EP1414275B1 - Electrical heating device - Google Patents

Electrical heating device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1414275B1
EP1414275B1 EP03022497A EP03022497A EP1414275B1 EP 1414275 B1 EP1414275 B1 EP 1414275B1 EP 03022497 A EP03022497 A EP 03022497A EP 03022497 A EP03022497 A EP 03022497A EP 1414275 B1 EP1414275 B1 EP 1414275B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
housing
heating device
legs
base portion
heating
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP03022497A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1414275A1 (en
Inventor
Roland Starck
Franz Flick
Frank Kamy
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Eichenauer Heizelemente GmbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
Eichenauer Heizelemente GmbH and Co KG
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Publication of EP1414275A1 publication Critical patent/EP1414275A1/en
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Publication of EP1414275B1 publication Critical patent/EP1414275B1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/40—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes
    • H05B3/42—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes non-flexible
    • H05B3/48—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes non-flexible heating conductor embedded in insulating material
    • H05B3/50—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes non-flexible heating conductor embedded in insulating material heating conductor arranged in metal tubes, the radiating surface having heat-conducting fins
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/10—Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor
    • H05B3/12—Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor characterised by the composition or nature of the conductive material
    • H05B3/14—Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor characterised by the composition or nature of the conductive material the material being non-metallic
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/40—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes
    • H05B3/42—Heating elements having the shape of rods or tubes non-flexible
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B2203/00—Aspects relating to Ohmic resistive heating covered by group H05B3/00
    • H05B2203/02—Heaters using heating elements having a positive temperature coefficient

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an electric heater with the in the preamble of claim 1 features.
  • a heater is known from DE 26 14 433 C3.
  • the well-known heater has a tubular housing in which between two metallic heat spreaders a PTC heating element is provided.
  • the heat spreaders have one flat, the PTC heating element facing base, curved from the longitudinal edge Legs go out, which resiliently on the inner wall of the housing issue. In this way, the heat spreaders take from the PTC heating element Heat generated with their base and forward this over their Thighs to the housing.
  • a disadvantage of such known heating devices is that they only for low heat output of, for example, 14W suitable and that the thermal coupling of the PTC heating element to the housing especially with delivery of higher power over time increasingly worse becomes.
  • urea solutions which is needed for catalysts is the known heater due to their low power output and the relatively rapidly deteriorating heat coupling of the PTC heating element not suitable for the housing.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to show a way, as in an electric heater of the type mentioned over long periods of time and high power output of several 100 watts, as required for use in cars, a permanently improved heat coupling of the PTC heating element can be reached to the housing.
  • the legs of the heat spreader tapered towards its free end. Basically, it is sufficient if of the base part of each heat spreader only a single leg goes out. Preferably, two legs go from the base part out. In both cases, it is desirable that the legs of the Heating generated as well as possible in the medium to be heated initiate.
  • the legs are continuous and uniform over to rejuvenate their full length.
  • Temperature differences between the different areas of the housing and between the housing and the heat spreaders are lower than in State of the art and advantageously also reduce the differences between each local thermal expansion of the material.
  • the lower now the differences between the thermal expansion of the individual parts of the Heating device the more reliable and durable can be Clamp the legs of the heat distributors to the inner wall of the housing and so for optimum thermal coupling of the PTC heating element to the housing to care.
  • the legs taken together if necessary the inside of the peripheral wall of the housing as much as possible, preferably almost completely, cover.
  • the legs are preferred at its attached to the base part of the respective heat spreader on the end thickest.
  • This measure has the advantage that the mechanical stability of the Heat spreader is high and consequently the legs with a larger force can press against the housing, especially if the base part is stable; preferably it is thicker than the legs emanating from it, so that he can be considered stiff compared to the thighs.
  • the object of the invention is achieved in that the base part the heat spreader is thicker than the legs emanating from it, which the housing should rest resiliently.
  • This has the advantage that the base part stiffer than the thighs. This can prevent that the base part Bends and partially loses contact with the heating element when the Legs are bent. Rather, a good heat transfer from the heating element remains obtained on the heat spreader.
  • the base part on his away from the heating element in the middle between the legs is designed to be particularly thick.
  • the legs can be biased more, without bending the base is to be feared.
  • the greater the bias of the legs the larger is also the force with which they press against the inner wall of the housing and so the better and more reliable is the heat coupling to the Casing.
  • the base part is thicker in the middle than at the ends, from where the or go out the thighs, on top of that favors the flexibility of Leg and increases the length on which a bend easily done can.
  • the base part on its side facing away from the heating element has a running in the longitudinal direction of the housing U-shaped receiving part.
  • this U-shaped receiving part can advantageously an electrical connection line for the PTC heating element inserted and soldered or welded and / or be pressed so that an electrical connection without a separate Connecting part can be produced.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the housing deformed by pressing on its inner wall legs of the heat spreader is.
  • a tubular housing which prior to assembly the heater has a circular cross section, in this way and Be so deformed that it assumes an elliptical or oval cross-section.
  • deformability of the housing is a full-scale snuggling the leg of the heat spreaders favors.
  • the housing and the or the heat spreader of different Materials exist and consequently different thermal expansion coefficients have, over a wide temperature range, a good surface Contact between the legs and the housing and thus a good heat coupling guarantee.
  • the wall thickness is therefore smaller than that Thighs and is best only between 0.1 mm and 0.7 mm, especially preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm. It has been shown that in such Wall thickness the housing on the one hand still reliable the interior of the heater protects against damage, on the other hand, the housing by the at his Inner wall pressing leg of the heat spreader is slightly deformed, so that a good surface contact between the housing and the leg established.
  • a heater according to the invention can of course with a single PTC heating element or also equipped with several PTC heating elements are.
  • the heat spreader can cover the whole with PTC heating elements or it can also pull on the assembled length of the housing a plurality of heat spreaders may be provided, which in a row in the tubular Housing lie. It is particularly favorable, the at least one PTC heating element between pairs of themselves with their respective base opposite To arrange heat distributors. In this way, one becomes special efficient heat removal from both surfaces of the PTC heating element allows.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the heat spreader made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.
  • aluminum and aluminum alloys are characterized by a high thermal conductivity out.
  • aluminum and aluminum alloys allow a cost effective Production of heat spreaders by extrusion.
  • AIMgSi alloys for example AlMgSi1 F32 alloys, which combine a good spring action with a good thermal conductivity.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the housing has an open end with a molded flange.
  • a flange on open end of the housing can be the introduction of one or the a plurality of heating elements and the heat spreader containing heating insert in facilitate the housing.
  • the upper, open side of the housing relaxes Close the inner parts tightly. This is preferably done with a Plastic cap, preferably between the flange and the plastic cap a sealing ring is arranged. Then the upper open side is through a potting compound, for example made of a silicone plastic, sealed, where the required electrical connections through the sealant to the outside be guided.
  • the housing is made of stainless steel. This measure has the advantage.
  • this Housing of corrosive fluid such as a urea solution, which is used in catalytic converters of motor vehicles, is not attacked.
  • the housing made of aluminum which anodized for use in corrosive fluids and / or with a corrosion resistant Coating can be provided.
  • a plastic with a relatively high thermal conductivity for plastics use, for example, one with mineral or ceramic fillers filled PTFE.
  • FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal section through the cylindrical housing 2 of a heating device 1, which at the upper open end 4 with a plastic cap. 3 is provided.
  • the opposite lower end 5 of the housing 2 is closed.
  • the housing 2 is made in one piece as Rollumformteil Made of stainless steel. It is also conceivable, however, the production of the housing 2 tubular semi-finished product and the subsequent attachment of a bottom 6 by Welding, soldering, flanging, pressing or the like.
  • a flange 7 is formed at the upper open End 4 of the housing.
  • This flange 7 has on the one hand the advantage that it serves as a guide during insertion of the internal parts, see Figure 2, on the other hand, the plastic cap 3 thereby optionally in a simple manner with the interposition of a sealing ring 8 attached thereto.
  • FIG 2 the cross section through the heater 1 after insertion the internal parts shown.
  • the heat generated by the PTC heater 20 is passed over heat spreaders 9, between which the PTC heating element 20 is located, discharged to the housing 2.
  • the heat spreaders 9 have a Base part 10, which has its flat side facing the PTC heating element 20 and is in good heat-conducting contact with the PTC heating element 20. From the base part 10 of the metallic heat spreader 9, the heat is bent over Leg 15, which emanate from the base part 10 and resiliently on the inner wall abut the housing 2, discharged. To get the best possible heat coupling of the housing 2 to reach the legs 15 of the heat spreader 9, It is important that these always with the largest possible spring force to the housing Press 2.
  • One or more flat PTC heating elements 20 are made in a frame 21 Plastic inserted and secured against movement.
  • the lower contact surfaces 22 of the PTC heating elements 20 are directly on the flat side of the Base 10 of a first heat spreader 9.
  • On the contact plate 25 is one of the power supply serving connecting element (not shown) formed from the Heating device 1 is led out.
  • the contact plate 25 is in turn of an insulating layer 26, preferably made of a ceramic, covered.
  • the insulating layer 26 is chosen as thin as possible.
  • On this insulating layer 26 is the plane Side of the base part 10 of a second heat spreader 9 placed.
  • Both heat spreaders 9 are preferably identical. While the Power supply, as described, by means of a connection element on the contact plate 25, the ground connection in the U-shaped receptacle 17 on the base part 10 of the heat spreader 9 is formed (not shown) by a connecting wire compressed in the receptacle 17 and led out of the heater 1 is.
  • a thickening 18 of the base part 10 increases the mechanical stability the heat spreader 9 and allows higher contact forces of the legs 15th to the housing 2, without the base member 10 bends and thereby partially lifts off the heating element 20. As shown in Figure 3, the thickening may occur Continue in 18 approaches 12, which the U-shaped receptacle 17 for a Make ground wire.
  • the receptacle 17 is for the second heat spreader. 9 not required per se, if the housing 2 is grounded. However, it is production technology most favorable if both heat spreaders 9 formed the same are.
  • the spring force of the legs 15 of the heat spreader 9 causes a slightly oval elastic deformation of the housing 2, wherein the contours of the inside of the housing 14 and leg outer sides 13 optimally flat fit each other and thus form a maximum heat transfer surface.
  • the housing 2 with a wall thickness of only 0.4 mm, while the heat spreader 9 essential are thicker.
  • a material for the housing 2 stainless steel is particularly good suitable as this is a use in many corrosive liquids, such as in a urea solution, allowed.
  • leg outer sides nestle 13 and the housing inner side 14 to each other, that the distances a and a 'largely go to zero and thus leg outer surfaces and housing inner surface flat and thus are thermally conductive connected.
  • the base part 10 formed very thick. That makes him particularly suitable at the same time for heat conduction.
  • the legs 15 At the base, the legs 15 have a thickness d and taper to the top 16 towards a thickness d '. As a result, a high heat conduction along the Leg 15 ensures at the same time high elasticity of the tips 16.
  • Vor the installation have the tips 16 a small distance s to each other, the itself further reduced by the compression during installation. The distance s is chosen so that it is as low as possible to a large gapless Heat transfer surface and on the other hand for easy installation and for the compensation of thermal expansion still enough scope Has.
  • the described heat spreader 9 with its profiled cross section is preferably produced as an extruded profile of an aluminum alloy.

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  • Resistance Heating (AREA)
  • Saccharide Compounds (AREA)
  • Air-Conditioning For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

The device has a tubular housing (2) in which one or more positive temperature coefficient or PTC heating elements and at least one pair of metal heat distributors are provided. The PTC elements are clamped between the heat distributors, which have a base part facing the heating element(s) and one or two curved legs that contact the inside of the housing wall in a spring manner. The legs narrow towards their free ends.

Description

Die Erfindung geht von einer elektrischen Heizeinrichtung mit den im Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 angegebenen Merkmalen aus. Eine solche Heizeinrichtung ist aus der DE 26 14 433 C3 bekannt. Die bekannte Heizeinrichtung verfügt über ein rohrförmiges Gehäuse, in welchem zwischen zwei metallischen Wärmeverteilern ein PTC-Heizelement vorgesehen ist. Die Wärmeverteiler verfügen über eine flache, dem PTC-Heizelement zugewandte Basis, von deren Längsrand gekrümmte Schenkel ausgehen, welche federnd an der Innenwand des Gehäuses anliegen. Auf diese Art und Weise nehmen die Wärmeverteiler von dem PTC-Heizelement erzeugte Wärme mit ihrer Basis auf und leiten diese über ihre Schenkel an das Gehäuse ab. Nachteilig an derartigen bekannten Heizeinrichtungen ist, daß sie sich nur für geringe Heizleistung von zum Beispiel 14W eignen und daß die Wärmeankopplung des PTC-Heizelements an das Gehäuse insbesondere bei Abgabe größerer Leistung mit der Zeit zunehmend schlechter wird. Insbesondere zum Beheizen von Flüssigkeiten in einem Kraftfahrzeug, wie beispielsweise Harnstofflösungen, welche für Katalysatoren benötigt wird, ist die bekannte Heizeinrichtung aufgrund ihrer zu geringen Leistungsabgabe und der verhältnismäßig rasch schlechter werdenden Wärmeankopplung des PTC-Heizelementes an das Gehäuse nicht geeignet.The invention relates to an electric heater with the in the preamble of claim 1 features. Such a heater is known from DE 26 14 433 C3. The well-known heater has a tubular housing in which between two metallic heat spreaders a PTC heating element is provided. The heat spreaders have one flat, the PTC heating element facing base, curved from the longitudinal edge Legs go out, which resiliently on the inner wall of the housing issue. In this way, the heat spreaders take from the PTC heating element Heat generated with their base and forward this over their Thighs to the housing. A disadvantage of such known heating devices is that they only for low heat output of, for example, 14W suitable and that the thermal coupling of the PTC heating element to the housing especially with delivery of higher power over time increasingly worse becomes. In particular for heating liquids in a motor vehicle, such as For example, urea solutions, which is needed for catalysts is the known heater due to their low power output and the relatively rapidly deteriorating heat coupling of the PTC heating element not suitable for the housing.

Aus der US 4,822,980 ist eine elektrische Heizeinrichtung mit einem rohrförmigen Gehäuse bekannt, in welchem ein PTC-Heizelement von einer Einbettmasse umgeben in einen Hohlraum eines einstückigen Wärmeverteilers eingesetzt ist. Der Hohlraum befindet sich in einem Mittelteil des Wärmeverteilers, welcher ein Kastenprofil aufweist. Von dem Kastenprofil gehen zwei gleichbleibend dicke kreisbogenförmige Schenkel aus, welche sich federnd der Innenseite der Umfangswand des Gehäuses anschmiegen.From US 4,822,980 is an electric heater with a tubular Housing known in which a PTC heating element surrounded by an investment is inserted into a cavity of a one-piece heat spreader. Of the Cavity is located in a central part of the heat spreader, which is a box section having. From the box profile go two consistently thick arcuate Leg out, which is resilient to the inside of the peripheral wall cling to the case.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, ein Weg aufzuzeigen, wie bei einer elektrischen Heizeinrichtung der eingangs genannten Art auch über längere Zeit und bei hoher Leistungsabgabe von mehreren 100 Watt, wie sie beim Einsatz in PKWs gefordert wird, eine dauerhaft verbesserte Wärmeankopplung des PTC-Heizelements an das Gehäuse erreicht werden kann. The object of the invention is therefore to show a way, as in an electric heater of the type mentioned over long periods of time and high power output of several 100 watts, as required for use in cars, a permanently improved heat coupling of the PTC heating element can be reached to the housing.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine elektrische Heizeinrichtung mit den im Anspruch 1 und in Anspruch 3 angegebenen Merkmalen gelöst. Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche.This object is achieved by an electric heater with the in claim 1 and in claim 3 specified features. Advantageous developments The invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

Bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Heizeinrichtung gemäß Anspruch 1 sind der bzw. die Schenkel der Wärmeverteiler zu ihrem freien Ende hin verjüngt ausgeführt. Grundsätzlich genügt es, wenn von dem Basisteil des jeweiligen Wärmeverteilers nur ein einziger Schenkel ausgeht. Bevorzugt gehen zwei Schenkel vom Basisteil aus. In beiden Fällen wird angestrebt, daß die Schenkel die von der Heizeinrichtung erzeugte Wärme möglichst gut in das zu beheizende Medium einleiten.In a heating device according to claim 1 according to the invention or the legs of the heat spreader tapered towards its free end. Basically, it is sufficient if of the base part of each heat spreader only a single leg goes out. Preferably, two legs go from the base part out. In both cases, it is desirable that the legs of the Heating generated as well as possible in the medium to be heated initiate.

Bevorzugt ist insbesondere, daß sich die Schenkel stetig und gleichmäßig über ihre volle Länge verjüngen. Überraschenderweise hat sich gezeigt, daß sich durch diese einfache Maßnahme eine wesentlich bessere und gleichmäßigere Wärmeankopplung des PTC-Heizelementes an das Gehäuse erreichen läßt. Temperaturunterschiede zwischen den verschiedenen Bereichen des Gehäuses sowie zwischen dem Gehäuse und den Wärmeverteilern sind geringer als im Stand der Technik und reduzieren vorteilhaft auch die Unterschiede zwischen den jeweils lokal stattfindenden Wärmeausdehnungen des Materials. Je geringer nun die Unterschiede zwischen der Wärmeausdehnung der einzelnen Teile der Heizeinrichtung sind, desto zuverlässiger und dauerhafter können sich die Schenkel der Wärmeverteiler an die Innenwand des Gehäuses anschmiegen und so für eine optimale Wärmeankopplung des PTC-Heizelements an das Gehäuse sorgen. Außerdem erreicht man bei einer gleichmäßigen Wärmeverteilung und bei einer gleichmäßigen Oberflächentemperatur des Gehäuses einen optimalen Wärmübergang. Hierfür ist es günstig, wenn die Schenkel gegebenenfalls zusammengenommen die Innenseite der Umfangswand des Gehäuses möglichst weitgehend, vorzugsweise nahezu vollständig, bedecken. Bevorzugt sind die Schenkel an ihrem am Basisteil des jeweiligen Wärmeverteilers angebrachten Ende am dicksten. Diese Maßnahme hat den Vorteil, daß die mechanische Stabilität des Wärmeverteilers hoch ist und demzufolge die Schenkel mit einer größeren Kraft an das Gehäuse anpressen können, insbesondere dann, wenn auch der Basisteil stabil ist; vorzugsweise ist er dicker als die von ihm ausgehenden Schenkel, so daß er verglichen mit den Schenkeln als starr angesehen werden kann. Dies führt in vorteilhafterweise zu einer noch besseren Ableitung der Wärme von dem PTC-Heizelement an das Gehäuse, weil sowohl zwischen Wärmeverteiler und Heizelement als auch zwischen Wärmeverteiler und Gehäuse ein inniger Kontakt gewährleistet ist.In particular, it is preferred that the legs are continuous and uniform over to rejuvenate their full length. Surprisingly, it has been shown that by this simple measure a much better and more even Achieve thermal coupling of the PTC heating element to the housing. Temperature differences between the different areas of the housing and between the housing and the heat spreaders are lower than in State of the art and advantageously also reduce the differences between each local thermal expansion of the material. The lower now the differences between the thermal expansion of the individual parts of the Heating device, the more reliable and durable can be Clamp the legs of the heat distributors to the inner wall of the housing and so for optimum thermal coupling of the PTC heating element to the housing to care. In addition, one achieves a uniform heat distribution and at a uniform surface temperature of the housing optimal Wärmübergang. For this it is advantageous if the legs taken together if necessary the inside of the peripheral wall of the housing as much as possible, preferably almost completely, cover. The legs are preferred at its attached to the base part of the respective heat spreader on the end thickest. This measure has the advantage that the mechanical stability of the Heat spreader is high and consequently the legs with a larger force can press against the housing, especially if the base part is stable; preferably it is thicker than the legs emanating from it, so that he can be considered stiff compared to the thighs. this leads to advantageously to an even better dissipation of heat from the PTC heating element to the housing, because both between heat spreader and heating element as well as between the heat spreader and the housing ensures an intimate contact is.

Gemäß Anspruch 3 wird die Aufgabe der Erfindung dadurch gelöst, daß der Basisteil der Wärmeverteiler dicker ist als die von ihm ausgehenden Schenkel, welche dem Gehäuse federnd anliegen sollen. Das hat den Vorteil, daß der Basisteil steifer ist als die Schenkel. Dadurch kann verhindert werden, daß sich der Basisteil durchbiegt und teilweise den Kontakt zum Heizelement verliert, wenn die Schenkel gebogen werden. Vielmehr bleibt ein guter Wärmeübergang vom Heizelement auf den Wärmeverteiler erhalten. According to claim 3, the object of the invention is achieved in that the base part the heat spreader is thicker than the legs emanating from it, which the housing should rest resiliently. This has the advantage that the base part stiffer than the thighs. This can prevent that the base part Bends and partially loses contact with the heating element when the Legs are bent. Rather, a good heat transfer from the heating element remains obtained on the heat spreader.

Besonders vorteilhaft lassen sich die Maßnahmen des Anspruchs 1 mit denen des Anspruchs 3 kombinieren.Particularly advantageous is the measures of claim 1 with those of claim 3 combine.

Eine vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß der Basisteil auf seiner von dem Heizelement abgewandten Seite in der Mitte zwischen den Schenkeln besonders dick ausgebildet ist. Auf diese Art und Weise werden die mechanische Stabilität der Wärmeverteiler und die Wärmeleitfähigkeit besonders hoch. Die Schenkel lassen sich stärker vorspannen, ohne daß ein Durchbiegen der Basis zu befürchten ist. Je größer die Vorspannung der Schenkel ist, desto größer ist auch die Kraft, mit welcher sie sich an die Innenwand des Gehäuses pressen und um so besser und zuverlässiger ist damit auch die Wärmeankopplung an das Gehäuse. Wenn der Basisteil in der Mitte dicker ist als an den Enden, von wo der bzw. die Schenkel ausgehen, begünstigt das obendrein die Biegsamkeit der Schenkel und vergrößert die Länge, auf welcher eine Biegung leicht erfolgen kann.An advantageous development of the invention provides that the base part on his away from the heating element in the middle between the legs is designed to be particularly thick. In this way, the mechanical Stability of the heat spreaders and the thermal conductivity particularly high. The legs can be biased more, without bending the base is to be feared. The greater the bias of the legs, the larger is also the force with which they press against the inner wall of the housing and so the better and more reliable is the heat coupling to the Casing. If the base part is thicker in the middle than at the ends, from where the or go out the thighs, on top of that favors the flexibility of Leg and increases the length on which a bend easily done can.

Bevorzugt ist, daß der Basisteil auf seiner dem Heizelement abgewandten Seite ein in Längsrichtung des Gehäuses verlaufendes U-förmiges Aufnahmeteil aufweist. In dieses U-förmiges Aufnahmeteil kann vorteilhaft eine elektrische Anschlußleitung für das PTC-Heizelement eingelegt und verlötet oder verschweißt und/oder eingepresst werden, so daß ein elektrischer Anschluß ohne ein gesondertes Anschlußteil hergestellt werden kann.It is preferred that the base part on its side facing away from the heating element has a running in the longitudinal direction of the housing U-shaped receiving part. In this U-shaped receiving part can advantageously an electrical connection line for the PTC heating element inserted and soldered or welded and / or be pressed so that an electrical connection without a separate Connecting part can be produced.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß das Gehäuse durch die an seine Innenwand drückenden Schenkel der Wärmeverteiler verformt ist. Beispielsweise kann ein rohrförmiges Gehäuse, welches vor dem Zusammenbaus der Heizeinrichtung einen kreisförmigen Querschnitt hat, auf diese Art und Weise so verformt werden, daß es einen elliptischen oder ovalen Querschnitt annimmt. Durch eine solche Verformbarkeit des Gehäuses wird ein vollflächiges Anschmiegen der Schenkel der Wärmeverteiler begünstigt. Insbesondere läßt sich, wenn das Gehäuse und der oder die Wärmeverteiler aus unterschiedlichen Materialien bestehen und demzufolge unterschiedliche Wärmeausdehnungskoeffizienten aufweisen, über einen weiten Temperaturbereich ein guter flächiger Kontakt zwischen den Schenkeln und dem Gehäuse und damit eine gute Wärmeankopplung gewährleisten. Bevorzugt ist die Wandstärke deshalb kleiner als die Schenkel und beträgt am besten nur zwischen 0,1 mm und 0,7 mm, besonders bevorzugt zwischen 0,2 mm und 0,5 mm. Es hat sich gezeigt, daß bei solchen Wandstärken das Gehäuse das Innere der Heizeinrichtung einerseits noch zuverlässig vor Beschädigung schützt, andererseits das Gehäuse durch die an seine Innenwand drückenden Schenkel der Wärmeverteiler etwas verformt wird, so daß sich ein guter flächiger Kontakt zwischen dem Gehäuse und dem Schenkel einstellt.A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the housing deformed by pressing on its inner wall legs of the heat spreader is. For example, a tubular housing, which prior to assembly the heater has a circular cross section, in this way and Be so deformed that it assumes an elliptical or oval cross-section. By such deformability of the housing is a full-scale snuggling the leg of the heat spreaders favors. In particular, it is possible to if the housing and the or the heat spreader of different Materials exist and consequently different thermal expansion coefficients have, over a wide temperature range, a good surface Contact between the legs and the housing and thus a good heat coupling guarantee. Preferably, the wall thickness is therefore smaller than that Thighs and is best only between 0.1 mm and 0.7 mm, especially preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm. It has been shown that in such Wall thickness the housing on the one hand still reliable the interior of the heater protects against damage, on the other hand, the housing by the at his Inner wall pressing leg of the heat spreader is slightly deformed, so that a good surface contact between the housing and the leg established.

Eine erfindungsgemäße Heizeinrichtung kann selbstverständlich mit einem einzigen PTC-Heizelement oder auch mit mehreren PTC-Heizelementen ausgestattet seien. Desgleichen kann sich der Wärmeverteiler über die gesamte mit PTC-Heizelementen bestückte Länge des Gehäuses hinziehen, oder es können auch mehrere Wärmeverteiler vorgesehen sein, welche hintereinander in dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse liegen. Besonders günstig ist es, das wenigstens eine PTC-Heizelement zwischen Paaren von sich mit ihrer jeweiligen Basis gegenüberliegenden Wärmverteilern anzuordnen. Auf diese Art und Weise wird eine besonders effiziente Wärmeabfuhr von beiden Oberflächen des PTC-Heizelementes ermöglicht.A heater according to the invention can of course with a single PTC heating element or also equipped with several PTC heating elements are. Likewise, the heat spreader can cover the whole with PTC heating elements or it can also pull on the assembled length of the housing a plurality of heat spreaders may be provided, which in a row in the tubular Housing lie. It is particularly favorable, the at least one PTC heating element between pairs of themselves with their respective base opposite To arrange heat distributors. In this way, one becomes special efficient heat removal from both surfaces of the PTC heating element allows.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß die Wärmeverteiler aus Aluminium oder aus einer Aluminiumlegierung bestehen. Aluminium sowie Aluminiumlegierungen zeichen sich durch eine hohe Wärmeleitfähigkeit aus. Desweiteren erlauben Aluminium und Aluminiumlegierungen eine kostengünstige Fertigung der Wärmeverteiler durch Strangpressen. Besonders bevorzugt sind dabei AIMgSi-Legierungen, beispielsweise AlMgSi1 F32-Legierungen, welche eine gute Federwirkung mit einer guten Wärmeleitfähigkeit kombinieren. A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the heat spreader made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. aluminum and aluminum alloys are characterized by a high thermal conductivity out. Furthermore, aluminum and aluminum alloys allow a cost effective Production of heat spreaders by extrusion. Especially preferred are AIMgSi alloys, for example AlMgSi1 F32 alloys, which combine a good spring action with a good thermal conductivity.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß das Gehäuse ein offenes Ende mit einem angeformten Flansch aufweist. Mit einem Flansch am offenen Ende des Gehäuses läßt sich das Einbringen eines das eine bzw. die mehreren Heizelemente sowie die Wärmeverteiler enthaltenden Heizeinsatzes in das Gehäuse erleichtern. Die obere, offene Seite des Gehäuses läßt sich nach Einbringen der Innenteile dicht verschließen. Bevorzugt geschieht dies mit einer Kunststoffkappe, wobei bevorzugt zwischen dem Flansch und der Kunststoffkappe ein Dichtring angeordnet ist. Anschließend wird die obere offene Seite durch eine Vergußmasse, zum Beispiel aus einem Silikonkunststoff, dicht verschlossen, wobei die benötigten elektrischen Anschlüsse durch die Dichtmasse nach außen geführt werden. Eine weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß das Gehäuse aus Edelstahl ist. Diese Maßnahme hat den Vorteil. daß das Gehäuse von korrosiver Flüssigkeit, beispielsweise von einer Harnstofflösung, welche in Katalysatoren von Kfz's verwendet wird, nicht angegriffen wird. Altemativ ist es aber auch möglich, das Gehäuse aus Aluminium herzustellen, welches für einen Einsatz in korrosiven Flüssigkeiten eloxiert und/oder mit einer korrosionsbeständigen Beschichtung versehen werden kann. Für das Gehäuse kann man aber auch einen Kunststoff mit einer für Kunststoffe relativ hohen Wärmeleitfähigkeit verwenden, zum Beispiel ein mit mineralischen oder keramischen Füllstoffen gefülltes PTFE.A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the housing has an open end with a molded flange. With a flange on open end of the housing can be the introduction of one or the a plurality of heating elements and the heat spreader containing heating insert in facilitate the housing. The upper, open side of the housing relaxes Close the inner parts tightly. This is preferably done with a Plastic cap, preferably between the flange and the plastic cap a sealing ring is arranged. Then the upper open side is through a potting compound, for example made of a silicone plastic, sealed, where the required electrical connections through the sealant to the outside be guided. A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the housing is made of stainless steel. This measure has the advantage. that this Housing of corrosive fluid, such as a urea solution, which is used in catalytic converters of motor vehicles, is not attacked. Alternatively But it is also possible to produce the housing made of aluminum, which anodized for use in corrosive fluids and / or with a corrosion resistant Coating can be provided. For the case can but also a plastic with a relatively high thermal conductivity for plastics use, for example, one with mineral or ceramic fillers filled PTFE.

Weitere Einzelheiten und Vorteile der Erfindung werden anhand eines Ausführungsbeispiels unter Bezugnahme auf die beigefügten Zeichnungen erläutert.Further details and advantages of the invention will become apparent from an embodiment explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Es zeigen:

Figur 1
einen Längsschnitt durch das Gehäuse eines Ausführungsbeispiels,
Figur 2
einen Querschnitt durch das Ausführungsbeispiel,
Figur 3
einen Wärmeverteiler und ein Ausschnitt des Gehäuses und
Figur 4
eine alternative Ausführungsform eines Wärmeverteilers.
Show it:
FIG. 1
a longitudinal section through the housing of an embodiment,
FIG. 2
a cross section through the embodiment,
FIG. 3
a heat spreader and a cutout of the housing and
FIG. 4
an alternative embodiment of a heat spreader.

Figur 1 zeigt einen Längsschnitt durch das zylinderförmige Gehäuse 2 einer Heizeinrichtung 1, welches am oberen offenen Ende 4 mit einer Kunststoffkappe 3 versehen ist. Das entgegengesetzte untere Ende 5 des Gehäuses 2 ist geschlossen. Im Ausführungsbeispiel ist das Gehäuse 2 einstückig als Rollumformteil aus Edelstahl hergestellt. Denkbar ist aber auch die Herstellung des Gehäuses 2 aus rohrförmigem Halbzeug und die nachträgliche Anbringung eines Bodens 6 durch Schweißen, Löten, Bördeln, Verpressen oder dergleichen. Am oberen offenen Ende 4 des Gehäuses ist ein Flansch 7 angeformt. Dieser Flansch 7 hat zum einen den Vorteil, daß er als Führung beim Einbringen der Innenteile dient, siehe Figur 2, zum anderen kann die Kunststoffkappe 3 dadurch in einfacher Weise gegebenenfalls unter Zwischenlage eines Dichtringes 8 daran angebracht werden.FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal section through the cylindrical housing 2 of a heating device 1, which at the upper open end 4 with a plastic cap. 3 is provided. The opposite lower end 5 of the housing 2 is closed. In the embodiment, the housing 2 is made in one piece as Rollumformteil Made of stainless steel. It is also conceivable, however, the production of the housing 2 tubular semi-finished product and the subsequent attachment of a bottom 6 by Welding, soldering, flanging, pressing or the like. At the upper open End 4 of the housing, a flange 7 is formed. This flange 7 has on the one hand the advantage that it serves as a guide during insertion of the internal parts, see Figure 2, on the other hand, the plastic cap 3 thereby optionally in a simple manner with the interposition of a sealing ring 8 attached thereto.

In Figur 2 ist der Querschnitt durch die Heizeinrichtung 1 nach dem Einbringen der Innenteile dargestellt. Die von dem PTC-Heizelement 20 erzeugte Wärme wird über Wärmeverteiler 9, zwischen welchen sich das PTC-Heizelement 20 befindet, an das Gehäuse 2 abgeführt. Die Wärmeverteiler 9 verfügen über einen Basisteil 10, welcher seine flache Seite dem PTC-Heizelement 20 zugewandt hat und in gutem wärmeleitendem Kontakt mit dem PTC-Heizelement 20 steht. Von dem Basisteil 10 des metallischen Wärmeverteilers 9 wird die Wärme über gebogene Schenkel 15, welche vom Basisteil 10 ausgehen und federnd an der Innenwand des Gehäuses 2 anliegen, abgeführt. Um eine möglichst gute Wärmeankopplung des Gehäuses 2 an die Schenkel 15 der Wärmeverteiler 9 zu erreichen, ist es wichtig, daß diese stets mit einer möglichst großen Federkraft an das Gehäuse 2 drücken. Große Temperaturgradienten und damit lokal unterschiedliche Wärmeausdehnungen wirken jedoch einem gleichmäßigen Anpressen entgegen. Um dem entgegenzuwirken sind die Schenkel 15 gleichmäßig über ihre volle Länge zu ihrem freien Ende hin verjüngt ausgeführt. Diese Maßnahme wirkt dem Entstehen eines Temperaturgradienten entlang der Schenkel 15 entgegen und verbessert über eine gleichmäßigere Anpresskraft die Wärmeankopplung des Wärmeverteilers 9 an das Gehäuse 2.In Figure 2, the cross section through the heater 1 after insertion the internal parts shown. The heat generated by the PTC heater 20 is passed over heat spreaders 9, between which the PTC heating element 20 is located, discharged to the housing 2. The heat spreaders 9 have a Base part 10, which has its flat side facing the PTC heating element 20 and is in good heat-conducting contact with the PTC heating element 20. From the base part 10 of the metallic heat spreader 9, the heat is bent over Leg 15, which emanate from the base part 10 and resiliently on the inner wall abut the housing 2, discharged. To get the best possible heat coupling of the housing 2 to reach the legs 15 of the heat spreader 9, It is important that these always with the largest possible spring force to the housing Press 2. Large temperature gradients and thus locally different However, thermal expansion counteracts a uniform pressing. To counteract the legs 15 are even over their full Length tapered to its free end. This measure affects the Emergence of a temperature gradient along the legs 15 opposite and improved over a more even contact force the heat coupling of the Heat distributor 9 to the housing. 2

Im weiteren wird nun der Aufbau der Heizeinrichtung 1 genauer beschrieben:In the following, the structure of the heating device 1 will now be described in more detail:

Eines oder mehrere flache PTC-Heizelemente 20 sind in einem Rahmen 21 aus Kunststoff eingelegt und darin gegen Verschieben gesichert. Die unteren Kontaktflächen 22 der PTC-Heizelemente 20 liegen direkt auf der ebenen Seite der Basis 10 eines ersten Wärmeverteilers 9. Auf den oberen Kontaktflächen 24 liegt überdeckend ein Kontaktblech 25. An dem Kontaktblech 25 ist ein der Stromzuführung dienendes Anschlusselement (nicht dargestellt) angeformt, das aus der Heizeinrichtung 1 herausgeführt wird. Das Kontaktblech 25 wird seinerseits von einer Isolierschicht 26, vorzugsweise aus einer Keramik, überdeckt. Die lsolierschicht 26 wird möglichst dünn gewählt. Auf diese Isolierschicht 26 ist die ebene Seite des Basisteils 10 eines zweiten Wärmeverteilers 9 gelegt.One or more flat PTC heating elements 20 are made in a frame 21 Plastic inserted and secured against movement. The lower contact surfaces 22 of the PTC heating elements 20 are directly on the flat side of the Base 10 of a first heat spreader 9. Located on the upper contact surfaces 24 covering a contact plate 25. On the contact plate 25 is one of the power supply serving connecting element (not shown) formed from the Heating device 1 is led out. The contact plate 25 is in turn of an insulating layer 26, preferably made of a ceramic, covered. The insulating layer 26 is chosen as thin as possible. On this insulating layer 26 is the plane Side of the base part 10 of a second heat spreader 9 placed.

Beide Wärmeverteiler 9 sind vorzugsweise gleich ausgebildet. Während die Stromzuführung, wie beschrieben, mittels eines Anschlusselements am Kontaktblech 25 erfolgt, ist der Masseanschluss in der U-förmigen Aufnahme 17 am Basisteil 10 des Wärmeverteilers 9 ausgebildet (nicht dargestellt), indem ein Anschlußdraht in der Aufnahme 17 verpreßt und aus der Heizeinrichtung 1 herausgeführt ist. Eine Verdickung 18 des Basisteils 10 erhöht die mechanische Stabilität der Wärmeverteiler 9 und ermöglicht höhere Anpresskräfte der Schenkel 15 an das Gehäuse 2, ohne daß das Basisteil 10 sich durchbiegt und dadurch teilweise vom Heizelement 20 abhebt. Wie in Figur 3 gezeigt ist, kann sich die Verdickung 18 in Ansätzen 12 fortsetzen, welche die U-förmige Aufnahme 17 für einen Massedraht bilden. Die Aufnahme 17 wird für den zweiten Wärmeverteiler 9 an sich nicht benötigt, sofern das Gehäuse 2 auf Masse gelegt ist. Es ist jedoch fertigungstechnisch am günstigsten, wenn beide Wärmeverteiler 9 gleich ausgebildet sind. Both heat spreaders 9 are preferably identical. While the Power supply, as described, by means of a connection element on the contact plate 25, the ground connection in the U-shaped receptacle 17 on the base part 10 of the heat spreader 9 is formed (not shown) by a connecting wire compressed in the receptacle 17 and led out of the heater 1 is. A thickening 18 of the base part 10 increases the mechanical stability the heat spreader 9 and allows higher contact forces of the legs 15th to the housing 2, without the base member 10 bends and thereby partially lifts off the heating element 20. As shown in Figure 3, the thickening may occur Continue in 18 approaches 12, which the U-shaped receptacle 17 for a Make ground wire. The receptacle 17 is for the second heat spreader. 9 not required per se, if the housing 2 is grounded. However, it is production technology most favorable if both heat spreaders 9 formed the same are.

Im Falle eines isolierten Gehäuses 2 mit einer dünnen Isolierschicht zwischen der metallischen Umfangswand des Gehäuses 2 und den Wärmeverteilern 9 könnte hier jedoch ebenfalls ein Draht als Potentialanschluss befestigt werden.In the case of an insulated housing 2 with a thin insulating layer between the metallic peripheral wall of the housing 2 and the heat spreaders 9 could Here, however, a wire to be attached as a potential connection.

In einer Variante eines isolierten Gehäuses 2, bei der beidseits zwischen dem PTC-Heizelement 20 und dem Wärmeverteiler 9 ein Kontaktblech und eine Isolierschicht eingelegt sind, wird dagegen die Aufnahme 17 zur Befestigung eines Anschlußdrahtes nicht benötigt, da dann sowohl der Masseanschluß als auch der Potentialanschluss über Kontaktbleche hergestellt sind. Ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines solchen Wärmeverteilers zeigt Figur 4.In a variant of an insulated housing 2, in which both sides between the PTC heating element 20 and the heat spreader 9, a contact plate and an insulating layer are inserted, however, the receptacle 17 for fixing a Connection wire not needed, because then both the ground terminal and the Potential connection are made via contact plates. An embodiment of such a heat spreader is shown in FIG. 4.

Die Federkraft der Schenkel 15 der Wärmeverteiler 9 bewirkt eine leicht ovale elastische Verformung des Gehäuses 2, wobei sich die Konturen von Gehäuseinnenseite 14 und Schenkelaußenseiten 13 optimal flächig einander anpassen und somit eine größtmögliche Wärmeübergangsfläche bilden. Um eine schwache Verformung des Gehäuses 2 durch die anpressenden Schenkel 15 zu erreichen -was wie erwähnt zu einer besseren Wärmeankopplung führt - ist das Gehäuse 2 mit einer Wandstärke von nur 0,4 mm ausgeführt, während die Wärmeverteiler 9 wesentlich dicker sind. Als Material für das Gehäuse 2 ist Edelstahl besonders gut geeignet, da dies einen Einsatz in vielen korrosiven Flüssigkeiten, wie beispielsweise in einer Harnstofflösung, erlaubt.The spring force of the legs 15 of the heat spreader 9 causes a slightly oval elastic deformation of the housing 2, wherein the contours of the inside of the housing 14 and leg outer sides 13 optimally flat fit each other and thus form a maximum heat transfer surface. To a weak deformation of the housing 2 by the pressing legs 15 to achieve something as mentioned leads to a better heat coupling - is the housing 2 with a wall thickness of only 0.4 mm, while the heat spreader 9 essential are thicker. As a material for the housing 2 stainless steel is particularly good suitable as this is a use in many corrosive liquids, such as in a urea solution, allowed.

In Figur 3 sind ein einzelner Wärmeverteiler 9 und ein Teil des Gehäuses 2 vor dem Einbau dargestellt. Der Radius R2 und R2' der Schenkelaußenseiten 13 ist dabei etwas größer als der Radius R1 der Innenseite 14 des zunächst zylindrischen Gehäuses 2. Der Mittelpunkt M1 befindet sich zentriert in der Mitte des Gehäuses 2. R2 und R2' haben keinen gemeinsamen Mittelpunkt, sondern M2 als Mittelpunkt für R2 und M2' als Mittelpunkt für R2' sind etwas seitlich von M, und unterhalb der Mittelachse des Gehäuses 2 definiert. Dadurch ergibt sich vor dem Einbau zwischen Schenkelaußenseite 13 und Gehäuseinnenseite 14 ein positiver Abstand a an der Unterseite des Basisteils 10 des Wärmeverteilers 9 und ein negativer Abstand a' an den Spitzen 16 der Schenkel 15.In Figure 3, a single heat spreader 9 and a part of the housing 2 are shown prior to installation. The radius R 2 and R 2 'of the Schenkelaußenseiten 13 is slightly larger than the radius R 1 of the inner side 14 of the initially cylindrical housing 2. The center M 1 is centered in the middle of the housing 2. R 2 and R 2 ' have no common center, but M 2 as the center of R 2 and M 2 'as the center of R 2 ' are slightly laterally defined by M, and below the central axis of the housing 2. This results in a positive distance a on the underside of the base part 10 of the heat spreader 9 and a negative distance a 'at the tips 16 of the legs 15 prior to installation between leg outer side 13 and housing inner side 14.

Unter dem Druck der Federkraft nach dem Einbau schmiegen sich die Schenkelaußenseiten 13 und die Gehäuseinnenseite 14 so einander an, daß die Abstände a und a' weitgehend gegen Null gehen und somit Schenkelaußenflächen und Gehäuseinnenfläche flächig und damit wärmeleitend verbunden sind. Um ein Durchwölben der Basis 10 des Wärmeverteilers 9 unter der Federkraft zu verhindern und trotzdem genug Elastizität der Schenkel 15 zu gewährleisten, ist der Basisteil 10 besonders dick ausgebildet. Das macht ihn zugleich besonders geeignet zur Wärmeleitung.Under the pressure of the spring force after installation, the leg outer sides nestle 13 and the housing inner side 14 to each other, that the distances a and a 'largely go to zero and thus leg outer surfaces and housing inner surface flat and thus are thermally conductive connected. To one Warp through the base 10 of the heat spreader 9 to prevent under the spring force and yet to ensure enough elasticity of the legs 15, is the base part 10 formed very thick. That makes him particularly suitable at the same time for heat conduction.

Am Ansatz weisen die Schenkel 15 eine Dicke d auf und verjüngen sich zur Spitze 16 hin auf eine Dicke d'. Dadurch ist eine hohe Wärmeleitung entlang der Schenkel 15 gewährleistet bei gleichzeitig hoher Elastizität der Spitzen 16. Vor dem Einbau haben die Spitzen 16 einen kleinen Abstand s zueinander, der sich durch das Zusammendrücken beim Einbau nochmals reduziert. Der Abstand s wird dabei so gewählt, daß er möglichst gering ist, um eine große lückenlose Wärmeübergangsfläche zu erhalten und andererseits für einen einfachen Einbau und für den Ausgleich von Wärmedehnungen trotzdem noch genügend Spielraum hat. Der beschriebene Wärmeverteiler 9 mit seinem profilierten Querschnitt wird vorzugsweise als Strangpressprofil aus einer Aluminiumlegierung hergestellt.At the base, the legs 15 have a thickness d and taper to the top 16 towards a thickness d '. As a result, a high heat conduction along the Leg 15 ensures at the same time high elasticity of the tips 16. Vor the installation have the tips 16 a small distance s to each other, the itself further reduced by the compression during installation. The distance s is chosen so that it is as low as possible to a large gapless Heat transfer surface and on the other hand for easy installation and for the compensation of thermal expansion still enough scope Has. The described heat spreader 9 with its profiled cross section is preferably produced as an extruded profile of an aluminum alloy.

Claims (19)

  1. Electric heating device (1) having a tubular housing (2) in which are provided one or a plurality of PTC heating elements (20) and at least one pair of metallic heat dissipators (9) between which the one heating elements (20) are clamped and which for this purpose each comprise a base portion (10) facing the one heating element or the heating elements, resp., and one or two curved legs (15) projecting from said base portion, which adapt themselves resiliently to the inner surface of the surrounding wall of the housing (2), characterised in that the legs (15) taper toward their free end.
  2. The heating device as defined in Claim 1, characterised in that the base portion (10) is thicker than the legs (15) projecting from it.
  3. Electric heating device (1) having a tubular housing (2) in which are provided one or a plurality of PTC heating elements (20) and at least one pair of metallic heat dissipators (9) between which the one heating elements (20) are clamped and which for this purpose each comprise a base portion (10) facing the one heating element or the heating elements, resp., and one or two curved legs (15) projecting from said base portion, which adapt themselves resiliently to the inner surface of the surrounding wall of the housing (2), characterised in that the base portion (10) is thicker than the legs (15) projecting from it.
  4. The heating device as defined in Claim 3, characterised in that the legs (15) taper toward their free end.
  5. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the legs (15) taper continuously over their full length.
  6. The heating device as defined in Claim 5, characterised in that the legs (15) taper uniformly.
  7. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the base portion (10) has the greatest thickness in the middle between the legs (15) projecting from it.
  8. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that two protrusions (12) extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing (2) are formed on the base portion (10), on its side facing away from the heating element (20), which protrusions form a terminal of U-shaped cross-section for a power supply cable.
  9. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the base portion (10) exhibits a flat, especially a plane, configuration on its side facing the PTC heating element (20).
  10. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the surrounding wall of the housing (2) is thinner than the base portion (10) and the legs (15).
  11. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the wall thickness of the housing (2) is 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm.
  12. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the housing (2) is deformed by the legs (15) of the heat dissipators (9) applying themselves resiliently against its surrounding wall.
  13. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the heat dissipators (9) consist of aluminium or an aluminium alloy.
  14. The heating device as defined in Claim 13, characterised in that the heat dissipators (9) are made from an extruded profile material.
  15. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that for mounting the heating elements (20) the housing (2) comprises an open end (4) with an integrally formed flange (7), which housing (2) is to be dosed after assembly.
  16. The heating device as defined in Claim 15, characterised in that a plastic cap (3) is held on the flange (7) of the housing (2).
  17. The heating device as defined in Claim 16, characterised in that a sealing ring (8) is arranged between the plastic cap (3) and the flange (7).
  18. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the housing (2) consists of stainless steel.
  19. The heating device as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the legs (15) jointly cover almost the whole inner surface of the surrounding wall of the housing (2).
EP03022497A 2002-10-22 2003-10-09 Electrical heating device Expired - Lifetime EP1414275B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE20216509U 2002-10-22
DE20216509U DE20216509U1 (en) 2002-10-22 2002-10-22 Electric heater

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1414275A1 EP1414275A1 (en) 2004-04-28
EP1414275B1 true EP1414275B1 (en) 2005-12-21

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP03022497A Expired - Lifetime EP1414275B1 (en) 2002-10-22 2003-10-09 Electrical heating device

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US (1) US6847017B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1414275B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE313930T1 (en)
DE (2) DE20216509U1 (en)

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DE102010006184A1 (en) 2010-01-29 2011-08-04 Eichenauer Heizelemente GmbH & Co. KG, 76870 An electric heater and method of manufacturing an electric heater
DE102017103039B3 (en) 2017-02-15 2018-06-07 Eichenauer Heizelemente Gmbh & Co. Kg Heating unit for heating liquids in a motor vehicle

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ATE357123T1 (en) * 2004-11-11 2007-04-15 Dbk David & Baader Gmbh ELECTRICAL BOARD HEATING UNIT, ELECTRONIC BOARD AND HEATING METHOD
DE102006047042A1 (en) 2006-10-02 2008-04-03 Emitec Gesellschaft Für Emissionstechnologie Mbh Device for evaporating reducing agent e.g reducing agent precursor solution and reducing agent solution, has electrically heated warming zone, which has electrically operated heating element with heating resistor
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US20090139972A1 (en) * 2007-10-23 2009-06-04 Psion Teklogix Inc. Docking connector
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DE102011054752B4 (en) * 2011-10-24 2014-09-04 Stego-Holding Gmbh Cooling and holding body for heating elements, heater and method for producing a cooling and holding body
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DE102012107600B4 (en) * 2012-08-20 2015-10-08 Borgwarner Ludwigsburg Gmbh Electric heating device for heating fluids
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102010006184A1 (en) 2010-01-29 2011-08-04 Eichenauer Heizelemente GmbH & Co. KG, 76870 An electric heater and method of manufacturing an electric heater
EP2355614A1 (en) 2010-01-29 2011-08-10 Eichenauer Heizelemente GmbH & Co. KG Electric heater and method for producing same
DE102017103039B3 (en) 2017-02-15 2018-06-07 Eichenauer Heizelemente Gmbh & Co. Kg Heating unit for heating liquids in a motor vehicle

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1414275A1 (en) 2004-04-28
US20040104215A1 (en) 2004-06-03
DE20216509U1 (en) 2004-02-26
ATE313930T1 (en) 2006-01-15
DE50301979D1 (en) 2006-01-26
US6847017B2 (en) 2005-01-25

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