 63 is located within the first cavity 511. The groove 63 contains welding material. The solder within the groove 63 of the distribution tube 6 allows for direct welding of the distribution tube 6 and the first protrusion 51 after insertion into the predetermined position, thereby eliminating the need to subsequently add solder and improving welding efficiency.

[0141] As shown in Figure 20, in one specific embodiment, the distribution pipe 6 includes a first pipe section 64, a contracting pipe section 65, and a transition pipe section 66. The outer diameter of the contracting pipe section 65 is smaller than that of the first pipe section 64. The transition pipe section 66 connects the first pipe section 64 and the contracting pipe section 65. The first end 61 is located at the end of the contracting pipe section 65. When the first end 61 is located at a predetermined position within the first cavity 511, the contracting pipe section 65 is at least partially located within the first cavity 511. The outer wall of the contracting pipe section 65 is provided with welding material. The contracting structure of the distribution pipe 6 facilitates insertion of the distribution pipe 6 into the first cavity 511. Furthermore, the welding material provided on the contracting pipe section 65 eliminates the need for subsequent solder addition, thereby improving welding efficiency.

[0142] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and variations of the present application are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included in the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A manufacturing method of a heat exchanger, characterized in that, It includes the following steps: Provide a heat exchanger core body, the heat exchanger core body includes a first header (1), assemble the heat exchanger core body, and perform furnace brazing on the assembled heat exchanger core body in a brazing furnace; Take out the heat exchanger core body and cool it to a preset temperature; Provide a distribution pipe (6), and insert the distribution pipe (6) into the first header (1) along the length direction of the first header (1); Fix the distribution pipe (6).

2. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes the following steps: Provide a first end cover (5), and provide a first convex portion (51) on the first end cover (5); Provide a second end cover (4), and provide a second convex portion (41) and a first hole (42) on the second end cover (4), the first hole (42) extends axially along the second convex portion (41) and penetrates the second convex portion (41); When assembling the heat exchanger core body, install the first end cover (5) at one end of the first header (1) along the length direction, and install the second end cover (4) at the other end of the first header (1) along the length direction.

3. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that, When inserting the distribution pipe (6) into the first header (1), the distribution pipe (6) passes through the first hole (42) and is inserted into the first header (1) to a preset depth. At the preset depth, one end of the distribution pipe (6) along the length direction is located within the first convex portion (51); Fixing the distribution pipe (6) includes fixedly connecting the distribution pipe (6) to the first convex portion (51) and fixedly connecting the distribution pipe (6) to the second convex portion (41).

4. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first convex portion (51) protrudes outward from one end face of the first header (1) along the length direction, and / or the second convex portion (41) protrudes outward from the other end face of the first header (1) along the length direction.

5. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, It further includes the following steps: Provide a positioning portion (7), the positioning portion (7) is used to assist in observing whether the distribution pipe (6) is inserted to the preset depth; define the depth of the first convex portion (51) as D1, and the length of the distribution pipe (6) inserted into the first convex portion (51) at the preset depth as H1, then D1 and H1 satisfy: 2 / 3 ≤ H1 / D1 < 1.

6. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that, The positioning portion (7) includes a first member (71), the distribution pipe (6) includes a straight pipe section (67) and a bent pipe section (68), and the bent pipe section (68) forms a preset angle with the straight pipe section (67); When inserting the distribution pipe (6), arrange the first member (71) between the second end cover (4) and the bent pipe section (68), insert the distribution pipe (6), and after the bent pipe section (68) contacts the first member (71), remove the first member (71).

7. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that, The positioning portion (7) includes a positioning mark (72), the positioning mark (72) is provided on the outer pipe wall of the distribution pipe (6), and when the distribution pipe (6) is inserted into the first header (1) to the preset depth, the positioning mark (72) is at least partially located within the second convex portion (41).

8. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 7, characterized in that, The positioning mark (72) includes a marking point or a marking ring. The marking point includes a convex point or a concave point, and the marking ring includes a convex ring or an annular groove.

9. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to any one of claims 2-8, characterized in that, Define the direction of gravity as the first direction. When inserting the distribution pipe (6), the length direction of the first header (1) extends along the first direction, and the length direction of the distribution pipe (6) is inserted into the first header (1) along the first direction.

10. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 9, characterized in that, Comprising the following steps: Preset an internal thread on the inner wall of the first convex portion (51), preset an external thread on the pipe wall of the distribution pipe (6). After the distribution pipe (6) is inserted into the first header (1), screw-connect the distribution pipe (6) and the first convex portion (51); Weld the second convex portion (41) and the distribution pipe (6) by flame welding or induction welding.

11. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 9, characterized in that, Comprising the following steps: Preset a second hole (513) on the side wall of the first convex portion (51). The second hole (513) penetrates the side wall of the first convex portion (51). The aperture of the second hole (513) gradually expands from the inner wall side to the outer wall side of the first convex portion (51). After the distribution pipe (6) is inserted to a preset depth, fill solder into the second hole (513) and weld the first convex portion (51) and the distribution pipe (6); Weld the second convex portion (41) and the distribution pipe (6) by flame welding or induction welding.

12. The manufacturing method of the heat exchanger according to claim 11, characterized in that, When welding and fixing the distribution pipe (6), first weld the first convex portion (51) and the distribution pipe (6), and then weld the second convex portion (41) and the distribution pipe (6).

13. A heat exchanger, the heat exchanger comprising a first header (1) and a distribution pipe (6), the distribution pipe (6) being arranged along the length direction of the first header (1) on the first header (1), characterized in that, The distribution pipe (6) is arranged in the first header (1) by the manufacturing method described in any one of claims 1-12.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 13, wherein, The heat exchanger further includes a second header (2), heat exchange tubes (3) and fins (8). The second header (2) is arranged at an interval from the first header (1). The number of the heat exchange tubes (3) is multiple. The multiple heat exchange tubes (3) communicate the first header (1) and the second header (2). The fins (8) are located between at least some adjacent two of the heat exchange tubes (3).

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, wherein Further comprising: A first end cover (5). The first end cover (5) is located at one end of the first header (1) along the length direction. The first end cover (5) includes a first convex portion (51). The first convex portion (51) has a first cavity (511) extending along the first direction; A second end cover (4). The second end cover (4) is located at the other end of the first header (1) along the length direction. The second end cover (4) includes a second convex portion (41). The second convex portion (41) has a length in the first direction. The first direction is the length direction of the first header (1); The distribution pipe (6) has a first end (61) in the length direction. The first end (61) can pass through the second convex portion (41) and extend into the first cavity (511). The first end (61) of the distribution pipe (6) is fixedly connected to the first convex portion (51), and the pipe wall of the distribution pipe (6) is fixedly connected to the second convex portion (41).

16. The heat exchanger according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first end cap (5) further includes a cap body (52). The cap body (52) is fixedly connected to one end of the first header (1) in the length direction. A guiding angle (53) is provided between the cap body (52) and the first convex portion (51). The guiding angle (53) gradually inclines inwards from one side of the cap body (52) towards one side of the first convex portion (51).

17. The heat exchanger according to claim 16, wherein, Internal threads (512) are provided on the inner wall of the first convex portion (51). External threads are provided on the outer wall of the distribution pipe (6) near the first end (61). The distribution pipe (6) is threadedly connected to the first convex portion (51).

18. The heat exchanger according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first convex portion (51) protrudes outwards from the cap body (52), and the protruding direction of the first convex portion (51) is away from the distribution pipe (6).

19. The heat exchanger according to claim 16, wherein The first convex portion (51) includes a third hole (514). The third hole (514) penetrates through the end face of the first convex portion (51) along the first direction. The first convex portion (51) protrudes outwards from the cap body (52), and the protruding direction of the first convex portion (51) is away from the distribution pipe (6), or the first convex portion (51) is recessed in the cap body (52), and the recessed direction of the first convex portion (51) faces the distribution pipe (6).

20. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 15 - 17, characterized in that, A positioning portion (7) is provided on the side wall of the distribution pipe (6). When the first end (61) is located at a preset position in the first cavity (511), at least part of the positioning portion (7) is located within the second convex portion (41).

21. The heat exchanger according to claim 20, wherein, The distribution pipe (6) includes a groove (63). The groove (63) is located on the side wall of the distribution pipe (6). When the first end (61) is located at a preset position in the first cavity (511), the groove (63) is located within the first cavity (511), and welding material is provided in the groove (63).

22. The heat exchanger according to claim 20, characterized in that, The distribution pipe (6) includes a first pipe section (64), a reduced-diameter pipe section (65), and a transition pipe section (66). The outer diameter of the reduced-diameter pipe section (65) is smaller than the outer diameter of the first pipe section (64). The transition pipe section (66) connects the first pipe section (64) and the reduced-diameter pipe section (65). The first end (61) is located at the end of the reduced-diameter pipe section (65). When the first end (61) is located at a preset position in the first cavity (511), at least part of the reduced-diameter pipe section (65) is located within the first cavity (511), and welding material is provided on the outer wall of the reduced-diameter pipe section (65).

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