초록 ▼

The present invention relates to heat exchange elements and heat exchange assemblies and water heaters containing such heat exchange elements. The inventive heat exchange elements include an elongated support member or spine, from which extends either a single vane which is the length of the support

The present invention relates to heat exchange elements and heat exchange assemblies and water heaters containing such heat exchange elements. The inventive heat exchange elements include an elongated support member or spine, from which extends either a single vane which is the length of the support member of a series of vanes. The heat exchange element is able of be positioned parallel to the longitudinal axis of a flue. The heat exchange element may impart helical motion to the flue gases in one embodiment, but in another embodiment no helical motion is imparted to the flue gases. The embodiment of the invention includes several methods of manufacture of the heat exchange elements. The embodiments of the water heater and heat exchange assembly also disclose the use of a baffle for use in association with the elements, to improve the efficiency of the elements at the upstream end of the water heater.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A heat exchange element affixable to an inside portion of a flue of a combustion apparatus to aid heat transfer through said flue comprising an elongated structure having a first portion and one or two second portions respectively forming a generally L or U shaped cross section, said first portio

1. A heat exchange element affixable to an inside portion of a flue of a combustion apparatus to aid heat transfer through said flue comprising an elongated structure having a first portion and one or two second portions respectively forming a generally L or U shaped cross section, said first portion adapted to be attached to the inside of said flue and having a profile which complements said flue, said one or two second portions including at least one vane extending away from said first portion in a radially inward direction relative to said flue when affixed thereto, said one or two second portions having a length of extension that said one or two second portions extend away from said first portion is shorter at an end of said element located closest to a combustion chamber of said combustion apparatus when affixed to said flue when compared to a length of extension of remaining ones of said one or two second portions.