Partitioned Inlet Header for Micro-Channel Heat Exchanger Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional heat exchangers in HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to limited design flexibility and capacity regulation, particularly in micro-channel heat exchangers, which restrict their ability to optimize heat transfer and fluid distribution effectively.
Innovation Solution
The proposed heat exchanger design features a partitioned header with multiple compartments and orifices, allowing for a two-pass working fluid passage and independent control of fluid flow, along with micro-channel tubes that direct fluid in specific directions, enabling a compact and efficient heat exchange configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional heat exchanger design is used, then structure is simple, but heat transfer efficiency is limited and capacity control is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The header is divided into multiple compartments (first chamber, second chamber, and additional compartments) that are separated by partition walls. Each compartment can independently receive and distribute working fluid through dedicated inlet ports and orifices, enabling improved heat transfer efficiency and capacity control while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Volume of moving object
If micro-channel tubes are used, then device size is compact, but fluid distribution and capacity regulation are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger incorporates adjustable orifices in each compartment that can be independently controlled to regulate the flow of working fluid. This dynamic control mechanism allows capacity regulation flexibility while maintaining the compact micro-channel tube structure, enabling the system to adapt to different operating conditions.
3Ease of operation
If single-chamber header is used, then manufacturing is simple, but fluid flow control and distribution are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The header is segmented into multiple compartments with partition walls, where each compartment has dedicated inlet ports and orifices for independent fluid flow control. This segmentation improves ease of operation by allowing precise control over fluid distribution to different micro-channel tube groups, while the modular compartment design facilitates standardized manufacturing processes.
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 heat transfer efficiency, allows for greater capacity control, and achieves a more compact structure, improving overall performance in HVAC systems by optimizing fluid distribution and heat exchange processes.
Implementation Method 1
Outer surfaces of the micro-channel tubes and the fins may help heat exchange between the first fluid (such as refrigerant) in the micro-channel tubes and a second fluid (such as air) flowing across the outer surfaces of the micro-channel tubes
Implementation Method 2
one or more of the at least two compartments is configured to have at least one orifice to meter the working fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a heat exchanger, e.g. a micro-channel heat exchanger are disclosed. The heat exchanger may include a plurality of rows of micro-channel tubes, each of which can be configured to direct a working fluid in a specific direction. The heat exchanger may include one or more distributors in a distribution header of the heat exchanger, each of which can be connected to a different application circuit (e.g. a refrigeration circuit) so that a capacity of the heat exchanger may be regulated. The heat exchanger as disclosed herein can be used as an evaporator and/or a condenser in a refrigeration system.