Adjustable Refrigerant Distribution Pipe for Uniform Heat Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerant distribution systems in heat exchangers face challenges in achieving uniform refrigerant distribution due to factors like dryness, flow rate, and flow direction at the inlet, which cannot be adjusted as operating conditions change, leading to inefficient heat exchange performance.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerant distribution device with a movable distribution pipe and drive assembly, allowing for real-time adjustment of distribution holes' position based on operating conditions, using temperature sensors and drive mechanisms like electronic expansion valves or hydraulic cylinders to ensure uniform refrigerant distribution across heat exchange tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed refrigerant distribution pipe is inserted into the header, then refrigerant distribution uniformity is improved, but the system cannot adapt to varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution pipe is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust its position along the header according to operating conditions. The drive assembly enables the distribution pipe to translate axially, changing which distribution holes are positioned at the inlet end, thereby adapting the refrigerant distribution pattern to match varying operating requirements while maintaining distribution uniformity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distribution pipe is made adjustable, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly replaces complex manual adjustment mechanisms with a more streamlined actuation system. By using a drive assembly that directly translates rotational or linear motion into axial movement of the distribution pipe, the system achieves adjustable adaptability while minimizing mechanical complexity compared to traditional manual repositioning systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If repeated installation and redesign are performed to optimize distribution, then distribution uniformity is improved, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution pipe is pre-equipped with multiple distribution holes at different positions along its length, allowing it to be adjusted to optimal configurations for various operating conditions without requiring redesign. This preliminary preparation of multiple hole positions enables the system to adapt to different scenarios through simple repositioning rather than time-consuming redesign and reinstallation cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable refrigerant distribution device and a heat exchanger having same. The heat exchanger comprises: first and second collecting pipes; a heat exchanger core body; and a refrigerant distribution device, the refrigerant distribution device comprises a first distribution pipe, a first inlet pipe and a first drive assembly. The pipe wall of the first distribution pipe is provided with a first distribution hole. The first distribution pipe is inserted into at least one of the first and the second collecting pipes. The first inlet pipe is located outside at least one collecting pipe and is in communication with the first distribution pipe, and the first drive assembly drives the first distribution pipe to move relative to at least one collecting pipe. The distribution pipe of the refrigerant distribution device and the heat exchanger can translate along the axial direction, thereby adjusting refrigerant distribution so as to satisfy different distribution requirements.