Fins and heat exchanger comprising same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fin-tube type heat exchangers face issues with joining quality due to the narrow area for filler metal or adhesive insertion, leading to incomplete contact and reduced durability.
Innovation Solution
The proposed fin design includes a separate application hole above the tube insertion hole, with protrusion parts guiding the filler metal or adhesive for improved distribution and contact between the fin and tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the conventional fin design with a narrow filler metal seating area is used, then the structure is simple, but the filler metal or adhesive cannot reach the lower end and escapes to spaces other than the intended contact surface, deteriorating joining quality
Solution Approach 1:
The fin structure is segmented into multiple functional regions: a burring part for adhesive/filler metal insertion, a filler metal seating area for containment, and an extended area that guides the filler metal to the lower end. This segmentation ensures each region performs its specific function effectively, preventing filler metal escape and ensuring complete coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The fin design extends in the reference direction beyond the tube diameter, creating a three-dimensional structure with multiple levels (upper surface, lower surface, and side surfaces). This dimensional extension provides a controlled path for filler metal flow and ensures thorough coverage of the tube-fan interface.
2Manufacturing precision
If the tube and burring part are disposed very close for brazing, then the joining quality improves, but the press-fitting of the tube puts a load on the burring part causing it to tear, deteriorating workability
Solution Approach 1:
The burring part is pre-formed with an extended area that provides structural reinforcement before the press-fitting operation. This preliminary structural preparation allows the tube to be pressed in closely for high-quality brazing without causing the burring part to tear during the press-fitting process.
3Quantity of substance
If the filler metal seating area is narrow, then the fin structure remains simple, but the filler metal escapes to spaces other than the surface that has to be in contact, failing to reach the lower end
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the fin are designed with different properties: the burring part has a specific geometry for insertion, the filler metal seating area provides containment with appropriate width, and the extended area guides the filler metal flow. Each region's local structure is optimized for its specific function, ensuring proper filler metal distribution.
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
This design enhances the joining quality by ensuring sufficient filler metal or adhesive is applied, reducing the risk of tearing during tube press-fitting, and improving workability and durability of the heat exchanger.
Implementation Method 1
a first protrusion part protruding from a first edge region being a region of the fin body, which defines the application hole, in the reference direction, and a second protrusion part protruding from a second edge region being a region of the fin body, which defines the tube insertion hole, in the reference direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to fins and a heat exchanger comprising same. The fin may comprise: a fin body including a tube insertion hole, which is open in a reference direction and is provided such that a tube extending in the reference direction is inserted therein, and an application hole, which is disposed above the tube insertion hole, communicates with the tube insertion hole, and is open in the reference direction; a first protrusion part protruding in the reference direction from a first edge region, which is a region defining the application hole of the fin body; and a second protrusion part protruding in the reference direction from a second edge region, which is a region defining the tube insertion hole of the fin body.