초록 ▼

An obround header of obround cross-section for a heat exchanger and a process for forming such a header. An obround header of obround cross-section has sidewalls with flat inner and outer portions. A curved transition between the opposing sidewalls minimizes stress concentrations within the header.

An obround header of obround cross-section for a heat exchanger and a process for forming such a header. An obround header of obround cross-section has sidewalls with flat inner and outer portions. A curved transition between the opposing sidewalls minimizes stress concentrations within the header. The flat portions of the sidewalls provide a planar surface, for which it is easier to drill tube openings and access plug holes and install tubes and plugs. The flat surfaces, along with the opposed holes and openings, make installing and cleaning the tubes easier. A fluid nozzle provides an inlet or outlet for the fluid. The process for making the flat sidewalls is by forming material from a round cross-sectional geometry to an obround shape.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [9.] A header box for a heat exchanger having tubes to transport fluid comprising:(a) a header having a length with a first end and a second end and having an obround cross-section having a longitudinal tube sheet portion having a plurality of first tube sheet openings, and a

[ What is claimed is:] [9.] A header box for a heat exchanger having tubes to transport fluid comprising:(a) a header having a length with a first end and a second end and having an obround cross-section having a longitudinal tube sheet portion having a plurality of first tube sheet openings, and a longitudinal second flat plug sheet portion having a plurality of second plug sheet openings; wherein said first flat tube sheet portion is parallel to said second flat plug sheet portion and wherein the number of first tube sheet openings is the same as the number of second plug sheet openings and are positioned directly opposite said second plug sheet openings;(b) a tube in communication with each first tube sheet opening;(c) an access plug in communication with each second plug sheet opening; and(d) a first end plate and second end plate rigidly attached to a first end and a second end, respectively, of said header.