Removable Fluid Distributor Assembly for Uniform Heat Exchanger Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution solutions for heat exchangers are complex, difficult to manufacture, and offer limited flexibility, leading to uneven fluid distribution, especially in micro-channel tubes, which reduces flow rate and increases maldistribution, particularly in evaporators.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece fluid distributor assembly comprising a first and second casing that form a header with removably attached fluid distributors, allowing different distribution configurations, and includes connector tubes and isolators to ensure even fluid distribution across heat exchange tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing fluid distribution solutions are used, then the heat exchanger can operate, but the fluid distribution becomes uneven especially in micro-channel tubes, reducing flow rate and increasing maldistribution
Solution Approach 1:
The header is divided into multiple sections with individual fluid distributors for each section. Each distributor is independently configured to address the specific flow distribution needs of connected heat exchange tubes, ensuring uniform fluid distribution across all tubes while maintaining high flow rates without maldistribution
Solution Approach 2:
Different fluid distributors are used in different sections of the header based on local requirements. Each distributor can be customized with specific outlet configurations, port arrangements, and distribution patterns tailored to the connected heat exchange tubes, achieving optimal uniform fluid distribution and flow rate for each local region
2Reliability
If existing fluid distribution solutions are used, then the system can function, but the device complexity increases making it difficult to manufacture and assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system is segmented into modular components: header sections, fluid distributors, and connection interfaces. Each section can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining uniform fluid distribution performance through standardized connection protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The header sections and fluid distributors are designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate different configurations. The same basic component design can serve multiple functions and be used in various positions within the assembly, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring reliable uniform fluid distribution across different application scenarios
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing fluid distribution solutions are used, then the system operates, but flexibility is limited in accommodating different distribution configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent, interchangeable sections that can be configured in different arrangements. Each section maintains standardized connection points, allowing flexible reconfiguration of fluid distributors to match different heat exchange tube patterns while keeping the overall system design simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid distribution system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing users to select and position different distributor types in different locations based on specific application requirements. The modular design enables easy adaptation to various configurations without redesigning the entire system, maintaining simplicity through standardized interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a fluid distributor assembly for a heat exchanger. The assembly comprises a first casing, a second casing configured to be removably attached to the first casing such that a header is formed having an enclosed space therewithin, and a plurality of fluid distributors configured to be removably accommodated on one or more of the first casing and the second casing, wherein at least two fluid distributors among the plurality of fluid distributors have different distribution configurations, wherein the first casing and the second casing are attached to secure the accommodated distributors within the formed header.