Why are elliptical flat tubes used in heat exchange equipment
Information summary:The selection of elliptical flat tubes for heat exchange equipment is aimed at improving heat transfer efficiency, optimizing space utilization, reducing operating energy consumption, and meeting the core requirements of dense arrangement and efficient heat transfer of heat exchange equipment. The specific reasons are as follows:
The selection of elliptical flat tubes for heat exchange equipment is aimed at improving heat transfer efficiency, optimizing space utilization, reducing operating energy consumption, and meeting the core requirements of dense arrangement and efficient heat transfer of heat exchange equipment. The specific reasons are as follows:
1. Strengthen heat transfer efficiency and improve equipment energy efficiency
The streamlined cross-section of an elliptical flat tube can break through the fluid flow boundary layer, allowing the medium (water, refrigerant, gas, etc.) to form turbulence inside or outside the tube. Under turbulent conditions, the mixing of media is more thorough, reducing heat transfer resistance. Compared to circular pipes of the same specifications, the heat transfer coefficient can be increased by 15% -30%. At the same time, the elliptical tube has a larger heat transfer area in the long axis direction, which can provide more heat transfer contact area in the same installation space, further enhancing the heat transfer effect and making the equipment more energy-efficient.
2. Reduce flow resistance+save space, optimize equipment layout
The hydraulic diameter design of elliptical flat pipes is more reasonable, and the resistance along the flow of fluid is smaller than that of circular pipes, which can reduce the energy consumption of power equipment such as conveying pumps and fans. Moreover, the elliptical cross-section can be tightly arranged, and the gap between tubes is much smaller than that of circular tubes. Under the same heat transfer area requirement, the volume of the tube bundle composed of elliptical flat tubes can be reduced by 20% -40%, making the structure of heat exchange equipment (such as heat exchangers and radiators) more compact and suitable for scenarios with limited installation space, such as air conditioning, automobiles, and industrial equipment.
3. Mechanical performance adaptation, extending equipment life
The cross-sectional moment of inertia of elliptical flat pipes is larger, and their ability to resist bending and vibration is better than that of circular pipes. They are less likely to deform or break during high-speed fluid erosion or equipment operation vibration, and have stronger stability. At the same time, its smooth streamlined surface is not easy to accumulate dirt, reducing the decrease in heat transfer efficiency caused by dirt adhesion, and making cleaning and maintenance more convenient, which can reduce equipment operation and maintenance costs and extend service life.
4. Compatible with multiple media and working conditions, with strong universality
Elliptical flat tubes can be made of various materials such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, alloys, etc., and can adapt to the heat transfer needs of different media (corrosive fluids, high temperature and high pressure media, etc.). Its specifications (long and short axes, wall thickness) can be flexibly customized, which can meet the lightweight needs of small equipment (such as car radiators) and also adapt to the high-intensity working conditions of industrial large condensers and evaporators, with a wide range of application scenarios.