Ceramic Heat Exchanger Overlapping Inlet Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional heat exchangers face challenges in achieving superior heat exchange efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger design utilizing ceramic members with specific configurations, including overlapping introduction holes, chamfered and protruding areas, and varying channel shapes to enhance fluid turbulence and contact, along with the use of high thermal conductivity materials like silicon carbide ceramic, to improve heat exchange efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional heat exchanger designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but heat exchange efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is divided into multiple plate members (first plate member, second plate member, third plate member) with distinct functional zones. Each plate is segmented into introduction hole regions, discharge hole regions, and channel regions, allowing independent optimization of fluid introduction, mixing, and heat exchange functions in different segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the plate members have different structural characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The introduction hole regions have overlapping configurations for turbulence generation, the channel regions have varying cross-sectional shapes for heat exchange optimization, and the discharge hole regions are positioned to facilitate fluid collection. This local differentiation maximizes heat exchange efficiency in each zone.
2Productivity
If fluid flow paths are simplified, then device complexity is reduced, but heat exchange efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path design nests multiple functional operations within a single integrated structure. The plate members contain both introduction holes and discharge holes with channels connecting them, creating nested flow paths where fluid is introduced, mixed through overlapping hole regions, transported through channels, and discharged all within the same plate component without requiring external piping or additional mixing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the plate thickness dimension to create three-dimensional flow paths and mixing zones. The overlapping introduction holes extend in the thickness direction, creating volumetric mixing regions rather than simple two-dimensional openings. This dimensional approach enables complex fluid interaction and heat exchange within the plate structure itself.
3Reliability
If standard materials are used, then manufacturing cost is controlled, but thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger employs ceramic materials, specifically silicon carbide (SiC) or aluminum oxide (Al2O3), which provide superior thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance compared to conventional metals or plastics. These ceramic plate members maintain structural integrity and heat transfer performance in harsh chemical environments, justifying the higher material cost through improved reliability and longevity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves superior heat exchange efficiency by increasing fluid turbulence and contact areas, reducing raw material costs, and improving thermal resistance and corrosion resistance.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchanger having a superior heat exchange efficiency
Implementation Method 2
including overlapping introduction holes, chamfered and protruding areas, and varying channel shapes to enhance fluid turbulence and contact
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
Object: To provide a heat exchanger having a superior heat exchange efficiency. Resolution means: The heat exchanger according to the present invention is formed from a ceramic and performs heat exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid. The heat exchanger is provided with: a plurality of first members including walls that have introduction holes on a first end side and discharge holes on a second end side, with spaces connecting the introduction holes and the discharge holes serving as first channels through which the first fluid flows; second members that communicate with the introduction holes at the first end side of the plurality of first members to introduce the first fluid to the first members; and third members that communicate with the discharge holes at the second end side of the plurality of first members to discharge the first fluid that has flowed through the first members. In such a heat exchanger, spaces between the plurality of first members serve as second channels through which the second fluid flows and, in at least one adjacent pair of the introduction holes, regions that overlap with opening regions of the upstream-side introduction holes exist in the walls including the downstream-side introduction holes, when viewed in a direction in which the first fluid flows.