CN101405556B - Flat tube, flat tube heat exchanger, and method of manufacturing same - Google Patents

Abstract

A plurality of flat tubes, flat tube heat exchangers, and methods of manufacturing both are described and illustrated. The flat tubes can be constructed of one, two, or more pieces of sheet material. A profiled insert integral with the flat tube or constructed from another sheet of material can be used to define multiple flow channels through the flat tube. The flat tubes can be constructed of relatively thin material, and can be reinforced with folds of the flat tube material and/or of an insert in areas subject to higher pressure and thermal stresses. Also, the relatively thin flat tube material can have a corrosion layer enabling the material to resist failure due to corrosion. Heat exchangers having such flat tubes connected to collection tubes are also disclosed, as are manners in which such tubes can be provided with fins.

Description

Flat tube, flat tube heat exchanger and manufacture method thereof

The priority of the application's application below this requires to enjoy: the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 002 627.6 that on January 19th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 002 789.2 that on January 20th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 002 932.1 that on January 21st, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE102006 006 670.7 that on February 14th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 016711.2 that on April 8th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 029 378.9 that on June 27th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 032 406.4 that on July 13rd, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 033 568.6 that on July 20th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 035 210.6 that on July 29th, 2006 submitted, the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 041 270.2 that on September 2nd, 2006 submitted, and on September 9th, 2006 the German patent application No.DE10 2,006 042 427.1 that submits, the full content of these applications is contained in this by reference.

Summary of the invention

In certain embodiments, the invention provides a kind of heat exchanger, comprise: the pipe body that is defined by the material piece with the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm at least in part, described pipe body has thickness, greater than described thickness and substantially perpendicular to the width of described thickness, the outer wall that is defined by described material piece at least in part, inner room with the Breadth Maximum that extends along the direction of the described width of described pipe body, wide side, and each has all defined the first and second narrow sides of the inner surface of described inner room, and described material piece is bent the described first narrow side with the fixed described pipe body at least part of boundary of a piece of land.Heat exchanger of the present invention can also comprise the first of described outer wall, the described first of described outer wall and the second portion of described outer wall are stacked and defined undercut at the described second narrow side place, wherein said first has the end in the position along the described width of described pipeline, and wherein said inner room extends to the described inner surface of described the second narrow side through described position from the center of described pipeline.

The present invention also provides a kind of heat-exchanger pipeline, the material piece that comprises the outer wall that forms at least in part pipe body, described pipe body has the first narrow side, the second narrow side and wide side, described material piece has the thickness less than about 0.15mm, and folding at the described first narrow side place of described pipe body, the described first narrow side and the described second narrow side be reinforced so that the described first narrow side and the described second narrow side each all have thickness greater than the thickness of described material piece.

In addition, the invention provides a kind of method that forms heat-exchanger pipeline, described method comprises the steps: that the material piece that will have the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm is shaped to the formation pipe body, and described pipe body has thickness, greater than described thickness and substantially all defined the first and second narrow sides of the inner surface of described inner room perpendicular to the width of described thickness, the outer wall that is defined by described material piece at least in part, the inner room with the Breadth Maximum that extends along the direction of the described width of described pipe body, wide side and each.Described method can also comprise the steps: the described first narrow side of described material piece bending with the fixed described pipe body at least part of boundary of a piece of land; And with the first of described outer wall and second portion stacked and formation undercut at the described second narrow side place of described outer wall, the described first of described outer wall has the end in the position along the described width of described pipeline, and wherein said inner room extends to the described inner surface of described the second narrow side through described position from the center of described pipeline.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the side view of pipeline according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 2 is the zoomed-in view of the end of pipeline shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form pipeline shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 4 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 5 is another zoomed-in view of narrow side shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 6 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is the zoomed-in view of the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is the narrow side of pipeline in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12 is the zoomed-in view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the part of interior folding pipeline.

Figure 13 is the zoomed-in view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the part of interior folding pipeline.

Figure 14 is the zoomed-in view of a part that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of insert.

Figure 15 is the zoomed-in view of a part that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of insert.

Figure 16 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form the pipeline that comprises the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 17 is the zoomed-in view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 18 is the zoomed-in view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 19 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 20 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 21 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 22 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 23 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 24 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts that formed by common folding material spare.

Figure 25 is the decomposition view of the pipeline that comprises the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 26 is the decomposition view of pipeline shown in Figure 25.

Figure 27 is the decomposition view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts.

Figure 28 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts.

Figure 29 is the zoomed-in view of the part of pipeline shown in Figure 28.

Figure 30 is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts.

Figure 31 is the zoomed-in view of the part of pipeline shown in Figure 30.

Figure 32 A is the side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts.

Figure 32 B is the zoomed-in view of the part of the pipeline shown in Figure 32 A.

Figure 33 is the side view of a part that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the pipeline of the first and second parts and the insert between the first and second parts.

Figure 34 illustrates ten embodiment of pipeline according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 35 is the side view of pipeline according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 36 is the side view for the interior insert of pipeline shown in Figure 35.

Figure 37 is the top view of interior insert shown in Figure 36.

Figure 38 is the stereogram of the part of interior insert shown in Figure 35.

Figure 39 is the side view of pipeline according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 40 is the amplification stereogram for the interior insert of pipeline shown in Figure 39.

Figure 41 is the stereogram of the part of interior insert shown in Figure 40.

Figure 42 is the amplification stereogram of interior insert shown in Figure 40.

Figure 43 is the top view for the part of the interior insert of according to some embodiments of the invention pipeline.

Figure 44 is the side figure according to the insert of the embodiment of the invention that illustrates in the dotted line flat tube.

Figure 45 is the side view according to another insert of the embodiment of the invention that illustrates in the dotted line flat tube.

Figure 46 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps of the pipeline that can be used to form according to some embodiments of the invention.

The decomposed side view of the pipeline that Figure 47 is shown in Figure 46.

Figure 48 schematically illustrates can be for the manufacture of one group of exemplary fabrication steps of according to some embodiments of the invention pipeline.

Figure 49 is can be for the manufacture of the roll-in manufacturing line of according to some embodiments of the invention pipeline.

Figure 50 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps of the pipeline that can be used to form according to some embodiments of the invention.

Figure 51 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form according to the pipeline of other embodiments of the invention.

Figure 52 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form according to the pipeline of other embodiments of the invention.

Figure 53 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form according to the pipeline of other embodiments of the invention.

Figure 54 schematically illustrates one group of exemplary fabrication steps that can be used to form according to the pipeline of other embodiments of the invention.

Figure 55 illustrates can be for the manufacture of one group of exemplary fabrication steps according to the pipeline of other embodiments of the invention.

Figure 55 A is the cutaway view that the casher box of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 is shown.

Figure 55 B is the side view that the casher box shown in Figure 55 A is shown.

Figure 55 C illustrates the middle roll breakage of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 and the cutaway view of bar.

Figure 55 D illustrates the middle roll breakage of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 and the side view of bar.

Figure 56 is the side view of the part of the casher box shown in Figure 55 A.

Figure 57 A is the side view that the material piece of the part by the casher box shown in Figure 55 A of advancing is shown.

Figure 57 B is the top view that the material piece of the part by the casher box shown in Figure 55 A of advancing is shown.

Figure 58 illustrates the middle roll breakage of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 and the side view of bar

Figure 59 is a series of schematic end-view of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55, and it shows the different phase that forms the flat tube with insert.

Figure 60 is the schematic plan of the folding roller part of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55.

Figure 60 A is the end-view of the folding roller part shown in Figure 60.

Figure 61 is the schematic end according to the flat tube manufacturing line with fin of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 62 is the decomposition view according to the heat exchanger of the flat tube that has fin comprising of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 63 A-C is the partial view according to the fins group of different embodiments of the invention.

Figure 64 is the schematic diagram of processing according to the flat tube manufacturing with fin of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 65 is the three-dimensional side view of the part of the manufacturing processing shown in Figure 64.

Figure 66 is the detailed view according to the heat exchanger of the flat tube that has fin comprising of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 67 is the detailed view of flat tube, and this flat tube can be for the manufacture of the flat tube with fin according to the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 68 is the detailed side view that comprises in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the heat exchanger of the flat tube with fin.

Figure 69 is the detail perspective view of the part of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 68.

Figure 70 is the side view according to the header of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 70 A is the end-view of the header shown in Figure 70.

Figure 71 is the detailed view with heat exchanger of the header shown in Figure 70 and the 70A.

Figure 72 is the stereogram according to the header of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 73 is the detail perspective view of the heat exchanger with header shown in Figure 72.

Figure 74 is another detail perspective view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 73.

Figure 75 is the detail perspective view of the header shown in Figure 72.

Figure 76 is another detail perspective view of the heat exchanger with header shown in Figure 70-71.

Figure 77 is the front view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 71 and 76.

Figure 78 is the detailed side view that has in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the heat exchanger of header.

Figure 79 is the detailed end view of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 78.

Figure 80 is the detailed side view of the header of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 78 and 79.

Figure 80 A is the end-view of the header shown in Figure 78-80.

Figure 81 is the detailed side view that has in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the heat exchanger of header.

Figure 82 is the detailed end view that has in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the heat exchanger of header.

Figure 83 is the detailed side view of the header of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 81.

Figure 84 is the flow chart of processing according to the heat exchanger manufacturing of the embodiment of the invention.

Figure 84 A is the schematic diagram according to the heat exchanger of the flow chart manufacturing of Figure 84.

Figure 85 is the exploded perspective view of heat exchanger in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 86 is the exploded perspective view of heat exchanger in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 87 is the end-view of the flat tube of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 86.

Figure 88 is the exploded perspective view of heat exchanger in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 89 illustrates the end-view according to optional flat tube of the present invention.

Figure 90 is the exploded perspective view of heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 91 is the view at the in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention flat tube shown in the different formation stages.

Figure 92-95 illustrates according to the method for embodiments of the invention with the part connection of heat exchanger.

Figure 96 illustrates according to the figure of some embodiments of the present invention for the silicon diffusion depth of the heat exchanger that connects.

The specific embodiment

Before in detail explaining any embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that the present invention its application facet be not limited to set forth in the following description or the following drawings in illustrated structure detail and arrangements of components.The present invention can have other embodiment also can accomplished in various ways or enforcement.In addition, it should be understood that wording used herein and term are the purposes for explanation, and should not be considered as restriction." comprise " herein, " comprising " or " having " and the use that is equal to wording thereof represent to be inclusive with after this listed project and be equal to project, and also be inclusive with extra items.Unless otherwise indicate or limit, term " installation ", " connection ", " support " and " coupling " and various variation term thereof use in the broad sense mode, and are inclusive with the implication direct and installation of being connected, connection, support and coupling.In addition " connection " be connected coupling " be not limited to physics or machinery connection or coupling.

As described in more detail below, many embodiment of the present invention relate to or based on the use of following pipeline: have substantially flat shape of cross section in the situation of the planar interception vertical with the longitudinal axis of this pipeline.Particularly, each this pipeline can have principal dimensions and the less secondary yardstick vertical with principal dimensions.These yardsticks are called as " diameter " in this article sometimes, but the use of term " diameter " and only be not intended to indication or meaning is circular, subcircular or have the feature of other given shapes.On the contrary, term " diameter " only is used for the expression pipeline in indicated direction and locational out to out.Each this pipeline can have two relative walls (this paper is called pipeline " wide side ") of the face that has defined pipeline, and two shorter but more stable walls (this paper is called pipeline " narrow side ") that wide side is connected.The wide side of pipeline and narrow side have defined fluid jointly can be with the mobile inner space of being passed through of any state (including but not limited to any pressure or vacuum gas, liquid, steam and any combination thereof of (comprising without pressure or vacuum)).

Another feature of flat tube (following more detailed description) is the material of less thickness at least some of the wall of structure flat tube in many embodiment of the present invention.In certain embodiments, the wall material of flat tube has the thickness that is not more than about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch).In another embodiment, the wall material of flat tube has the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.00590055 inch).In addition, by utilizing one or more in the flat tube feature as herein described, the inventor has been found that, in the intensity and heat exchange performance that keep heavier traditional flat tube to have, can construct a large amount of different flat tube with various characteristics that is applicable to various application with the material of remarkable minimizing.In certain embodiments, be not less than about 0.050mm (namely, be not less than about 0.0019685 inch) the wall material thickness of flat tube good intensity and corrosion resistance is provided, and in other embodiments, can use the wall material thickness of the flat tube that is not less than 0.030mm (0.00118 inch).

As described in more detail below, other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline as herein described and heat exchanger can and be processed and make with a large amount of manufacturing technologies, and can comprise corrosion-resistant features, for example the following stated and illustrated those technology and processing in Figure 92-95.After this a large amount of manufacturing processing that relate to and technology and corrosion-resistant features are particularly advantageous when the part of the heat-exchanger pipeline that is applied to have the material thickness that significantly reduces and heat exchanger.In addition, these technology, processing and corrosion-resistant features provide the remarkable advantage relevant with the overall performance of the flat tube of being made by this material and heat exchanger.

Many embodiment of the present invention have utilized the flat tube that has as mentioned above principal dimensions and secondary yardstick (being expressed as respectively D and d in following text), and it provides unique advantage in many application.For example, when being combined with described material thickness just and being combined with other features of the flat tube described in the following various embodiment, can make the flat tube that is applicable to a large amount of different application.In addition, by using above-mentioned relatively thin wall material, can help the production capacity with flat tube of principal dimensions D and secondary yardstick d as herein described.

For example, in some embodiments of the invention, principal dimensions D (that is, the width of flat tube in the embodiment illustrated herein) is not less than about 10mm (0.39370 inch).In addition, in certain embodiments, this principal dimensions D is not more than about 300mm (3.9370 inches).In other embodiments, principal dimensions D is not more than about 200mm (7.87402 inches).As another example, in some embodiments of the invention, secondary yardstick d (that is, the thickness of flat tube in the embodiment illustrated herein) is not less than about 0.7mm (0.02756 inch).In addition, in certain embodiments, this secondary yardstick d is not more than about 10mm (0.39370 inch).In other embodiments, secondary yardstick d is greater than about 7mm (0.2756 inch).Any one in flat tube embodiment described herein and/or illustrated of these principal dimensions and secondary scale dimension applications.

In many examples, when the application of flat tube, principal dimensions D and secondary yardstick d are independent at least in part.For example, in condenser is used, be not less than about 10mm (0.39370 inch) at the full diameter D of some embodiment track flat tubes.In addition, the full diameter D of flat tube is not more than about 20mm (0.78740 inch) in some condensers are used.In addition, the secondary diameter d of flat tube is not more than about 2.0mm (0.078740 inch) in some condensers are used.As another example, in heat sink applications, the full diameter D of flat tube is not less than about 10mm (0.39370 inch).In addition, the full diameter D of flat tube is not more than about 200mm (7.8740 inches) in some heat sink applications.The secondary diameter d that is used for some heat sink applications of flat tube is not less than about 0.7mm (0.027559 inch).In addition, the secondary diameter d of flat tube is not more than about 2.0mm (0.078740 inch) in some heat sink applications.As another example, in charge air cooler (charge air cooler) was used, the full diameter D of flat tube was not less than about 20mm (0.78740 inch).In addition, the full diameter D of flat tube is not more than about 160mm (6.29921 inches) in some charge air coolers are used.The secondary diameter d that is used for some charge air coolers application of flat tube is not less than about 4.0mm (0.15748 inch).In addition, the secondary diameter d of flat tube is not more than about 10.0mm (0.39370 inch) in some charge air coolers are used.

Any one other application of flat tube according to embodiment as herein described comprise oil cooler.In oil cooler was used, the full diameter D of flat tube was not less than about 10mm (0.49470 inch).In addition, the full diameter D of flat tube is not more than about 150mm (5.90551 inches) in some oil coolers are used.The secondary diameter d that is used for some oil coolers application of flat tube is not less than about 1.5mm (0.05906 inch).In addition, the secondary diameter d of flat tube is not more than about 4.0mm (0.15748 inch) in some oil coolers are used.As another example, in evaporator application, the full diameter D of flat tube is not less than about 30mm (1.18110 inches).In addition, the full diameter D of flat tube is not more than about 75mm (2.95276 inches) in some evaporator application.The secondary diameter d that is used for some evaporator application of flat tube is not less than about 1.0mm (0.039370 inch).In addition, the secondary diameter d of flat tube is not more than about 2.0mm (0.078740 inch) in some evaporator application.Should be appreciated that other application (for example, gas cooler) of the present invention and/or illustrated flat tube also are possible, and drop in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Many metals by comprising aluminium (for example, aluminum or aluminum alloy) among the flat tube embodiment of the following stated consist of.But, can replace using the metal of many other types and still be provided as the desired intensity of in heat exchange equipment use, heat is transmitted and manufacturing characteristics.In certain embodiments, the metal material of flat tube is provided with solder brazing (brazing) material coating.The braze material coating can have many different possible thickness, and is not less than in certain embodiments thickness about 10% of flat tube wall material, to obtain good results of property.In addition, in certain embodiments, the braze material coating be not more than the flat tube wall material thickness about 30%.In flat tube will be soldered other embodiment of (soldering) rather than solder brazing, the metal material of flat tube can be provided with the welding material coating.Can use many different fastening operations (solder brazing, welding (welding) and solder etc.) to construct any one in various flat tubes described herein and/or illustrated and the heat exchanger assemblies.But the some parts of following text only relates to solder brazing, but it should be understood that the fastening operation (comprising welding and solder) that can use equally in these embodiments other types.

Above-mentioned many flat tube features relate to relatively thin sheet material constructs duct wall.In certain embodiments, be provided with and the wide side of flat tube vertical or parallel fold (fold) substantially substantially by making either side in the stable narrow side or both sides, produce the enhancing to thin-walled flat tube performance.For example, can by the adjacent longitudinal edge roller of sheet metal is pricked or is folded into go up each other or each other in, form this folding.Either side in the narrow side of flat tube or both sides have among folding those embodiment of the present invention of the wide side that is in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube therein, and this folding can have relative to each other identical or different length.As described in more detail below, can be shaped at the narrow side place of flat tube folding and collude body or be fitted to each other---one at flat tube and/or adopt favourable feature in the manufacturing of heat exchanger of this flat tube.

In following examples, disclosed flat tube has folding narrow side, also has other folding and/or variant parts that are formed in the flat tube.In make processing, can after this other folding and/or variant part manufacturings, make and form the folding of narrow side, but other manufacturing possibilities also are possible.In addition, should be noted that it can be a plurality of folding being formed on folding in the flat tube, and close each other in certain embodiments against or lean on ground and arrange.

Illustrate the first embodiment according to flat tube 10 of the present invention among Fig. 1-5.Flat tube 10 is configured with by moulding to define two sheet metal parts 12,14 of inner flow passage 16.Two parts 12,14 each can be by through (for example having the material cutting equipment, laser instrument, saw, water jet, cutter etc.) one of production line form without terminal material band or reel, the material cutting equipment is for the production of two material webs, and these two material webs then are joined together as described below.Perhaps, two parts 12,14 can be by forming without terminal material band or reel through two of production line.In any situation, production line can be equipped with pricks roller (explaining as example as following) or other sheet forming elements so that the band moulding, as described in more detail below.Employed such as this paper and claims, term " without terminal " is not element or the product that represents to have unlimited supply as literal.On the contrary, term " without terminal " only represents from certain upstream in batches quite a large amount of continuous material supplying (for example, the supplying of coiling of material) receiving element or the product of form.

Although part 12,14 can have the interior thickness of any scope in the above range, the part 12,14 among the embodiment shown in Fig. 1-5 has for example thickness of about 0.10mm (0.0039369 inch).In certain embodiments, part 12,14 comprises the material that is formed by aluminum or aluminum alloy.But, can instead use in other embodiments other part materials (as mentioned above ).Part 12,14 either side or both sides can be coated with the braze material coating, for example are the solder brazing coat of about 10-30% of this segment thickness.

As shown in Figure 2, the flat tube 10 of illustrated embodiment has defined minor diameter d.Use previous described wall thickness, the inventor has been found that the minor diameter d at least about 0.8mm (0.031496 inch) provides good results of property in many application.In addition, use previous described wall thickness, the inventor has been found that the minor diameter d that is not more than about 2.0mm (0.78740 inch) provides good results of property in many application.But, in certain embodiments, use the maximum small pipeline diameter d that is not more than about 1.5mm (0.059055 inch).As shown in Figure 1, the flat tube 10 of illustrated embodiment has also defined major diameter D.Use previous described wall thickness, the inventor has been found that the major diameter D at least about 40mm (1.5748 inches) provides good results of property in many application.In addition, use previous described wall thickness, the inventor has been found that the major diameter D that is not more than about 45mm (1.7717 inches) provides good results of property in many application.But, pipe applications and/or the thicker or more use of thin-walled material that can process, be intended to based on employed manufacturing at least in part, the major diameter D and the minor diameter d that flat tube 10 are defined have other sizes comprise described those sizes of above reference whole flat tubes disclosed herein.For this reason, have the part 12, the 14th of certain width, possible, and the installation that can regulate production line according to desired diameter D and d.

Flat tube 10 in the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1-5 comprises the first narrow side 18, the second narrow side 20, the first wide side 22 and the second wide side 24.The first wide side 22 and the second wide side 24 correspond respectively to part 12 and 14.Specifically defined many folding 28 with reference to figure 1, the first wide side 22 and the second wide side 24.Folding 28 extend to have defined four flow channels 16 from the first wide side 22 and the second wide side 24.In other embodiments, flat tube 10 can comprise the more or less flow channel 16 that is defined between folding 28.Although folding 28 can be to extend along the uninterrupted and continuous mode of the whole length of flat tube 10, so that adjacent flow channel 16 is spaced.But in other embodiments, folding 28 can be interrupted or opening in the one or more positions along its length, to allow flowing between the flow channel 16.No matter folding 28 is continual or interruption, folding 28 can both strengthen flat tube 10 aspect the opposing compression, and therein folding 28 end with solder brazing or arbitrarily other suitable methods be installed among those embodiment of wide side 24 of flat tube 10 and can strengthening flat tube 10 aspect the opposing stretching, extension.Folding 28 can also provide the bending of sclerosis function with opposing flat tube 10.

With reference now to Fig. 1 and 2,, the first wide side 22 and the second wide side 24 have also defined many projections 26.In other embodiments, side 22,24 does not all have above-mentioned projection 26.Shown in projection normally extend to projection in the flow channel 16 of flat tube 10, and the trace that can have any desired, circular trace for example, square, triangle or other polygon traces, any microscler trace (for example, advancing, become with flow channel microscler rib of laterally advancing etc. along the length of the flow channel of any desired), irregular shape trace, or the trace of any other shape (for example, serpentine, zigzag, herringbone etc.).Be used the place, 26 can be used for causing or suppressing turbulent flow at flat tube 10, thereby enhancing is in the heat transmission of these positions.In addition, be similar to above-mentioned foldingly 28, projection 26 can provide sclerosis function to make the wide side 22,24 strong of flat tube 10 with help.Projection 26 can be arranged in flat tube 10 with arbitrary graphic pattern or patternless mode, and the specific region that only is positioned in certain embodiments flow channel 16 is to produce desired flowing and heat transfer effect.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates and can be used in the one group of exemplary fabrication steps that forms the flat tube 10 shown in Fig. 1,2,4 and 5.From the first material part 12 that will define width W and the second material part 14 that defines less width w, what form desired quantity folds 28, and will help to define flow channel 16.Folding 28 be formed on part 12,14 on both in the illustrated embodiment.In other embodiments, on folding 28 one that only are formed in the part 12,14.Similarly, projection 26 is formed on part 12,14 on both in the illustrated embodiment, but projection 26 only is formed on the one in the part 12,14 in other embodiments.Folding 28 and projection 26 be positioned between the longitudinal edge that defined part 12,14 material (for example, having defined the longitudinal edge of part 12,14 sheet material).

In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1-5 the width w of the width W of first 12 and second portion 14 folding 28 and the formation of projection 26 during reduce.Should be appreciated that other variant parts can be included in the exemplary fabrication steps of Fig. 3 as required, to produce other features of flat tube 10.Continuation is with reference to the manufacturing example of figure 3, become needed folding 28 and projection 26 after, form at each place of part 12,14 longitudinal edge extra one group folding 30, thereby defined the narrow side 18 and 20 of flat tube 10.Although processing shown in Figure 3 sets based on production line and operation can provide significant manufacturing advantage, but in other embodiments, any one in several groups of extra those folding 30 or both can compare form folding 28 and time of projection 26 more early or the identical time produce.The first narrow side 18 and the second narrow side 20 that part 12,14 each extra fold 30 are fitted to each other to distribute and have defined pipeline are shown such as Figure 4 and 5 the best.Utilize the part 12 of two-piece type flat tube 10, this cooperation between 14 the longitudinal edge, even carry out solder brazing or other fastening operations in part 12,14, part 12,14 also can keep together.More specifically, Figure 4 and 5 illustrate folding 30 of a part 14 and have defined situation than 30 of another part 12 larger length.Therefore, 30 of a part 12 can be around a part 14 folding, and it also is illustrated among Fig. 2.

Illustrated embodiment such as Fig. 1-5 is shown, in certain embodiments, part 12 long enoughs are to hold (for example, the longitudinal edge of a part 14 is nested in the folding longitudinal edge of another part 12 thus) around the longitudinal edge parcel of another part 14 and with it.In other embodiments, alternatively make a part 12 only long enough with stacked with the longitudinal edge of another part.But, above-described embodiment relevant with Fig. 1-5 can provide with the assembling of flat tube 10 with make relevant remarkable advantage, comprise part 12 as mentioned above, 14 maintenance and based on reinforcement and intensity in the greatly narrow side of the thicker material of narrow side 18,20 places.In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1-5, narrow side 18,20 both is provided with the foldable structure shown in Fig. 2-5 the best.But in other embodiments, the only one in two narrow sides 18,20 of flat tube 10 has any in the above-mentioned foldable structure.In such an embodiment, can carry out connection between another narrow side 18, two parts 12 in 20 places, 14 in any other expectation mode.

Fig. 6-11 illustrates the optional structure of pipeline according to other embodiments of the invention.Compare above-mentioned embodiment in conjunction with the described flat tube of Fig. 1-5, these embodiment have adopted most of same configuration and have had many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with the described embodiment of Fig. 1-5 different structure and feature.For with the structure of the embodiment of the flat tube shown in Fig. 6-11 and feature and the extraneous information relevant with the possibility of these structures and feature, should carry out reference in conjunction with Fig. 1-5 description of carrying out to above.After this corresponding structure of the structure of the embodiment shown in Fig. 6-11 and embodiment Fig. 1-5 and feature and feature are assigned with Reference numeral with each hundred series (for example, 112,212,312 etc.).

Fig. 6-11 illustrates narrow side 118, other structures of 218,318,418,518,618 and/or 120,220,320,420,520,620.For simplified characterization, only relate to the one in each pipeline 110,210,310,410,510,610 the narrow side 118,218,318,418,518,618 herein, should be appreciated that other narrow sides 118,218,318,418,518,618 can have identical or different structure as required.Narrow side 118,218,318,418,518 shown in Fig. 6-11,618 can be to make with reference to the similar step of figure 3 described those steps to above.In addition, consider the less thickness of the material that is used in certain embodiments the structure duct wall: as mentioned above at the about 0.050-0.15mm of some embodiment (0.0019685-0.0059055 inch), about 0.030-0.15mm (0.00118-0.0059055 inch) in other embodiments, and at other materials thickness range as herein described, compare with traditional flat tube design, with the narrow side 118 shown in Fig. 6-11,218,318,418,518,618 each to pipeline 110,210,310,410,510,610 provide intensity and/or stability.

The flat tube 110,210 shown in Fig. 6,7 and 9,310 narrow side 118,218,418 can by with two pipe sections 112, thereby 212,412 and 114,214,414 adjacent longitudinal edge is folding or roller binds together defines several and folding 130,230,330,430,530,630 form.Should note, the form that this paper and claims are called as " folding " is no matter it is pricked by roller or folding operation formation, and no matter its shape that obtains is rotund (for example Fig. 6), stacking (for example Fig. 7-9) or angled (for example Figure 10 and 11).Continuation is with reference to figure 6,7 and 9, and each narrow side 118,218,418 provides unique heat transmission, strength and stability characteristic, and can form with different technologies.At least a portion of the folding or longitudinal edge that roller is pricked (in the narrow side 218 shown in Fig. 7 and 9,418 situation, folding or major part that roller is pricked longitudinal edge) is formed and flat tube 110,210,410 wide side 122,222,422 and 124,224,424 near normal.

With reference to as shown in FIG. 10 and 11 flat tube 510,610 narrow side 518,618, also can by with two pipe sections 512,612 and 514,614 adjacent longitudinal edge is folding or roller binds together forming section 512,612 and 514,614 longitudinal edge.Equally, flat tube 510,610 narrow side 518,618 each unique heat transmission, strength and stability characteristic is provided, and can form with different technology.In both situations, part 512,612 and 514,614 longitudinal edge can fold to define flat tube 510,610 sinuous edge on himself.Although in certain embodiments, folding 530,630 of this sinuous edge can abut against each other having very little space between adjacent folding 530,630 or do not have in the situation in space, but (see Figure 10 and 11) in certain embodiments, Existential Space between each folding adjacent part.In these embodiments, can be based on folding 530,630 orientation (for example, substantially perpendicular to wide side 522,622 and 524,624, perhaps with respect to wide side 522,622 and 524,624 one-tenths less than the 90 remarkable angles of spending) select as required flat tube 510,610 heat transmission, steadiness, intensity and/or size.

It is the wide side 322 that how to be parallel to or to be in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 310,324 example that the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 8 provides at least a portion (in some cases, folding 330 major part) that folds in 330 of narrow side 318.These folding 330 some or all can be against open and flat to improve heat transmission therebetween each other.In certain embodiments, folding 330 of narrow side 318 can have substantially identical length L, for example in the adjacent situation with specific flow channel shape of the narrow side 318 of expectation and flat tube 310.But in other embodiments (for example as shown in Figure 8 embodiment) has and other folding different length from wide side 322, the 324 parallel narrow sides folding 330 at least some.For example, the folding recessed side of cardinal principle (Fig. 8) or the protruding side that can define adjacent flow channels 316 of different size for example defines the adjacent flow channel shape of desired and narrow side 318.Illustrated embodiment with reference to figure 8, each length L of folding 330 diminishes (namely towards the inboard of flat tube 310 from the outside of flat tube 310, against the first folding 330 open and flat folding 330 larger length L that have than in succession of wide side 322, and against open and flat last folding 330 the having than previous folding 330 larger length of another wide side 324).In these embodiments, these shapes of narrow side 310 can help to avoid the unexpected variations in temperature along flat tube 310, otherwise will cause pipeline fault in many application.As another example, the folding of different size can define the narrow side 318 of wedge shape, and it can provide along the asymmetrical heat transfer path of distance between the wide side 322,324.Other shapes by the folding 330 narrow sides 318 that define that are parallel to wide side 322,324 different size are possible, and drop in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Folding 330 of narrow side 318 is parallel or be basically parallel in the wide side 322, those embodiment of 324 of two-piece type flat tube 310 therein, by first 312 form folding 330 can with folding collude together or work in coordination (for example, the seeing Fig. 8) that formed by second portion 314.The result, formed flat tube 310 can carry out keeping together before solder brazing or other the fastening operations in part 312,314, this can help flat tube 310 is assembled into the assembling that pipeline group and/or help have the heat exchanger of this flat tube 310, and it will be in following further explanation.Should be appreciated that, above with reference to figure 6,7 with described other the narrow side embodiment of 9-11 in have similar advantage.

Narrow side 18 as mentioned above therein, 118,218,318,418,518,618,20,120,220,320,420,520, either side in 620 or both sides have folding 30,130,230,330,430,530, among those embodiment of the present invention of 630, although aforementioned flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510, the wall thickness of 610 less, but these fold 30,130,230,330,430,530,630 substantially can be to narrow side 18,118,218,318,418,518,618,20,120,220,320,420,520,620 provide the stability of enhancing.Narrow side 18,118,218,318,418,518,618,20,120,220,320,420,520,620 places more substantial folding 30,130,230,330,430,530,630 also can provide opposing to flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610 because the better protection of the damage of pressing such as in high, causing from the impact of object, corrosion etc.This is considerable when these flat tubes 10,110,210,310,410,510,610 are used for the heat exchanger of motor vehicles.

Although in above-mentioned flat tube embodiment, do not need, first and/or second portion 12,112,212,312,412,512,612 and 14,114,214,314,414,514,614 can have between flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610 narrow side 18,118,218,318,418,518,618 and 20,120,220,320,420,520,620 one or more folding 28.About this point, the description of these in the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1-5 folding 28 can be applied to above-mentioned other embodiment equally.For simplified characterization, will use now the Reference numeral of the embodiment of Fig. 1-5, with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 12 and 13, provide and folding 28 relevant further information.

In certain embodiments, the inventor has disclosed and can select interior folding 28 the flow channel 16 of position to define different size, and (for example can have at the diverse location of identical flat tube 10 different fluids and/or flow behavior, flow rate and/or direction, pressure, a plurality of fluid types etc.), and can have different thermaltransmission modes at diverse location.Illustrated embodiment with reference to Figure 12, in width or distance " a " between folding 28 be defined as the first and second wide sides 22,24 that are in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 10, and based on to along the expectation opposing degree of the temperature change of the width of flat tube 10 and change.

In certain embodiments, all embodiment as shown in figure 12, the distance " a " between interior folding 28 can become large towards the center of flat tube 10 from the either side the narrow side 18 and 20 of flat tube 10 or both sides.Therefore, in certain embodiments, distance " a " increases along the direction from interior folding 28 to interior folding 28 towards the centre of flat tube 10 from a narrow side 18,20, and subsequently along again reducing towards another narrow side 20,18 direction.In these embodiments, increased respectively by the cross-sectional area of folding 28 each flow channels 16 that form and reduce.In certain embodiments, " a " either side or both sides size of sentencing about 0.5mm (0.19685 inch) in narrow side 18,20 begins, and increases to several millimeters.

For example, in this case, the flat tube 10 with width of about 42mm (about 1.6634 inches) can comprise interior folding 28 and flow channel 16 of larger amt.What can conceive is, flat tube 10 can comprise roughly with narrow side 18,20 in the adjacent relatively wide flow channel 16 of either side or both sides, and near the center of flat tube 10 narrower flow channel 16.In addition, although flow channel 16 in many examples has the width " a " of above-mentioned size, these width can be significantly larger in other embodiments, comprises at least scope of 1cm (0.39370 inch).

In certain embodiments, flat tube 10 can comprise each other and then adjacent interior folding 28, interior foldingly and then forms folding 28 or abut against each other or close contact after solder brazing or other the fastening operations on part 12,14 wherein like this.For example, a plurality of interior folding 28 can closely arrange against ground each other.In any one of these situations, two or more folding 28 can define interior folding 28 group 32.Flat tube 10 can have this folding 28 group 32 of any amount, all as shown in figure 13 those, and can only have such group or with any amount of single lap 28 combinations.Folding 28 group 32 comprises three independent interior folding 28 in as shown in figure 13 each.But, in other embodiments, folding 28 enough formation groups 32 in two, and/or four or how interior folding 28 can formation group 32.Therefore, can use interior folding 28 the quantity of freely selecting formation group 32 with other factors based on the expectation of flat tube 10.About this point, any one in the part 12,14 of flat tube 10 or both can have interior folding 28 folding group 32 that comprises any amount, and organize 32 with interior folding 28 the combination of varying number.

In single folding 28 and/or interior folding 28 group 32 can any desired layout all be positioned at on the part 12 or 14, perhaps in the part 12 of flat tube 10,14 on both.For example, a plurality of interior groups 32 of folding 28 can be arranged symmetrically about the center of flat tube 10 (for example layout of infolding stacked group 32 shown in Figure 13), wherein again the respective sets 32 in the relative translocation of center from (for example, Figure 13) extending with a part 12,14 or from different parts 12,14.In addition, in certain embodiments, in the one or more lists on the part 12,14 of flat tube 10 folding 28 and/or one or more interior group 32 of folding 28 can be nested in interior folding 28 the group 32 on another part 14,12 of flat tube 10.

Folding 28 group 32 provides the flat tube 10 that pressure is had higher opposing and has the bearing capacity of more taking in can utilizing as mentioned above, and can also be used for changing the cross section of flow channel 16.The various flat tubes 10 relevant above-mentioned features that should be noted that and have various flow channels can be applied to wherein utilize the embodiment of interior folding 28 group 32 equally.In addition, utilize therein solder brazing to form among those embodiment of flat tube 10, interior folding 28 (no matter be single form or organize 32 form) on wide side 22,24 can form with another wide side 24,22 solder brazing and engage, thereby improves the interior joint of flat tube 10.

Figure 14 and 15 illustrates other structures according to the flat tube of other embodiments of the invention.These embodiment have adopted with above in conjunction with the identical many structures of the embodiment of the described flat tube of Fig. 1-13 and have many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with the described embodiment of Fig. 1-13 different structure and feature.For the extraneous information relevant with feature with the structure of the flat tube shown in Figure 14 and 15 and the possibility of these structures and feature, will carry out reference to above description in conjunction with Fig. 1-13.The Reference numeral that after this, will be assigned respectively 700 and 800 series such as the corresponding structure of the structure of Figure 14 and the embodiment shown in the of 15 and embodiment Fig. 1-13 and feature and feature.

More than shown in Fig. 1-13 flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610 each have by first and/or second portion 12,112,212,312,412,512,612,14,114,214,314,414,514,614 interior folding 28 inwalls that define.But, defined at least in part flow channel 16,116,216,316,416,516, these walls of 616 and can partly define by being connected to any part in the first and second parts 12,112,212,312,412,512,612,14,114,214,314,414,514,614 or the independent material of two parts.Although it is so from above-mentioned flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610 different, but so optional flat tube can have above in conjunction with the described arbitrary structural feature of Fig. 1-13 (for example, outer wall thickness and material, pipe diameter, inner wall shape, position, spacing and group, and narrow side structure).

For example, the flat tube 710 shown in Figure 14 and 15,810 each use and use respectively two parts 712,714 and 821,814, between these two parts, be furnished with the insert 734,834 that is partly defined by another material.In these two situations, insert 734,834 all has bellows-shaped, thus insert 734,834 ripple can be at flat tube 710,810 interior formation flow channels 716,816.Either side in flat tube 710,810 the narrow side 718,720 and 818,820 or both sides (Figure 14 and 15 each only show a wherein side) can be by jointly folding and combine with insert 734, a part of 834 with the first and second parts 712,714 and 821,814 edge and insert 734,834 edge.For example, in certain embodiments, flat tube 710 has sinuous narrow side 718,720 as shown in figure 14, and wherein the edge of insert 734 and the first and second parts 712,714 longitudinal side fold, and is folded in the first and second parts 712,714 the longitudinal side.In other embodiments, the narrow side 818,820 of flat tube 810 closes against ground each other as shown in figure 15 and folds, wherein the edge of insert 834 also folds with the first and second parts 812,814 longitudinal side, and is folded in the first and second parts 812,814 the longitudinal side.In other embodiments, any of the narrow side structure that the longitudinal edge of insert can be shown in Fig. 6-flat tube 10 comes rolling in these parts of the first and second parts.

The invention described above embodiment each utilized two independent material bodies to define flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610,710, the first and second parts 12,112,212,312,412,512,612,712,812 and 14,114,214,314,514,614,714,814 of 810.Although this pipe configuration has having a few of uniqueness, comprise that mating feature is had a few with making between part and part, flat tube of the present invention also can be formed by parts, is for example formed by single or unallocated bringing without the end wafer metal.By making single part distortion, the single parts without longitudinal edge can be put together and engage by solder brazing, welding or other fastening operations.In other words, some embodiment according to flat tube of the present invention can be formed by parts (for example, sheet metal tape) in the situation that has still defined two stable narrow sides.Below describe the various embodiment of the flat tube of a this component type in detail.Except the flat tube of a following component type from above with reference to different or incompatible those features of the described pipeline feature of two-piece type embodiment of figure 1-15, the pipeline of a following component type can have above in conjunction with the described any configuration feature of Fig. 1-15 (for example, outer wall thickness and material, pipeline material, inner wall shape, position, spacing and group, and narrow side structure).

Following single type pipeline has the hot property of raising based on adopting relatively thin duct wall material at least than traditional flat tube.In addition, can be reduced at the assembling of flat tube in the heat exchanger.

Similar to above-mentioned two-piece type flat tube, the folding of narrow side place that is formed on following single type flat tube can be substantially vertical or substantially parallel with wide side.For example, the first narrow side of flat tube can be formed by the continuous part of single metal sheet, and can comprise a plurality of folding groups.In certain embodiments, these fold and can define a plurality of length (for example, similar to above those embodiment in conjunction with Fig. 8 description), and this can help to be avoided because heat fatigue causes the formation of crackle.The second narrow side of flat tube can be formed by the single material piece without longitudinal edge, and can also have a plurality of folding.Although the sheet metal thickness is 0.05-0.15mm (0.0019685-0.00591 inch) in certain embodiments, and be 0.03-0.15mm (0.00118-0.00591 inch) in other embodiments, but the longitudinal edge that forms the single piece of material of the second narrow side can connect by solder brazing, welding or other fastening operations.Be similar to equally the flat tube of above-mentioned two-piece type, either side in the wide side of the flat tube of single type or both sides can comprise other variant parts of infolding superimposition (for example, flange, the rib in pointing to or do not need crossed over other projections of the inside of flat tube).Interior folding can form flow channel in flat tube, and can arrange with reference to the described any-mode of two-piece type flat tube with above.Only as example, interior folding can become group, can be in variable-width or immutable specific distance along flat tube, and can the direction towards the middle part of flat tube increase at the either side from narrow side or both sides.As the result that flipe in this infolding superimposition is put, can significantly improve the ability of the higher variations in temperature load of single type flat tube opposing.

Some the example of single type flat tube that has in these features has been shown in Figure 16-24, its each have the first and second parts 912,914,1012,1014,1112,1114,1212,1214,1312,1314,1412,1414,1512,1514,1612,1614,1712,1714 that the common material bodies by shape shown in being folded into forms.Although can as in conjunction with two-piece type flat tube institute in greater detail, adopt other materials and material thickness, but shown in the first and second parts 912,914,1012,1014,1112,1114,1212,1214,1312,1314,1412,1414,1512,1514,1612,1614,1712,1714 formed by the aluminum or aluminum alloy sheet metal tape with about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch).In the flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 any one can have the braze material coating on the one or both sides in office, and wherein every layer of braze material coating can have the thickness of about 10-20% of sheet metal tape thickness.

Utilize aforementioned wall thickness, the inventor have been found that for shown in the minor diameter d of flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 at least 0.8mm (0.031496 inch) good results of property is provided in many application.Also utilize aforementioned wall thickness, the present invention have been found that for shown in flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 the minor diameter d that is not more than about 2.0mm (0.07874 inch) good results of property is provided in many examples.But, in certain embodiments, use for shown in flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 the maximum minor diameter d that is not more than about 1.5mm (0.059055 inch).In addition, usually can in making restriction, certain freely select for the major diameter D of any one in the flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710.In certain embodiments, as an example, major diameter D is about 50mm (1.969 inches).But, also can make and have greater or lesser diameter D, d the single type flat tube 910,1010,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 of (comprise the above whole flat tube embodiment that disclose for this paper described those), in these cases, the original width W (for example, seeing Figure 16) that is used to form flat tube 910,1010,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 material can obtain on production line.

As mentioned above, can in single type pipeline as herein described, adopt the various types of narrow side of describing in conjunction with the embodiment of Fig. 1-15 folding and interior folding.In some single type pipeline embodiment, those shown in Figure 19-24 for example, flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 narrow side 1218,1220,1318,1320,1418,1420,1518,1520,1618,1620,1718,1720 can comprise a plurality of folding 1230,1330,1430,1530,1630,1730, and it can provide relatively more stable and the narrow side 1218 of pipeline greater strength, 1220,1318,1320,1418,1420,1518,1520,1618,1620,1718,1720.The result; relatively more stable narrow side 1218,1220,1318,1320,1418,1420,1518,1520,1618,1620,1718,1720 can provide opposing because temperature and/or pressure are tired, the adequately protecting of the damage that causes from the impact of object and corrosion etc. to flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710, provides better performance thereby swing when being used for the heat exchanger of (for example) motor vehicles.

With reference now to Figure 16,, shows the example of the mode that can make single type pipeline 910.Particularly, Figure 16 illustrates at least a portion of the manufacturing processing that forms single type flat tube 910.Make single and/or a plurality of foldingly in the original material sheet, it decide at least part of boundary of a piece of land the interior flow channel 916 of interior folding 928 and flat tube 910 of flat tube 910.In certain embodiments, the original material sheet is without end wafer, for example from being positioned at the material piece of coiling supply for generation of the material of the upstream of folding manufacturing element.In the identical or different moment, produce extra foldingly, it decide at least part of boundary of a piece of land the folding of narrow side 920 places of flat tube 910.For example, the center of as shown in figure 16 single type metal tape or near a plurality of folding 930 the groups 932 of generation, with by along a plurality of groups of folding 930 932 substantially folding this metal of direction shown in the arrow of adjacents bring and define narrow side 920.As this folding result indicated by the arrow, the first and second wide sides 912,914 of flat tube 910 have been defined.Folding 930 of another narrow side 918 and another narrow side 918 can take shown in Figure 19-23 form or above in conjunction with as described in two-piece type flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610,710,810 the narrow side and/or shown in form in arbitrary form.Figure 17 and the first narrow side 18 illustrate the feature of the optional single type flat tube structure (not shown narrow side) that can adopt.More specifically, Figure 17 provides single interior folding 1028 on the either side that how to utilize in identical single type flat tube 1010 in the wide side 1022,1024 or the both sides and a plurality of interior group 1032 of folding 1028 to define the example of the flow channel 1016 of identical or different size.Figure the first narrow side 18 provides the either side in wide side 1122,1124 how or the ad-hoc location on the both sides to produce a plurality of single interior folding 1128 examples that change the flow channel 1116 of (for example cross sectional dimensions increases gradually along the width of single type flat tube 1110) to define cross sectional dimensions.

Figure 19-24 shows the single type flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510 according to other embodiments of the invention, other examples of 1610.Be similar to the single type pipeline embodiment shown in the narrow side 18 of Figure 16-first, the single type flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510 shown in Figure 19-24,1610 each have separately and/or arrange in groups interior folding 1228,1328,1428,1528,1628,1728 to define flow channel 1216,1316,1416,1516,1616,1716.In some cases, determine interior folding 1228,1328,1428,1528,1628,1728 independent and/or this interior folding 1228,1328,1428,1528 group 1232,1332,1532 layout based on one or more factors (for example, the thermal cycle that exposes of the different piece by pipeline 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 single kind or multiple fluid, desired temperature, thermal stress and duct width and/or length, internal fluid pressure etc.).

Specifically with reference to Figure 19, the material thickness (that is, each other tight or and then adjacent (for example with against mode) two single laps 1228 of arranging) of four times of folded pipeline material thicknesses has not been defined near the center of flat tube 1210 a plurality of interior folding 1228.Single type flat tube 1210 as shown in figure 19 has two this interior groups 1232 of folding 1218, and its each group is formed in the different wide side 1222,1224 of flat tube 1210.In the embodiment of Figure 20, each has defined the material thickness (that is, each other tight or and then adjacent (for example with against mode) three single laps 1228 of arranging) of six times of folded pipeline material thicknesses not four groups a plurality of interior folding 1328 group 1332.Interior folding 1228 be positioned as the flow channel 1316 that has defined change in size in the embodiment of Figure 20, these those flow channels with the Figure 19 with cardinal principle same size are different.Should be appreciated that, extra fold 1228,1328 (namely in separately having or do not have, also shown in Figure 19 and 20 in group interior folding 1228,1328 in 1232,1332) situation under, the infolding stacked group 1232 of any other quantity, 1332 can be arranged on the either side or both sides in single type flat tube 1210 shown in Figure 19 and 20,1310 the wide side 1222,1224,1322,1324.

Figure 21,22 and 23 embodiment provide single type flat tube 1410,1510,1610 example, wherein only form flow channel 1416,1516,1616 with single lap 1428,1528,1628.For example, single type flat tube 1410 shown in Figure 21 and 22,1510 interior folding 1428,1528 be positioned as the flow channel 1416,1516 that defines change in size (increasing towards each flat tube 1410,1510,1610 center), this with those flow channels of the Figure 23 with cardinal principle same size (except with narrow side 1618,1620 in either side or both sides and then the adjacent slightly larger flow channel 1616) different.Should note, at the single type flat tube 1210 shown in the wide side 24 of Figure 19-second, 1310,1410,1510,1610, interior folding 1228 of in 1710 any one, 1328,1428,1528,1628,1728 can be positioned as the flow channel 1216 that defines identical or different size, 1316,1416,1516,1616,1716, and flow channel 1216,1316,1416,1516,1616,1716 width can on most of or whole same direction of duct width towards flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 center increases gradually or reduces, and perhaps can be any other mode.In addition, flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610, other structures of 1710 can comprise the single lap 1228,1328,1428,1528,1628,1728 and a plurality of interior group of folding 1228,1328,1428,1528,1628,1728 of varying number as required.

Continue with reference to the single type flat tube embodiment shown in Figure 19-24, each flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610,1710 all have by being used for structure flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610, the narrow side 1220 that the continuous folded part of 1710 material piece defines, 1320,1420,1520,1620,1720, and two free longitudinal edges of material piece are combined together and folding so that flat tube 1210,1310,1410,1510,1610, the relatively narrow side 1218 of 1710 sealings place, 1318,1418,1518,1618,1718.This relatively narrow side 1218,1318,1418,1518,1618,1718 with relative narrow side 1218,1318,1418,1518,1618,1718 folding 1230,1330,1430,1530,1630,1730 can take shown in Figure 19-24 form or above in conjunction with as described in two-piece type flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610,710,810 the narrow side and/or shown in form in arbitrary form.

For the narrow side 1220,1320,1420,1520,1620,1720 that is formed by continuous folded part as mentioned above, this narrow side can be taked the arbitrary shape shown in Figure 19-24.But, this same narrow side 1220,1320,1420,1520,1620,1720 also can take above in conjunction with two-piece type flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610,710,810 narrow side described and/or shown in shape in any one, in these cases, flat tube 10,110,210,310,410,510,610,710, the first and second parts 12 of 810,14,112,114,212,214,312,314,412,414,512,514,612,614,712,714,812,814 in narrow side 18,218,318,418,518,618, the end at 718 places will be engaged the part into same serialgram material.Therefore, above index map 1-11,14 with the particular advantages of 15 described each narrow side form for the narrow side 1218,1318,1418,1518,1618 of the embodiment shown in Figure 19-24,1718 with relative narrow side 1218,1318,1418,1518,1618,1718 in either side or both sides set up.

Specifically with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 19, the single type flat tube 1210 shown in it has narrow side 1218,1220, and it has cardinal principle and folds 1230 perpendicular to what the wide side 1222,1224 of flat tube 1210 was arranged.Form narrow side 1218,1220 a plurality of folding 1230 parts that differ from one another are, form folding 1230 of the second narrow side 1220 and is formed by the continuous part for generation of the single type material webs of flat tube 1210, and 1,230 two longitudinal edges by this single type material webs that fold that form the first narrow side 1218 form.But in other embodiments, flat tube 1210 can alternatively have it and folding 1230 be in substantially parallel relationship to the wide side 1222 of flat tube 1210, the first and second narrow sides 1218,1220 of 1224.

Single type flat tube 1310 as shown in figure 20 also has its a plurality of folding cardinal principles perpendicular to the wide side 1322 of flat tube 1310, the second narrow side 1320 of 1324, and the second narrow side 1318 have by do not know for the wide side 1322 that is in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 1310,1324 a plurality of folding 1330.But in other embodiments, 1310 can alternatively have it folding 1330 substantially perpendicular to wide side 1322, the first narrow side 1318 of 1324, with and folding 1330 be in substantially parallel relationship to wide side 1322,1324 narrow side 1320.

Single type flat tube 1410 as shown in figure 21 has it and a plurality of folding 1430 is in substantially parallel relationship to the wide side 1422 of flat tube 1410, the first and second narrow sides 1418,1420 of 1420.In other embodiments, a plurality of folding 1430 of the either side in the narrow side 1418,1420 or both sides alternatively substantially perpendicular to the wide side 1422,1424 of flat tube 1410.Although as shown in figure 21 narrow side 1418, place, 1420 both sides a plurality of folding 1430 each have substantially identical length, can have different length L (for example, seeing Figure 22 and 23) but these of the either side in the narrow side 1418,1420 or both sides are folding.In these embodiments, the length of narrow side 1518,1520,1618 variation can be taked any one in the described form of above embodiment in conjunction with Fig. 8, and therefore can have wherein said advantage any one.Embodiment with reference to Figure 22 and 23, folding 1530,1630 (that is, short folding 1530,1630 both sides are to grow folding 1530,1630) of illustrated narrow side 1518,1520,1630 variation length can be effective in the situation of support temperature varying loading usually.In addition, can utilize this layout to avoid from narrow side 1518,1520, the 1618 unexpected variations to wide side 1522,1524,1622,1624 pressure.In addition, for other single type flat tubes embodiment of the present invention, can utilize one or more groups a plurality of folding 1528 groups (for example with shown in Figure 23 single group) and/or relatively a large amount of flow channels 1616 (for example shown in Figure 23 those) to help the support temperature varying loading, and help the unexpected variation of bearing pressure.That the distance " a " that changes between folding defines the flow channel 1516 that broadens towards the center of flat tube 1510 for improving other means to the opposing of variations in temperature load.

Figure 24 shows the example of any one mode that can adopt in the narrow side structure shown in Fig. 6-11,14 and 15 two-piece type flat tube in the narrow side of the single type flat tube that has as mentioned above the continuous material sheet.Except against adjacent folding 1730 with defined folding 1730 single continuous material sheet but not two stacked material piece (perhaps two of the same material sheet overlapping parts), narrow side 1718 as shown in figure 24 is similar to the as mentioned above narrow side of Figure 11 in many aspects.In this concrete example, between folding 1730 and first interior folding 1728 and fold in other between 1728 distance " a " less, and in certain embodiments can be from 0.5mm (0.019685 inch) to 2mm (0.07874 inch) or in the scope of larger (even greatly to 1cm (2.54 inches)).In addition, in certain embodiments, this flat tube 1610 has the width of about 42mm (0.16535 inch) of permission a plurality of folding 1728 and flow channel 1716.

Flat tube according to some embodiments of the invention can comprise interior insert, it provides reinforcement at least one side in the narrow side of flat tube, simultaneously (for example can also realize one or more other functions, wide side to pipeline is strengthened, define fluid communication with each other or disconnected a plurality of flow channel, define the disarrangement device etc. that flows).This insert can partly be defined by the independent material that is connected to the one or more material piece that define the Outer Tube wall when the manufacturing of flat tube, and can be as so interior folding mainly with the interior folding additional or replacement described in the upper embodiment.The example of this insert is provided in conjunction with the illustrated embodiment of Figure 14 and 15.

Although can adopt insert (following more detailed description) for single type flat tube according to some embodiments of the invention, can obtain the advantage of many uniquenesses by in the two-piece type flat tube, using insert.In certain embodiments, in the two-piece type flat tube that is consisted of by the sheet material with less thickness, use insert to obtain these advantages.In certain embodiments, the wall material of flat tube has the thickness that is not more than 0.20mm (0.007874 inch).But in other embodiments, the inventor has been found that to have and is not more than approximately) wall material of the flat tube of 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch) thickness provides with the overall performance of heat exchanger, manufacturing and can not use more possible the wall of thick-wall materials to construct (as revealed here) relevant remarkable results of property.The wall material thickness of less can cause having the good hot attribute of the two-piece type flat tube of insert.In certain embodiments, thisly be not less than about 0.050mm (namely, be not less than about 0.0019685 inch) the wall material thickness of flat tube good intensity and decay resistance is provided, and in other embodiments, can use this wall material thickness that is not less than the flat tube of about 0.030mm (that is, being not less than about 0.00118 inch).In addition, the two-piece type flat tube with insert as described below has to above in conjunction with the similar yardstick of the described two-piece type flat tube of Fig. 1-15.

As explained in more detail below; other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline as herein described and heat exchanger can and be processed and make with many manufacturing technologies; and can comprise the corrosion protection feature, for example those technology and the processing shown in the following stated and Figure 92-95.After this many manufacturing processing that relate to and technology and corrosion protection feature be applied to heat-exchanger pipeline and heat exchanger have the part of the relative material thickness that reduces the time be particularly advantageous.In addition, these technology, processing and corrosion protection feature provide with the overall performance of flat tube with by the relevant remarkable advantage of the heat exchanger of these materials for support.

Figure 25-34 illustrates various two-piece type flat tubes 1810,1810A, 1910,2010,2110,2210,2310,2410,2510,2610,2710,2810,2910,3010,3110,3210, its each comprise first 1812,1812A, 1912,2012,2112,2212,2312,2412,2512,2612,2712,2812,2912,3012,3112,3212, second portion 1814,1814A, 1914,2014,2114,2214,2314,2414,2514,2614,2714,2814,2914,3014,3114,3214, and insert 1834,1834A, 1934,2034,2134,2234,2334,2434,2534,2634,2734,2834,2934,3034,3134,3234, it all can be made of the material piece such as metal tape or other materials.For simplified characterization, the illustrated embodiment that only relates to Figure 25 and 26 is below described, be appreciated that following description can be applied to the whole embodiment (not comprising different or incompatible description) shown in Figure 25-34 equally.

In some embodiment of the two-piece type flat tube 1810 shown in Figure 25 and 26, the first and second parts 1812,1814 and insert 1834 can consist of by having relatively small pieces thickness material (for example, aluminium, aluminium alloy or other materials as herein described).For example, the inventor has been found that the material thickness that is used for these elements that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.0098245 inch) provides good results of property in many application.In certain embodiments, the material for these elements also can have the thickness that is not less than about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).In many examples, preferably, compare first and second parts 1812,1814 of two-piece type flat tube 1810, use relatively less sheet thickness for insert 1834.Although have the sheet thickness of less, the narrow side 1818 of two-piece type flat tube 1810,1820 can have the stability of relative raising, especially when the feature of the two-piece type flat tube 1710 of the following stated is combined.

In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 25 and 26, the wide side 1822 of each of flat tube 1810,1824 is formed by independent material part (for example independent band).The material part is stacked to define two vertical undercuts 1844,1846 two positions.With wherein vertically undercut extend to same wide side from each narrow side 1818,1820 of flat tube 1810 other illustrated embodiment (for example, see following in greater detail Figure 27) difference, the vertical undercut 1844 of these of two-piece type flat tube 1810,1846 each narrow sides 1818,1820 from flat tube 1810 extend to relative wide side 1822,1824.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 25 and 26, vertical undercut 1844,1846 both is arranged in each narrow side 1818,1820 places of flat tube 1810 and extends to the wide side 1822,1824 of flat tube 1810 from each narrow side 1818,1820.More specifically, vertically undercut 1844,1846, be that those parts at the stacked place of sheet material of the wherein flat tube 1810 of flat tube 1810 have been extended narrow side 1818, at least a portion of 1820 (and in certain embodiments for most of or all), and partly extend to the corresponding wide side 1822,1824 of flat tube 1810.Undercut 1844,1846 width can be determined according to the manufacturing purpose of expectation.

In certain embodiments, vertical undercut 1844,1846 of flat tube 1810 has presented the straight of flat tube 1810 or the straight outer surface (the smooth wide side 1822,1824 of cardinal principle of flat tube 1810 for example, is provided) of cardinal principle.For this reason, each undercut 1844,1846 longitudinal edge (itself and another longitudinal edge stacked) can be recessed into by making overlapping edge be formed with skew 1848,1850.Therefore, pipe section 1812,1814 longitudinal edge can be surrounded and be accommodated in the recess 1848,1850 by another pipe section 1814,1812 corresponding longitudinal edge, to define vertical undercut 1844,1846.So, for undercut 1844,1846 both, two stacked parts 1812,1814 internal layer longitudinal edge can terminate in the inside of flat tube 1810, and can be freely before solder brazing, welding or other tightening technologies.Result as this structure, although the loose tolerance (this is because stacked vertical undercut 1844,1846 allows the relative located lateral of the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 under assembled state to put adjusting) that keeps for the width of each pipe section 1812,1814 original materials, still flat tube 1810 can be fabricated to and have accurate width (in certain embodiments, though do not cut or the situation of other machining operations under).Particularly, in certain embodiments, each pipe section 1812,1814 terminal longitudinal edge 1854,1856 can be against another pipe sections 1812,1814, thereby allow this adjusting.

The use of the stacked vertical undercut shown in the embodiment of Figure 25 and 26 provides in the reinforcement to flat tube 1810 of the first and second narrow sides 1818,1820 places, this thermal stress, variations in temperature load and because pressure load and chip impact in many application in the more common situation of the fault that causes significant in traditional flat tube.In certain embodiments, by first and/or second pipe part 1812,18114 fold to provide to the first and/or second narrow side 1818,1820 further reinforcement narrow side 1818,1820 places (for example, these parts 1812,1814 longitudinal edge place) one or more.Usually, with first and/or second pipe part 1812,1814 longitudinal edge is folding can increase the intensity of flat tube 1810 and the opposing of 1810 pairs of damages of flat tube.Therein by with the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 longitudinal edge stacked (one around another one extend, take in another one or around another one) define at least in part among narrow side 1818, those embodiment of 1820, one or both in the stacked longitudinal edge (edge that for example, is centered on and center on) can fold to increase the thickness at narrow side 1818, this edge, 1820 place with returning.

For example, either side or any one or both of the stacked longitudinal edge at both sides place of design pipe section 1812,1814 in narrow side 1818,1820 can comprise adjacent with corresponding stage portion 1858,1860 (following more detailed description) folding.For example, in certain embodiments, it is in about 0.10mm (0.003937mm) or the less situation that in stacked longitudinal edge any one or both have at least one folding so that material thickness of narrow side 1818,1820 thickenings and insert 1834, the first and second pipe sections 1818,1820 thickness and can be about 0.25mm (0.0098425 inch) or less in certain embodiments.In these embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 1818,1820 thickness each can be in the scope of 0.05-0.15mm (0.0019685-0.0059055 inch), and in other embodiments can be in the scope of 0.03-0.15mm (0.0019685-0.0059055 inch).

Should also be noted that stacked vertical undercut structure of the two-piece type flat tube that in not having the flat tube embodiment of interior insert, also can adopt shown in Figure 25 and 26.For example, can be more than for example having in conjunction with in the described two-piece type flat tube folding in those of the embodiment of Fig. 1-13 and 16-24, or in other two-piece type flat tubes, adopt this vertical undercut structure.

Although unnecessary, in many examples, pipe section (for example, the pipe section 1812,1814 among Figure 25 and 26) has substantially identical shape, and even can be consistent.When assembling as mentioned above, pipe section 1812,1814 is arranged in the situation that its longitudinal edge relative to each other reverses.For example, two pipe sections 1812, a longitudinal edge of one of 1814 comprise and have defined as mentioned above recess 48,50 stage portion 1856,1860, and arch 1862,1864 part have then been defined subsequently, and another pipe section 1814,1812 corresponding longitudinal edge comprise have larger arch 1866,1868 part, larger arch 1866,1868 is taken in less arch 1862,1864.Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 25 and 26, a part of processing as the manufacturing of two-piece type flat tube 1810, less mutual part 1862,1864 and larger arcuate parts 1866,1868 have formed narrow side 1818, one of 1820.Should be appreciated that, be limited to semicircle such as term " arch " and the section that uses in this paper and the claims.In addition, comprise the geometry that is used to form narrow side 1818,1820 any appropriate such as the term " arch " that uses in this paper and the claims, it can comprise polygon, waveform and other forms of square, triangle or other openings.

Has substantially identical shaped or consistent pipe section by employing, can use less unit type (and in some cases, single unit type) construct two-piece type flat tube 1810, it has brought, and the stock reduces, simpler assembling and significant cost.

Among Figure 25 part illustrate and Figure 26 in the interior insert 1834 that illustrates fully formed by the 3rd sheet material, and generally include two longitudinal edges 1838,1840, its any edge or two edges can be positioned at each narrow side 1818,1820 of flat tube 1810 substantially.In certain embodiments, longitudinal edge 1838,1840 is formed with the shape for this purpose, so that longitudinal edge 1838,1840 can be incorporated in narrow side 1818,1820 the interior shape.And in certain embodiments, any one in the longitudinal edge 1838,1840 or both at least a portion have the shape corresponding with narrow side 1818,1820 shape.For example, any one in the longitudinal edge 1838,1840 or both can form ring 1842 shape, are complementary so that encircle 1842 at least a portion and the corresponding narrow side 1818 of flat tube 1810,1820 shape.In certain embodiments, the corresponding flat tube that can cause of this shape is in the reinforcement at narrow side 1818,1820 places.Can by via for example solder brazing, welding or with any other suitable methods any one or both in the longitudinal edge 1838,1840 being connected with narrow side 1818,1820, obtain further reinforcement.

With reference to Figure 26, it illustrates the mode that two-piece type flat tube 1810 can be assembled, at assembly process the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 are placed a time-out, interior insert 1834 is depicted as and is accommodated in the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 the arcuate part 1862,1864.More specifically, the longitudinal edge 1838 of interior insert 1834,1840 is supported by the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 arcuate part 1862,1864, and be in the narrow side 1818,1820 that after this defines of flat tube 1810, thereby in case after finishing, assembling provides reinforcement to narrow side 1818,1820.The two-piece type flat tube 1810 that obtains is owing to extend past and exceed narrow side 1818, stacked vertical undercut 1844 of 1820,1846 and so that narrow side 1818,1820 has double wall thickness, and have by interior insert 1834 by nested longitudinal edge 1838,1840 the additional thickness that thickness defined.For example, in some cases, two-piece type flat tube 1810 comprises the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814, its wall thickness that has jointly defined about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch) to be helping prevent corrosion or deteriorated, and/or provide to chip impact, the opposing of pressure and temperature conversion load.

As explained in more detail below, other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline described herein and heat-exchanger pipeline can and be processed and make with a large amount of manufacturing technologies, and can comprise corrosion-resistant features, for example following as described in Figure 92-95 and shown in those make and process and technology.Many manufacturing processing that this paper relates to and technology and corrosion-resistant features are particularly advantageous when the parts of the heat-exchanger pipeline that is applied to have the material thickness that reduces and heat exchanger.In addition, these technology, processing and corrosion-resistant features provide the remarkable advantage relevant with the overall performance of the flat tube of being made by these materials and heat exchanger.

Illustrated interior insert 1834 has many ripples 1852 at the width of flat tube 1810 in the embodiment of Figure 25 and 26.These ripples 1852 can connect the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 wide side 1822,1824 inside, to be formed on the vertical upwardly extending flow channel 1816 of flat tube 1810.By utilizing this layout, can in flat tube 1810, define flow channel 1816 to have cost-benefit mode.Although the wall thickness of interior insert 1834 less (it can be identical or less with the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 above-mentioned wall thickness) is formed on the stability that flow channels 1816 in the two-piece type flat tube 1810 can provide to the interior pressure of flat tube 1810 raising.

The hydraulic diameter 1816 of flow channel 1816 can be determined by the appropriate designs of above-mentioned ripple 1852.For example, in certain embodiments, the minor diameter d that considers two-piece type flat tube 1810 can be that about 0.8mm (0.31496 inch) and the quantity of ripple 1852 are relatively large, the hydraulic diameter less of flow channel 1816.

In certain embodiments, in the ripple 1852 at least some be formed as have perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the wide side 1822 of two-piece type flat tube 1810, a ripple sidepiece of 1824, and the adjacent corrugations sidepieces that tilt with respect to wide side 1822,1824 (for example, see as shown in figure 25 center ripple 1852).In other embodiments, at least some in the ripple 1852 are formed as each and have two ripple sidepieces substantially tilting with respect to wide side 1822,1824 (for example, see as shown in figure 25 left ripple 1852).In other embodiments, at least a portion of ripple 1852 be formed as have perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the wide side 1822 of two-piece type flat tube 1810, two ripple sidepieces of 1824.

The example of this embodiment is shown in Figure 33, and Figure 33 illustrates two-piece type flat tube 2210 identical with the flat tube cardinal principle of Figure 25 and 26 except the insert shape.Be similar to the embodiment of Figure 25 and 26, insert 2234 as shown in figure 33 is by at narrow side 2218, the 2220 places lining longitudinal edge 2238,2240 at the insert 2234 at least a portion place of each pipe section 2212,2214 inner surface, and coming provides reinforcement to narrow side 2218,2220.In other embodiments, the only one in the longitudinal edge 2238,2240 of insert 2234 is extended becomes corresponding narrow side 2218,2220.Should be noted that as shown in figure 33 two-piece type flat tube can have this paper in conjunction with in the described same characteristic features of the embodiment of Figure 25 and 26 any one.In other embodiments, at least some in the ripple 1852 can define curve waveform (for example, sine wave) or identical or different any other molded surface on the width of two-piece type flat tube 1810 wherein.

In certain embodiments, insert 1834 has defined many on the width of flat tube 1810 and has had identical shaped and flow channel 1816 size.In other embodiments, insert 1834 can be shaped to so that the shape of flow channel 1816 and/or size change (insert 1834 that for example, has dissimilar ripple 1852 by the diverse location place of use on the width of two-piece type flat tube 1810) at the width of two-piece type flat tube 1810.This example has been shown among Figure 25, wherein for shown in insert 1834 use above-mentioned two types ripple.In other embodiments, can use at the width of two-piece type flat tube 1810 different bellows-shaped and the size of any amount.This variation on width (for example is used for different mobile and/or environmental conditions by the different piece with flat tube 1810, different fluid or the flow direction of the zones of different by identical flat tube 1810, in diverse location place on the width of flat tube 1810 different or outside flow rate, temperature and/or pressure etc.), the remarkable advantage that is better than traditional flat tube can be provided.

Interior insert 1834 shown in Figure 25 and 26 is formed by single piece of material.But, should be noted that in other embodiments, interior insert 1834 can be alternatively by form (in the case, the flat tube assembly shown in Figure 25 and 26 can comprise four or multi-part more) more than parts.

Continuation is with reference to Figure 25 and 26, and at least one narrow side 1818,1820 thickness are substantially corresponding to the thickness sum of two wide sides 1822,1824 (and, more specifically, the first and second parts 1812,1814 longitudinal edge) and insert 1834.For example, in certain embodiments, the first and second parts 1812,1814 stacked longitudinal edge and insert 1834 can be about 0.25mm (0.0098425 inch) or less in conjunction with thickness.Should note, in some cases, the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 and each of insert 1834 can have substantially same thickness (in arbitrary scope of above-mentioned thickness range), for example wherein construct the situation of whole three parts with identical sheet material.In these cases, either side in the narrow side 1818,1820 or both sides can be by approximately being that the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 any one three times thickness of material thickness define (namely, when as mentioned above, any one in the longitudinal edge of insert 1834 or the ring on both 1842 are incorporated in the corresponding narrow side 1818,1,820 one when increasing its thickness).In certain embodiments, in the longitudinal edge of insert 1834 any one or both can be folded to self and then be provided with ring 1842 or be shaped in addition at least in part with narrow side 1818,1820 inside with respect to, thereby provide reinforcement in narrow side 1818,1820 places to the first and second parts 1812,1814 wall material.It is folding to realize narrow side 1818,1820 expectation thickness, reinforcement and stability to make any amount of this longitudinal edge for insert 1834.

Strengthen among some embodiment of insert 1834 having as mentioned above narrow side, the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 each can have thickness less than 0.15mm (0.00591 inch), and the thickness of insert 1834 can be not more than about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch), flat tube two-piece type flat tube 1810 as described below for example: the first and second pipe sections 1812 wherein, 1814 each have the thickness of about 0.12mm (0.0047224 inch), and wherein insert 1834 has the thickness that is not more than about 0.10mm (0.0039370 inch).In certain embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 can be not less than about 0.05mm (0.0019685 inch) with each thickness of insert 1834 and be not more than about 0.15mm (0.0059055) and have also relative cost-effective heat exchanger of good heat transmission and intensity attribute to provide.In other embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 1812,1814 and each thickness of insert 1834 can be not less than about 0.03mm (0.00118 inch).

The first and second parts 1812,1914 and insert 1834 at least one can have braze material at its either side or both sides, connect by solder brazing with these parts of conduit assembly shown in allowing.Only as example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 25 and 26, the first and second parts 1812 of flat tube 1810,1814 and insert 1834 by be coated with at least one side braze material without the terminal material band in retrievable aluminum or aluminum alloy sheet.

Shown in Figure 25 and 26, the two-piece type flat tube 1810 of illustrated embodiment has defined minor diameter d and major diameter D.Utilize aforementioned wall thickness, the inventor has been found that at least the minor diameter d (for example in radiator) in many application with about 0.7mm (0.027559 inch) provides good results of property.In addition, utilize aforementioned wall thickness, the minor diameter d (for example in radiator) in many application that the inventor has been found that to be not more than about 1.5mm (0.059055 inch) provides good results of property.In charge air cooler and other application, the inventor has been found that minor diameter d can be greater than about 1cm (0.3937 inch) to provide good results of property.Although this minor diameter yardstick can be used for various embodiment,, can use above any one in the described minor diameter yardstick of whole flat tube embodiment disclosed herein.At least in part according to the width of the original material that is used for structure flat tube 1810, the major diameter D of the two-piece type flat tube 1810 shown in Figure 25 and 26 can have any desired size (comprise above for whole flat tube embodiment disclosed herein described those).

As mentioned above, in certain embodiments, in the longitudinal edge of insert 1834 any one or both can be provided with any amount of folding, come for the first and second parts 1812,1814 reinforcement and the stability that strengthen at narrow side 1818,1820 places to realize expectation thickness.The example of this embodiment has been shown among Figure 28 and 29.Substantially identical with the flat tube with Figure 25 and 26 except the insert shape of the two-piece type flat tube 1910 shown in the of 29 such as Figure 28.

Figure 28 illustrates the stage of making not yet fully at larger arcuate part 1968, has the flat tube 1910 of narrow side 1918.In other words, second pipe part 1914 longitudinal edge does not surround around the less arcuate part 1962 (its corresponding longitudinal edge by the first pipe section 1912 forms) of moulding.This longitudinal edge of second pipe part 1914 is subjected to displacement or moves to finish narrow side 1918 around small arcuate part 1962.As a result, the vertical undercut 1944 that obtains extends in the wide side 1922, and in two vertical undercuts 1946 another extends in another wide side 1924.As described in previous embodiment, these vertical undercuts 1944,1946 are positioned at narrow side 1918,1920 places of two-piece type flat tube 1910.

In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 28 and 29, the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of insert 1934 has folded for several times, such as Figure 29 the best illustrate.Have these longitudinal edges 1938 of folding 1970 and be incorporated in the narrow side 1918,1920 of two-piece type flat tube 1910, and can be provided in narrow side 1918,1920 places remarkable reinforcement to the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 stacked longitudinal edge is provided.In other embodiments, the only one in the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of insert 1934 has this folding 1970.

Longitudinal edge 1938,1940 folding 1970 quantity can depend on the yardstick of flat tube 1910 at least in part.Only as example, in certain embodiments, two-piece type flat tube 1910 has the minor diameter d of about 1.0mm (0.03739 inch), the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 each have the material thickness of about 0.15mm (0.00595055 inch), and the material thickness of insert 1934 is about 0.05mm (0.0019685 inches), and wherein about 10 of each longitudinal edge 1938,1940 generations at insert 1934 fold.Although these a plurality of folding 1970 can have different length, in certain embodiments, these maximum length L that fold are about 1.0mm (0.03937 inches).In addition, these a plurality of folding 1970 in certain embodiments can along with the wide side 1922 of two-piece type flat tube 1910,1924 parallel or substantially parallel directions extend (seeing Figure 28 and 29), and extend along other directions (for example, with wide side 1922,1924 vertical) in other embodiments.Should be appreciated that, the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 and the wall thickness of insert 1934 can be based on the expectation specification of two-piece type flat tube 1910 and difference, as same distance d and L.

Should be noted that the two-piece type flat tube assembly shown in Figure 28 and 29 can have this paper in conjunction with Figure 25 and 26 described arbitrary same characteristic features.

Figure 27 illustrates the two-piece type flat tube according to other embodiments of the invention.This embodiment adopts with many same structures of above embodiment in conjunction with Figure 25,26,28,29 and 33 described flat tubes and has many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for the difference of above embodiment in conjunction with Figure 25,26,28,29 and 33 described flat tubes.For following as shown in figure 27 with the possibility of structure and the feature of described two-piece type flat tube, and the extraneous information relevant with structure and feature can be carried out reference in conjunction with Figure 25,26,28,29 and 33 description to above.After this, the structure corresponding with structure Figure 25,26,28,29 and 33 embodiment and feature as shown in figure 27 and feature are assigned with the Reference numeral with 1800 series.

Be similar in conjunction with Figure 25 and 26 described embodiments of the invention, conduit assembly shown in Figure 27 has the first and second part 1812A, 1814A and insert 1834A.Relative longitudinal edge 1838A, the 1840A of insert 1834A provides liner to the inner surface of the stacked vertical sidepiece of two couples of the first and second pipe section 1812A, 1814A, thereby narrow side 1818A, the 1820A of flat tube 1810A strengthened.

Two-piece type flat tube 1810A as shown in figure 27 extends to same wide side 1822A, the 1824A of flat tube 1810A with two vertical undercut 1844A, 1846A that the first and second part 1812A, the 1814A of flat tube 1810A engage and the example of the mode of extending thereon.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 27, two vertical undercut 1844A, 1846A extend to the second wide side 1824A of flat tube 1810A, and extend at the second wide side 1824A.Alternatively, vertically undercut 1844A, 1846A can be formed among the first wide side 1822A as required.In the illustrated embodiment, the second wide side 1824A that is mainly defined by second pipe part 1814A can be absorbed in the relatively tolerance of pine (that is, can balance tolerance) of its relative longitudinal edge place.But, in certain embodiments, main the first wide side 1822A that is defined by the first pipe section 1812A does not have identical ability or the ability of same degree, and this is because its longitudinal edge can not be against stage portion 1858A, the 1860A of second pipe part 1814A or closely adjacent with it.

Continuation is with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 27, and vertically undercut 1844A, 1846A are from each narrow side 1818A, 1820A along extending towards the direction at the center of flat tube 1810A.But, the major part of each vertical undercut 1818A, 1820A (namely, stage portion 1858A, 1860A) be arranged in same wide side 1824A, wherein can according to process to determine each stage portion 1858A for the manufacture of the expectation manufacturing of pipe section 1812A, 1814A, 1860A's until the cross-section lengths e of the terminal edge of narrow side 1818A, 1820A.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 27, when two-piece type flat tube 1810A is combined in the radiator, the minor diameter d of two-piece type flat tube 1810A is in the scope of about 0.7-1.5mm (0.027559-0.059055 inch), but for identical with different application, also can use other minor diameter d, comprise the described diameter d of above embodiment in conjunction with Figure 25 and 26, and the minor diameter of above whole flat tubes in conjunction with present invention disclosed herein and major diameter described those.For example, in other structures, the minor diameter d of flat tube 1810A can be greater than 1.0cm (about 0.39370 inch).

Implement for other two-piece type flat tubes as herein described, the manufacturing of having conceived flat tube 1910 is processed and to be comprised at least according to bringing of each sheet material and partly form two pipe sections 1912,1914, and follows and as described hereinly be engaged with each other by the band of production line with at least part of formation.

Figure 30-32 illustrates two other structures according to the flat tube of other embodiments of the invention.These embodiment have adopted with above in conjunction with the identical a large amount of structures of the embodiment of Figure 25-29 and 33 described flat tubes and have many identical attributes.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with Figure 25-29 structure and the feature different with 33 described embodiment.For with shown in Figure 30-32 and the structure of the embodiment of the flat tube of the following stated and feature and the extraneous information relevant with feature with these structures, should carry out reference in conjunction with Figure 25-29 description of carrying out to above.After this, the structure of the embodiment as Figure 30-31 and 32 shown in corresponding with the structure of the embodiment of Figure 25-29 and 33 and feature and feature are assigned with respectively the Reference numeral with 2000 and 2100 series.

Substantially identical except the insert shape with as shown in figure 27 conduit assembly such as Figure 30 and the conduit assembly shown in the of 31.Particularly, the conduit assembly shown in Figure 30 and 31 is the example of the mode of insert 2034 flow channel 2016 that can take different shapes to define difformity and size.For example, shown interior insert 2034 comprises the ripple 2052 with sidepiece vertical with wide side 2022,2024 cardinal principles of two-piece type flat tube 2010.The ripple sidepiece links together by smooth part substantially, substantially smooth part can solder brazing, welding or be fastened to the first and second pipe sections 2012,2014 wide side 2022,2024 inner surface with any suitable method.The particular configuration of this hinge or interior insert 2034 is commonly referred to the flat-top hinge.

Continuation is with reference to Figure 30 and 31, and the longitudinal edge 2038,2042 of interior insert 2034 is shaped to each and comprises stage portion 2072 and the connection arch 2074 of being connected in the narrow side 2018,2020 that is contained in two-piece type flat tube 2010 and narrow side 2018,2020 being strengthened.In other embodiments, longitudinal edge 2038,2042 only one be provided with these features.

In any one of insert embodiment as herein described, insert can be provided with and increase or keep at least in part turbulent flow in the flow channel that is defined by these inserts.The example of these features has been shown among Figure 32 A and the 32B.In this embodiment, shown in the sidepiece of ripple 2152 in the insert 2134 and flat comprise and be positioned as the fin 2176 (not shown among Figure 32 A) that increases or keep the flow turbulence in the flow channel 2116.Fin 2176 can be arranged or distribution along the length compartment of terrain of flat tube 2110 so that pattern or patternless mode to be arranged arbitrarily, and can be arranged in arbitrary characteristics or the Feature Combination of ripple 2152.In addition, should be noted that fin 2176 can comprise the shape except shown in Figure 32 A and 32B those.

Flat tube assembly shown in Figure 32 A and the 32B also provide any one or both in the insert longitudinal edge in any one of this paper embodiment not necessarily to be contained or otherwise be positioned at the stacked longitudinal edge of the first and second pipe sections and not necessarily the narrow side of flat tube a part or extend to the example of mode of the narrow side of flat tube.As example, in the particular configuration shown in Figure 32 A and 32B, interior insert 2134 is included at least one longitudinal edge 2140 that stops before the narrow side 2120.Perhaps, longitudinal edge 2140 is adjacent with one of wide side 2124.Other structures of insert 2124 can comprise that the wide side of another of any one or both in the longitudinal edge 2138,2140 and flat tube 2,110 2124 is adjacent, and any one in the longitudinal edge 2138,2140 of roll-in or both are not in the corresponding narrow side 2118,2120 of flat tube 2110 or be nested in that it is medium.

Figure 34 illustrates ten structures according to the flat tube of other embodiments of the invention.These embodiment have adopted with above in conjunction with the identical a large amount of structures of the embodiment of the described flat tube of Figure 25-33 and have many identical attributes.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with the described embodiment of Figure 25-33 different structure and feature.For with the structure of the embodiment of the flat tube of shown in Figure 34 and the following stated and feature and the extraneous information relevant with feature with these structures, should carry out reference in conjunction with Figure 25-33 description of carrying out to above.After this, the structure of as shown in figure 34 the embodiment corresponding with the structure of the embodiment of Figure 25-33 and feature and feature are assigned with the Reference numeral with 2300 series.

As above in conjunction with as described in Figure 25 and 26, can by first and/or the second pipe part longitudinal edge place of these parts (that is) one or more fold to provide the further reinforcement of the first and/or second narrow side of flat tube at narrow side place.Usually, make first and/or the folding intensity that can increase flat tube of the longitudinal edge of second pipe part and flat tube to the opposing of damage.This feature can be used for any one in conjunction with the described embodiment of Figure 25-33.The example of flat tube with longitudinal folding edge is shown in Figure 34, has wherein defined the flow channel of general rectangular and does not extend or the insert that folds in the narrow side of pipeline only illustrates as example.In the insert of other types as herein described (or not having insert) or vertical insert structure and the position any one can be come alternatively to use as required.

Flat tube 2310 as shown in figure 34,2410,2510,2610,2710,2810,2910,3010,3110,3210 each comprise having folding 2330,2430,2530,2630,2730,2830,2930,3030,3130, the first and second pipe sections 2312 of 3230,2412,2512,2612,2712,2812,2912,3012,3112,3212 and 2314,2414,2514,2614,2714,2814,2914,3014,3114, at least one at least one longitudinal edge in 3214.Structure as shown in figure 34 each comprise have at least folding 2930,3030,3130,3230 besieged edge 2380,2382...3280,3282 (that is the longitudinal edge 2380, the 2382...3280,3282 that, are centered on by another pipe section 2312,2314...3212,3214 longitudinal edge 2378,2384 at least in part).In the structure shown in Figure 34 some show have at least one encirclement edge 2978,2984,3078,3074,3178 of folding 2930,3030,3130,3230,, 3174,3278,3274 (that is, other pipe sections 2912 of at least part of encirclement, 2914,3012,3014,3112,3114,3212,3214 longitudinal edge 2980,2982,3080,3082,3180,3182,3280,3282 longitudinal edge 2978,2984,3078,3074,3178,3174,3278,3274).Although the relatively narrow end of each two-piece type flat tube as shown in figure 34 adopts identical folded structure, but in other embodiment (having or do not have insert), in two narrow ends only one have this structure, in the case, another narrow end can have arbitrarily other folded structures as herein described or not have longitudinal folding pipeline marginal portion.In other embodiments, the longitudinal edge of at least one in the narrow end of two-piece type flat tube (having or do not have insert) each have that at least one is folding.

In certain embodiments, in the narrow end of any one in the flat tube as shown in figure 34 one can have as described herein and/or shown in longitudinal folding edge configuration in any one, and another narrow end can have among the embodiment (having or do not have insert) of above combination shown in Fig. 1-2 4 as described in any one or shown in folded structure in any one.In this case, another narrow end can by as the above detailed described continuous material sheet of single type pipeline embodiment in conjunction with figure flow channel 16-22 define, thereby form the single type pipeline.

The longitudinal folding structure of the first and second pipe sections as herein described has the weight that significantly reduces and can be at flat tube compromise aspect the strength and stability with can producing in the combination of relative little thickness (as mentioned above) that some embodiment plant the material of employing.

For convenience of description, the structure of flat tube 2310...3210 as shown in figure 34 comprises and the structure similar with the flat tube 1810 shown in the of 26 such as Figure 25 for the first and second parts 2312,2314...3212,3214 aspect, orientation, and is categorized as three groups: B, C and D.Each shows the optional attribute of flat tube 2310...3210 group B, C and D.As mentioned above, it should be understood that as shown in figure 34 feature also can be applicable to described herein and/or shown in two-piece type and other structures of single type flat tube, and can in the situation that has or do not have insert, use.The flat tube 2310,2410,2510,2610,2710 of group B and C, 2810 each comprise respectively the first and second pipe sections 2312,2314,2412,2414,2512,2514,2612,2614,2712,2714,2812,2814 non-folding bag peripheral edge 2378,2384,2478,2484,2578,2584,2678,2684,2778,2784,2878,2884.More specifically, encirclement edge 2378,2384,2478,2484,2578,2584,2678,2684,2778,2784,2878,2884 surrounds at least in part and has at least one besieged edge 2382,2380,2482,2480,2582,2580,2682,2680,2782,2780,2882,2880 of folding 2330,2430,2530,2630,2730,2830.Besieged edge 2382,2380,2482,2480,2582,2580,2682,2680,2782,2780,2882,2880 folding 2330,2430,2530,2630,2730,2830 can be in substantially parallel relationship to wide side 2322,2324,2422,2424,2522,2524,2622,2624,2722,2724,2822,2824 (for example, group B and C).In addition, folding 2330,2430,2530 can comprise and are parallel to besieged edge 2378,2384,2478,2484,2578,2584 part (for example, group B).

The flat tube 2910,3010,3110 of group D comprises narrow side 2918,2920,3018,3020,3118,3120, wherein the encirclement edge 2978,2984,3078,3084,3178 of one second pipe part 2912,2914,3012,3014,3112,3114,3184 and besieged edge 2982,2980,3082,3080,3182,3180 both have folding 2930,3030,3130.The result, with respect to the flat tube 2310,2410,2510,2610,2710 among group B and the C, 2810 narrow side 2318,2320,2418,2420,2518,2520,2618,2620,2718,2720,2818,2820, narrow side 2918,2920,3018,3020,3118,3120 stability are enhanced.In addition, flat tube 2910 among the group D, 3010,3110 each besieged and surround edge 2982,2980,3082,3080,3182,3180 and 2978,2984,3078,3084,3178,3184 have defined only one folding 2930,3030,3130 (but can have in other embodiments more folding), and the flat tube 2310 of group B and C, 2410,2510,2610,2710,2810, besieged edge 2382,2380,2482,2480,2582,2580,2682,2680,2782,2780,2882,2880 define above one folding 2330,2430,2530,2630,2730,2830.In addition, flat tube 2910,3010,3110 for group D, each surrounds edge 2978,2984,3078,3084,3178,3184 one folding 2910,3010,3110 and is in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 2910,3010,3110 outermost part, and each besieged edge 2982, a part of folding 2930,3030,3130 of 2980,3082,3080,3182,3180 are in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 2910,3010,3110 wide side 2922,2924,3022,3024,3122,3124.

Continue with reference to various flat tube embodiment as shown in figure 34, should be appreciated that, surrounding and the quantity of besieged edge 2382,2380...3282,3280 and 2378,2384...3278, the folding 2330...3230 in 3284 places, and the design of folding 2330...3230 or shape can be regulated according to the parameter group of expecting.In addition, although the interior insert 2334 of flat tube embodiment as shown in figure 34,3234 and be not used in to narrow side 2318,2320 ... 3218,3220 strengthen, but in other embodiments, insert 2334,3234 longitudinal edge 2338, among the 2340...3238,3240 any one or both fold and fold within it with the first and second pipe sections 2312,2314...3212,3214 longitudinal edge 2382,2380...3282,3280 and 2378,2384...3278,3284.Other structures of flat tube can comprise that as mentioned above the longitudinal edge for single type forms folding.

In conjunction with in any one of the described two-piece type flat tube of Figure 25-34 embodiment, conceived during the manufacturing of flat tube 1710...3210 is processed, can regulate for different pipeline 1710...3210 vertical undercut 1744,1746...3244,3246 or the width of stage portion 1716...3216.As a result, can change wide side 1722,1724...3222,3224 unexpected thickness and compensate, reduce or even avoid.In order to illustrate, can observe shown in Figure 31 and 32B apart from e (expression from longitudinal edge 2156,2256 ends to the narrow side 2120 of corresponding pipeline, the distance of 2220 end) among the embodiment of Figure 31 significantly greater than its situation in the embodiment of Figure 32 A and 32B.This can change in any embodiment as required apart from e.

Figure 35-45 illustrates several flat tubes of each embodiment according to the present invention, its any may be used to described herein and/or shown in arbitrary flat tube embodiment in.In many examples, insert can be described as having many peaks and the paddy of having defined at least in part flow channel along flat tube.

Flat tube 3310,3410,3510 shown in Figure 35-45,3610 each comprise interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634, its have usually be defined in insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 peak 3388,3488,3588,3688 and/or paddy 3390,3490,3590,3690 in long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686. Long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 is along insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 (that is, along flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 inboard, the direction that insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 will be installed the cardinal principle longitudinal extension on institute edge) extension on substantially vertically. Flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 some the structure in, long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 can by bridge section 3392,3492,3592,3692 interruptions.Bridge section 3392,3492,3592,3692 can be orientated and be in substantially parallel relationship to flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 wide side 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614, and can separate with rule or the irregular interval along insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 longitudinally any desired.

By long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 is set in insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 as mentioned above, insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 weight (therefore being equipped with the weight that comprises this insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 heat exchanger) can be compared and not comprise this long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 and significantly reduce.Based on interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 design, compare with insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 in the continuous wave pattern of similar size, comprising long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 weight can reduce up to 50%.

In certain embodiments, by the cutting material sheet (for example, aluminium, aluminium alloy, copper, brass or other metals without end or discrete length, perhaps other materials), and a part of bending of institute's cutting blade left plane with respect to initial sheets, make above as described in Figure 35-45 and shown in insert 3334,3434,3534,3634.For example, in the insert 3334,3434,3534 shown in Figure 35-45,3634 structure, interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can be made by the relatively thin sheet metal thickness of about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).Sweep can comprise long slit, leaves with respect to the plane of initial sheets to come so that slit opening by sheet material bending that will be adjacent with slit.Can on the both direction on the plane of leaving initial sheets, perhaps carry out these bendings in only direction of leaving this plane, have difform insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 thereby make.Can carry out different cuttings and help this bending, for example the and slit that be connected vertical with described long slit just.In certain embodiments, shown in the embodiment of Figure 35-45, for example sweep comprises arch edge 3394,3494,3594,3694.In certain embodiments, material piece and the long opening 3386,3486,3586 that obtains, 3686 and bridge section 3392,3492,3592,3692 define the double-T shape.

The inventor has been found that and can realize that the interior pressure of expectation is stable within comprising insert 3334,3434,3534 shown in Figure 35-45,3634 flat tube.More specifically, the insert shown in Figure 35-45 3334,3434,3534,3634 solder brazing surface (being defined by arch edge 3394,3494,3594,3694 top) enough large with provide insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 and flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 wide side 3322,3324,3422,3424,3522,3524 than strong bond.Also can by arch edge 3394,3494,3594,3694 is brazed to flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 corresponding wide side 3322,3324,3422,3424,3522,3524,3622,3624 sidepieces with arch edge 3394,3494,3594,3694 sidepiece link together.This hinge or interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 structure are commonly referred to the flat-top hinge.

Described insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 use provide good result as described in the flat tube of above combination shown in Figure 35-45 and in this paper other places.For example, just described joint provides further intensity to those flat tubes of the present invention by the relatively thin sheet material structure with aforementioned yardstick.Also found and insert 3334,3434,3534 in using these, the pressure loss of experience is relevant 3634 time advantage.In addition, have as mentioned above long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 and bridge section 3392,3492,3592,3692 interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can help prevent flat tube 3310,3410,3510, the first and second parts 3312 of 3610,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 to be left each other by lateral shift easily.For example, this structure can help prevent carry out process with the manufacturing that produces finished product flat tube assembly during, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3412,3512,3612 with respect to another pipe section 3314,3414,3514,3614 along flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 vertical misalignment.Reason is above-mentioned have long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 seam 3388,3488,3588,3688 and paddy 3390,3490,3590,3690 can apply from flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 inboard to wide side 3322,3324,3422,3424,3522,3524,3622,3624 elastic force, thereby with wide side 3322,3324,3422,3424,3522,3524,3622,3624 narrow in to prevent or to reduce this skew as for the tension force situation.

In each of the embodiment shown in Figure 35-45, insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 is accommodated in two-piece type flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 (the vertical undercuts 3344,3346,3444,3446,3544,3546,3644,3646 that wherein flat tube 3310,3410,3510, two parts of 3610 connected extend to and be positioned at least in part different piece 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614).In each embodiment, two parts 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 substantially mutually the same.But in other embodiments, insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can be used for any one of other single types of the present invention described herein or two-piece type flat tube.For example, two parts 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 can be arranged such that a vertical undercut 3344,3444,3544,3644 is arranged in a wide side 3324,3424,3524,3624, and another vertical undercut 3346,3446,3546,3646 is arranged in flat tube 3310,3410,3510, another wide side of 3610, for example in the embodiments of the invention shown in Figure 25 and 26 like that.In these embodiments, the longitudinal edge 3354,3356,3454,3456,3554,3556,3654,3656 of each freely extends in flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 interior cardinal principles in two parts 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614.As a result, two parts 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 can as front in conjunction with Figure 25 with have relative larger tolerance aspect its width 26 illustrated embodiment is described.In other embodiments, two vertical undercuts 3344,3346,3444,3446,3544,3546,3644,3646 are all orientated as and are extended in the same wide side 3322,3422,3522,3622 or 3324,3424,3524,3624, and for example embodiments of the invention shown in Figure 27 are such.

In certain embodiments, in insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 the longitudinal edge 3338,3340,3448,3440,3548,3540,3648,3640 any one or both can extend in the corresponding narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,2518,3520,3618,3620, and can be shaped to according to the described any-mode of above illustrated embodiment in conjunction with Figure 25-34 and provide liner at least a portion of narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,2518,3520,3618,3620 inside.For example, any one in the longitudinal edge 3338,3340,3448,3440,3548,3540,3648,3640 or both can comprise that stage portion 3472,3476 (for example seeing the embodiment of Figure 39-42 and 45) and/or arch edge 3374,3474,3574,3674 are to provide reinforcement to any one or both in the narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,2518,3520,3618,3620.

Insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 and flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 between this relation significant strength and stability advantage can be provided as previously mentioned.In these embodiments, the narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,2518,3520,3618 that is reinforced, 3620 thickness corresponding to the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 thickness and insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 thickness and.In having some embodiment of this relation, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 each can have the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.00591 inch).In addition, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 each can have the thickness that is not more than about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch).And or alternatively, in these embodiments, insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 thickness are not more than about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch).For example, flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 can have the thickness of each and be the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 of about 0.12mm (0.0047224 inch), and wherein insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 has the thickness that is not more than about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch).In other embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 and insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 each approximately not about 0.15mm of thickness (0.0059055 inch) so that the heat exchanger of the relative cost benefit with good heat transmission and intensity attribute to be provided.In addition, in certain embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 and/or insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 each thickness be not less than about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).In other embodiments, insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can have any one in the described insert thickness of above illustrated embodiment in conjunction with Figure 25-34.

Illustrate such as Figure 35,39,44 and 45 the bests, in certain embodiments, the insert shown in Figure 35-45 3334,3434,3534,3634 be formed as so that above-mentioned peak 3388,3488,3588,3688 and paddy 3390,3490,3590,3690 defined along the ripple 3352,3452,3552,3652 of insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 longitudinal extension.These ripples 3352,3452,3552,3652 sidepiece can perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to flat tube 3310,3410,3510 wide side 3322,3324,3422,3522,3524 (seeing Figure 35,39 and 42) or can form certain inclination angle with respect to the wide side 3622,3624 of flat tube 3610.In any one of the illustrated embodiment of Figure 35-45, can use as required vertical or angled ripple sidepiece.In addition, in certain embodiments, interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can be by forming more than parts, so that the flat tube assembly that obtains comprises four or multi-part more.

In certain embodiments (insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 embodiment by single material piece structure in comprising wherein as mentioned above), interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 usually along interior insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 or flat tube 3310,3410,3510, vertical roller of 3610 prick.Flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 some make to process, for example provide two types roller prick with roller in insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 and produce in the vertical as mentioned above long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686, peak 3388,3488,3588,3688 and paddy 3390,3490,3590,3690.The first roller can the time be used for forming at the substantitally planar sheet cutting roller of slit.Second roller can be to be used to form the arch edge 3394,3494,3594 that defined among Figure 35-45,3694 peak 3388,3488,3588,3688 and paddy 3390,3490,3590,3690 format roll.Be similar to above-mentioned structure, form flat tube 3310,3410,3510, the first and second pipe sections 3312 of 3610, vertical undercut 3344,3346,3544,3546,3644 of 3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614,3646 and reach flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 the wide side 3322,3324,3424,3522,3524,3622,3624 from narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,3518,3520,3618,3620.But as for aforementioned two-piece type pipeline embodiment, stage portion 3316,3416,3516,3616 can be arranged in wide side 3322,3324,3424,3522,3524,3622,3624.Also as described in the previous embodiment, stage portion 3316,3416,3516,3616 width (it measures corresponding narrow side 3318,3320,3418,3420,3518,3520,3618,3620 end) can be processed and the expectation specification is determined based on flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 manufacturing.

Continue the illustrated embodiment with reference to figure 35-45, as described herein have comprise long opening 3386,3486,3586,3686 and bridge section 3390,3490,3590,3690 insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 flat tube 3310,3410,3510, some embodiment (comprising above-mentioned relatively those embodiment of light wall pipe road wall material that have) of 3610 in, the inventor has been found that the flat tube minor diameter d (for example in radiator) in many application at least about 0.7mm (0.027599 inch) provides good results of property.The inventor also has been found that, the minor diameter d that is not more than about 1.5mm (0.059055 inch) (for example in radiator, and especially in above-mentioned certificate relatively among those flat tubes embodiment of the present invention of light wall pipe road wall material) in many application provides good results of property.The inventor has been found that also that in the situation of inflation radiator and other applications minor diameter d can still can provide good results of property simultaneously greater than about 10.0mm (0.3937 inch).In addition, should be noted that in other embodiments, can alternatively use above in conjunction with the described minor diameter d of whole flat tube embodiment disclosed herein and any one among the major diameter D.At least in part based on the width that is used for structure flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 original material, the two-piece type flat tube 3310,3410,3510 shown in Figure 35,39,44 and 45,3610 major diameter D can have any desired size (also comprise above in conjunction with whole flat tube embodiment disclosed herein described those).About this point, make flat tube if prick roller with roller, these roller (not shown) can be adjusted to the wider or narrower flat tube of manufacturing 3310,3410,3510,3610.In other structures, can replace according to flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 expectation yardstick for the manufacture of flat tube 3310,3410,3510,3610 roller.

The flat tube 3310,3410,3510 shown in the embodiment of Figure 35-45,3610 some the structure in, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 and/or insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 can comprise for any two or more braze material coatings that connect these parts, and/or comprise in some cases other elements (for example, the cool furnace of heat exchanger).Although in certain embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 3312,3314,3412,3414,3512,3514,3612,3614 and/or insert 3334,3434,3534,3634 constructed by aluminum or aluminum alloy, but in other embodiments, any one in these parts or all can be by the other materials structure that is suitable for or is unsuitable for solder brazing.

Present concrete illustrated embodiment with reference to figure 35-38, in certain embodiments, with the bridge section 3390 of long opening 3386 interruptions not with continuous across other bridge sections of the whole width of insert 3344 or aim at.The bridge section 3390 of on the contrary, long opening 3386 being interrupted can be (that is, be positioned at along insert 3344 different longitudinal position place) that interlocks with respect to the either side of long opening 3386 or the adjacent bridge section on the both sides 3390.In other embodiments, the embodiment shown in Figure 39-42 for example, the bridge section 3490 that long opening 3486 interrupts can be aimed at, so that two or more bridge sections 3492 alignings that will 3486 interruptions of adjacent long opening or aligned in general are at the identical lengthwise position place along insert 3444.In other embodiments, between the bridge section 3390,3492 along each flow channel 3316,3416 distance can be disperse (namely, be not communicated with adjacent flow channel 3316,3416 fluids), this is because wide side can be sealed long opening 3386,3486.Provide advantage although the layout of the bridge section shown in the embodiment of Figure 35-42 is seen from the angle of making, in other embodiments, bridge section can arrange in any other expectation modes.

The hydraulic diameter that is defined by flow channel 3316,3416 by insert 3334,3434 peak 3388,3488 and paddy 3488,3490 respective design define.For example, consider the minor diameter d of about 0.8mm (0.031496 inch) and the relatively a large amount of flow channel 3316,3416 that passes through insert 3334,3434 width, hydraulic diameter can less.

Continue with reference to the embodiment shown in Figure 35-38, diagram ripple 3352 is around the mid-plane approximate " vibration " of insert 3344 (or flat tube 3310).In other words, the sidepiece of insert 3334 and arch edge 3374 are along between the wide side 3322,3324 that is defined in flat tube 3310 of insert 3334 and be in substantially parallel relationship to wide side 3322, a part of 3324 and extend towards the first and second pipe sections 3312, two relative directions of 3314.Although as shown in figure 37, this part between the wide side 3322,3324 can be positioned at the mid-plane of insert 3334, but peak 3390 and paddy 3388 can be at the end of insert 3334 to the arbitrary positions the either side of initial plane sheet from this part of its extension.In addition, should note, the structure of insert 3334 as shown in figure 35 has and is formed on the diagram peak 3390 of ripple 3352 and the long opening 3386 in the paddy 3388, but this opening 3386,3388 does not need to be defined in peak 3390 and paddy 3388 among both in other embodiments.

In the embodiment of Figure 38-42, alternatively the side to insert 3434 forms ripple 3452.Particularly, insert 3434 is not in the wide side 3422 with respect to flat tube 3410,3424 mid-plane, but alternatively is positioned near the lower wide side 3424 of flat tube 3410.In addition, as shown in figure 39 the structure of insert 3434 has the only long opening 3486 in the peak 3488 of diagram ripple 3452.

In certain embodiments, any one in the insert as herein described can be divided into along the width of insert two or more parts to define in certain embodiments each other two or more flow channels of fluid isolation.This separation can produce by the one or more separators of vertically deriving that defined by insert in whole or in part.For example, in the embodiment of Figure 44 and 45, interior insert 3534,3634 each be formed with at least one separator 3596,3696 so that flat tube 3510,3610 is provided with the flow channel 2516 with any desirable number, at least two flow chambers of 3616.Like this, realized separation at flat tube 3510,3610 interior mobile two kinds of flow medias.Flat tube 3510 shown in Figure 44 and 45,3610 each comprise two this flow chambers, allow (for example) medium in a flow chamber, to flow facing one direction, and allow same media or different medium direction towards the opposite in another flow chamber to flow.

A plurality of flat tubes according to each embodiment of the present invention have below been described, situation as the from one piece structure (is seen for example illustrated embodiment of Figure 16-23, it shows a plurality of flat tubes 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510,1610, its each have by being used for structure pipeline 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510, the first and second parts 912 of 1610 same material, 914,1012,1014,1112,1114,1212,1214,1312,1314,1412,1414,1512,1514,1612,1614 define a plurality of interior folding 928,1028,1128,1228,1328,1428,1528,1628).As described in more detail above, interior folding 928,1028,1128,1228,1328,1428,1528,1628 defined at least in part by flat tube 910,1010,1110,1210,1310,1410,1510, many flow channels 916,1016,1116,1216,1316,1416,1516,1616 of 1610.

In other embodiments of the invention, the single type flat tube can be provided with the insert that is made of the independent material that is accommodated in (also in certain embodiments, within it fastening) in the single type flat tube.Have insert 3734,3834 this flat tube 3710, two examples of 3810 shown in Figure 46-47 and 48.Be similar to aforementioned single type flat tube, flat tube 3710,3810 can flat tube 3710,3810 wide side 3722,3724,3822,3824 and two be strengthened narrow side 3718,3720,3818,3820 relatively thin material tablet (for example, band) consists of by having defined.In certain embodiments, the inventor has been found that the thickness of material piece can be less than about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch) to provide good results of property in many application.In addition, in certain embodiments, the inventor has been found that the thickness of material piece can be greater than about 0.03mm (about 0.00118111 inch) to provide good results of property in many application.Should be appreciated that the thickness of material piece can have other yardsticks of not listing at this paper.

Continue with reference to figure 46-48, the longitudinal edge 3778,3782,3878 of material piece, 3882 moulding and mobile together so that longitudinal edge 3778,3878 against another longitudinal edge 3782,3882 to form flat tube 3710,3810 narrow side 3718,3818.This narrow side 3718,3818 can be defined at least one 180 ° of bending at narrow side 3718,3818 places or by folding (the following more detailed description) that be used for sealing narrow side 3718, one or more other types of 3818 by material piece.By with folding so that the first and second longitudinal edges 3778,3782,3878,3882 of material piece combining as described, form another narrow side 3720,3820 at least in part.In certain embodiments, this another narrow side 3720,3820 can comprise by with the three times wall thickness of material piece in folding twice generation on himself of narrow side 3720,3820 position.

In certain embodiments, make flat tube 3710,3810 processing can be included in material piece folding with the reinforcement that produces narrow side 3720 places folding 3730,3830 (the F place in Figure 46-48 represents) before, folding or otherwise form longitudinal edge 3778,3782,3878,3882, these longitudinal edges are in connection with together with sealing flat tube 3710,3810.In other embodiments, these are processed simultaneously or substantially and carry out simultaneously.

In some embodiment of single type flat tube, the single type flat tube 3710 shown in Figure 46 and 47 has for example defined the larger arch of arch of another longitudinal edge 3782 of wall for generation of a longitudinal edge 3778 of the material piece of pipeline 3710.An advantage of this structure is, when larger arch longitudinal edge 3778 during around less arch longitudinal edge 3782 moulding, the flat tube 3710 of finishing usually can not split maybe can resist and split.But in other embodiments, longitudinal edge 3778,3782 can have other shapes except arch.For example, longitudinal edge 3878 as shown in figure 48,3882 can be bonded together and have many difformities, includes but not limited to above any one in conjunction with shown in Fig. 2 and the 6-11 and/or in the described longitudinal edge shape.In addition, longitudinal edge 3878 as shown in figure 48,3882 can with longitudinal edge 3738,3740 in any one or both be bonded together, and have many difformities, include but not limited to above any one in conjunction with shown in Figure 14 and 15 and/or in the described longitudinal edge shape.

Single type flat tube 3710 shown in Figure 46-48,3810 narrow side 3718,3720,3818,3820 each have thickness at least twice of structure pipeline 3710,3810 sheet material thickness.Illustrate in the narrow side 3720,3820 two based in the extra fold 3730 of these narrow sides 3720,3820 region generating, 3830 and have the thickness of three times of sheet material thickness.In other embodiments, can by narrow side 3718,3720,3818,3820 the position form one or more extra fold 3730,3830 and realize arbitrary narrow side 3718,3720,3818,3820 further reinforcement.Can be used for the first narrow side 3718,3818 shown in Figure 46-48 is strengthened in conjunction with in any one the described folding type among the embodiment of Fig. 1-2 4 any.Similarly, can be used for the second narrow side 3720,3820 shown in Figure 46-48 is strengthened in conjunction with any of any one the described folding type for the narrow side that is defined by the continuous material sheet is strengthened among the embodiment of Figure 16-24.

In each of two illustrated embodiment of Figure 46-48, along with flat tube 3710,3810 manufacturing, interior insert 3734,3834 is accommodated in the flat tube 3710,3810.In certain embodiments, shown in Figure 46-48, in the situation that flat tube 3710,3810 still partially opens, insert 3734,3834 can produce afterwards insertion of the second narrow side 3720,3820 (having defined above-mentioned reinforcement folding 3730,3830).Alternatively or additionally, any one in flat tube 3710,3810 the wide side 3722,3724 or both can have and form at least in part flow channel such as similar interior folding of those of Fig. 1-13 and 16-24 (for example).

An exemplary process that is used to form the single type flat tube 3710 with insert 3734 illustrates as example in Figure 46.At first, produce folding 3730 (in the expressions of F place), and make simultaneously longitudinal edge 3778,3782 moulding.Perhaps, only longitudinal edge 3778,3782 moulding and another longitudinal edge 3782,3778 keeps not moulding.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 46, in the fabrication stage shown in the figure of Figure 46 (a), a longitudinal edge 3782 with arch 3762 has been finished, and another longitudinal edge 3778 has been provided with simple bending, and it will further be shaped to the larger arch 3766 of winding at least in part arch 3762 extensions of being defined by the first longitudinal edge 3782 after a while.

In the fabrication stage shown in the figure (b) of Figure 46, be increased to folding 3730 shown in (a) such as figure by folding 3730, finish two and strengthen folding 3730.Therefore, in these zones of folding 3730, three times of thickness of the sheet material that is used to form single type flat tube 3710 have been formed.

In the fabrication stage shown in the figure of Figure 46 (C), newly begin and to fold the second narrow side 3720 of 3730 formation flat tubes 3710 by folding 3730 bendings.Make this intermediate steps of processing, in of the wide side 3722 adjacent with folding 3730 cardinal principles, forming stage portion 3758 so that the smooth outer surface of single type flat tube 3710 to be provided.In the optional structure of pipeline 3710, stage portion 3758 can also be formed in another wide side 3724 adjacent with folding 3730 cardinal principles.The smooth surface of the pipeline 3710 that is produced by this stage portion 3758 and they with the recess mode take in folding 3730 or the ability of longitudinal edge 3778 need solder brazing, weld or bond in the situation of other elements at pipeline 3710 be favourable.

Then, the fabrication stage shown in the figure of Figure 46 (d), insert in the ripple 3734 is inserted in the flat tube 3710, but can alternatively uses any one the insert that has in other shapes as herein described.One in the ripple in the longitudinal edge 3738 of insert 3734 can at first place the little arch 3762 of longitudinal edge 3782.Alternatively, shown in Figure 46 and 47, a longitudinal edge 3740 of interior insert 3734 can at first place in the narrow side 3720 relative with little arch 3762.Interior insert 3734 can be under the specific preparation tension condition when the figure of Figure 46 (d) and step shown in Figure 47 are inserted.More specifically, insert 3734 can be shaped to have insert 3734 encircleed slightly from wide side 3724 or opposing and insert 3734 be placed flat tube 3710 interior required compressions and the expansion of insert 3734 is produced the tension force of active force, and therefore insert 3734 is pushed into narrow side 3718,3720 during the complete closed of single type flat tube 3710.In the fabrication stage shown in the figure of Figure 46 (e), large arch 3766 is formed on the longitudinal edge 3778, and arranges around the little arch 3762 of another longitudinal edge 3782, thus sealing single type flat tube 3710.The aforementioned little bending of interior insert 3734 (if exist) thus be removed, and the longitudinal edge 3738,3740 of the moulding of interior insert 3734 both is installed in the narrow side 3718,3720 of flat tube 3710.

The processing that is used to form as shown in figure 48 single type flat tube 3810 is similar to above with reference to Figure 46 and 47 described processing in many aspects.Therefore, except the feature after this described and the feature different or incompatible from above description, for the more information relevant with the manufacturing of flat tube 3810, reference is carried out in the relevant description of manufacturing above and flat tube 3710.

In the fabrication stage shown in the figure of Figure 48 (a), it is folding 3830 that the single material piece that is used to form flat tube 3810 comprises, it will partly define the second narrow side 3820 of single type flat tube 3810.Same position place on single material piece produce another stacked folding after, make the material piece bending entering the position of the figure of Figure 48 (c) institute shown in best.First strengthens narrow side 3818 forms (see the figure (d) of Figure 48 and (e)) by the relative longitudinal edge 3878,3882 that combines to seal single type flat tube 3810 at least in part.By relative longitudinal edge 3878,3882 and the joint of the longitudinal edge 3838 of interior insert 3834 crooked or folding, the sealing that produces single type flat tube 3810.More specifically, the longitudinal edge 3838 of interior insert 3834 is between two longitudinal edges 3878,3882.Should be noted that the flat tube 3810 shown in the figure (f) such as Figure 48 not necessarily is in the final fabrication stage.The folding layout that can shown in Figure 14,15, abut against each other that is defined by edge 3878,3882,3838.But, as mentioned above, described herein and/or shown in other strengthen in the narrow side folded structure any one can come as required alternatively to use.Usually, narrow side 3818 folds or the crooked at least part of stability of having determined narrow side 3818 of quantity in order to produce.

If necessary, flat tube 3710 shown in Figure 46-48,3810 can be provided with the reinforcement that places presumptive area, for example any one in flat tube 3710,3810 wide side 3722,3724,3822,3824 or the expectation on both position of carrying out heat exchange.These reinforcements can adopt multiple multi-form, for example with to define flat tube 3710,3810 material piece independent and be installed to one or more layers sheet material on it by solder brazing, welding or with any other suitable method mutually, be used for one or more extra fold of structure flat tube 3710,3810 material piece etc.

Utilize the above-mentioned relative thin wall material that uses in certain embodiments with structure flat tube 3710,3810 (having or do not have reinforcement), the weight that is formed with flat tube 3710,3810 heat exchanger can significantly reduce, and has improved simultaneously its heat-exchange capacity.Be that flat tube 3710,3810 wide side 3722,3724,3822,3824 are formed so that flat tube 3710,3810 has been guaranteed the solder brazing good with can be arranged in fin, fin or other heat exchange elements (not shown) in the heat exchanger between two more flat tubes 3710,3810 is connected for the Another reason that weight reduces and heat-exchange capacity improves.Based on above-mentioned single type flat tube 3710,3810 feature, flat tube 3710,3810 has the outer surface of substantitally planar, is used for being connected with these heat exchange elements.

In addition, should be appreciated that, also can be applied to any one in other structures of the described flat tube of the application for the described flat tube 3710 of Figure 46-48,3810 feature.

For flat tube 3710,3810 modes that can make, in certain embodiments, two band rule without terminal sheet material are delivered to roller pipeline 3701, for example shown in Figure 49.In many cases, aluminum and its alloy is examined committee for for the manufacture of flat tube 3710,3810 preferred material.But other metals and material are applicable to make flat tube 3710,3810.For the pipeline 3710,3810 shown in Figure 46-48, can be from without terminal material webs (for example, the sheet metal) receives formation flat tube 3710, the first and second parts 3712 of 3810,3714,3812,3814 material piece, and insert 3734,3834 in can forming from another material webs without end (for example, sheet metal).At one of incipient stage of roller pipeline 3701 (in certain embodiments, before making the material webs moulding), in the distance corresponding with the independent duct length of expectation, increase to material webs and beat mouth.In certain embodiments, after the sheet metal tape being beaten mouthful, can make the material piece moulding, but this mouth of beating can occur between this shaping period or afterwards.As shown in figure 49, interior insert 3734,3834 is inserted into the downstream part that insertion zone 3703 in the flat tube 3710,3810 is positioned at roller pipeline 3701.Before being inserted in interior insert 3734,3834 in the single type flat tube 3710,3810, it is above-mentioned that to beat mouth should be substantially aligned with each other (namely, in certain embodiments, all be arranged in and single type flat tube 3710,3810 vertical common plane substantially) so that after this each flat tube 3710,3810 can be separated.

Such as Figure 46-48 so that the single type flat tube each have and separate with each flat tube 3710,3810 and by its insert of taking in 3734,3834.But in other embodiments, the inventor has been found that and can construct the single type flat tube that has with the insert of single type pipeline integrally formed (that is, by be used for structure flat tube 3710, integral body that 3810 sheet material is identical forms).As example, five this flat tubes 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 have been shown in Figure 50-54.Should be noted that except the feature different or incompatible from it, also can be applicable among other flat tubes embodiment as herein described any one below with reference to the described feature of Figure 50-54.

In each of the illustrated embodiment of Figure 50-54, single piece of sheet material (for example, sheet metal tape) form flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 and insert 3934,4034,4134,4234,4334 both.Flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 shown in Figure 50-54 comprises the narrow side 3918 of relative reinforcement, 3920,4018,4020,4118,4120,4218,4220,4318,4320, and has the wall thickness of less.In certain embodiments, the inventor has been found that the thickness of material piece can be less than about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch) to provide good results of property in many application.In addition, in certain embodiments, the inventor has been found that the thickness of material piece can be greater than about 0.03mm (about 0.0011811 inch) to provide good results of property in many application.Should be appreciated that the thickness of material piece can have other unlisted yardsticks of this paper.As the result of this relatively sheeting thickness that can use in certain embodiments, have these flat tubes 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 heat exchanger can have the weight of less and the rate of heat exchange of raising.In addition, utilize following will be in greater detail single type flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 narrow side 3918,3920,4018,4020,4118,4120,4218,4220,4318,4320 fact that both can be reinforced, can reduce or remove the needs that the orientation of single type flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 during heat exchanger is assembled noted.

Following index map 50-54 described ducted each can have in the described yardstick of above embodiment with reference to figure 1-34 any one.For example, in certain embodiments, any one in the single type flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 shown in Figure 50-54 can have the minor diameter d greater than about 0.7mm (0.027559 inch).In addition, in certain embodiments, any one in these pipelines 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 can have the minor diameter d less than about 15mm (0.59055 inch).As another example, any one in the single type flat tube 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 shown in Figure 50-54 can have the major diameter D greater than about 8mm (0.31496 inch).In addition, in certain embodiments, any one in these pipelines 3910,4010,4110,4210,4310 can have the major diameter D less than about 300mm (11.8116 inches).But, should be noted that in other embodiments, can use above minor diameter d in conjunction with flat tube embodiment disclosed herein and any one among the major diameter D.

At first specifically with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 50, the flat tube 3910 shown in it is formed by single material piece, and this material piece has with the wave mode moulding to form the middle part 3905 of flow channel 3916 in the single type flat tube 3910 that obtains.The middle part 3905 of material piece all has folding 3930 the group that reinforcement is provided for the corresponding narrow side 3918,3920 to single type flat tube 3910 in both sides.In other embodiments, middle part 3905 only has folding 3930 group (for example in only narrow side 3918 of single type flat tube 3910,3920 situations that need to strengthen in this way) in a side.In addition, it is folding to should be noted that middle part 3905 can have a reinforcement of any amount at either side, and folding on 3905 relative both sides, middle part is not necessarily identical on quantity, shape or size.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 50, material piece also has the wide side 3922 that defines single type flat tube 3910,3924 outside portion 3907.Outer side step 3907 from above-mentioned folding 3930 group extend and with folding 3930 group one, and be shaped to and surround at least in part folding 3930 group.In other embodiments, it is folding 3930 that outside portion 3907 does not surround or not exclusively surrounds, and in the case, outside portion 3907 bendings are with the flow channel 3916 in the chalk single type flat tube 3910 at least.In addition, should be noted that material piece forms to define an only outside portion (for example, the folding extension on the only side from the both sides at middle part 3905) that it can be around the middle part 3905 extends to seal flow channel 3916.

In certain embodiments, as shown in figure 50 flat tube 3910 can be upper by making efficiently without terminal material sheet (for example endless band of the sheet metal shown in Figure 50 (a) or band 3909 or other suitable materials) at roller production line (roller production line 3701 as shown in figure 49).Material webs 3903 comprises two longitudinal edges 3938,3940.At first, shown in Figure 50 (b), in material webs 3909, produce a plurality of two groups of folding 3930, to form the narrow side 3918,3920 of the flat tube 3910 that produces after a while.Each illustrated a plurality of group of folding 3930 is bent to form by six 180 ° in the material webs 3909, wherein adjacent folding 3909 abuts against each other, and does not have or have hardly the space between the adjacent folds 3930 that defines between folding 3930 the bending.The purpose that diagram gap in Figure 50 between illustrated folding 3930 only is used for explaining illustrates in greater detail each and folds 3930.In addition, although in illustrated every group of Figure 50, illustrated six folding 3930, should note, folding 3930 of other quantity can be adjacent to exist with middle part 3905 arbitrarily as previously mentioned, it is determined by the expectation specification (for example, yardstick) of flat tube 3910 in many examples at least in part.

Shown in Figure 50 (c), then between a plurality of groups of folding 3930, form waveform part 3911.But, in other embodiments, can be alternatively when forming folding 3930 or form thereafter waveform part 3911.Waveform part 3911 can have the ripple of any amount random desired shape, include but not limited to after assembling, have the wide side 3922 with respect to single type flat tube 3910, the ripple of 3924 sidepieces that tilt, ripple with square-wave form, ripple with curve waveform shape (for example sinusoidal wave), have the arbitrarily ripple of other shapes, the perhaps any combination of these shapes as herein described.

The arrow continuation according to the company shown in the dotted line is processed in the manufacturing that is used to form flat tube 3910 among Figure 50 (d).Particularly, after formation folding 3930 and waveform part 3911, the band portion 3913 that is connected to a plurality of groups of folding 3930 is folded 3930 layouts and crosses over waveform part 3911 around accordingly a plurality of, thereby form the flow channel 3916 of the longitudinal extension of single type flat tube.In other words, each band portion 3913 is from one group of outside encirclement or at least part of encirclement a plurality of folding 3930, and further the extension with covering waveform part 3911.In addition, such as the figure (c) of Figure 50 with (d), longitudinal edge 3978 is bent into and is positioned on the first narrow side 3918 and extends and surround a plurality of foldingly 3230 around a plurality of folding 3230 at the first narrow side 3918 places, and another longitudinal edge 3980 is bent into and is positioned on the second narrow side 3920 and extends and surround a plurality of folding 3230 around a plurality of folding 3230 at the second narrow side 3920 places.In some embodiment of flat tube 3910, longitudinal edge 3978,3980 does not cover or the corresponding narrow side 3918 of partial coverage, 3920 only, and this is because aforesaid a plurality of folding 3930 by arranging, and can make narrow side 3928,3920 fully stable.

Finishing in the version of flat tube 3910, for example shown in Figure 50 (d) like that, the crest of waveform part 3911 and trough (or having other features at the difform middle part 3905 of having defined flow channel 3916) are by solder brazing, welding or be fastened to either side or both sides in the wide side 3922,3924 of single type flat tube 3910 with any other suitable methods.More specifically, the crest shown in Figure 50 (d) and the point on the trough schematically illustrate the solder brazing that can carry out and are connected between waveform part 3911 and adjacent wide side 3922,3924.

Figure 51 illustrates the single type flat tube with one insert of the extra embodiment according to the present invention.This embodiment has adopted with the many identical structures of above embodiment in conjunction with the described flat tube of Figure 50 and has had many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with the described embodiment of Figure 50 different structure and feature.For with shown in Figure 51 and the structure of the single type flat tube with one insert of the following stated and feature and the extraneous information relevant with the possibility of these structures and feature, should carry out reference to the above description of carrying out in conjunction with Figure 50.After this corresponding structure of the structure of the single type flat tube and embodiment Figure 50 with one insert shown in Figure 51 and feature and feature are assigned with the Reference numeral with 4000 series.

Specifically with reference to Figure 51, the single type flat tube 4010 shown in it is formed by a material piece (for example, sheet metal tape) now.In this specific embodiment, to produce the waveform part, it forms the flow channel 4016 between the wide side 4022,4024 of flat tube 4010 at least in part with the moulding of waveform mode at the middle part 4005 of material piece.Middle part 4005 can have the described arbitrary shape of above illustrated embodiment with reference to Figure 50.

As using a plurality of folding 3930 the narrow end 3918,3920 of single type flat tube 3910 is strengthened possibility or the additional aspects of (seeing Figure 50), single type flat tube 4010 shown in Figure 51 utilizes the profiled member 4015 (that is, coil, axle, hollow or entity insert etc.) at narrow side 4018,4020 places.Profiled member 4015 can be positioned at narrow side 4018,4020 either side or both sides, and one or more folding the replenishing that can produce the either side in narrow side 4018,4020 or both sides place in certain embodiments, wherein these folding be similar to above in conjunction with Figure 50 described folding 3030.During the manufacturing of single type flat tube 4010 was processed, profiled member 4015 can launch or otherwise place abreast with material piece 4009 head offices.After the waveform part 4011 of having processed between the profiled member 4015 that prevents, shown in the dotted arrow among Figure 51, surround from outside winding forming spare 4015 with the band portion 4013 of the material piece of profiled member 4015 jingle bells, and through waveform part 4011 to form the wide side 4022,4024 of single type flat tube 4010.Band portion 4013 is connected to waveform part 4011, and can also be connected to the profiled member 4015 in the narrow side 4018,4020.In addition, the longitudinal edge 4078 of material piece 4009,4080 each around corresponding profiled member 4015 bendings, and place on each narrow side 4018,4020.

Therefore, the narrow side 4018 of the single type flat tube 4010 among Figure 51,4020 each by 4015 one-tenth of profiled members, so that narrow side 4018,4020 is surrounded by the corresponding longitudinal edge 4078 of material piece 4009,4080.

Figure 52-54 illustrates the single type flat tube with one insert of the extra embodiment according to the present invention.These embodiment have adopted with the many identical structures of above embodiment in conjunction with Figure 50 and 51 described flat tubes and have had many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with Figure 50 structure and the feature different with 51 described embodiment.For with shown in Figure 52-54 and the structure of the single type flat tube with one insert of the following stated and feature and the extraneous information relevant with the possibility of these structures and feature, should carry out reference in conjunction with Figure 50 and 51 descriptions of carrying out to above.After this corresponding structure of the structure of the single type flat tube with one insert and embodiment Figure 50 and 51 shown in Figure 52-54 and feature and feature are assigned with the Reference numeral with 4100,4200 and 4300 series.

Each by single material piece 4109,4209,4309 (for example illustrates Figure 52-54, the band of aluminium, aluminium alloy or other metals or suitable material) flat tube 4110,4210 that forms, 4310 exemplary embodiment, and show these flat tubes 4110,4210,4310 before finishing moulding.In flat tube 4110,4210, these specific embodiments of 4310, material piece 4109,4209,4309 part 4105,4205,4305 are with the moulding of waveform mode, and between flat tube 4110,4210,4310 wide side 4122,4222,4322, extend, to form flow channel 4116,4216,4316.In addition, narrow side 4118,4120,4218,4220,4318,4320 each at least in part by material piece 4109,4209,4309 coupling part 4117,4119,4217,4219,4317,4319 and surround coupling part 4117,4119,4217,4219,4317,4319 longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 forms.

In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 52 and 53, stacked longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280 and coupling part 4117,4119,4217,4219 twice wall thickness at narrow side 4118,4120,4218,4220 places is provided, it is sufficiently stable for the flat tube 4110,4210 that wherein uses thin-walled thick (as mentioned above) relatively, many application of 4310 usually.In other embodiments, for example in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 54, can be by coupling part 4317,4319 one or more folding 4330 realize narrow side 4118,4120,4218,4220 relative stronger reinforcement.In other words, will can further be strengthened by one or more folding 4330 by longitudinal edge 4378,4380 these stacked parts in narrow side 4318,4320 place's material piece 4309.In these embodiments, these folding 4330 by moulding (for example, circular) are, when material piece 4309 is bent so that the first and second wide sides 4322,4324 when entering its detent position, define narrow side 4318,4320 at least in part.Alternatively or additionally, the longitudinal edge 4378,4380 at narrow side 4318,4320 places can for example be provided with one or more this reinforcements folding 4330 in the mode similar to group D flat tube embodiment as shown in figure 34.In utilize strengthening these embodiment of folding 4330, narrow side 4318,4320 comprises wall waveform part 4311 and wide side 4322,4324 the relative larger thickness of thickness.Therefore, can provide the part (for example having relatively wide side 4322/4324 and/or the waveform part 43211 of thin-walled) that is subject to relative larger stress for flat tube 4310 that enough reinforcements are provided.

Although for above any one in conjunction with the described embodiment of Figure 52-54, reinforcement folding 4330 can be used for any one of narrow side position, but should be noted that in other embodiments any one in the narrow side 4118,4120,4218,4220,4318,4320 can need not these and strengthen folding.In addition, in narrow side 4138,4238, this reinforcement at 4318 places folding 4130,4230,4330 quantity can with another narrow side 4120,4220, the quantity at 4320 places is different, and fold 4130 in the reinforcement that one of narrow side is located, 4230,4330 position (for example, only in the coupling part 4117,4119,4217,4219,4317, on 4319, or only with coupling part 4117,4119,4217,4219,4317,4319 stacked longitudinal edges 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378, on 4380) can fold 4130 with the reinforcement at another narrow side place, 4230,4330 position (for example, only connecting longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378, on 4380, or only respectively with longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 stacked coupling parts 4117,4119,4217,4219,4317, on 4319) difference.

In the single type flat tube 4110,4210 of above combination shown in Figure 52-54, among the 4310 described embodiment any one, material piece 4109,4209,4309 stacked longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 can be arranged in wall stage portion 4158,4160,4258,5260,4358,4360 (for example longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 residing narrow sides 4118,4218 places or near wall stage portion section 4158,4160,4258,5260,4358,4360).Like this, when longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 towards its detent position move to form single type flat tube 4110,4210,4310 the time (shown in the dotted arrow among Figure 52-54), longitudinal edge 4178,4180,4278,4280,4378,4380 can be contained in the wall stage portion 4158,4160,4258,5260,4358,4360 and be besieged thus.In certain embodiments, wall stage portion 4158,4160,4258,5260,4358,4360 is arranged on flat tube 4110,4210, each wide side 4122,4124,4222,4224,4322,4324 of 4310.

For the illustrated embodiment of Figure 51, the waveform part 4111,4211 shown in Figure 52-54,4311 crest and trough (perhaps have and defined flow channel 4116,4216,4316 difform middle part 4105,5205, other features of 4305) can solder brazing, welding or be fastened on the either side or both sides in single type flat tube 4110,4210,4310 the wide side 4122,4124,4222,4224,4322,4324 with any other suitable method.

As mentioned above, each in the single type flat tube 4110,4210,4310 shown in Figure 52-54 has be used to defining flow channel 4116,4216,4316 waveform part 4111,4211,4311.Define this waveform part 4111,4211,4311 part 4105,4205,4305 and can have in the described shape of above illustrated embodiment with reference to Figure 50 any one.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 52 and 54, for example, waveform part 4111,4311 has defined the many flow channels 4116,4316 that have triangular design substantially and have substantially same cross-sectional shape and size (but the two can change at single type flat tube 4110,4310 width).Figure 53 illustrates the waveform part 4211 that is provided with more than a kind of wave design, so that waveform part 4211 has formed the flow channel 4216 of at least two kinds of varying cross-section sizes.Waveform part 4211 shown in Figure 53 comprises a group of seven flow channels 4216 with each relatively large cross-sectional area, and another group of six flow channels 4216 of the cross-sectional area of each less.In other embodiment kinds, can adopt any other combinations of the flow channel shape and size in the cross section that is arranged in single type flat tube 4210.Utilize the diagram of this heat-exchanger pipeline 4210, can solve best the particular demands for heat exchanger.Although the shape of cross section of the flow channel 4216 of these change in size is general rectangular in Figure 53, but what can conceive is, waveform part 4216 can be at least in part defines the flow channel 4216 with other shapes based on the expectation specification of flat tube 4210.As mentioned above, the design of wavy cross-section W is not limited to design shown in this article.

Can make in the flat tube as herein described any one with many different modes.But, find and following one or more in greater detail manufacturing improvement by utilizing by the inventor, compare with many traditional flat tube manufacturing technologies, can make these pipelines with the efficient of significant cost savings, raising, higher speed and/or more reliable and reproducible mode.

By this improvement of inventor distribution with can from without the flat pipeline (that is, the continuous material supply from presenting by manufacturing equipment) of tip length separate according to flat tube of the present invention and thus to obtain having the mode of discrete flat tube of desired length relevant.As employed in this paper and the claims, term " without terminal pipeline " is used for being illustrated in desired length and is separated into before the discrete pipeline by to from each supplying (for example, coil) one or more material piece of advancing carry out moulding and make according to any one the flat pipeline among the embodiment as herein described, therefore combine before defining of above-mentioned " without terminal ".It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in cutting or otherwise separate at least in part the element that consisted of by the relative thin wall product and do not produce distortion, burr, burr or other at finished product and do not exist larger challenge aspect the desired character.Although have similar problem (it can solve with more following improvement equally) in by the product that more material of heavy wall consists of, in many cases, this problem causes unacceptable thin-walled finished product more continually.With reference to thin-walled flat tube embodiment as herein described, many among these embodiment have the wall thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.00591 inch).In certain embodiments, duct wall can have the thickness at least about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).In addition, have among the conduit assembly embodiment of insert at as herein described those, many among these embodiment have the insert material thickness that is not more than about 0.01mm (0.003937 inch).In certain embodiments, the material thickness of insert can be not less than about 0.03mm (0.00118 inch).

The inventor has been found that and can produce separately the flat tube of (that is, discrete) from one or more material piece of sending by manufacturing equipment rule without terminal pipeline in mode preferably by in the sheet at least one being beaten mouthful come.That is, at least a portion of pipeline is beaten mouth to help improve from the pipeline separation without terminal pipeline.This mouth of beating can be before carrying out forming operation to the upstream sheet material, and perhaps after sheet material has become the flat pipeline of continuous length, perhaps any other one or more stages of between carry out.In addition, this position of beating mouth can change between the different materials sheet (or the diverse location on the same material sheet) for the manufacture of the different piece of continuous flat pipeline.

In for the manufacture of the sheet metal tape of flat tube, form the advantage beat mouth and be, in certain embodiments, can substantially under finished product produces the situation of distortion, burr, burr and/or other features of not expecting, not make flat tube.In the pipeline separating treatment, use the processing beat mouth can be applied among the pipeline embodiment as herein described any one.

As the example of beating mouth and separating treatment for the manufacture of the single type flat tube, the separating treatment that those single type flat tube years shown in Figure 19-21,52 and 53 put is carried out reference, and wherein single type flat tube 1210,1310,1410,4110,4210 can be formed without terminal material piece by single.In Figure 52 and 53, single type flat tube 4110,4210 is depicted as the state that the manufacturing that is in before being near completion is processed, and must beat mouthful place separated before along the direction sealing of arrow shown in dotted line.Therefore, can beat mouth shown in Figure 52 and 53, forming before with the material piece bending.Similarly concept can be applied to the pipeline 1210,1310,1410 and other single type flat tubes as herein described shown in Figure 19-21.

As for the manufacture of this processing of two-piece type flat tube smoothly, reference is carried out in the processing that separates all two-piece type flat tubes as shown in figure 28.As above in greater detail, as shown in figure 28 two-piece type flat tube two-piece type flat tube 1910 has each wide side 1922 of having defined flat tube two-piece type flat tube 1910, the first and second parts 1912 of 1924,1914 and be accommodated in therebetween insert 1934.Also as previously discussed, the first and second parts 1912,1914 can be identical or substantially loved you are common, but can be opposite each other, a larger arcuate part 1968 with the less arcuate part 1962 on the longitudinal edge that surrounds at least in part another pipe section 1912 in the longitudinal edge of one of them pipe section 1914.At folding 1970 of any one or both places of the longitudinal edge of insert 1934.Although mouth and the separating treatment of beating described herein can be applied to have any one two-piece type flat tube in the described pipe section of above embodiment in conjunction with Figure 19 and the line size, but the thickness that has about 0.03-0.09mm (0.0011811-0.0035433 inch) in conjunction with the described insert 1934 of Figure 55-58, form the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 material piece has the thickness of about 0.03-0.15mm (0.0011811-0.0059055 inch), and only as example, the two-piece type flat tube 1910 of finishing has the minor diameter d of about 1-10mm (0.03937-0.3937 inch).In Figure 28, illustrate the two-piece type flat tube 1910 before being near completion, wherein beat the mouth become the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 and insert 1934 in, and be adjusted so that the first and second parts 1912,1914 and insert 1934 in beat the mouth aligned in general.

Figure 55-58 illustrates and as shown in figure 49 manufacturing line 3701 similar exemplary manufacturing lines 1900.Under this concrete condition, manufacturing line 1900 is designed to form three-member type flat tube assembly (namely, have and comprise that the first and second parts 1912,1914 also also comprise the three-member type flat tube that wipes the sweat as seeing 1934), and manufacturing line 3701 designed to be used form two-piece type flat tube assembly (that is, have defined the first and second parts 1212,1214,1312,1314,1412,1414,4112,4114,4212,4214, and also comprise insert 1234,1334,1434,4134,4234 single type flat tube).Although this paper describes manufacturing line 3701,1900 with reference to the manufacturing of the concrete flat tube embodiment that also describes in this patent application, this is only as example.Therefore, should be appreciated that the manufacturing that can be applied to the whole pipelines described in this application with reference to Figure 49 and the described processing of Figure 55-58.

Shown in Figure 55, what manufacturing line 1900 comprised three sheet material being used to form three-member type flat tube assembly coils R1, R2, R3, for example sheet of aluminium, aluminium alloy or other suitable materials.In this concrete example, coil the material of R1 for the manufacture of first 1912 or 1914 from first, for the manufacture of second portion 1914 or 1912, coil the material of R2 for the manufacture of the insert 1934 that be used for two-piece type flat tube 1910 from second from the 3rd sheet material of coiling R3.At least in part according to the path of material piece, coil with respect to other possible positions of manufacturing line and along with its by making the orientation of processing the flat tube 1910 that obtains, each is coiled R1, R2, R3 and can have for the manufacture of any one the sheet material in the part of the flat tube 1910 among other embodiment.

Figure 55 illustrates for distributing to the roller group 1921,1923 processed from the sheet material of coiling R1, R2 and R3 and providing, 1925.Every group of roller 1921,1923,1925 can be arranged as each circulation of having defined the sheet material of advancing such as what Figure 55 schematically showed.Any of roller in every group 1921,1923,1925 or a plurality of can be by suitable motor or prime mover driven with traction by the material of coiling R1, R2 and R3 and providing.In addition, the roller in every group 1921,1923,1925 any or a plurality of can be to allow freely advance result's dummy roll of corresponding material piece.In addition, any of the roller in every group 1921,1923,1925 can be carried out two functions, for example optionally drives by clutch, perhaps optionally drives with any traditional approach.Be further appreciated that material is coiled R1, R2 and R3 self can be by suitable motor or other prime mover driven.As example, what can conceive is, can be in certain embodiments moves with the linear velocity of about 100-200m/min (328.08-656.16ft/min) from the material piece of coiling R1, R2 and R3 supply.In other embodiments slower or faster speed be possible.

Control by any one one or more motor of coiling roller in R1, R2, R3 and/or the drive roller sets 1921,1923,1925 to driving each material, for example by optionally providing brake force in the material piece any one, can control the maximal rate of each material piece.In certain embodiments, this can make the speed of each material piece and other materials sheet controlled independently mutually---even be controlled to be that the one or both that makes in the sheet stops and control point that other are moved.In addition, roller group 1921,1923,1925 can be used for allowing the sheet material that is fed to downstream position is carried out some buffering.

Manufacturing line 1900 shown in Figure 55 comprises the first casher box 1927, and it is used for beating mouth 1929 coiling to form the material piece that R2 (for the manufacture of the insert 1934 of the flat tube 1910 that forms after a while) receives from second.This casher box 1927 is arranged in the place that begins that Figure 55 makes examination aobvious 1900, but alternatively is positioned in other embodiments the downstream of this position.Subsequently, come the material piece that forms insert 1934 is carried out moulding by the one group of roller that schematically is illustrated as moulding section 1931 among Figure 55.Coil the material piece of R1, R3 (for the manufacture of the first and second parts 1912,1914 in the flat tube 1910 that forms after a while) along the Distance Transmission that is defined by moulding section 1931 from first and second.Subsequently, reach the second casher box 1933 from the first material piece of coiling R1, and arrive three casher box 1935 adjacent with the second casher box 1933 from the second material piece of coiling R3.In other embodiments, three casher boxs 1927,1933,1935 can be in relative to each other and/or the position different with respect to other parts of manufacturing line 1900.In addition, in other embodiments, one or more can being used in the casher box 1927,1933,1935 beaten mouth to surpassing a material piece.

Continuation is with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 55, the second and the 3rd casher box 1933,1935 is respectively applied to form on the first and the 3rd material piece of flat tube 1910 beats mouthfuls 1929, and between second of insert 1934 through the second and the 3rd casher box 1933,1935 places first and the 3rd.The example of beating mouthful of making at the second and the 3rd casher box place is shown in Figure 57, and can with above-mentioned the first casher box 1927 in make to beat mouth similar.In the embodiment of Figure 57, beating mouth 1929 is the relatively meticulous openings that separate by at the grid 1937 of beating the preset distance place between the mouth 1929.But in other embodiments, each can be the zone that reduces thickness of material to beat mouth, and not necessarily need to be defined by the opening that passes material.In either case, the description that this paper is relevant with other features with shape, the size of beating mouth can be used equally.

Part as the manufacturing of flat tube two-piece type flat tube 1910 is processed disconnects grid 1937.Beat mouthfuls 1929 transversely length of extension in the material piece of being beaten mouthful (from first, second or the 3rd coil R1, R2 and R3) and be at least 1cm (0.3937 inch).In addition, in certain embodiments, the length of each grid 1937 is less than 1mm (0.03937 inch).

The shape (for example, length) of beating mouth 1929 shown in Figure 57 and layout are only as example.Can be in being used to form any materials sheet of flat tube 1910 use as required longer or shorter mouth 1929 and the longer or shorter grid 1937 beaten.For example, each beats mouthful 1929 shapes that may instead be the cardinal principle circle or can take other expectations, and it may cause still less or more beating mouth on material piece.In addition, as example, beating mouthfuls 1929 length or other shapes can change at the width of the material piece of being beaten mouthful, for example by near the wall longitudinal edge that is arranged on sheet longer at the center of sheet beat mouth and/or grid (perhaps opposite).The type and character of beating mouth 1929 is beaten the material properties of the sheet of mouth at least in part based on quilt.

Beat mouthful yardstick and relatively thin sheet material based on what can use as mentioned above, in certain embodiments, grid 1937 naked eyes of beating between the mouth 1929 are invisible.For many manufacturing operations, can each longitudinal edge by the material piece that grid 1937 is positioned beaten mouthful near, thereby the part that reduces material piece is accumulated in the possibility of these positions during sheet is after a while processed, realize some advantages.

Make among those flat tubes embodiment of flat tube in the one or more material piece (for example, the sheet metal tape) of wherein using as herein described, can beat mouth to separate at Da Kouchu to material piece.Make among those embodiment of flat tube with two or more material piece therein, can be to the two or more mouths of beating in the sheet, after this beating in the different sheets mouthful (for example can be aimed at, in the plane vertical with the sheet cardinal principle, the direct of travel of sheet, and can separate independent pipeline at Da Kouchu by the upstream materials of continuous length and/or the flat tube of being made by sheet).Can by to one or more the presenting by the speed of making one or more drivers of processing in the material piece controlled, realize that just the described mouth of beating is aimed in certain embodiments.More specifically, if the mouth of beating of any two or more material piece is not yet aimed at, one or more in the sheet are moved with different speed, know to beat and mouthful aim to separate independent pipeline in downstream position.About this point, should be noted that can beat the gate material sheet for the quilt for the manufacture of flat tube of any amount carries out this registration process.

For example, continue the embodiment with reference to figure 55-58, by being controlled to one or more drivers of adjustment sheet material speed relative to each other, aim in the alignment portion 1939 of manufacturing line 1900 from the mouth 1929 of beating in three material piece coiling R1, R2 and R3.Consider that it can be to beat mouthfuls 1929 and aim at a necessary fact for making that one or more speed is regulated, the alignment portion 1939 of Figure 55 places manufacturing line 1900 converging part 1941 upstreams usually.Converge part 1941 and be manufacturing line wherein flat tube 1910 parts (for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second parts 1912,1914 and insert 1934) be connected to each other to form flat tube two-piece type flat tube 1910 residing zones.Converge part 1941 and can comprise roller and other sheet forming elements, be used for so that the parts of flat tube 1910 converge to form without terminal pipeline 1910.In one or more upstream position the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 longitudinal edge neither one or those embodiment of more not finishing, converge part 1941 and can also comprise that roller and/or other forming elements are to carry out other forming operations to the first and second parts 1912,1914 longitudinal edge.

And then the material of the continuous length of this operating position upstream can be the flat pipeline of finishing of continuous length.Alternatively, and then the material of the continuous length of upstream, separation point position can be the one or more material piece that are used to form the flat pipeline of any stage that is in this moulding.For example, in certain embodiments, beating after mouth aimed in material piece can be combined as the material piece that part forms the flat pipeline of finishing of continuous length, so that the pipeline that can obtain finishing at after separating.As a result, can obtain not having in the flat tube end the independent pipeline of impression.

In some structures of manufacturing line, beat mouth and usually formed by one or more mouth rollers of beating.For example, manufacturing line can comprise at least one air exercise mouthful roller.One in this pair roller can be along with the one or more of at least a portion that will be used to form flat tube advance without the terminal material sheet, another roller of this centering can be equipped with for form the instrument beaten mouthful (for example, one or more make the mouth cutter or play a mouth mould) in one or more material piece.Figure 56 and 57 schematically illustrates mouthful processing of beating according to the embodiment of the invention.For simplified characterization, below describing will be for above-mentioned the first casher box 1927.But, identical description can be applied to other casher boxs 1933,1935 in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 55-58 equally, but again among other embodiment one or more in the casher box can be different (for example, can have different cutters, only use single roller rather than two rollers etc.).The quantity of beating mouthful as mentioned above, and the position of type and casher box can be different.For the change of these features can be at least in part based on the expectation specification of the flat tube 1910 of in manufacturing line 1900, making.

With reference to the embodiment of Figure 56 and 57, casher box 1927 comprises the air exercise mouthful roller with first dozen of mouth roller 1943 and second dozen of mouth roller 1945.In certain embodiments, basis is by the orientation of the sheet of beating a mouthful roller 1943,1945 dozens of mouths and the adjacent part of manufacturing line 1900 at least in part, and these dozens mouth roller 1943,1945 can be arranged with other orientation of any expectation.The first roller 1943 be parallel to one or more the advancing in the material piece of process, and guiding one or more in the material piece (from coiling R1, R2 and R3) of process, and the bossed mouth mould 1947 of beating of lower roll 1945 tools.

For preventing accumulating along with beating a mouthful generation sheet, the some embodiments of the present invention utilization has the one or more mouthful rollers of beating of playing mouth cutter or mould that contain position of readiness.At position of readiness, play at least one rotation in mouthful roller or transfer to wherein one or more material piece freely through beating the position of mouthful roller.

For example, second roller 1945 shown in Figure 56 has the driving mechanism (not shown) so that second roller 1945 can with beat mouthful mould 1947 remain on wherein beat mouthful mould 1947 not with the position of readiness that cooperates of the material piece from coiling R1, R2 and R3 of process.At the position of readiness of second roller 1945, play mouthful mould 1947 and can rotate certain distance from the position shown in Figure 56 to avoid this cooperation, for example by spending to the cardinal principle horizontal level around second roller 1945 rotations about 90.In other embodiments, in the roller 1943,1945 any one or both can be installed in respect on each axle of moving of the sheet of process, thereby can make in the roller 1943,1945 any one or both with respect to the sheet of process occur to shift and defined position of readiness and beaten mouth or operating position.

For to beat mouthful (for example, again with reference to the illustrated embodiment of figure 55-58) from the second material piece of coiling R2 supply, second roller 1945 can be actuated into dozen mouth or operating position, for example the top shown in Figure 56 and 57 and the vertical position of cardinal principle.This actuating can be carried out so that second roller rotates to certain rotating speed from position of readiness by the motor that is connected to second roller, actuator or other drivers and beat mouth or operating position.In the first and second rollers 1943,1945 Da Kou position, play mouthful mould 1947 and cooperates from the second material piece of coiling the R2 supply, and mouth 1929 is beaten in formation therein.In certain embodiments, the rotating speed of second roller 1945 (therefore, its peripheral speed) is higher than the transmission speed of material piece, can not accumulate beating mouthful operating period material piece guaranteeing.In other embodiments, because this purpose, two rollers 1943,1945 rotating speed (therefore, its peripheral speed) are higher than the transmission speed of material piece.Should be noted that the employed term of this paper and claims " operating position " or " Da Kou position " are not to represent individually or mean that one or more rollers of indication are static, but be illustrated in beat mouthful moment one or more rollers the position.

In certain embodiments, any one in the roller 1943,1945 of casher box 1927 or both rotating ratios the speed of material piece of process faster.After the generation that the Da Kou position is beaten mouthful, any one or both that beat in mouthful roller 1943,1945 can move back to position of readiness, to restart when playing mouthful processing next time.In certain embodiments, playing the movement of getting back to position of readiness of any one or both in mouthful roller 1943,1945 can be by along carrying out towards the one or more mouth rollers 1943,1945 (rather than by the one or more rollers 1943 of switching, direction of rotation of 1945) of beating of the identical direction rotation in Da Kou position with making one or more rollers 1943,1945.Therefore, as mentioned above an air exercise mouthful roller 1943,1945 driving can help to avoid the accumulating of sheet material of process.

What can conceive is, can make the end processed at least in part because the above-mentioned mouthful pipeline that separates finished product of beating.In certain embodiments, near the terminal of manufacturing line or its, pipeline is separated at Da Kouchu.In certain embodiments, the separation of pipeline can be by realizing with a pair of middle roll breakage or single middle roll breakage separately.For example, in the embodiment of Figure 58, what middle roll breakage 1949 and bar 1951 were used for advancing between roll breakage 1949 and bar 1951 is separated into independent finished product flat tube 1910 without terminal pipeline.Middle roll breakage 1949 is equipped with outstanding middle breaking 1951 or other instruments, and the grid 1937 that is used for beating as previously mentioned between the mouth 1929 disconnects.

Middle roll breakage 1949 and/or bar 1951 can be controlled, with comprise wherein the pipeline of the process position of readiness that can not slow down or carry out other operations thereon, and wherein roll breakage 1949 and/or bar 1951 move with the pipeline of the process interruption position that cooperates and pipeline is being beaten mouth 1929 places and separated.For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 58, middle roll breakage 1949 can towards or leave interruption position rotation, in described interruption position, the middle breaking 1951 of middle roll breakage 1949 cooperates with flat pipeline and process is interrupted bar 1951, thereby the flat pipeline of advancing between middle roll breakage 1949 and the interruption bar 1951 is disconnected at the line place of beating mouth 1929 (in certain embodiments, also i.e. cutting).In other embodiments, middle roll breakage 1949 and/or bar 1951 shift to define interruption position and the position of readiness that interrupts platform with respect to flat pipeline.

Although can by middle roll breakage 1949 and the use of interrupting bar 1951 flat tube be disconnected as mentioned above, but in other embodiments, mouthful 1929 grids that define 1937 of beating by flat pipeline do not disconnect by cutter or other similar tool, but alternatively by on flat pipeline, peeling off along vertically produce a power (for example, passing through the roller that cooperates with pipeline and advance with the speed higher than pipeline by making without terminal pipeline) without the cardinal principle of terminal pipeline.Through experiment, find that this separate mode can cause the pipeline end of expecting as mentioned above.

In certain embodiments, one or more rollers 1949 of the part that is used for the interruption pipeline of manufacturing line can be used for helping pipeline is advanced along manufacturing line.This also is like this for casher box 1927 as herein described, 1933,1935.Be further noted that, in any embodiment as herein described, arbitrarily casher box 1927,1933,1935 roller and/or the mould on the middle roll breakage 1949, cutter or other instruments are recoverable, so that this roller is actuated to it not carried out other operations be used to pipeline is advanced.In this case, the retrieving position of instrument also can define position of readiness as herein described.

Compare with many traditional flat tube manufacturing technologies, the additional aspect of making flat tube as herein described also can make these pipelines make with the efficient of significant cost savings, raising, higher speed and/or more reliable and reproducible mode.As will be described, some in these additional aspect relate to the mode of the parts that form flat tube and/or the mode that these parts combine to produce flat tube.Only as example, referring now to the two-piece type pipeline (more specifically, utilize shown in Figure 55 and aforesaid manufacturing line is 1900 that make, as shown in figure 28 and aforesaid two-piece type pipeline 1910) manufacturing these processing are described.The following description and drawings can be applied to any other two-piece type pipeline as herein described (having or do not have insert) equally.In addition, except different or incompatible description, the following description and drawings can be applied to any single type pipeline as herein described (having or do not have insert) equally.

The inventor have been found that can be by assembled conduit assembly 1910 the first and second parts 1912,1914 and the ad hoc fashion of insert 1934 obtain significant advantage.For example in certain embodiments, interior insert 1934 is by with the vertical rolling of ripple mode along manufacturing line 1900, and is inserted between two flat tube parts 1912,1914 of the flat tube 1910 that formed afterwards.Two flat tube parts 1912,1914 longitudinal edge can be by rolling or otherwise be formed with vertically on arch edge, after this arch edge can combine to be fitted to each other, and forms flat tube 1910 as shown in figure 28.This processing is schematically illustrated in Figure 55,59 and 60, and now with more detailed description.

As previously mentioned, Figure 55 shows supply and will three sheet material of the sheet material of use coil R1, R2 and R3 when making flat tube 1910.As mentioned above, from the material piece of coiling R1, R2 and R3 for the manufacture of the first pipe section 1912, insert 1934 (in certain embodiments, it uses the widest material piece) and second pipe part 1914.The material piece that is used to form these parts along relative to each other substantially parallel direction advance by illustrated manufacturing line 1900.

Although it is possible that other manufacturing lines are arranged, the manufacturing of flat tube 1910 begins with the formation of insert 1934 in the first of manufacturing line 1900 usually in the manufacturing line 1900 shown in Figure 55.In certain embodiments, be used to form the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 material piece can be directed in indeformable situation.In such an embodiment, when the processing of form inserting the insert 1934 of winding up the case has been finished, form the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 processing begins usually.Alternatively, can form insert 1934 at the one or more places in the same position of manufacturing line 1900 in, the one or both in these material piece is carried out one or more formation operation.In many cases, owing to be used to form the fact that the deflection of the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 material can less (for example seeing flat tube assembly shown in Figure 28), make the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 processing can significantly be shorter than the processing for the manufacture of insert 1934.

Two-piece type flat tube 1910 as shown in figure 28 has one and second pipe part 1912,1914 identical or that cardinal principle is identical.The manufacturing line 1900 of employing shown in Figure 55 made these parts 1912,1914.Utilize its shape identical or cardinal principle is identical, before part 1912,1914 was bonded together, a part 1912 was with respect to another part reversing.As mentioned above, the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 1900 has format roll or other the suitable formers for the manufacture of above-mentioned part 1912,1914 arch edge.

In some cases, be used for being positioned in the group that two pipe sections 1912,1914 produce the format roll of longitudinal edge of same types or other suitable equipments the identical cross side (for example, for the manufacture of the group that just is arranged in adjacent to each other two parts 1912 on the plane of the material piece of moulding, 1914 larger arch longitudinal edge) of manufacturing line 1900.In these and other embodiment, format roll or other suitable formers can be arranged so that some or all latter two part 1912,1914 in forming longitudinal edge has identical orientation.In these embodiments, manufacturing line 1900 can be provided with suitable roller so that in the part 1912,1914 one around the longitudinal axis upset, so that two parts 1912,1914 can engage in converging in the part 1941 of manufacturing line 1900.In other embodiments, format roll or other suitable equipment of embarking on journey can be arranged so that in manufacturing line 1900 after in forming arch edge some or all, two parts 1912,1914 have had the orientation (that is, its vertical side reversing) of relative to each other reversing.In these embodiments, two parts 1912,1914 can be parallel to each other, and can be in the combination in the part 1941 that converges of manufacturing line 1900.

As above in conjunction with Figure 28 in greater detail, a longitudinal edge of the first pipe section 1912 surrounds the corresponding longitudinal edge of second pipe part 1914, and the relative longitudinal edge of the first pipe section surrounds the corresponding relatively longitudinal edge of second pipe part 1914, so that pipe section 1912,1914 is bonded together.In these and other embodiment that can make in manufacturing line 1900 as herein described, the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 can be identical or substantially identical.In other embodiment that also can in manufacturing line 1900, make as herein described, the first and second pipe sections 1912, the 1914th, different, for example the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 each comprise the situation of two less arcuate parts or two larger arcuate parts.

Continue to engage flat tube assembly shown in Figure 28 with reference to the embodiment of figure 55-60, the interior insert 1934 that can make assembly in the 3rd roller group is with for being introduced between first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 of two-piece type pipeline 1910.This processes in Figure 59 schematically diagram, and can form or substantially be completed into (such as the embodiment among Figure 59) at the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 and carry out afterwards.In this embodiment, the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 are not in a plane, but in having each other two planes of distance, and make that the format roll of insert 1934 or other suitable formers are positioned as so that the material piece that forms insert 1934 between formation the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 material piece.This allows insert 1934 " to wear " to enter between two pipe sections 1912,1914.In other words, the layout of the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 1900 so that the material piece that is used to form insert 1934 be used to form between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 the material piece.

With reference to Figure 59, can carry out insertion such as the insert 1934 of just having described between first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 of advancing being essentially parallel to each other along the first and second pipe sections 1912 in the manufacturing line 1900,1914 longitudinal component.But, in other embodiments, the first and second pipe sections 1912, the first and second wide sides 1922 of 1914,1924 residing planes are not necessarily parallel to each other in any position except the position of converging part 1941 upstreams of manufacturing line 1900 and then.

In illustrated embodiment (seeing Figure 59 (a)) and other embodiment, before inserting insert 1934 between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914, the material piece that is used to form insert 1934 is in substantially parallel relationship to any one or both that are used to form in the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 the material piece.In other embodiments, other orientation at this three sheets of insert handling upstream are possible.But, in certain embodiments, interior insert 1934 is inserted into processing between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 be by the orientation with insert 1934 between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 be adjusted to the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 plane in the orientation of at least one inclination.For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 59, interior insert 1934 is introduced between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 with states that both tilt with respect to the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 plane.

Use such as this paper and claims, 1934 times functions of various forms of terms " inclination " expression insert are for pipe section 1912,1914 wide side 1922,1924 position (in certain embodiments, it can be parallel to each other).About this point, should be noted that either side in the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 the wide side 1922,1924 or both sides can be in and out-of-level plane in, insert 1934 will tilt with respect to this non-level orientation thus.

This tilts to insert and can carry out in the position range that converges part 1941 upstreams of manufacturing line 1900, and occurs about the incipient stage of manufacturing line 1900 greatly in certain embodiments.In certain embodiments, in at least one position for the manufacture of the insert 1934 between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 the sheet, for example insert handling begin the place, the angle of insert 1934 (with respect at least one wide side 1922, the 1924 residing planes in the pipe section 1912,1914) can be at least about 25 degree.In other embodiments, this angle is to spend to obtain good results of property at least about 30.In addition, in certain embodiments, at least one position for the manufacture of the insert 1934 between the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 the sheet, for example insert handling begin the place, the angle of insert 1934 is not more than about 45 degree as mentioned above.In other embodiments, this angle is not more than about 40 and spends to obtain good results of property.

Subsequently, insert 1934 was parallel or be in substantially parallel relationship to the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 wide side 1922,1924 orientation in interior insert 1934 entered wherein.Figure 59 (b)-(e) show insert 1934 obliquity change or reduce, and the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 converge gradually to keep insert 1934 between the two at it.

Any one in the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of interior insert 1934 or both be incorporated in the narrow side of flat tube 1910 among those embodiment (being similar to the embodiment of Figure 28) therein, longitudinal edge 1938,1940 shape can provide at narrow side 1918,1920 places closely cooperating against the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 inner surface.For example, in the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of insert 1934 any one or both are arches or have among a series of those embodiment of folding 1970 therein, and these features can be incorporated in the inside of the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 arch longitudinal edge.In these and other embodiment of insert 1934, a longitudinal edge 1938 of insert 1934 can place in the longitudinal arched edge of the first wall part 1912, this moment or after this insert 1934 can tilt with respect to the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 wide side 1922,1924.

As mentioned above, the inclination of insert 1934 can be reduced to zero (that is, insert 1934 can move to and the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 wide side 1922,1924 parallel or parallel positions substantially).Like this, the relative longitudinal edge 1940 of insert 1934 can be taked the correct position of essence in the longitudinal arched edge of second pipe part 1914.Combine during the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 both arbitrary portions that can manage herein, after this shown in Figure 59 (e), the first and second pipe sections 1912 around 1914, the sealing of 1914 longitudinal edge.Should be noted that by sealing flat tube 1910 as described herein, in certain embodiments, insert insert 1934 deforms.Insert 1934 in the flat tube 1910 of sealing can be against the wide side of flat tube 1910 or narrow side 1922,1924,1918,1920 and remain under the compressive state, and insert 1934 deforms insert 1934 to be inserted into (for example in Figure 55-60) among those embodiment in the flat tube especially therein.

In the illustrated embodiment, by with as above in conjunction with Figure 25,26 and folding 28 embodiment more detailed description and the mode that illustrates that the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 adjacent longitudinal edge is crooked (namely, by the larger arcuate part of longitudinal edge is crooked around the less arcuate part of adjacent pipe section 1912,1914 longitudinal edge), the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 sealing are provided.Therefore, the manufacturing line shown in Figure 55 1900 can be for the manufacture of any one or both in the longitudinal edge of insert 1934 wherein in narrow side 1918,1920 places of flat tube 1910 be incorporated in pipe section 1912, each corresponding curved edge of 1914.

In manufacturing line 1900 after the sealing of flat tube 1910, the flat tube 1910 of finishing can be installed to one or more groups fin or other element (not shown), and can also be fastened to a case (header) of heat exchanger (also not shown).In many examples, a case of heat exchanger by solder brazing, is brazed to flat tube 1910 as fin or other heat exchanger elements in the solder brazing stove, and flat tube 1910 is brazed to its insert 1934.

Insert 1934 can have this paper in the described shape of flat tube insert and the feature any one.In many these embodiment, insert 1934 is formed by smooth original material sheet.Therefore, when insert 1934 formation were passed through the flow channel 1916 of pipeline 1910 by ripple or other features surely with at least part of boundary of a piece of land, the width of insert 1934 can reduce.This processing is schematically illustrated in Figure 60, and Figure 60 illustrates wherein along with sheet (is represented) along the longitudinal front by manufacturing line 1900 and then produced continuously the material piece of ripple 1952 by format roll 1955 by the straight arrows among Figure 60.Although three this format rolls 1955 have been shown among Figure 60, the format roll 1955 that manufacturing line 1900 can have an any amount with the expectation ripple 1952 that produces any amount or this paper for described other insert features of various insert embodiment.The type of ripple or other wall features and position need can determine how many format rolls 1955 at least in part in manufacturing line 1900.For example, insert 1934 comprises among some embodiment of continuous wave pattern 1952 (for example those shown in Figure 25-34) therein, need the format roll group (each the roller group that for example, is defined by the Last pair of rolls of the every side of material piece) of respective numbers to come the ripple 1952 that successfully forms as described herein.Therefore, in certain embodiments, manufacturing line 1900 can extend about 20m (65.62 feet) or larger length.

Manufacturing line 1900 can also comprise the roller that is used to form insert 1,934 1955 more than a type.For example, different rollers 1955 can be used to form along the dissimilar ripple 1952 of the width of insert 1934.As another example, one or more rollers 1955 can be cutting rollers, it is used for producing slit in material piece, to form after a while ripple (for example described with any embodiment of upper set Figure 35-45, it is by crooked with the part adjacent with slit of sheet) in this material piece.This roller 1955 of any amount can be combined with to produce any insert type as herein described with the roller (for example, it is used for the part of material piece crooked) of the other types of any amount.

In certain embodiments, for example shown in Figure 60, the manufacturing of insert 1934 is processed and is comprised the at first one or more centers of formation ripple 1952 in material piece, and further forms subsequently the ripple 1952 of the longitudinal edge of more close insert 1934.More specifically, as example, with reference to the embodiment of Figure 60, first group (that is, roller group of the leftmost side among Figure 60) of roller 1955 comprises that two grooves 1957 are to form corresponding ripple 1952 in the material piece of process.Next group of roller 1955 be included in through material piece in form four grooves 1957 of corresponding ripple 1952.This processing can continue to produce the as expected ripple of quantity in material piece.Before this ripple forms, during or random time point afterwards, any one in the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of insert 1934 or both can be formed as and take arbitrary shape, comprise described herein and/or shown in arbitrary shape.For example, after forming whole ripples 1952, the longitudinal edge 1938,1940 of the insert 1934 of making in the embodiment of Figure 55-60 both is provided with arch, such as Figure 28 the best illustrate.

In certain embodiments, the width that the Width that is used to form the sheet of insert 1934 is used to form the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 sheet reduces larger degree.This can be for example when being used to form the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 only (or mainly) situation when being out of shape at its relative longitudinal edge place, for example situation of two-piece type flat tube shown in Figure 28.The advantage of this flat tube structure be the level and smooth wide side 1922,1924 of flat tube 1910 can provide flat tube 1910 wide side 1922,1924 with insert 1934 between and/or the wide side 1922 of flat tube 10,1924 with the fin that is installed to flat tube 1910 or other element (not shown) between solder brazing engage relative better surperficial.

Insert 1934 penetrates between two pipe sections 1912,1914 those embodiment of (and also can move from obliquity as mentioned above be parallel or parallel position substantially) therein, can be positioned at wherein the upstream that two pipe sections 1912,1914 combine to seal flat tube 1910 residing positions for the manufacture of the format roll of insert 1934 or other suitable formers.Therefore, some or all in the feature of insert 1934 can form before this position.But in other embodiments, wherein two pipe sections 1912,1914 that some or all in the insert former can be positioned at manufacturing line combine to seal the same section of flat tube 1910 residing positions.Therefore, when pipe section 1912,1914 combines to seal, and/or insert 1934 is changed into and pipe section 1912,1914 wide side 1922,1024 parallel or substantially during parallel position, insert 1934 can still be in the forming processes from obliquity as mentioned above.

In some embodiment of manufacturing line 1900, can regulate to make flat tube 1910 and/or the insert 1934 with varying cross-section size and characteristic for the manufacture of one or more roller group of all parts in flat tube 1910 and the insert 1934.Alternatively or additionally, the advantage of some embodiment of manufacturing line 1900 is can be replaced with other groups fully for the manufacture of the one or more roller groups (being also referred to as the roller row) of any one in the flat tube component parts, forms flat tube 1910 and/or insert 1934 with different scale and characteristic.Should be noted that the roller group with independent controllability can make in relatively more cost-effective and efficient mode usually.

Other characteristic Design that can define significant manufacturing advantage of manufacturing line 1900 are for generation of the flexibility according to the width aspect of the sheet of the flat tube of the embodiment of the invention.In certain embodiments, one or more in the material piece can be formed with extra folding and/or define extra flow channel as required, to utilize the whole width of sheet.For example (and continuing with reference to the machining production line embodiment shown in Figure 55-60), for the manufacture of the width of the material piece of interior insert 1934 usually greater than the width for the manufacture of the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 material piece.In certain embodiments, this can be that insert 1934 has ripple 1952 and the longitudinal edge 1938 of distortion, 1942 result, and the first and second pipe sections 1912,1914 only have the longitudinal edge of distortion or otherwise need less material width to form pipe section 1912,1914.The additional width that is used to form the material piece of insert 1934 can be for generation of other features of insert 1934, for example in the narrow side 1918 of flat tube 1910, one or more extra fold at 1920 places, and/or one or more extra fold by the flow channel 1916 of flat tube 1910 have been defined.

Other embodiment of the present invention also relate to the mode that mode, flat tube and fin component that flat tube as herein described can make and this assembly can make and/or are combined in flat tube and fin component in the heat exchange equipment.Only as example, referring now to the manufacturing of two-piece type pipeline, and more specifically these aspects of the present invention are described and are explained in reference as shown in figure 28 with aforesaid two-piece type flat tube 1910.The following description and drawings can be applied to any one the manufacturing of other two-piece type flat tubes as herein described (having or do not have insert) equally.Except different or incompatible descriptions, the following description and drawings can be applied to also to be any one the manufacturing in the single type pipeline as herein described (having or do not have insert) equally.

Some advantages with pipeline 1910 of fin formed according to the present invention comprise the relatively simple method of making this assembly for the manufacture of dissimilar heat exchangers.In some embodiments of the invention, without terminal pipeline flat tube 1910 (namely, continuous flat tube 1910 produces by forming from one or more upstream positions sheet material without interruption and with sheet material), for example shown in Figure 61,64 and 65 without terminal pipeline flat tube 1910 can be along the manufacturing line transmission being installed at least one group of fin 1959 without terminal pipeline 1910.Should be appreciated that, to fin 1959 being connected to flat tube or can in the situation that does not limit the scope of the invention, using interchangeably (unless indicating on the contrary) at this paper without the reference of the processing of terminal pipeline.In certain embodiments, be provided with in this way one group of fin 1959 without the only side in two wide sides 1922,1924 of terminal pipeline 1910.The flat tube 1910 that only is provided with fin 1959 in a side can for example be used in the edge of heat exchanger core 1965, this flat tube 1910 can be positioned as towards the inboard in the case, so that this flat tube 1910 is adjacent with one group of fin 1959 of adjacent channel 1910, perhaps towards the outside so that this group fin 1959 is adjacent with one group of fin 1959 of adjacent channel 1910.In other embodiments, for example shown in Figure 61-66, all be provided with in this way separately one group of fin 1959 without two wide sides 1922,1924 of terminal pipeline 1910.In both cases, each is organized fin 1959 and can define and the wide side 1922 of flat tube 1910,1924 two-dimentional interface.

Many sheet metal structures by comprising aluminium (for example, aluminum or aluminum alloy) shown in this paper and among the flat tube of the following stated and the fin embodiment, but in other embodiments, other metals and non-metal plate material can alternatively use.In certain embodiments, be provided with solder brazing layer (not shown) for the manufacture of the material piece of flat tube 1910 in its at least one side, and do not have the solder brazing coating for the manufacture of the material piece of fin 1959.The diverse location of in other embodiments, solder brazing coating is possible.

Although the various aspects that have the pipeline manufacturing of fin and have a pipeline feature of fin as herein described can be applied to have the flat tube of any yardstick, also obtaining unique advantage in the application for the flat tube 1910 that is formed by thin material relatively as herein described for it.Only as example, relatively thin pipeline material can have the tinuous production manufacturing (following more detailed description) of the flat tube 1910 of fin, and it before had been impossible.In certain embodiments, the ratio material of flat tube has the thickness that is not more than about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch).But, in other embodiments, the inventor has been found that the wall material of the flat tube with the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch) provides with overall performance, the manufacturability of the heat exchanger that uses this flat tube and can't use more possible the wall of thick-wall materials to construct (as described herein) relevant remarkable results of property.In addition, although can use in other embodiments the wall material thickness that is not less than about 0.30mm (0.00118 inch), but in certain embodiments, the wall material thickness that is not less than the flat tube of about 0.050mm (that is, being not less than about 0.0019685 inch) provides good intensity and corrosion resistance.

As explained in more detail below, other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline as herein described and heat exchanger can and be processed with a manufacturing technology and make, and can comprise corrosion-resistant features, for example shown in Figure 92-95 and those technology and the processing of the following stated.After this many manufacturing processing that relate to and technology and corrosion-resistant features are particularly advantageous when other parts of the heat-exchanger pipeline that is applied to have the material thickness that significantly reduces and heat exchanger.In addition, these technology, processing and corrosion-resistant features provide the remarkable advantage relevant with the overall performance of the flat tube of being made by this material and heat exchanger.

Flat tube 1910 in the illustrated embodiment is the two-piece type flat tubes with insert.As example, with reference to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 66, each can have minor diameter d at least about 0.8mm (0.031496 inch) so that good results of property to be provided flat tube 1910 in many application.In addition, the minor diameter d that is not more than about 2.0mm (0.07874 inch) provides good results of property in many application.But, in certain embodiments, used the maximum pipeline minor diameter d that is not more than about 1.5mm (0.059055 inch).Among other flat tubes embodiment as herein described any one (the extra part structure that single-piece or any amount for example, are only arranged) can be for generation of the pipeline with fin of the present invention.In addition, in other embodiments, can alternatively use above in conjunction with whole flat tube embodiment described other minor diameters d and major diameter D disclosed herein.

Being manufactured on only to be shown schematically as among Figure 61 of flat tube 1910 in the illustrated embodiment and each group fin 1959 carried out the part of the upstream manufacturing line that its expression is not shown in further detail to 1971,1973 by a small amount of roller.This upstream manufacturing line can also comprise the intermediate buffering part for the feed rate of control flat tube 1910 and/or fin 1959.In addition, although two pair rollers shown in Figure 61 should be noted that and can alternatively use in certain embodiments single upstream fin manufacturing line 1973 to schematically show the manufacturing of two groups of fins 1959.

Fin is installed to the position upstream at flat tube place therein, and can be used in the flat tube that produces the pipeline with fin can be by solder brazing as herein described, welding or any other suitable method along one or more vertical undercut sealing.The smooth joint that this pipeline manufacturing for example can be used between the group of wherein flat tube 1910 and fin 1959 is those embodiment of bonding joint.Alternatively, in the manufacture process of the pipeline with fin, flat tube 1910 can engage by solder brazing, welding or solder.

Above in conjunction with Figure 28 more detailed description the flat tube 1910 shown in Figure 61-66,68 and 69.As above note, with the flat tube with fin and make relevant description and accompanying drawing can be applied in other single types as herein described and the two-piece type pipeline (having or do not have insert) any one manufacturing equally.Only as example, Figure 67 illustrate can be in the flat tube embodiment with fin as herein described any one in use and above in conjunction with Fig. 7 another flat tube 310 in greater detail.In certain embodiments, the flat tube shown in Figure 67 310 has the wall thickness of about 0.10mm (0.003937 inch).It is highly stable that of this concrete flat tube 310 is characterised in that narrow side 318,320 is designed to.For example, narrow side 318 comprises one group folding 330.Another of this flat tube 310 is characterised in that by single lap 328 or by many groups of folding 328 flat tube 310 is divided into many flow channels 316 in other embodiments.In certain embodiments, the distance between folding 330 can be less than 1.0mm (0.003937 inch).But this distance can be increased to cm range.As above in conjunction with the embodiment shown in Fig. 1-13 in greater detail, should note, form folding 330 of narrow side 318 and can be designed as and have different length and/or shape, therefore relatively the raising of flat tube 310 variations in temperature load opposing, the intensity of pressure and/or impact strength.

Fin 1959 as herein described can have any desired thickness, and in certain embodiments can be by making without the terminal material sheet.But the use that is not more than the fin 1959 that the material piece of about 0.09mm (0.0035433 inch) forms by thickness can provide good results of property in many application.In addition, can in many application, provide good results of property by having the material piece that is not less than about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch) thickness.

Figure 63 illustrates the optional structure of the fin 1959 that can use in various embodiment of the present invention.Fin 1959 shown in Figure 61,62,64-66 and 68-68 is corresponding to the fin 1959 shown in Figure 63 (a).But, be appreciated that other designs of fin 1959 are possible, and drop in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As example, with reference to Figure 66, the wall thickness of fin 1959 can be about 0.06mm (0.0023622 inch), and can have the height of about 3.00mm (0.011811 inch).Can observe, after the manufacturing that the fin 1959 of the adjacent sets of wherein adjacent flat pipeline 1910 as herein described abuts against each other was processed, therefore between two flat tubes 1910 can be about 6.0mm (0.23622 inch) apart from 2H.

The group of fin 1959 can by bonding or by metal bond (for example, welding, solder brazing or solder) be fastened to the wide side 1922,1924 of flat tube 1910, wherein wide side 1922,1924 flat surfaces provide the remarkable surface area that is used for this installation.In certain embodiments, smooth between one or more groups of flat tube 1910 and fin 1959 engages the wide side 1922 that defined wall flat tube 1910,1924 less surface areas.

The group that joins the fin 1959 of flat tube 1910 to as described herein can be with many different modes with respect to flat tube 1910 orientations.For example, on the flat tube 1910 fin 1959 vertically can be substantially perpendicular to flat tube 1910 vertically.But the inventor has been found that the group of fin 1959 and can alternatively join flat tube to (namely, its wide side 1922,1924), so that fin 1959 vertically with respect to flat tube 1910 vertically and with should be vertically vertical direction (in many application, the direction of air-flow) inclination.The example of this fin 1959 is shown in Figure 68 and 69, and Figure 68 and 69 shows another group fin 1959 of the wide side 1922 that is brazed to another flat tube 1910.Therefore, shown in the arrow among Figure 68, the air-flow by one group of fin 1959 is not parallel to the air-flow by another group fin 1959.Figure 68 represents among those embodiment of the front view of group under the use state of fin 1959 therein, cooling-air in one group of fin 1959 deflects down from the cooling-air of incident level, and the cooling-air in another group fin 1959 is upwards guided from the cooling-air of incident level.

In certain embodiments, as mentioned above for the inclination angle of each fins group be not less than about 8 ° (fin 1959 vertically with flat tube 1910 vertically between measurement) in many application, to obtain good results of property.In addition, in certain embodiments, this inclination angle be not more than about 8 ° in many application, to obtain good results of property.In some embodiment (comprising wherein as described in more detail below those the adjacent embodiment of another group fin 1959 on one group of fin 1959 and another flat tube 1910 on the flat tube 1910), this inclination of one group of fin 1959 can be along the direction (for example, see Figure 68 and 69) different from the inclination of adjacent another group fin 1959.

In some embodiments of the invention, passing through in the situation of bond pad 1969 continuously or with any interrupt mode transmission without terminal flat tube 1910 and one or more groups fin 1959, can use braze welding method, its example is schematically illustrated in Figure 61 and 64.One or more places in this bond pad 1969, the group of these fins 1959 can be brazed to without terminal flat tube 1910, in certain embodiments, any one in the described bond pad or all be positioned at the later phases place of the flat tube manufacturing line with fin.Usually, bond pad for example can be to utilize inductive coil to produce the less equipment of needed solder brazing temperature.Should be noted that solder brazing parameter (therefore type and the power of employed one or more bond pad 1969) can change according to the expectation parameter of flat tube 1910.

In certain embodiments, when the group of fin 1959 was brazed to the wide side 1922,1924 of flat tube 1910, the group of fin 1959 can be with the wide side 1922,1924 of predetermined force retaining against flat tube 1910.Although processing, the pipeline manufacturing can carry out in the upstream of fin installation process, but by when the group with fin 1959 is installed to flat tube 1910 with all parts of flat tube (for example, at least one longitudinal edge that insert 1934 is joined to flat tube 1910, flat tube 1910 is to be used for pipe sealing etc.) solder brazing or otherwise engage, can realize significant advantage.But before flat tube 1910 reaches the fin mounting portion of manufacturing line, in the situation that one or more vertical undercut of flat tube 1910 has been finished, can in making the framework of processing, use flat tube 1910 therein.For example, with reference to Figure 64 and 65, the group of fin 1959 can be to join the wide side 1922,1924 without terminal flat tube 1910 of finishing with any-mode as herein described to without terminal mode.

In certain embodiments, make to process and also to comprise by the pipeline that carries out from the pipeline with fin 1961 that separates desired length without terminal pipeline 1910 with one or more groups fin 1959 and the moulding section of fin component (perhaps being referred to herein as " pipeline with fin ").For example, the group that being used for of supplying is connected to without the fin 1959 of terminal flat tube 1910 can be incorporated in the winding of fin 1959 without being cut into desired length before or after the terminal flat tube 1910 (for example, by solder brazing or in above-mentioned any other modes) and removing.

In other embodiments, make the without interruption of fin 1959 of processing from the upstream and can be cut into desired length, thereby the surface without terminal flat tube 1910 can be arranged and join in any way to the fin of some length 1959 at certain intervals.Illustrated embodiment with reference to Figure 61, in other embodiments, one or more separators 1975 (for example, block) can place between the group of many group fins 1959 at flat tube 1910, and can therefore be used for location fin 1959 between the group that is coupled to without many groups fin 1959 of the identical wide side of terminal pipeline 1910, to set up desired distance.Shown in Figure 61, can remove separator 1975 from flat tube 1910 at downstream position, the pipe section that allows to have fin is formed with freely flat tube end in the one or both ends of appointing of flat tube 1910.

In any case, and in other embodiments, interruption between the group of many group fins 1959 can provide the expose portion of flat tube 1910, it is conducive to cutting or other pipeline separating treatment between formed interval, and/or in these positions to beating mouthful or other operations that flat tube 1910 carries out.Therefore, the formed independent pipe section with fin can comprise flat tube 1910 and the either side of the planar side that is arranged in flat tube 1910 or the group of the fin on the both sides 1959.

Pipeline with fin 1961 constructed in accordance can be incorporated in the various heat exchangers of wide region in any desired mode.But, at some embodiment, recognize unique heat exchanger characteristic and heat exchanger assemblies feature by the inventor.For example, the heat exchanger 1963 shown in Figure 61,62 and 66 can comprise the pipeline that has as mentioned above fin, and it is adjoining that one of them has the group of another fin 1959 of the group of fin 1959 of pipeline 1961 of fin and adjacent pipeline 1961 with fin.Figure 62 (it is the decomposition view of pipeline and fin block or core body 1965) illustrates four pipelines 1961 with fin of fin core body 1965.Have the quantity of the pipeline 1961 of fin can be at least in part according to heat exchanger specifically should be used for determine.Therefore, above-mentioned pipe arrangement with fin can separate as required number of times to define the core body 1965 of the pipeline 1961 with fin.One or more headers 1967 can be assembled and then be assembled to this core body 1965.Particularly, the end of the flat tube 1910 of core body 1965 can be freely, and can cooperate with header 1967 (for example, be accommodated in each groove in 1967 or other openings or is connected with header 1967 communicatively with any other suitable mode fluids) with the bonding agent that uses any appropriate or sealant fastening be sealed to it.Figure 62 comprises that expression is installed to header 1967 arrow of the roughly direction on the core body 1965 of the pipeline 1959 with fin.

As mentioned above, the pipeline with fin can be arranged in the heat exchanger, so that the group of the fin 1959 of a pipeline 1961 with fin is positioned at the group of another fin 1959 of the adjacent pipeline with fin 1961 is adjoining.The group of these fins 1959 can contact with each other.Adopt among the heat exchanger embodiment of layout of this pipeline 1961 with fin at some, the neutral region that does not participate in heat exchange with this structure, this is because have the pipeline 1959 of fin at the temperature broadly similar at neutral region place, perhaps in certain embodiments even identical.According to 1961 the quantity with fin of arranging in this way, between adjacent fins group fin 1959, can in core body 1956, there be this neutral region of any amount.

The result, when in these and other embodiment, coming assembled heat interchanger 1963 by many pipelines 1961 with fin, the fins group that has on the pipeline 1961 of fin can be installed on the fin of another adjacent pipeline with fin 1961, thereby so that heat exchanger core 1965 has this pipe configuration with fin processes can be used as the single structure unit.In relatively large heat exchanger, the winding of just adjacent many groups fin 1959 advantage of closing is in this way, can suppress vibration or vibration (and the noise that therefore produces) between the adjacent pipeline with fin 1961.As the installation of the described adjacent pipeline with fin 1959 just in certain embodiments can be by being applied to the adjacent pipeline with fin 1961 the group of fin 1959 between grafting material (for example, bonding, solder brazing, solder, welding etc.) realize, so that can be used as the single structure unit, processes heat exchanger core 1965.In other cases, the group of the fin 1959 of the adjacent pipeline with fin 1961 can otherwise engage this pipeline 1961 with fin of cause and make heat exchanger core 1965.For example, in certain embodiments, intermediate (for example, relatively thin material piece or other materials) can close between 1959 groups of adjacent fins and with these windings.In other embodiments, can between the group of the adjacent fin 1959 of the adjacent pipeline with fin 1961, there be narrower air gap.In other words, according to some embodiments of the present invention, though from the group of the fin 1959 of a pipeline 1961 with fin can with the group of the fin 1959 of the pipeline 1961 that has fin from another in the situation that does not have material layer that the winding of these fins 1959 is closed or element " adjacent ".

In case many pipelines 1961 with fin have been assembled into expectation and have arranged that this assembly can tighten together in many different modes, for example by solder, welding and/or solder brazing.In certain embodiments, the use that can comprise CAB solder brazing technology is processed in the manufacturing of pipeline-fin core body 1965.Can make pipeline as described herein-fin core body 1965 with the energy consumption that relatively reduces.Pipeline-fin core body 1965 is configured with among those embodiment of the flat tube 1910 that is formed by relatively thin sheet material as described herein therein, to have the stages (for example, in CAB solder brazing is processed) that the pipeline 1961 of fin tightens together can significantly reduce.For example, the gait of march of this pipeline-fin core body 1965 by the different temperatures zone of CAB solder brazing stove can significantly improve with respect to required those of traditional pipeline-fin core body 1965.Be the wall thickness of the less of flat tube 1910 (and wall thickness of fin 1959) for a reason of this faster fastening processing, situation when comparing thicker sheet material and carrying out solder brazing allows to reach quickly solder brazing temperature (or being the required rising temperature of other fastening processing).Can for example based on the use of this more thin material, optimize transmission speed and/or the open-assembly time of making the stages of processing by optionally regulating Temperature Setting.In addition, the use of manufacturing suitable suspender, fixture or auxiliary equipment in processing can for example help to reduce possibility and/or the degree of pipeline-fin deformation of core after the solder brazing processing that is used for fastening pipeline-fin component finishes.The expansion of the pipeline that more specifically, occurs during heating and cooling-fin core body 1965 and contraction can not cause the delay of not expecting.

Other aspects of the present invention relate to flat tube disclosed herein use in heat exchanger, and described heat exchanger has for setting up between the circulation passage of each flat tube that fluid is communicated with and/or setting up one or more casees that fluid is communicated with the fluid supplying or with the outlet that heat exchanger is connected to other equipment.These aspects of the present invention are applicable to disclosed herein (for example to have above-mentioned relatively thin-walled material, be not more than in certain embodiments about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch), and be not more than in other embodiments about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch)) flat tube.But the inventor has been found that following those aspects of the present invention in greater detail can be used for wherein using the application by the flat tube of thicker material structure.Therefore, each feature of the present invention of the following stated can be applicable to have the heat exchanger of other types flat tube, comprise described herein and/or shown in flat tube in any one.

As explained in more detail below, other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline as herein described and heat-exchanger pipeline can and be processed and make with many manufacturing technologies, and can comprise corrosion-resistant features, for example shown in Figure 92-95 and those technology and the processing of the following stated.The many manufacturing processing that herein relate to and technology and corrosion-resistant features are advantageous particularly when the heat exchanger that is applied to have the material thickness that significantly reduces and heat exchanger part.In addition, these technology, processing and corrosion-resistant features provide the remarkable advantage relevant with the overall performance of the flat tube of being made by these materials and heat exchanger.

As mentioned above, described herein and shown in flat tube can engage use with the heat exchanger with one or more casees.These casees can comprise header, a case and be suitable for setting up other fluid containers that fluid is communicated with between the flat tube and/or between the outlet of flat tube and fluid supplying or case.For simplified characterization, these casees are referred to as " header " at this paper, should be appreciated that, these casees can be realized other functions, can be greater or lesser, and can have the shape of any other expectation and still include the aspect of the present invention of the following stated.

According to an embodiment of header of the present invention shown in Figure 70, the 70A, 71,76 and 77, and usually by Reference numeral 4467 expressions.Have two headers 4467 although the heat exchanger 4463 shown in Figure 77 illustrates, should be noted that the header 4467 that in each possible heat exchanger, can adopt any amount, comprise single header 4467 and surpass two headers 4467.Two headers 4467 shown in Figure 77 all have substantially identical feature, and with shown in Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 with the following stated substantially identical mode be connected to flat tube 4410.

Header 4467 can be by the different parts structures of any amount.For example, the header 4467 shown in Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 for example forms single integral body by injection molding or other suitable treatments.In present embodiment and other embodiment, at least one row takes in opening 4478 (following more detailed description) and forms with header 4467.In other embodiments, for example the following stated and in Figure 72-75 illustrated header embodiment, header is formed by two or more independent parts that produce by injection molding or other any desired manner and link together.For example, in these embodiments, header 4467 can have and wherein defines one or more walls of taking in opening 4479, and one or more other walls that defined by all parts of header 4467, so that other walls can be accommodated in the more late stage assembling of stage of taking in the opening 4479 than flat tube 4410 wherein.

Illustrated header 4467 comprises a series of openings 4479 of taking in along its surface.Each is taken in opening 4479 and is centered on by the wall that at least a portion with header 4467 forms, and described wall is shaped to the corresponding free end 4477 of taking in flat tube 4410.Flat tube 4410 can be taked any one in the form as herein described, and can be cut into by the parameter of flat tube 4410 or use accordingly specified length.With reference to Figure 70,70A and 71, a part of making the processing of heat exchanger 4463 comprises that the free end 4477 with flat tube 4410 (its according among the embodiment as herein described any one) is set to taking in the opening 4479 of header 4467.In certain embodiments, can carry out this processing on the flat tube end 4477 by in the mode similar to the schematically illustrated mode of Figure 62 header 4467 being shifted onto freely.Alternatively, the free end 4477 of flat tube 4410 can be pulled to be taken in the opening 4479, and perhaps flat tube 4410 is connected with header and can be moved towards each other and by being pushed away together to set up these connections.

In certain embodiments, the flat tube 4410 that is connected to header 4467 can have according to any one one or more groups the group (seeing Figure 77) of fin 4459 among the embodiment as herein described.Only as example, in upstream manufacturing step (for example above-described those), assembled and the pipeline with fin 4461 of solder brazing can have wall thickness and is the fin 4559 of about 0.030-0.090mm (0.0011811-0.0035423 inch).For example, have the fin 4459 that is brazed on it each flat tube 4410 projection free end 4477 or assembled and be brazed to this projection free end 4477 with pipeline 4416 of fin of striding in body or the core body 4465 can be during solder brazing (for example, in the solder brazing stove) keep freely, and therefore can not make fin 4559 disturb the operation of taking in opening 4479 of thereafter they being inserted header 4467.Two ends of the flat tube 4410 in any this embodiment can be as just projection and freedom, to be used for being connected to relative header 4467.

Among those embodiment that core body 4465 has connected as just therein, group that can be by flat tube 4410 and fin 4559 alternately stacking, the group of cause flat tube 4410 and fin 4559 forms core body 4465.The example of this core body structure is shown in Figure 77, Figure 77 shows the flat tube of the solder brazing with two headers 4467-fin core body 4465, each header 4467 have for the port of other equipment connections, wherein flow of cooling air by fin 4559 so that the fluids in the flat tube 4410 are cooled off.Heat exchanger 4463 shown in Figure 77 only be one or more in the header 4467 can connectedly be permitted eurypalynous one of may heat exchanger.Only as example, any one in the diagram header 4467 can be reversing box, so that entrance and exit all is arranged on the same header 4467.

Flat tube 4410 (as having or do not have a fin that is connected to it described in the above previous embodiment) can each be inserted into header 4467 each take in the opening 4479.But, by for example in single step with two or more flat tubes 4410 (in some cases, whole flat tubes 4410 of core body 4465) side by side be inserted into simultaneously or substantially its taking in the opening 4479 separately, can obtain significant advantage.This processing can be in flat tube 4410 two or more when having flocked together, for example carry out with whole or its part that defines flat tube heat exchanger core body 4465 by solder brazing or other installation processes (comprise as herein described those).Above-mentioned processing can utilize a large amount of header materials thus.But, at least in part according to the material that is used for header 4467 with for the processing that fin 4459 is fastened to flat tube 4410, be desirably in certain embodiments after the solder brazing of pipeline-fin core body 4465 after the cooling processing, each that the free end 4477 of flat tube 4410 is directed into header 4467 taken in the opening 4479.

Many heat exchanger manufacturings process pipeline and header need to be exposed to rising temperature to be used for solder, welding, solder brazing and other installation processes, for example flat tube and header are contained in stove or other heating environments to join flat tube to header.Therefore these treatment limits many header materials---be used at least the use for the material (for example, having defined one or more collector tank walls of taking in opening) of those parts of the link position of flat tube defined of header.Therefore, these parts of header generally include metal.Be soldered as mentioned above by header is connected to, welding, solder brazing or two or more flat tubes of otherwise being bonded together, can be for many parts of header 4467, all or substantially all use plastics or other cryogenic materials.For example, header 4467 has defined one or more parts of taking in opening 4479 and can comprise plastics.Although can use other materials in other embodiments, but the whole header 4467 in Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 illustrated embodiment is by the plastic material manufacturing.Among those embodiment that partly or entirely comprise plastics of header 4467, these parts can for example be made by injection molding therein.

With reference to Figure 70 and 71, the opening 4479 of taking in of the header 4467 shown in it has curved surface 4481 to help the insertion of flat tube end 4477 again.In other embodiments, can alternatively use other shapes (for example, flat inclined surface, vertical corner surface etc.).

Illustrate such as Figure 71 the best, flat tube end 4477 insert fully its separately take in each position below the inwall inner surface 4483 that opening 4479 arrives header 4467 when interior, prevent thus the drop of pressure of not expecting that the duration of work at heat exchanger 4463 is caused by flat tube end 447.

In Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 illustrated embodiment, the opening 4479 of taking in of header 4467 is formed as and has defined the rear portion 4485 identical with the shape of cross section of flat tube end 4477 (direction of inserting with reference to flat tube among Figure 70, the 70A, 71,76 and 77).Although each rear portion 4485 of taking in opening 4479 can be made into certain yardstick and cooperate to define with the activity of flat tube end 4477, in other embodiments but (for example embodiment shown in Figure 70, the 70A, 71,76 and 77) uses tight fit.Adopt therein among friction tight those embodiment, slight pressure can be applied on header 4467 and/or the flat tube 4410, so that flat tube end 4477 is inserted in the rear portion 4485 of taking in opening 4479 fully, providing thus between header 4467 and the flat tube 4477 can be liquid-tight or substantially liquid-tight sealing.

In certain embodiments, the feature of header 4467 and/or flat tube end 4477 is used for control or the restriction flat tube end 4477 insertion amount in taking in opening 4479.For example, stop part is (not shown among Figure 70, the 70A, 71,76 and 77, but among Figure 80 as seen, by Reference numeral 4675 expression) can become on the flat tube end 4477 and/or take on the inner surface of opening 4479 insertion depth with restriction flat tube end 4477.

In other embodiments, one or more can the extending through in the inner room 4487 of taking in accordingly opening 4479 and extending to header 4467 in the flat tube end 4477.In such an embodiment, flat tube end 4477 can be out of shape in any way, for example by along the surface curvature of the chamber wall 4483 adjacent with taking in opening 4479 to be complementary with these surperficial shapes at least in part.

In Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 illustrated embodiment, bonding agent 4489 is used for flat tube end 4477 is fastened on taking in the opening 4479 (seeing Figure 71) of header 4467.Can use many different bonding agents, comprise immediately those of sclerosis or in time sclerosis, and after arranging those of reservation flexibility to a certain degree.For example, by Dow Corning

The silicone bonding agent of producing can be used for many embodiment.In certain embodiments, bonding agent 4489 has been guaranteed nonvolatil tight joint the between flat tube end 4477 and the inner surface of taking in opening 4479.

Bonding agent 4489 can also be as preventing the sealant of fluid from header 4467 losses.In other embodiments, by being inserted, flat tube end 4477 takes in the rear portion 4485 of opening 4479, flat tube end 4477 fully is fastened on takes in the opening 4479, in the case, the sealant that does not have or substantially do not have cementability can be used for replacing bonding agent 4489.For simplified characterization, relate to flat tube and can maybe cannot should be appreciated that as the bonding agent of sealant the expression of the term " bonding agent " of header, in other embodiments this material can be alternatively only as or mainly as sealant.

Illustrate such as Figure 71 the best, bonding agent 4489 can cover the major part of flat tube end 4477 substantially, and in certain embodiments at the whole circumference that centers on flat tube end 4477 along at least one position of flat tube end 4477 length.In Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 illustrated embodiment, the terminal part of flat tube end 4477 since its in the rear portion 4485 of taking in opening 4479 the position and do not cover bonding agent 4489.Utilize the relative close fit between the rear portion 4485 take in as mentioned above opening 4479 and the flat tube end 4477, can prevent that the fluid (for example, being used as fluid coolant or other fluids of heat exchanger medium) through header 4467 from contacting with 4489.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, bonding agent 4489 can be introduced in flat tube end 4477 and takes between the inner surface of opening 4479 in many different modes, wherein many be included in flat tube end 4477 be incorporated in its separately take in the opening 4479 after or introduce simultaneously bonding agent 4489.But, before further describing these embodiment, should note, can with 447 be inserted in take in the opening 4479 before, with bonding agent 4489 in any way (for example, sprayer, cylinder or other apply instrument) put on the inside of taking in opening 4479 and/or the outside of flat tube end 4477.

During pipe end inserts or afterwards bonding agent 4489 is introduced in flat tube end 4477 between the inner surface of taking in opening 4479, can provide finished product heat exchanger 4463 in the amount of bonding agent 4489 and/or the stronger control of final position, and can cause flat tube end 4477 more reliable connection and/or sealing between header 4467.

In order to be provided for that bonding agent 4489 is introduced in the space of flat tube end 4477 between the inner surface of taking in opening 4479, to take in opening 4479 and/or flat tube end 4477 and can be shaped at it and define one or more gaps 4493 between the two.For simplified characterization, term " gap " (as described herein when taking in the bonding space that meets 4489 places when being used at this paper representing) the one or more this gaps of expression, and regardless of the concrete circumferential location around flat tube end 4477, whether two or more this gaps that no matter are used for identical flat tube end 4477 fluid communication with each other.

In certain embodiments, (as described below) injected to allow suitable bonding agent in flat tube end 4477 and defined gap 4493 between the adjacent inner surface of taking in opening 4479 and can have width at least about 0.3mm (0.011811 inch).In addition, the inventor has been found that by experiment this gap width that is not more than about 1.0mm (0.03937 inch) provides good results of property.Permitted the size that many-sided consideration can be defined gap 4493 at least in part, example as required bonding agent amount, bonding characteristic (for example, viscosity and stipulated time) and to the restriction of distance between the adjacent flat pipeline 4410 etc.Otherwise consideration relates to the requirement that has in certain embodiments minimized thickness or the degree of depth for header 4467.For example, in certain embodiments, header 4467 extensions exceed the amount of flat tube core body 4465 minimums, with the space that reduces to be wasted in vehicle by heat exchanger 4463.

In certain embodiments, header 4467 substantially not on the depth direction of pipeline-fin core body 4465 extension exceed, to avoid as heat exchanger 4463 being installed in the waste of free space required in the vehicle.For example, in Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 illustrated embodiment, specifically with reference to Figure 76, undeformed flat tube end 4477 needs the minimized extension through flat tube-fin core body 4465 of header 4467, or does not substantially have extension.In certain embodiments, when processing the use (the following stated) of the flat tube end 4477 that comprises distortion, the manufacturing of heat exchanger 4463 also can reduce this extension.

In certain embodiments, bonding agent 4489 is introduced by injecting via the one or more openings in the header 4467 or via the one or more gaps between flat tube end 4477 and the header 4467 (itself in case just can enter when these parts are assembled at least in part).For example, header 4467 shown in Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 has many injection openings 4491, its each wall 4495 by header 4467 extends to gap 4493, and gap 4493 is defined in flat tube end 4477 and has defined between one or more walls of taking in opening 4479.

These inject on the either side or both sides of vertical side that openings 4491 can be arranged in header 4467.In addition, surpassing one injects opening 4491 and can extend to the identical opening 4479 of taking in.In the case, bonding agent 4489 can be for example injects openings 4491 by two on the relatively vertically side of header 4467 and injects simultaneously the identical opening 4479 of taking in.Bonding agent 4489 can inject the gap 4493 corresponding with each flat tube 4410 one at a time, inject simultaneously simultaneously or substantially a row gap 4493 (it is corresponding with each flat tube 4410), perhaps while or cardinal principle are injected whole gaps 4493 of core body 4465 simultaneously.In certain embodiments, bonding agent 4489 has covered the whole circumference of each flat tube end 4477, and/or can fill flat tube end 4477 and define gap 4493 between the adjacent wall of taking in opening 4479.In addition, in some embodiment (for example, Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 embodiment), the end of flat tube 4410 can not be left and be covered by bonding agent 4489.

With bonding agent be introduced in flat tube end 4477 and optional mode between the inwall of taking in opening 4479 be by between these parts and the bottom opening or the gap 4497 that are communicated with above-mentioned gap 4493 fluids inject bonding agent.The mode that this bonding agent is introduced can be additional to or substitute the mode of injecting by injecting opening 4491 as mentioned above, and can remove injecting the needs of opening 4491.

Figure 84 is manufacturing processing, the stage that relates to or the block diagram of manufacturing step of describing according to the heat exchanger 4463 of the embodiment of the invention, and by realizing by this schematic diagram of processing the heat exchanger 4463 of making.Term " stage " only is used for simplified characterization herein, and does not represent separately or mean in manufacturing line to have physical division between these " stages ".For example, header 4467 can be arranged in freely on the flat tube end 4477 (Phase I) with the identical or different position of the processing that applies bonding agent 4489 (Phase IV).

Figure 72-75 illustrates the header 4467 according to other embodiments of the invention.This embodiment has adopted with above in conjunction with the identical many structures of the embodiment of Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 described headers 4467 and have many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with Figure 70,70A, 71, structure and feature that 76 and 77 described embodiment are different.For the extraneous information relevant with feature with the structure of the following stated and the header shown in Figure 72-75 and the possibility of these structures and feature, will carry out reference in conjunction with Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 description to above.After this, the structure corresponding with structure Figure 70,70A, 71,76 and 77 embodiment and the feature embodiment shown in Figure 72-75 and the feature Reference numeral that will be assigned with 4500 series.

Be similar to the header 4467 shown in Figure 70, the 70A, 71,76 and 77, the header 4567 shown in Figure 72-75 has for the inner room 4587 that is communicated with flat tube 4510 fluids, each has be used to the rear portion 4585 of the end 4577 of taking in flat tube 4510 many and take in opening 4579 and along vertical side of header 4567 many injection openings 4591 of (only a side is as seen at Figure 72-75).Figure 75 provides the additional detail relevant with taking in opening 4579, comprises the rear portion 4585 for the end 4577 of taking in and support flat tube 4510 (Figure 75 is not shown), and with the injection opening 4591 of taking in opening 4579 fluids and being communicated with.

The inner surface of taking in opening 4579 and the respective clearance 4593 between the flat tube end 4577 have been defined by taking in flat tube 4510 that opening 4579 takes in.Specifically with reference to Figure 73, the corresponding flow channel 4516 of taking in each flat tube 4510 in the opening 4579 is communicated with inner room 4587 fluids of header 4567.Figure 73 also illustrates and injects opening 4591 and take in being connected between the opening 4579, to be used for as mentioned above bonding agent 4589 (not shown) being injected into gap 4593.

Illustrate such as Figure 74 the best, the entrance of taking in opening 4579 can be by entrance wall 4599 (not shown among Figure 75) sealing or substantially sealing on a side of each flat tube end 4577 or many sides.Entrance wall 4599 can be defined by one or more elements of header 4567, for example wherein define a plurality of openings (it has defined each and has taken in the entrance of opening 4579) plate (this plate with described a plurality of openings with take in the situation that opening 4579 aims under when installing).Alternatively, entrance wall 4599 can by the end of taking in perforated wall (it is expanded, is launched, crooked or otherwise moulding with closing gap 4593 as mentioned above) define.Entrance wall 4599 is formed as with the shape of cross section coupling that is accommodated in flat tube end 4577 wherein or substantially mates in certain embodiments.In addition, entrance wall 4599 can be made certain yardstick and cooperate to define with the activity of flat tube end 4577, or can alternatively define tight fit, so that slight pressure can be applied on header 4567 and/or the flat tube 4510, to promote flat tube 4510 through entrance walls 4599 and to push the remainder of taking in opening 4579.Like this, can between header 4567 and flat tube end 4577, be provided at the sealing of the porch of taking in opening 4579.These sealings can be liquid-tight or substantially liquid-tight in certain embodiments, and can prevent in certain embodiments the bonding agent bonding agent leakage of injection period.

The structure that should be noted that the header 4567 shown in Figure 72-75 (and other figure) only is exemplary, does not limit the scope of the invention.

In certain embodiments, flat tube end 4477,4577 can be out of shape.For example, flat tube end 4477,4577 can be out of shape so that in flat tube end 4477,4577 place's flat tubes 4410,4510 major diameter D increases and flat tube 4410,4510 minor diameter d reduce.Consider the wall thickness of flat tube 4410 in certain embodiments, 4510 less, can in the situation that flat tube 4410,4510 wall is not had remarkable load, carry out this distortion.In certain embodiments, keep identical with the flat tube end 4477 of distortion, 4577 yardstick cardinal principle for the yardstick of the flat tube end 4477 of distortion, 4577 circumference.As a result, flat tube 4410,4510 wall can not experience significant expansion or contraction in these embodiments.

Therein among some embodiment of flat tube end 4477,4577 distortion, can flat tube end 4477,4577 is incorporated into header 4467,4567 correspondingly carry out these distortion before taking in the opening 4479,4579.In connection with Figure 78-83 example that flat tube that flat tube end wherein has been out of shape connects header is described now.

The flat tube that Figure 78-83 illustrates according to three extra embodiment of the present invention connects header.These embodiment have adopted the many structures identical with the above embodiment that header is connected in conjunction with the described flat tube of Figure 70-77 and have had many same alike results.Therefore, below describe mainly for from above in conjunction with the described embodiment of Figure 70-77 different structure and feature.For the extraneous information relevant with feature with the structure of the following stated and connection embodiment shown in Figure 78-83 and the possibility of these structures and feature, will carry out reference to above description in conjunction with Figure 70-77.After this, the corresponding structure of the structure of the embodiment shown in Figure 78-83 and embodiment Figure 70-77 and feature and the feature Reference numeral that will be assigned respectively 4600,4700 and 4800 series.

In each embodiment shown in Figure 78-84, flat tube end 4677,4777,4877 distortion, what header 4667,4767,4867 had a corresponding shaping takes in opening 4679,4779,4879.After the solder brazing processing finishes- flat tube end 4677,4777,4877 is set to take in the opening 4679,4779,4879 before, carry out the flat tube end 4677,4777 shown in Figure 78-84,4877 distortion.

In the embodiment of Figure 78-80, each flat tube 4610 has the end 4677 that closely is accommodated in the corresponding rear portion 4685 of taking in opening 4679.In this embodiment, the wide side 4622,4624 of each flat tube 4610 has extended (for example, leave each other crooked) defining the flat tube end 4677 of expansion, and narrow side 4618,4820 compressed (collection, crooked toward each other).In addition, each is taken in opening 4679 and also has the stop part 4675 (seeing Figure 80) that limits for flat tube 4610 being inserted into desired distance.

Be similar to the embodiment of Figure 78-80, in the embodiment of Figure 81-83, each flat tube 4710,4810 wide side 4722,4724,4822,4824 have extended to define the flat tube end 4777,4877 of expansion, and narrow side 4718,4720,4818,4820 is compressed.But, header 4767,4867 defined take in opening 4779,4879 part have along against take in opening 4779, at least a portion of 4879 is extended one or more slits 4773/4873 of (and extending around taking in opening 4779,4879 in certain embodiments).In either case, slit 4773,4873 is positioned and makes certain yardstick to take in flat tube 4710,4810 free end 4777,4877.Slit 4773,4873 is also with the stop part of doing flat tube end 4777,4877 insertion depth are limited.

Flat tube end 4777,4877 is inserted into take in opening 4779,4879 and slit 4773,4873 in after, bonding agent 4789,4889 (not shown) can be injected flat tube end 4777,4877 and take in gap 4793,4893 between opening 4779,4879 the inner surface.This injection can be carried out with any-mode as herein described, and is undertaken by injecting via the injection opening 4791 in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 81-83,4891 as example.In some embodiment (comprising those embodiment that wherein use the flat tube end of distortion), one or more inserts 4771 can be arranged between the flat tube end 4777 to help prevent the distortion of flat tube end 4777 when flat tube end 4777 is exposed to interior pressure load.For example, by the use of these inserts 4771, interior the folding that forms in the embodiment of Fig. 1-5 can be protected to avoid distortion when being exposed to interior pressure.For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 81 and 83, insert 4771 has substantially trapezoidal shape of cross section, but, at least in part according to the adjacent shapes of flat tube end 4777, can use arbitrarily other shape of cross sections.Can be before or after applying bonding agent 4789 (for example, in Figure 84, after platform III, perhaps before or after platform IV) insert 4771 is incorporated into its position adjacent with flat tube end 4777.

In situation about being used, insert 4771 can be by any materials manufacturing that includes but not limited to plastics or metal, can be entity or hollow, and can maybe can be flowed and the material that solidifies after a while defines by easy distortion in certain embodiments.In addition, a plurality of inserts 4771 can be connected to before inserting or during inserting and flow into common bar or beam, to define the shape (not shown) of pectination.This insertion of for example being undertaken by common bar or beam can allow to place two or more (in certain embodiments, whole) inserts 4771 in a step.In certain embodiments, being connected between common bar or beam and the insert 4771 is unsettled, can remove common bar or beam after the insertion of insert 4771.

In order insert 4771 to be inserted in the desired locations between the adjacent flat tube end 4777, in the relatively vertically wall 4795 of header 4767 any one or both can have with these position alignment and make the hole (for example, part Figure 83) of some scale can carry out the insertion of insert 4771.About this point, should be noted that insert 4771 not necessarily takies the whole space of adjacent flat tube end 4777, and only need to take the space in as requested pressure lower support end of being enough between the flat tube end 4777.

Should note, no matter whether flat tube end 4477,4577,4677,4877 is out of shape, and can utilize as herein described bonding agent to be incorporated into flat tube end 4477,4577,4677,4777,4877 and take in the variety of way of the position between the opening 4479,4579,4679,4779,4879.

In some embodiments of the invention, header 4467,4567,4667,4767,4867 can comprise and extends in header 4467,4567,4667,4767,4867 take between opening 4469,4569,4679,4779,4879 the wall and/or defined at least in part the wall 4469,4569,4669,4769,4869 of putting more energy into of these walls.These walls 4469,4569,4669,4769 of putting more energy into, 4869 can be used for as required providing reinforcement to header 4467,4567,4667,4767,486 parts, and invisible in illustrated header embodiment.For example, one or more walls 4669,4769 of putting more energy into, 4869 can be in header 4667,4767,4867 transversely extension (for example, header 4667,4767,4867 relatively vertically wall 4695,4795,4895 are connected), and can provide additional intensity and/or rigidity to header 4667,4767,4867.The wall 4669,4769,4869 of putting more energy into can form in any way, and can with header 4667,4767,4867 one, maybe can be to be connected to header 4667,4767,4867 individual component with any desired manner.In certain embodiments, the wall 4669,4769 of putting more energy into, 4869 forms during header 4667,4767,4867 injection molding, and therefore be header 4667,4767,4867 integral part.

Can also have or alternatively have the wall of putting more energy into that longitudinally extends with respect to header 4667,4767,4867 according to header 4667 of the present invention, some embodiment of 4767,4867.For example, this wall of putting more energy into can be formed on and define header 4667,4767,4867 take between opening 4679,4779,4879 the wall and with these walls and connect.As example, this wall 4469 of vertically putting more energy into is shown in Figure 70 A, and midway (but, this wall of vertically putting more energy into can be positioned at other positions as required) between header 4667,4767,4867 front and back.The wall 4469 of putting more energy into of this longitudinal extension can or all extend along the arbitrary portion of header 4667,4767,4867 length (being contained as required opening 4679,4779,4879 interrupts).

As mentioned above, header can be by the parts structure of any amount that links together with any desired manner.For example, Figure 72 and 82 illustrates the header 4467,4867 that header 4467 wherein, 4867 is formed by two parts 4467a, 4467b and 4867a, 4867b.In two illustrated embodiment, parts 4467a, 4467b and 4867a, 4867b be along Z-shaped interface, and can be by welding or bonding the joint.Based on being used to form header header 4467,4867 material, other modes of setting up this connection are possible at least in part.In certain embodiments, this connection is releasable, for example shown in Figure 72-75 like that, wherein the clip on the header 4467 can be used for the parts 4467a of header with respect to the remaining part 4467b of header fastening putting in place releasably.

Various flat tube as herein described can use in being applicable to the multiple different heat exchanger of different application.When processing like this, flat tube can be made amendment from the embodiment shown in Fig. 1-54, and/or so that heat exchanger is applicable to the concrete various different modes of using is assembled in the heat exchanger.

Figure 85-90 illustrates four kinds of structures according to the heat exchanger of different embodiments of the invention.Although the quantity by revising flat tube and layout and/or the type by revising flat tube are (for example, line size and shape, insert size and dimension etc.) can obtain other heat exchanger embodiment, but the heat exchanger shown in Figure 85-91 each particular advantages in many application is provided.

At more detailed description each heat exchanger 4963 shown in Figure 85-90,5053,5163, before 5263, should note, each flat tube 4910 shown in it, 5010,5110,5210 can by have above with reference in the described shape of figure 1-54 any one and with above with reference to any one structure in the described mode of figure 1-54, and the heat exchanger assemblies feature of also describing in conjunction with the embodiment of Fig. 1-84 at this paper and assemble method are (for example, with flat tube, the core body structure is installed relevant with the correct case of core body) can be used for the heat exchanger 4963 shown in Figure 85-90,5063,5163, in 5263 structure and the manufacturing.For example, in the flat tube 4910,5010,5110,5210 shown in Figure 85-90 each all is to have insert 4934,5034,5134,5234 two-piece type flat tube 4910,5010,5110,5210, wherein form the pipeline 4910,5010,5110,5210 shown in each with two independent sheet material, and wherein form interior insert 4934,5034,5134,5234 with the 3rd independent sheet material.Although the structure of the concrete two-piece type flat tube shown in Figure 85-90 (having insert) for as described in application and other application desired, any one in these flat tubes 4910,5010,5110,5210 can Ah by the above and/or above shown in single type or the alternative so that flat tube 4910,5010,5110 of in other two-piece type flat tubes (having insert) any one, 5210 and the heat exchanger 4963,5063,5163,5263 that obtains be applicable to the application of any desired.About this point, formed by the sheet of varying number, flat tube 4910,5010,5110,5210 can be used for identical heat exchanger 4963,5063,5163,5263 with the combination of insert.

In the diagram pipe configuration of Figure 85-91 and any optional pipe configuration just mentioned, at least in part according to the quantity of the material piece that is used for the structure flat tube, the either side in the narrow side of flat tube or both sides can be formed by the longitudinal edge of the adjacent stacked of material.So every pair of narrow side of reinforcement that stacked longitudinal edge has defined flat tube.In certain embodiments, the one or both in the stacked longitudinal edge of flat tube can fold one or many, defines larger material thickness with the narrow side place at flat tube.In some of these embodiment, the armature tablet that has defined insert can have to be formed as and is in one or two longitudinal edge adjacent with the stacked longitudinal edge of flat tube, provides thus to be used for the layers of additional materials that pipeline is strengthened at narrow side place.In addition, the stacked longitudinal edge that any one in the longitudinal edge of insert or both can fold to have with flat tube is in adjacent multi-layered thickness, provides thus either side or place, both sides in narrow side further to strengthen.Therefore, either side in the narrow side of flat tube or both sides can realize that its amount is at least twice of the sheet material thickness that is used to into the flat tube wall and in certain embodiments greater than the thickness of twice, in certain embodiments, this is to prick thicker sheet material by roller to form.

As in greater detail above, therein among flat tube those embodiment by single parts (having or do not have insert) structure, can form by the one or more folding rounding with material piece the first narrow side of flat tube, and with the stacked reinforcement that realizes narrow side with the second narrow side of forming flat tube (for example by the bending of a longitudinal edge is taken in or is enclosed in the more macrobending of another longitudinal edge, or in other modes as herein described) of the relative longitudinal edge of material piece.

At some single type flat tube embodiment, a material piece can form outer wall and the interior flow channel of flat tube.In these embodiments, the stage portion bending (it has defined the narrow side of flat tube) that can be positioned at material piece locate (at the longitudinal edge of this place's material piece by nested) so that the outer surface of flat tube keep just may be level and smooth.In addition, among those embodiment that insert is defined by independent material piece therein, two longitudinal edges of the material piece that this is independent can be by roundings or otherwise are shaped in the narrow side that is accommodated in flat tube and (for example, see the illustrated embodiment of Figure 46).

Also as in greater detail above, flat tube is constructed among those embodiment of (having or do not have insert) by two separate parts therein, two separate parts can be configured to identical, in the case, each parts longitudinal edge can have the bending of the less bending of the adjacent longitudinal edge that surrounds another parts.Therefore these two separate parts can put upside down to form flat tube relative to each other.In other embodiments, two separate parts are not mutually the same, and have the relative longitudinal edge (including but not limited to nested arch longitudinal edge) that is bonded together with any-mode as herein described.

In addition, described herein and/or shown in pipeline embodiment in any one the wide side of the substantitally planar solder brazing that can be used for being provided for the improvement of installation fins connect, brought thus the heat exchanger effectiveness of heat exchanger 4963,5053,5163,5263 raising.

This is external can be used for the two-piece type of heat exchanger of Figure 85-89 and any one of three-member type flat tube structure, interior insert can be corrugated or other shapes to define two or more flow channels by flat tube.Interior insert can have and is positioned at along the difformity at the diverse location place of insert width and/or the ripple of size, with the zone (for example, seeing Figure 85-89) of two or more lateral arrangement of defining the flow channel with difformity and/or size.More wide in range, interior insert can be shaped to and define the zone that is positioned at along the flow channel with difformity and/or size at the diverse location place of the width of two-piece type or three-member type flat tube.In certain embodiments, the zones of different of flow channel can be isolated from each other, and in other embodiments, zones of different fluid communication with each other (for example, in the one or more positions along the length of one or more flow channels).In addition, in certain embodiments, each is isolated from each other flow channel in a zone with another flow channel of same area length along flat tube, and in other embodiments, flow channel fluid communication with each other in the same area (for example, via the opening between the adjacent flow channels), but isolate with other flow channels in other zones.

Should be appreciated that, utilize relating to low-cost, the quantity of material that reduces and/or the heat exchange performance of raising according to flat tube 4910 of the present invention, many advantages of 5010,5110,5210 in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 85-98 to make this flat tube.These advantages are by realizing with the sheet material with less thickness that is used to form as mentioned above flat tube and insert.The sheet material that is used to form the wall of the flat tube in the illustrated embodiment has the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch).In addition, this sheet material has the thickness that is not less than about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).Consider that insert can be brazed to the fact of the broad side walls of flat tube, the wall thickness of these types can be used for bearing compression load, and can realize in many examples relatively good interior pressure stability.Similarly, although any one in the material thickness of above-mentioned insert can be used for the embodiment of Figure 85-89, be used to form in the illustrated embodiment sheet material of insert and have and be not more than about 0.09mm (0.003543 inch).In addition, this sheet material has the thickness that is not less than about 0.03mm (0.0011811 inch).

By utilize being used for diagram heat exchanger 4963,5053,5163,5263 and be used for the various flat tubes structures of other heat exchanger designs, the advantage that can realize improving speed of production and/or reduce material and assembly cost.For example, be based upon and form above-mentioned sheet deflection according to the required less of single type of the present invention or two-piece type flat tube, can be between pipeline vehicle (for example, manufacturing line 3701 and 1900) use without the terminal material sheet in addition with higher service speed more economical ground responsibility flat tube.In addition, utilize relatively low modification expenditure, can use identical flat pipeline source (for example, make as mentioned above continuously or without terminal pipeline and have the pipeline of fin) to make and have almost the arbitrarily heat exchanger of the degree of depth.

Heat exchanger 4963,5063,5163,5264 shown in Figure 85-90 not only is used for being shown in the heat exchanger embodiment that many application provide good results of property, but also is used for being shown in many heat exchanger features of can be separately or being combined with feature according to the heat exchanger of other embodiments of the invention.These features include but not limited to, by internal separation with the flow guide that will the separate header by the different interior zones of identical flat tube, and the possible flow arrangement by heat exchanger.

With reference now to the heat exchanger 4963 shown in Figure 85,, heat exchanger 4963 has single degree of depth T (substantially being similar to the major diameter D of each flat tube 4910) flat tube 4910 that has.Although above-mentioned other major diameter D and any one among the minor diameter d can be used for flat tube 4910, the major diameter D of the flat tube 4910 shown in Figure 85 is not more than about 300mm (11.811 inches).In certain embodiments, be not less than the major diameter D of about 10mm (0.3937 inch) for good results of property is provided.In addition, the minor diameter d of the flat tube shown in Figure 85 4910 is not more than about 15mm (0.59055 inch).In certain embodiments, use is not less than the minor diameter d of about 0.7mm (0.2756 inch) so that good results of property to be provided.These yardsticks of flat tube 4910 in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 85 are specially adapted to the heat exchanger 4963 in the motor vehicles.But other application are fine, and drop in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Heat exchanger 4963 shown in Figure 85 is suitable for flowing to cool off two or three fluid by the common cooling fluid of advancing (for example, air) between flat tube 4910.Cooling-air is shown as two-way shaped as frame arrow in Figure 86, and it flows through the fin (not shown) between the flat tube 4910.

According to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 86, cooling-air can be from left to right or is flowed through in contrast the cooling networking of being defined by pipeline-fin block 4965.Each comprises four interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, the 4975d that is positioned at along the diverse location place of the width of flat tube 4910 flat tube 4910.Four illustrated interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d have identical or the cardinal principle same widths, but interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, the 4975d of different in width are possible in other embodiments.In addition, each illustrated interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d have many flow channel 4916a, 4916b, 4916c, 4916d, its each have with other interior zones 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, flow channel 4916a, the 4916b of 4975d, 4916c, 4916d and have difformity and/or size.Flow channel 4916a, 4916b in each interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d, the shape and size of 4916c, 4916d are defined by the shape of the insert 4934 in this interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d at least in part.Although in the illustrated embodiment the shape of insert along with the difference of interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d difference, other flat tubes in each flat tube 4410 and the heat exchanger 4963 are substantially identical.

Although in the heat exchanger 4963 shown in Figure 85, adopt four interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, 4975d, can be defined by one or more flat tubes 4910 in other embodiments interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, the 4975d of any amount.In addition, although each interior zone 4975a at the flat tube 4910 shown in Figure 85,4975b, 4975c, the various piece of the insert 4934 among the 4975d has and other interior zones 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, the shape that this part among the 4975d is different (has defined thus at each interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, different flow channel 4916a among the 4975d, 4916b, 4916c, 4916d), in other embodiments, interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, among the 4975d two or more can have flow channel 4916a identical or that cardinal principle is identical, 4916b, 4916c, 4916d.

Continuation is with reference to Figure 85, in certain embodiments, each flat tube 4410 in the part of heat exchanger 4963 or heat exchanger 4963 has interior zone 4975a, 4975b, 4975c, the 4975d of equal number, and flow channel 4916a, 4916b, 4916c, 4916d have identical or identical shape and size substantially.But this is dispensable situation in other embodiments.The size and dimension in the zone in each flat tube 4910 and in the group of flat tube 4910 can be determined based on the requirement of using at least in part.

The heat exchanger 4963 of Figure 85 comprises two header 4967a and 4967b.A header 4967a comprises three division wall 4973a, 4973b and 4973c, and it extends along the direction vertical with the degree of depth T cardinal principle of heat exchanger 4963, and launches with respect to the length direction of header 4967a and 4967b.Another header 4967b comprises two division wall 4973d and 4973e.

Figure 85 illustrates many arrows that expression flows through the direction of heat exchanger 4963.In the left side (with respect to Figure 85), media flow is in the first header 4967a and through the first interior zone 4975a of each flat tube 4910.Second medium flows in the first header 4967a and through the second interior zone 4975b of each flat tube 4910, and by first dividing wall 4973a and separate with the mobile phase of first medium by the first interior zone 4975a wherein.Second medium also at the second header 4967b place by first dividing wall 4973d and separate with first medium wherein, and at the second header 4967b place by wherein second divide wall 4973e and the 3rd medium by heat exchanger 4963 (its can be in certain embodiments first medium for the second time through over-heat-exchanger 4963, or be another kind of medium in other embodiments) separation.The flowing of second medium that the middle division wall 4973b of the first header 4967a will enter heat exchanger 4963 is being separated with the backflow of leaving the second medium of heat exchanger 4963 after process the 3rd inner space 4975c of each flat tube 4910.The 3rd medium is by flowing through the 4th interior zone 4975d of each flat tube 4910 and through over-heat-exchanger 4963, and in the first header 4967a by the 3rd dividing wall 4973 and separate with second medium wherein.

In some application of the heat exchanger 4963 of just having described, the left part of heat exchanger 4963 (with reference to the stereogram of Figure 85) can be the high-temperature area for air inlet.Can be back in the heat exchanger 4963 the 4th interior zone 4975b of its each flat tube 4910 in the part of the right side of over-heat-exchanger 4963 at some embodiment through the air inlet of leaving this part of heat exchanger 4963 after the first interior zone 4975a of each flat tube 4910.Therefore, this backflow can then be the low-temperature region for air inlet.In these embodiments, in the illustrated embodiment of cooling fluid at Figure 85 of process between the flat tube 4910, can flow from right to left.Mid portion at heat exchanger 4963, the High-temperature cooling fluid can enter the first header 4967a, through the second interior zone 4975b of each flat tube 4910, and return to leave heat exchanger 4963 via the second header 4967b and the 3rd interior zone 4975c by each flat tube 4910.The cryogenic coolant zone has therefore been defined in the backhaul of this fluid (in the upstream of the first journey, with reference to the flow direction with respect to the cooling fluid of process between flat tube 4910).In certain embodiments, can again flow through these zones through 10% of this fluid of the second and the 3rd interior zone 4975b, 4975c, with further reduction temperature, but in other embodiments, other percentages (comprising 0) are possible.In addition, in other embodiments, division wall 4973a, 4973b, 4973c, 4973d, the 4973e that has an any amount among collector device 4967a, the 4967b of any amount of the fluid intake of any amount and outlet can otherwise arrange to provide other heat exchanger designs and function.

Figure 86 illustrates in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention heat exchanger 5063, has wherein used the flat tube 5010 with the feature shown in Figure 87.Diagram heat exchanger 5063 is applicable to vehicle-mounted cooling fluid radiator, but also is possible for other application of heat exchanger 5063.This heat exchanger 5063 comprises interior zone 5075a, and based on the relatively high fact of temperature of cooling fluid wherein, interior zone 5075a can be high-temperature area in certain embodiments.Interior zone 5075a can also comprise cryogenic inner zone 5075b, and the temperature of at least a portion of wherein leaving the cooling fluid of the first interior zone 5075a can be further reduced.

The more details relevant with flat tube 5010 shown in Figure 86 can see in Figure 87, Figure 87 show according to the embodiment of the invention can be in the heat exchanger 5063 of Figure 86 the flat tube 5010 of use.Although the flat tube 5010 shown in Figure 87 provides unique results of property, should be noted that any one that alternatively to use among other flat tubes embodiment disclosed herein.Flat tube 5010 shown in Figure 87 is formed by two independent material piece, its each formed first and second parts 5012,5014 of two-piece type flat tube 5010.The 3rd material piece is used to form insert 5034.The first and second parts 5012, the 5014th in the illustrated embodiment, identical or substantially identical, but relative to each other reversing.In making processing, defined being formed on each part 5012,5014 the edge than macrobending of larger arcuate part, and surround the less arcuate part be formed on another part 5014,5012 the corresponding longitudinal edge so that the narrow side 5018 of flat tube 5010,5020 each have the twice wall thickness.In addition, the relative longitudinal edge 5038,5040 of insert 5034 is shaped in the narrow side 5018 that is assemblied in flat tube 5010,5020 inboards.In this concrete structure, defined the threeply degree a narrow side 5018.Therein the material thickness of insert 5034 be used for the first and second parts 5012, those embodiment that 5014 material thickness is identical, aforesaid threeply degree can be to be used to form the first and second parts 5012,5014 material thickness three times, but in other embodiments, insert 5034 can be made by thinner material.Should be noted that the feature shown in Figure 87 can be applied to the embodiment of other any flat tubes of describing and/or illustrating here.

In the heat exchanger of Figure 86, two interior zone 5075a, 5075b of flat tube 5010 are defined by the part of insert 5034 in each interior zone 5075a, 5075b at least in part.Utilization can be used for the higher pressure of fluid of supporting wall the second interior zone 5075b in certain embodiments by flow channel 5016, the first interior zone 5075a of the narrower space definition relative narrower between the ripple of insert 5034 among the first interior zone 5075a.In addition, second narrow side 5020 walls relative (first) narrow side 5018 corresponding with the second interior zone 5075b has larger booster action.Form this by the longitudinal edge with two extra fold 5040 of insert 5034 at the second narrow side 5020 places and strengthen, the second narrow side 5020 with five layer materials is provided thus.This design provides flat tube 5010 according to the present invention in the example that how to be strengthened in the situation that needs are strengthened owing to the expection stress in the selection zone of flat tube 5010, and it can be provided with more thin-wall regions (for example, 0.03mm-0.15mm (0.0011811-0.0059055) in certain embodiments in relatively low other zones of expection stress.Being used for the material weight of structure flat tube 5010 and the manufacturing loss of heat exchanger 5010 therefore can significantly be reduced.

Figure 88 illustrates in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention heat exchanger, and it has utilized the flat tube 5110 shown in Figure 89.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 88 and 89, the medial region 5175 of each flat tube 5110 has at least in part by along the width of insert 5134 and evenly or many flow channels 5116 of defining of the insert 5134 that substantially is formed uniformly.But heat exchanger 5163 is provided with group G1, the G2 of two groups of different flat tubes 5110, and it has the flow channel 5116 that differs from one another.In other embodiments, this group of any amount is possible.Flow into or flow out in the header 5167 that the fluid of every group of G1, the G2 of flat tube 5110 extends by the depth direction along heat exchanger 5163 horizontal division wall 5173 and with another group G2, G1 in fluid phase separation.Different fluids can flow respectively organizing among G1, the G2 of flat tube 5110.For example, first medium (for example, oil) can flow in one group of G1, and second medium (for example, cooling fluid) can be organized among the G2 mobile at another.Less distance between the wall of the use of narrower flow channel 5116 and insert 5134 from the flat tube 5110 of group G2, and narrow side 5118 in the flat tube 5110 of group G2,5120 be used for relatively more stable greatly reinforcement and can find out that the flat tube 5110 of group G2 is applicable to be in the higher pressure of pressure than the flat tube 5110 of group G1 usually.In some applications, the flat tube 5110 of group G2 can define the sub-cooled fluid radiator part of heat exchanger 5163, and the flat tube 5110 of group G1 can define the High-temperature cooling fluid radiator part of heat exchanger 5163.

Suppose that the medium that medium in the flat tube 5110 of group G2 is compared in the flat tube 5110 of group G1 is in more under the high pressure, then by the design of use therein insert 5134 come to the flat tube 5110 of group G2 wide side 5122,5124 and narrow side 5118,5120 strengthen.Particularly, the ripple of insert 5134 is narrower than the ripple of insert in the flat tube 5110 among the group G1 significantly in the flat tube 5110 of group G2.In addition, among the group G2 the narrow side 5118,5120 of flat tube 5110 have five layer materials (by with the first and second pipe sections 5112,5124 the stacked longitudinal edge at narrow side 5118,5120 places define two-layer, and by folding three layers of defining of the mulberry on each longitudinal edge 5138,5140 of insert 5134), and only the narrow side 5118 of the flat tube 5110 in group G1,5120 places because to lack this insert folding and only arranged trilaminate material.Should be noted that the flat tube 5110 in two groups of G1, G2 can be identical or substantially identical, and the dissimilar insert 5134 that shown in Figure 89, can all be applicable to equally.Therefore, by having defined not on the same group the different inserts 5134 of flat tube 5110 that are used for heat exchanger 5163, and two different interior zones 5175 in the flat tube 5110 in this specific embodiment, have been produced.

Figure 90 illustrates in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention heat exchanger, and it has utilized the flat tube similar to Figure 53 5210.In this specific embodiment, the relative size of interior zone 5275a, 5275b changes between a plurality of flat tubes 5210 of heat exchanger 5263.In some embodiment (comprising for example illustrated embodiment of Figure 90), the relative size of interior zone 5275a, 5275b is along at least a portion of heat exchanger 5263 and along with flat tube 5210 gradually changes.Therefore, the header 5267 that is fastened to flat tube 5210 can have the division wall 5273a that extends with respect to the sloped-end of flat tube 5210.This position of dividing wall 5273a can change corresponding to the size of interior zone 5275a, 5275b in the flat tube 5210.If necessary, one or more extra division walls (for example division wall 5273b shown in Figure 90) can be included in the header 5267 to provide as required the further separation of flowing through over-heat-exchanger 5263.

Can be used for any one the example of single type flat tube 5310 of above-mentioned heat exchanger embodiment illustrates as example in Figure 91.The insert ripple 5252 of general rectangular in the embodiment of Figure 91 (with among the embodiment of Figure 54 substantially leg-of-mutton ripple 4352 contrast), and in Figure 54, have same size and in Figure 91, have the flow channel 4316,5316 of different size, the single type flat tube 5310 among Figure 91 is substantially identical with aforementioned flat tube shown in Figure 54.Therefore, for the more information relevant with flat tube shown in Figure 91, reference is carried out in the description of following Figure 54 here.

Flat tube 4310 among Figure 54 and 91,5310 can be by single material piece manufacturing, and can substitute and abovely use in conjunction with the arbitrary flat tube among the described embodiment of Figure 85-90.Should also be noted that other single types disclosed herein and in the two-piece type flat tube any one can substitute abovely uses in conjunction with the arbitrary flat tube among the described embodiment of Figure 85-90.Flat tube 4310 shown in Figure 54 and 91,5310 both narrow sides 4318,4320,5318,5320 comprise the double thickness that is used to form flat tube 4310,5310 material piece.Material piece can will be bent to form flat tube 4310,5310 narrow side 4318,4320,5318, two zones (collection of 5320, define one insert 4334 with being formed as of material piece, 5334 part is adjacent and the zone that joins from the side) in folding twice, thus the thickness in territory, narrow lateral areas has been increased three times of material thickness.In addition, each longitudinal edge of material piece can be crooked and mobile in the mode shown in Figure 54 and 91, is reinforced part to surround each.These are reinforced part and both can be provided with stage portion 4358,4360 (invisible among Figure 91, but among Figure 54 as seen) and come to take in corresponding longitudinal edge in the mode that is recessed into.For flat tube 4310,5310 narrow side 4318,4320,5318,5320 are further strengthened, can be with extra folding being reinforced in the part shown in Figure 54 and 91 that be attached to.In the flat tube 5310 shown in Figure 91, defined two groups of flow channels 5316, its each flow channel has the size different from those flow channels in another group.On the contrary, all flow channel 4316 is substantially identical dimensionally in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 54.

Figure 19-23 shows can be by the many different flat tube of single material piece manufacturing.Be similar to other single type flat tubes shown in this article, each among the embodiment shown in Figure 19-23 is particularly useful for the heat exchanger 4963,5063,5163,5263 in conjunction with Figure 85-90 discussion.Particularly, comprise the narrow side that is reinforced by the setting of vertical or horizontal folding in conjunction with the described flat tube of Figure 19-23 more than.In addition, Figure 46 illustrates can be by the flat tube 3710 of single piece of sheet material manufacturing, and it has can be by the insert 3734 of the independent material piece manufacturing of another part.This concrete flat tube 3710 can also be used for substitute above for the described flat tube 4910 of Figure 85-90,5010,5110,5210 any one.As in greater detail above, in the embodiment of Figure 46, the part of the material piece by will having extra fold folds to form a narrow side 3718 that is reinforced.Surround the relative longitudinal edge of same material sheet by longitudinal edge of material piece, form the narrow side 3720 that another is reinforced.In the longitudinal edge of material piece any or two can fold to provide further reinforcement to give prominence to this another narrow side 3720.The second material piece can be provided with many ripples as mentioned above, and can also longitudinal edge 3738,3740 any or two places be provided with bending or folding with provide to narrow side 3718,3720 either side or both sides further in reinforcement.

Figure 92-95 illustrates for example heat exchanger structure and the method for connecting material sheet with the part that forms heat exchanger or heat exchanger (for example, a case of the fin of the part of heat exchanger core, heat exchanger core, pipeline insert, heat-exchanger pipeline, heat exchanger or fin, heat exchanger etc.).For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 93-95, fin 8313 is brazed to heat-exchanger pipeline 8310.In these illustrated embodiment, heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 is formed by the first material piece 8317 of substantitally planar, and fin 8313 is formed by the second material piece 8333 with bellows-shaped.In other embodiments, by the material piece of solder brazing be the different piece of same material sheet.In other embodiments, and following being explained in more detail, heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 and/or fin 8313 have different shapes.

Although method as herein described relates to the manufacturing of concrete heat exchanger embodiment in the present patent application, this is only as example.Therefore, should be appreciated that, can be applied to the manufacturing of the part of the described all heat exchangers of the application and heat exchanger with reference to the described processing of figure 92-95.

As explained above, the sheet material thickness of the less of heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 and/or fin 8313 can provide remarkable advantage relevant with overall performance, the manufacturability of heat exchanger and the possible wall structure (as disclosed herein) that uses thick-wall materials more not obtain.In addition, by utilizing one or more in the flat tube feature as herein described, the inventor has been found that, many different flat tube with the characteristic that is applicable to various application can utilize the material of remarkable minimizing to construct, and keeps simultaneously intensity and the heat exchange attribute of the heavier traditional flat tube of rib.In addition, although relate to flat heat-exchanger pipeline at this paper, but the present invention also can be applied to or be applied to alternatively have the heat-exchanger pipeline of varying cross-section shape, includes but not limited to circle, rectangle, triangle or other polygons, irregularly shaped etc.

In certain embodiments, other parts of heat-exchanger pipeline 8310, heat exchanger fin 8313 and/or heat exchanger can by have identical or substantially the same thickness material piece form.Alternatively, in other embodiments, two or more parts of heat exchanger can be formed by the material piece with different-thickness.In these other embodiment, heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 can form by having the first thickness material sheet 8317, and heat exchanger fin 8313 can be arranged between the adjacent pipeline 8310 and can be formed by the material piece 8333 with different-thickness.In these embodiments, the first of heat exchanger (for example, case) can be formed by the material piece with first thickness, the second portion of heat exchanger (for example, ducted at least one) can be formed by the material piece with second thickness, and the third part of heat exchanger (for example, fin 8333) can be formed by the material piece with the 3rd thickness.

For example, in some embodiments of the invention, flat tube 8310 can form by having the material piece 8317 that is not more than about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch) thickness.But, in other embodiments, and as mentioned above, the inventor has been found that by having possible the wall that heat-exchanger pipeline that the material piece that is not more than about 0.15mm (0.0059055 inch) thickness forms provides with overall performance, the manufacturability of the flat tube of being made by this material and heat exchanger and the wall material after using more can not obtain and constructs (as described herein) relevant remarkable advantage.Alternatively or additionally, fin 8313 can form by having the material piece 8333 that is not more than about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch) thickness.In other embodiments, fin 8313 can be formed by the material piece 8333 that has at about 0.03-0.15mm (0.0011811-0.0059055 inch) or thickness slightly in larger scope.In other embodiments, heat exchanger fin 8313 can form by having the material piece 8333 that is not more than about 0.03-0.03mm (0.0011811-0.0035433 inch).

Shown in Figure 92-95, the solder brazing layer 8335 that can comprise at least a portion of the outer surface X1 that is arranged at the first material piece 83137 according to the first material piece 8317 of some embodiments of the present invention manufacturing, be arranged in following interior sacrifice layer or the corrosion-resistant coating 8337 of a part of solder brazing layer 8335 or solder brazing layer 8335, and be arranged in the core body 8315 of sacrifice layer below 8337 (individual layer shown in Figure 92 and 94, and as having two-layer or multilayer in Figure 93 and 95).As using in this paper and the claims, such as " following ", " below ", " more than " and " top " only be used for simplified characterization, and not only represent or mean any specific orientation that the structure of indication must adopt or take in arbitrary structures.

Core body 8315 in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 92-95 for example comprises for example aluminium alloy.Aluminium alloy can have one or more other materials of appropriate amount, and such as manganese, magnesium, titanium, copper etc. for the intensity and/or the corrosion resistance that improve core body 8315, perhaps is used for changing according to expectation one or more other characteristics of core body 8315.

In some embodiment kinds, core body 8315 is changed to produce has the different layer 8339 (this paper is sometimes referred to as secondary layer of core body 8315) of one or more and all the other core bodys 8315.For example, by for example during solder brazing is processed, silicon being diffused in the top of core body 8315 with the temperature that raises, the structure of aluminium alloy and/or composition can be changed into and define silicon and be diffused in wherein layer 8339 (see Figure 93, it illustrates this processing of carrying out in the structure of Figure 92) in the top.In certain embodiments, can comprise that the intermetallic compound (for example silicomanganese Al intermetallic) of silicon carries out this change by generation.By such processing, one or more compositions of aluminium alloy (for example in the layer 8339, only as example, manganese) can accumulate (fully being heated to allow in this situation about accumulating in material piece 8317), the improvement layer 8339 that causes core body 8315 has wherein been accumulated intermetallic compound in the position of whole improvement layer 8339.In certain embodiments, silicon can help this to accumulate, and it is for example by pulling out soluble solids with in the alloying component one or more, or otherwise helps this to accumulate.

The time (for example, the period of solder brazing circulation) that the thickness of improvement layer 8339 can depend on the temperature when the above diffusion that relates to occurs and allow this diffusion to occur.In certain embodiments, improvement layer 8339 is the anodes with respect to the remainder of core body 8315.For example, be diffused into result in the core body 8315 as silicon therein, manganese gone out soluble solids by rubbish and those embodiment of accumulating as intermetallic species in, the improvement layer 8339 that obtains can be the anode with respect to the remainder of core body 8315.

Continue with reference to figure 91-95, and as mentioned above, illustrated material piece 8317 comprises one or more sacrifice layers 8337 (in Figure 92 and 93 being, is two) in Figure 94 and 95.Each sacrifice layer 8337 can comprise metal material, and can be relatively pure or unalloyed metal material.In certain embodiments, sacrifice layer 8337 comprises aluminium alloy, and silicon spreads to pass through described aluminium alloy than the core material 8315 slower speed of passing through lower floor, and has corrosive power as described herein.For example, in certain embodiments, sacrifice layer 8337 comprises aluminium alloy, silicon with the speed that is no more than the core material 8315 by lower floor 50% by described aluminium alloy diffusion.In other embodiments, sacrifice layer 8337 comprises aluminium alloy, silicon with the speed that is no more than the core material 8315 by lower floor 70% by described aluminium alloy diffusion.About this point, sacrifice layer 8337 can have one or more additional materials (for example, the mixture of the metal such as iron, copper, zinc, magnesium and these metals) of trace (traceamount).In certain embodiments, sacrifice layer 8337 has corrosive power, the corrosive power broadly similar of the adjacent remaining braze material of solder brazing layer solder brazing layer 8335 after itself and solder brazing are processed.About this point, should be noted that after solder brazing is processed, the braze material of residual volume can be retained in the arbitrary portion of material piece 8317 or all on.In addition, in certain embodiments, the material of sacrifice layer 8337 is the anodes for the material of core body 8315 (for example, for improvement layer 8339 and/or for the remainder of core body 8315).

In certain embodiments, solder brazing layer 8335 comprises the alusil alloy braze material.In other embodiments, also can use or use alternatively other braze material, some of them comprise silicon.Solder brazing layer 8335 can extend through material piece 8317 whole outer surface, or alternatively extend through is less than the whole outer surface (for example, only the solder brazing position of extend through expectation) of material piece 8317.Solder brazing layer 8335 can be the part of the material piece 8317 used in the solder brazing operation, or can be deposited on the part of material piece 8317 or be formed by the part of material piece 8317 in solder brazing operating period.In either case, the remaining braze material of solder brazing layer 8335 can be the anode for sacrifice layer 8337.

In the layer of the material piece 8317 shown in described herein and/or Figure 92-95 and/or the secondary layer any one can tighten together by roll bond.Only as example, can be incorporated into by the material layer roller butting that will have secondary layer attribute the secondary layer 8339 of making core body 8315 on another layer material, thereby make the core body 8317 shown in Figure 93.

As explaining now, material piece 8317 formed according to the present invention can reduce and/or prevent corrosion (for example, spot corrosion).In certain embodiments, in the layer of material piece 8317 and the secondary layer one or more (for example, the remainder of solder brazing layer 8335, sacrifice layer 8337, secondary layer 8339 and/or core body 8315) can form or consist of alloy with a kind of like this material by a kind of like this material, so that it is for the layer that is positioned at its below of material piece 8317 or secondary layer anode.For example, in certain embodiments, in the layer of material piece 8317 and the secondary layer each (namely, the remainder of the remaining braze material of solder brazing layer 8335, sacrifice layer 8337, secondary layer 8339 and/or core body 8315 after solder brazing is processed) can form or consist of alloy with a kind of like this material by a kind of like this material, so that its after solder brazing be for material piece 8317 be positioned at layer below it or the anode of secondary layer, and be to be negative electrode for its upper strata or secondary layer.

In certain embodiments, one or more layers of material piece 8317 and secondary layer are (namely, the remainder of solder brazing layer 8335, sacrifice layer 8337, secondary layer 8339 and/or core body 8315) is formed by a kind of like this material or consist of alloy with a kind of like this material, so that poor at least about 30 millivolts of existence between one or more in the layer below it or secondary layer.For example, in certain embodiments, in the layer of material piece 8317 and the secondary layer each (for example, the remainder of solder brazing layer 8335, sacrifice layer 8337, secondary layer 8339 and/or core body 8315) can form or consist of alloy with a kind of like this material by a kind of like this material, so that poor at least about 30 millivolts of existence between each adjacent layer or between layer separated from one another or secondary layer.

As mentioned above, in certain embodiments, core body 8315 comprises titanium.In the situation of q.s, titanium can form skeleton during the casting of core body 8315, causes being distributed in the layer of the rich titanium aluminium of core body 8315.The mode that depends at least in part the material piece manufacturing of defining core body 8315, rich titanium aluminium can mainly be positioned at sacrifice layer 8337, mainly is positioned at the remainder of core body 8315, or is distributed in core body 8315 fully.In certain embodiments, rich titanium aluminium can form the secondary layer in the core body 8315, and can be as the another kind of means of opposing core material corrosion.This secondary layer can be negative electrodes for the part of adjacent core body 8315 also, with further opposing corrosion.

Become among those embodiment in the secondary layer of core body such as rich titanium aluminium as described in just therein, rich titanium aluminium can by force corrosion along parallel with core body 8315 or substantially parallel direction along parallel with the secondary layer of rich titanium aluminium or substantially a parallel direction propagate, helping to slow down or to reduce spot corrosion, thereby help the increase corrosion resistance.In certain embodiments, the material of core body 8315 comprises the titanium of about 0.05-0.30wt%.In other embodiments, the material of core body 8315 that has the titanium of about 0.10-0.25wt% provides good intensity and corrosion resistance.But, in many examples, comprise that the material piece 8317 of the core layer 8315 with about 0.20wt% or slightly more titanium provides the overall performance that improves.

In certain embodiments, material piece 8317 has the thickness that is not more than about 0.15mm (note, can use relatively thin duct wall that this paper discloses and any one in the insert material thickness).For example, the material piece in Figure 92 and 93 the illustrated embodiment has the thickness of about 100 μ m (3.3937 mil).As mentioned above, some embodiments of the present invention have the secondary layer 8339 of improvement core body that can be produced by the diffusion of silicon wherein.In these embodiments, silicon can be diffused into the core body 8315 from sacrifice layer 8337 or from braze material solder brazing layer 8335.Consider that the speed that is diffused in the core body 8315 can determine the degree of depth of the secondary layer 8339 of resulting improvement core body at least in part, so can be carried out by sacrifice layer 8337 control of this diffusion.About this point, sacrifice layer 8337 can be used for hindering (but not stopping) this silicon diffusion, and (for example can comprise such material, as mentioned above silicon is spread the aluminium alloy that has more strong resistance and have corrosive power), silicon is with speed diffusion slower in the material than core body 8315 in this material.By utilizing this sacrifice layer 8337, the silicon diffusion can be restricted to the degree of depth of 50 μ m (1.969 mil), and the enough solder brazing time that still allows to carry out with sufficiently high solder brazing temperature simultaneously is to be brazed to material piece 8317 with fin 8313.In certain embodiments, the diffusion that manufacturing processing as herein described can prevent or significantly minimizing surpasses 30 μ m (1.181 mil) degree of depth.

Among the embodiment that two or more parts of heat exchanger tighten together therein, the second portion of heat exchanger (for example, fin 8313) also can comprise or comprise alternatively formation on the outer surface or put on the solder brazing layer of outer surface, be arranged in the following interior sacrifice layer of a part of solder brazing layer or solder brazing layer, and be arranged in the following core body of sacrifice layer.Alternatively or additionally, the core body of material piece that is used to form the second portion (for example, fin 8313) of heat exchanger can comprise improves the outside or outer of core material as mentioned above.In addition, each that is used to form the layer of material piece of second portion (for example, fin 8313) of heat exchanger or secondary layer can be to be anodes for one or more layer or secondary layers that are positioned at its below.In some this embodiment, (for example be used to form the second portion of heat exchanger, each such material in the layer of material piece fin 8313) and the secondary layer forms or becomes alloy with such material, so that there be poor at least about 30 millivolts between the adjacent layer of the second portion of heat exchanger.

Among some embodiment that two or more parts of heat exchanger tighten together therein, the first of heat exchanger can be that outside or the outer field material piece of substantially anode forms by having outer or outside with respect to the second portion of heat exchanger.For example, shown in Figure 92-95, in some this embodiment, outside or outer can formation by the material piece that for the material piece 8317 that is used to form heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 is anode of fin 8313.

Alternatively or additionally, outside or outer can formation by the material piece 8333 that is anodes for remaining Alpha's phase layer 8341 of fin 8313, outer surface and the braze material between the fin 8313 that remaining Alpha's phase layer 8341 is heat-exchanger pipelines 8310 form.In some this embodiment, remaining Alpha mutually layer 8341 sacrifice layer 8337 for the material piece 8317 that forms heat-exchanger pipeline 8310 is anodes.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first and second parts of heat exchanger can be connected to the relative translocation of the third part of heat exchanger.For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 94 and 95, the heat exchanger 8310 with the first and second outer surface X1, X2 is formed by the first material piece 8317.Shown in Figure 94 and 95, every side of material piece 8317 can comprise solder brazing layer 8335 (it provides the outer surface X1 of the first material piece 8317, at least a portion of X2), be arranged in following interior sacrifice layer or the corrosion-resistant coating 8337 of a part of solder brazing layer 8335 or solder brazing layer 8335, is arranged in the core body 8315 between the sacrifice layer 8337.In certain embodiments, two of core body 8315 outsides can comprise the secondary layer 8339 of improveing core material.

The inventor has been found that, if the solder brazing time (namely, when the part of heat exchanger or heat exchanger by the solder brazing stove by the time of solder brazing) shorten, then the Corrosion Protection for the part of the heat exchange with the less wall thickness wall thickness of about 0.20mm (0.007874 inch) (for example, less than) or heat exchanger can be improved.The inventor has determined that in the solder brazing time about 10% shortening shows desirable result and good intensity and corrosion resistance can also be provided outside many other advantages.In addition, make an appointment with half if the solder brazing time further shortens, then can improve its result.

More specifically, the inventor has been found that improving solder brazing speed can reduce silicon and be diffused into the layer that is arranged in its below or the secondary layer of material piece 8317 from solder brazing layer 8335.Being diffused in Figure 93 and 95 of silicon illustrated by dotted arrow.The diffusion depth of silicon can be less than about 50 μ m (1.969 mil), or in certain embodiments can be less significantly.Figure 96 shows this relation in the figure line mode.Imaginary curve among Figure 96 represents the diffusion process of silicon, and solid-line curve represents the diffusion process of carrying out according to traditional material and solder brazing technology.

In some embodiments of the invention, be prevented from transmitter or the similar transmission equipment by the part of the heat exchanger of solder brazing or heat exchanger, it is by different temperatures zone of CAB solder brazing stove.In some this embodiment, the temperature of solder brazing stove can be in the scope of about 577-610 ℃ (1070-1130 ℉).

The optimization solder brazing time that is used for the specific part of particular heat exchanger or heat exchanger is depended at least in part by the gross mass of the part of the heat exchanger of solder brazing or heat exchanger, by the tempered condition of Korea Spro's material piece before the year, by the thickness of the material piece of solder brazing and by the composition of the material piece of solder brazing.For example, in certain embodiments, the transmission speed that is used for the part of heat exchanger with 0.20mm (0.007874 inch) or larger wall thickness or heat exchanger is carried out solder brazing in CAB solder brazing stove is about 0.5-1.5 m/min (19.69-59.055 inch per minute).

Before the part of heat exchanger or heat exchanger is carried out solder brazing, the inventor has been found that to have and can be used for by the sample of material of the part broadly similar of the heat exchanger of solder brazing or heat exchanger or identical material properties determining for by the optimization Temperature Distribution of the part of the heat exchanger of solder brazing or heat exchanger with experiment method.The inventor also has been found that by determine optimizing Temperature Distribution, the transmission speed of the part of heat exchanger or heat exchanger can be brought up to about 1.5-4.0 m/min (4.92-13.12 feet per minute), thus the shortening solder brazing time.

In certain embodiments, can before solder brazing, non-corrosive flux be applied to the outer surface X1 of aluminium tablet 8317,8333 one or both.In certain embodiments, can not need the outer surface X1 that flux material is applied to aluminium tablet 8317,8333 one or both is realized that high-quality solder brazing connects.In addition, in some embodiment (comprising wherein not before solder brazing the embodiment that flux material is applied to material piece 8317,8333 surface), the inventor has determined and can produce high-quality solder brazing connection in the material piece 8317,8333 in controlled atmosphere by one or more alloys (for example, magnesium and/or lithium) are increased to.

Various feature and advantage of the present invention are illustrated in appended claims.

Claims (23)

1. heat-exchanger pipeline comprises:

The first material piece and the second material piece, described the first material piece and described the second material piece have formed pipe body together at least in part, described pipe body has defined the inner space, and have the first and second relative wide sides by the first and second relative narrow side engagement, by stacked the described first and second narrow sides that define of the longitudinal edge of described the first and second material piece are extended at least the described second wide side of described pipe body from the described first wide side of described pipe body; And

The 3rd material piece, described the 3rd material piece have formed the insert that extends through described pipe body and defined at least in part the first flow path and the second flow path,

Wherein, each thickness of described the first material piece and described the second material piece is not more than about 0.20mm.

2. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein:

Described insert has opposed end, and described opposed end is incorporated in the described first narrow side of described pipe body and the described second narrow side and to the described first narrow side and the described second narrow side of described pipe body to be strengthened.

3. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein:

The longitudinal edge of described insert is supported by the arcuate part of the first and second material piece and is in respectively in the described first and second narrow sides of described pipe body.

4. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, the part of wherein said the first material piece has defined recess, and the end of wherein said the second material piece is nested in the described recess at least in part, so that the outer surface adjacent with described recess of described the first material piece is concordant with the outer surface in described recess of described the second material piece.

5. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 4, wherein said recess extend in the planar section of one of relative described the first and second wide sides of described pipe body.

6. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein:

The edge of described insert is folded into so that described insert is in substantially parallel relationship at least one of described the first and second wide sides of described pipe body.

7. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein said the first and second material piece extend to position in the substantitally planar part of described the first wide side of described pipe body at the described overlapping part at the described first narrow side place, and in described position termination.

8. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein said the first material piece has substantially identical shape with described the second material piece.

9. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein said the first material piece is substantially identical with described the second material piece.

10. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 7, wherein said the first and second material piece extend to another location in the substantitally planar part of described the second wide side of described pipe body at the described overlapping part at the described second narrow side place, and in described another position termination.

11. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 7, wherein said the first and second material piece extend to another location in the substantitally planar part of described the first wide side of described pipe body at the described overlapping part at the described second narrow side place, and in described another position termination.

12. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, each thickness of wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece is not more than about 0.15mm.

13. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, each thickness of wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece is not more than about 0.10mm.

14. heat-exchanger pipeline according to claim 1, wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece have ground floor, the second layer and the 3rd layer, described ground floor comprises aluminium alloy, the described second layer comprises the aluminium alloy of the aggregation with intermetallic compound, described intermetallic compound comprises silicon, described the 3rd layer comprises with respect to the described second layer and is anode and more can resists the metal material of the diffusion of silicon than the described second layer, and the described second layer is between described ground floor and described the 3rd layer.

15. a method that forms heat-exchanger pipeline, described method comprises:

First material piece that will have the thickness that is not more than about 0.20mm is shaped to each at least a portion of the first wide side, the first narrow side and the second narrow side that form pipe body, and the wherein said first and second narrow sides toward each other;

Second material piece that will have the thickness that is not more than about 0.20mm is shaped to each at least a portion of the second wide side, the first narrow side and the second narrow side that form described pipe body, and the described first and second wide sides of wherein said pipe body are toward each other and by the described first and second narrow side engagement of described pipe body;

The 3rd material piece is shaped to have formed extends through described pipe body and defined at least in part the insert of the first flow path and the second flow path; And

Stacked so that described pipe body becomes twice along the thickness of the described first and second narrow side integral body at the described first and second narrow side places with described the first and second material piece.

16. method according to claim 15 comprises that also the end with described insert is accommodated in the described first and second narrow sides of described pipe body.

17. method according to claim 16 comprises that also the longitudinal edge that makes described insert is supported by the arcuate part of the first and second pipe sections and is in respectively in the described first and second narrow sides of described pipe body.

18. method according to claim 15, the thickness of wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece is not more than about 0.15mm.

19. method according to claim 15, the thickness of wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece is not more than about 0.10mm.

20. method according to claim 15, each all has ground floor, the second layer and the 3rd layer wherein said the first material piece and described the second material piece, described ground floor comprises aluminium alloy, the described second layer comprises the aluminium alloy of the aggregation with intermetallic compound, described intermetallic compound comprises silicon, described the 3rd layer comprises with respect to the described second layer and is anode and more can resists the metal material of the diffusion of silicon than the described second layer, and the described second layer is between described ground floor and described the 3rd layer.

21. method according to claim 15 wherein comprises described the first material piece moulding that the edge with described the first material piece is molded in the described second wide side of described pipe body.

22. method according to claim 15, wherein said the first material piece is substantially identical with described the second material piece.

23. method according to claim 15, wherein said the first material piece has substantially identical shape with described the second material piece.

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