ヒートパイプ熱交換器：受動的热輸送

A ヒートパイプ熱交換器 uses sealed tubes filled with a working fluid to move heat from one air stream to another. It has no moving parts, requires no external power, and keeps the two streams physically separated.

Working Principle

Each heat pipe is a sealed tube with an internal wick structure. At the hot end, the working fluid evaporates and absorbs heat. The vapor travels to the cold end, condenses, and releases heat. Capillary action in the wick returns the liquid to the hot end, repeating the cycle continuously.

Common Working Fluids

• Water (for moderate temperatures, ~30–250 °C)
• Ethanol and methanol (for low-temperature applications)
• Refrigerants such as R134a or R410a (for HVAC ranges)
• Specialty fluids for high-temperature exhaust

Advantages

• No moving parts, so maintenance is minimal
• No cross-contamination between air streams
• Self-regulating: heat transfer increases with temperature difference
• Can be arranged in U-shape, L-shape, or straight banks

Best Applications

• Mine and tunnel ventilation
• Telecom shelters and battery rooms
• Transformer and electrical cabinet cooling
• Waste heat recovery from low-grade exhaust
• Environments with explosive or contaminated gases

Selection Notes

Heat pipes are best when the two air streams are separated by distance or when complete isolation is required. They are not usually the first choice for very high moisture recovery or very large airflow volumes.

よくある質問

Do heat pipes need electricity?
No. The cycle is driven entirely by temperature difference and capillary action.

Can heat pipes freeze?
If water is the working fluid and ambient temperature drops below freezing, anti-freeze fluids or refrigerants should be selected.

よくある質問

Do heat pipes need electricity?

No. The cycle is driven entirely by temperature difference and capillary action.

Can heat pipes freeze?

If water is the working fluid and ambient temperature drops below freezing, anti-freeze fluids or refrigerants should be selected.