DE102018212070A1 - U-shaped housing and cover for plate heat exchanger - Google Patents

Abstract

A housing for a heat exchanger has a first housing section and a second housing section. The first housing section has a U-shaped cross-section. The second housing portion cooperates with the first housing portion to define a chamber. The chamber receives a heat transfer assembly. The second housing section is designed as a plate.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Technical area

The invention relates to a heat exchanger for a vehicle and in particular to a housing design for a heat exchanger.

Description of the Related Art

As is well known, it is desirable that air entering an engine of a vehicle be cooled, particularly after exiting a turbocharger or compressor, since cooler air will have an increased density that maximizes engine efficiency. In certain situations, cooling the air may also facilitate engine management and eliminate pre-ignition of the air and fuel prior to timed spark ignition. In addition, the cooling of the air against excessive wear or heat damage acts on an engine block of the engine.

Heat exchangers, such as water cooled intercoolers (WCACs), may be used in the vehicle to cool the air which has been compressed by the turbocharger or compressor prior to entering the engine. Typically, custom application WCACs, such as space limitations in a vehicle, utilize one or more source coolant and may include a heat transfer core with plates interposed between fins.

Typically, the core of the heat exchanger is arranged in a housing. The housing is connected to an inlet tank configured to receive air to be cooled within the heat exchanger and an outlet tank configured to convey the cooled air from the heat exchanger. Disadvantageously, however, the housing may be complex or consist of several components, for example more than or equal to three components. The numerous components increase the manufacturing and assembly costs. In addition, the multiple components are susceptible to leaks at the joints of the multiple components forming the housing.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a simple housing for a heat exchanger formed from a minimum number of components which minimizes manufacturing and assembly costs as well as leakage.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present disclosure, a simple housing has been discovered for a heat exchanger that is formed of a minimum number of components that minimizes manufacturing and assembly costs and minimizes leakage.

According to a first embodiment of the disclosure, a housing for a heat exchanger is disclosed. The housing has a first housing portion with a U-shaped cross-section and a second housing portion which cooperates with the first housing portion to form a chamber receiving a heat transfer assembly. The second housing section is designed as a plate.

In accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure, a core assembly for a heat exchanger is disclosed. The core assembly includes a two-component housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion that cooperate to define a chamber having a first open end and a second open end. A heat transfer assembly is received in the chamber.

In accordance with yet another embodiment of the disclosure, a heat exchanger for a vehicle is disclosed. The heat exchanger has a core assembly having a first open end and a second open end. The core assembly has a housing that houses a heat transfer assembly. The housing is formed from a substantially U-shaped first housing portion and a substantially planar second housing portion. A first tank is connected to the first open end of the core assembly. A second tank is connected to the second open end of the core assembly.

list of figures

• 1 FIG. 10 is a plan view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the disclosure; FIG.
• 2 is an assembled bottom perspective view of a core assembly of the heat exchanger of 1 ;
• 3 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the core assembly of 2 ;
• 4 is a left side view of the core assembly of 2 and 3 wherein the core assembly comprises a collector; and
• 5 is a left side view of the core assembly of 2 and 3 wherein the collector is not shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following detailed description and the accompanying drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the invention. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. With respect to the disclosed methods, the illustrated steps are exemplary in nature, and therefore the order of the steps is not necessary or critical. As used herein, the term "substantially" means "mostly, but not perfect," or "approximately," as one skilled in the art would recognize in light of the description and drawings.

1 shows a heat exchanger 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As illustrated, the heat exchanger 10 as an intercooler, such as a water-cooled intercooler configured. It is understood, however, that the heat exchanger 10 can be designed as any type of heat exchangers commonly used in vehicle systems, such as those used for an air-cooled intercooler, a tube heat exchanger, a radiator, an oil cooler, or other heat exchangers now known or later developed. The heat exchanger 10 has an inlet tank 12 and an outlet tank 14 for respectively receiving and conveying air flowing from an air circuit of a vehicle. The heat exchanger 10 also has lines 17 which are in fluid communication with openings, such as fluid inlets and outlets, to supply fluid to the heat exchanger 10 to promote or promote fluid away from it. For example, the fluid may be a coolant, a refrigerant, or water, or any other fluid that is to the transfer core of heat with that through the heat exchanger 10 flowing air is configured.

As in the 2 to 5 shown has the heat exchanger 10 furthermore a core arrangement 15 on that between the inlet tank 12 and the outlet tank 14 is arranged. The core arrangement 15 has a first open end 15a which is designed to take the air from the inlet tank 12 to be absorbed by the heat exchanger 10 flows. A second open end 15b is the first open end 15a opposite and is designed to pass through the heat exchanger 10 flowing air to the outlet tank 14 to promote.

The core arrangement 15 has a heat transfer arrangement 16 which is designed to transfer heat between the air passing through the heat exchanger 10 flows, and to transfer the fluid. In certain embodiments shown, the core assembly 15 also a pair of collectors 19 on. Each of the collectors 19 is designed so that it is the coupling of the inlet tank 12 or the outlet tank 14 to the core arrangement 15 facilitated. It is understood, however, that the core arrangement 15 directly without the collectors 19 with the inlet tank 12 and the outlet tank 14 can be coupled. Although not shown, other components, such as gaskets, may be between the respective inlet tanks 12 and outlet tanks 14 and the core arrangement 15 if desired, be arranged.

The heat transfer arrangement 16 is in a housing 18 the core arrangement 15 arranged. The heat transfer arrangement 16 has a plurality of stacked, substantially parallel plate assemblies 22 on. The plate arrangements 22 are between a plurality of substantially parallel ribs 20 arranged. Each of the plate arrangements 22 defines at least one flow channel (not shown) for receiving the fluid from at least one external source. It should be understood that other fluid handling mechanisms are used in place of the plate assemblies 22 can be used. For example, instead of the plate arrangements 22 also pipes are used. Other fluid delivery mechanisms may be used if desired.

The housing shown 18 is a multi-component housing formed of a pair of components acting as a first housing section 24 and a second housing section 26 be designated. The first housing section 24 and the second housing section 26 cooperate with each other to form a chamber for receiving the heat transfer assembly 16 define. It should be understood that other housing configurations may be used to expand and contain the heat transfer assembly as desired. The first housing section 24 has a substantially U-shaped cross section with a first wall 28 and a pair of second walls 30 , The second walls 30 extend from an inner surface 54 the first wall 28 on opposite sides of the first wall 28 outwardly and substantially perpendicular to the first wall 28 , The second walls 30 extend substantially parallel to a flow direction of the air through the heat exchanger 10 as if by an arrow displayed. The second walls 30 form closed sides of the core assembly 15 ,

A pair of flanges 34 are with the first housing section 24 of the housing 18 connected, with a first of the flanges 34 at the first open end 15a and a second of the flanges 34 at the second open end 15b is trained. The flanges 34 frame or define a portion of the openings at the respective first open end 15a and the second open end 15b , In the illustrated embodiment, the flanges 34 substantially U-shaped to be in the shape of the first housing portion 24 correspond to. The flanges 34 can be separated from the first housing section 24 formed by fastening means, such as a soldering or welding process, and be coupled thereto, for example, the flanges 34 integral with the first housing section 24 be educated. Each of the flanges 34 works with a respective lip 46 (Also to understand as a brim, edge or collar), which on the second housing section 26 of the housing 18 is formed, which is described in more detail below, to a carrier or frame 48 to train, which is designed with the collector 19 or one of the tanks 13,14 cooperate.

The flanges 34 have a substantially flat engagement surface 36 For example, the engagement of the flanges 34 with the collector 19 or one of the tanks 12 . 14 for a welding or soldering process easier. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer circumference extends 38 the flanges 34 from an outer surface 25 of the first housing section 24 of the housing 18 outward. The tabs 40 are along the circumference 38 the flanges 34 designed to align and position the flanges 34 with the collector 19 or one of the tanks 12 . 14 easier before welding or soldering. The tabs 40 extend substantially perpendicular to and from the engagement surface 36 the flanges 34 outward. Three of the tabs 40 one on each lateral side of each of the flanges 34 and one at a portion of each of the flanges 34 extending from the first wall 28 of the first housing section 24 extend are shown. If desired, however, more than three or fewer than three tabs may be used 40 be included.

A variety of openings 32 is through the first wall 28 of the first housing section 24 formed through. The openings 32 are to provide a fluid connection between the lines and the heat exchanger 10 designed. The openings 32 provide fluid communication of the fluid from the external fluid source to that through the first housing portion 24 and the second housing section 26 formed chamber. It is understood that the openings 32 in other sections of the case 18 if desired, may be formed, such as in the second walls 30 or the second housing section 26 ,

The second housing section 26 of the housing 18 is formed as a substantially flat plate, wherein the lip 46 at each of the opposite ends of the second housing portion 26 is arranged. Each of the lips 46 extends from a surface 50 of the second housing section 26 outward. As mentioned above, each of the lips works 46 with a corresponding one of the flanges 24 together to the frame 48 train. The second housing section 26 has a width that is slightly smaller than the width between the inner surfaces 54 from the second walls 30 of the first housing section 24 , Wherein side edges of the second housing portion 26 on the inner surfaces 54 the second walls 30 of the first housing section 24 issue. The first housing section 24 has a length that is substantially equal to a length of the second housing part 26 is.

The frame 48 is essentially rectangular to fit into the essentially rectangular collector 19 or the tank 12 . 14 which is essentially rectangular to intervene. The frame 48 however, it may have other shapes as desired to engage with the collector 19 and / or the tank 12 . 14 to facilitate with alternative forms.

The tabs 40 facilitate the alignment and the intervention of the collector 19 or the tank 12 . 14 with the frame 48 and consequently with the core arrangement 15 , Once he's with the core arrangement 15 aligned and engaged, becomes the collector 19 or the tank 12 . 14 by means of a coupling means, such as a soldering process, a welding process or a crimping process, on the frame 48 attached. However, other coupling means such as fasteners, bolts, screws, staples or other coupling means may be considered, if desired.

The components of the housing 18 (i.e., the first housing section 24 and the second housing section 26 ) can be made from any material or process as desired. In one example, the first housing section 24 and the second housing section 26 formed of aluminum by a stamping or casting process. In another example, the first housing section 24 and the second housing section 26 of the housing 18 made of a plastic material by a plastic molding process such as a molding process or an extrusion process. It is understood, however, that the first housing section 24 and the second housing section 26 of the housing 18 may be formed of any material or any method as desired. The first housing section 24 is with the second housing section 26 coupled by coupling means such as a soldering process, a welding process or a crimping process. Although bolts, screws, clamps or other coupling means may be considered, if desired.

To the core arrangement 15 assemble, the heat transfer arrangement 16 in the first housing section 24 taken, wherein the first housing section 24 the heat transfer arrangement 16 partially covering. The second housing section 26 acts with the first housing section 24 together to the case 18 train to the heat transfer assembly 16 to enclose the case 18 form and the first open end 15a and the second open end 15b the core arrangement 15 define. The side edges of the second housing section 26 engage in corresponding inner surfaces 54 the second walls 30 of the first housing section 24 one. The lips 46 of the second housing section 26 are with the flanges 34 aligned to the frame 48 train. As soon as the second housing section 26 in cooperation with the first housing section 24 is positioned, the first housing section 24 by the coupling means to the second housing portion 26 coupled.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the tanks are 12 . 14 directly with the core arrangement 15 coupled by the coupling means. In another embodiment, the collectors 19 directly with the core arrangement 15 coupled by the coupling means and between the containers 12 . 14 and the core arrangement 15 arranged. The tabs 40 are designed to hold the tanks 12 . 14 or the collectors 19 Align and engage before coupling. Once they are aligned and engaged, the tanks can 12 . 14 or the collectors 19 through the coupling means with the frame 48 soldered, welded or otherwise connected.

Advantageously, the heat exchanger minimizes 10 According to the present disclosure, the number of components required to the housing 18 of the heat exchanger 10 such as less than four components, and more specifically, two components as described herein. Because only two components are the case 18 There are also fewer brazing, welding or coupling interfaces between the components of the housing 18 in comparison to the housing of the prior art for heat exchangers. As a result, there are fewer coupling interfaces leading to possible leakage. In addition, the heat exchanger minimizes 10 the present disclosure manufacturing costs and complexity. From the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can readily ascertain the essential features of this invention and, without departing from its spirit and scope, make various changes and modifications to the invention to adapt it to various applications and conditions.

Claims (20)

Housing for a heat exchanger, comprising: a first housing portion having a U-shaped cross section; and a second housing portion cooperating with the first housing portion to form a chamber housing a heat transfer assembly, wherein the second housing portion is configured as a plate. Housing according to Claim 1 wherein the first housing portion has a flange that extends outwardly from an outer surface of each of its opposite ends. Housing according to Claim 1 or 2 wherein the second housing portion has a lip extending outwardly from a surface of each of its opposite ends. Housing according to Claim 3 wherein the flanges of the first housing portion and the lips of the second housing portion cooperate to define a frame configured for coupling to a collector and / or a tank. Housing according to Claim 4 wherein a tab extends outwardly from an engagement surface of the frame. Housing according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion made of aluminum or plastic are configured. Housing according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing portion is coupled to the second housing portion by a soldering process, a welding process or a crimping process. A core assembly for a heat exchanger comprising: a two-component housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion which cooperate to define a chamber having a first open end and a second open end; and a heat transfer assembly received in the chamber. Core arrangement according to Claim 8 wherein the heat transfer assembly comprises a plurality of plate assemblies disposed between a plurality of ribs. Core arrangement according to Claim 8 or 9 wherein the first housing portion has a substantially U-shaped cross-section. Core arrangement according to one of Claims 8 to 10 wherein the second housing portion is substantially planar. Core arrangement according to one of Claims 8 to 11 wherein the first housing portion has a flange that extends outwardly from a surface thereof at an end of the first housing portion. Core arrangement according to Claim 12 wherein the second housing portion has a lip extending outwardly from a surface thereof, the lip cooperating with the flange to form a frame configured for coupling to a header or tank of the heat exchanger. Core arrangement according to Claim 12 or 13 wherein the first housing portion has a tab extending outwardly from an engagement surface of the flange, the tab configured to either align a header or a tank of the heat exchanger. Core arrangement according to one of Claims 8 to 14 wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion are made of aluminum or plastic. Heat exchanger for a vehicle, comprising: a core assembly having a first open end and a second open end, the core assembly having a housing receiving a heat transfer assembly, the housing being formed from a generally U-shaped first housing portion and a substantially planar second housing portion; a first tank connected to the first open end of the core assembly; and a second tank connected to the second open end of the core assembly. Heat exchanger according to Claim 16 , further comprising a collector disposed between each of the first tank and the core assembly and the second tank and the core assembly. Heat exchanger according to Claim 16 or 17 wherein the collector and / or the first tank and / or the second tank is welded, brazed or crimped to the core assembly. Heat exchanger according to one of Claims 16 to 18 wherein the first housing portion has a flange disposed at each end thereof, the flange extending outwardly from an outer surface thereof, the second housing portion having a lip at each end, the lip at each end of which Extending surface of the second housing portion to the outside, and wherein the flange cooperates at each end with the lip at each end to form a frame, which is designed so that it is in engagement with the first tank, the second tank or a collector , Heat exchanger according to Claim 19 wherein a plurality of tabs extend outwardly from an engagement surface of the flange, wherein the tabs are configured to align the first tank, the second tank, or the collector with the housing.

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