Recuperator, the Heat-Exchanging Channels of which Extend Transversely of the Main Flow Direction

Abstract

The invention relates to a recuperator (7), comprising at least a recuperator unit with heat-exchanging channels (5, 6) extending parallel to each other, a first header (63) placed on a first side of the recuperator unit and having a triangular cross-section, one surface of which connects to a first end of the heat-exchanging channels (5, 6) of the recuperator unit, a second header (64) placed on the second side of the recuperator unit and having a triangular cross-section, one surface of which connects to the second side of the heat-exchanging channels (5, 6) of the recuperator unit, supply ducts (1, 4) extending to a second surface of the first and the second header (63, 64) and discharge ducts (2, 3) extending from the third surface of the first and the second header (63, 64), wherein the supply ducts (1, 4) and the discharge ducts (2, 3) extend transversely of the longitudinal direction of the heat-exchanging channels (5, 6), wherein the supply ducts (1, 4) and the discharge ducts (3, 4) extend on the sides of the headers (63, 64) lying opposite the recuperator units.

Claims

1. A recuperator, comprising: at least a first recuperator unit with heat-exchanging channels extending parallel to each other; a first header placed on a first side of the recuperator unit and having a triangular cross-section, one surface of which connects to a first end of the heat-exchanging channels of the recuperator unit; a second header placed on the second side of the recuperator unit and having a triangular cross-section, one surface of which connects to the second side of the heat-exchanging channels of the recuperator unit; supply ducts extending to a second surface of the first and the second header; and discharge ducts extending from the third surface of the first and the second header, wherein the supply ducts and the discharge ducts extend transversely of the longitudinal direction of the heat-exchanging channels, wherein the supply ducts and the discharge ducts extend on the sides of the headers lying opposite the recuperator units, the passage of the supply ducts decreases in the flow direction, and the passage of the discharge ducts increases in the flow direction.

2. The recuperator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the supply ducts and the discharge ducts extend substantially parallel to the intersecting line between the first and the second surface of the headers.

3. The recuperator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the supply ducts and the discharge ducts extend substantially transversely of the intersecting line between the second and the third surface of the headers.

4. The recuperator as claimed in claim 3, wherein in that the recuperator is provided with at least a second recuperator unit.

5. The recuperator as claimed in any of claim 1, wherein the recuperator is placed in a rectangular housing.

6. The recuperator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the recuperator unit has a round form and extends between two concentric cylinders, the channels extend radially relative to the cylinders, the first header is situated on the inner side of the recuperator unit, the second header is situated on the outer side of the recuperator unit, the supply and discharge ducts extend in the axial direction of the cylinders, one supply duct and one discharge duct extend on the inner side of the recuperator unit, and one supply duct and one discharge duct extend on the outer side of the recuperator unit.

7. The recuperator as claimed in claim 6, wherein a substantially tubular distributor is arranged between the central supply duct and discharge duct on the one hand and the heat-exchanging channels on the other, which distributor is divided into sections by means of internal extensions of walls extending between the heat-exchanging channels, and that each of the sections is connected to the discharge duct or to the supply duct, and that a substantially tubular distributor is arranged between the supply duct and discharge duct arranged on the periphery on the one hand and the heat-exchanging channels on the other, which distributor is divided into sections by means of extensions of walls extending between the heat-exchanging channels, and that each of the sections is connected to the discharge duct or supply duct arranged on the periphery.

8. The recuperator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the recuperator unit is provided with plates which extend parallel to each other and which separate channels of different sort and extend transversely of the intersecting line between the second and the third surface of the headers.

9. The recuperator as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least some of the number of plates are provided with a profile which defines channels.

10. The recuperator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the recuperator is placed in a housing with the form of a straight circular cylinder.

11. The recuperator as claimed in claim 10, wherein the central axis of the recuperator unit extends at an angle to the axis of the cylindrical housing.

12. The recuperator as claimed in claim 11, wherein a controllable alternating valve is arranged against both end walls of the housing on either side of the recuperator unit and connected for repetitively and simultaneously alternating the inlet channel and the outlet channel, and that the recuperator is a recuperator configured to recover latent heat.

13. The recuperator as claimed in claim 12, wherein the alternating valves are both provided with a fixedly arranged valve seat provided with openings, which openings are connected to a supply duct or discharge duct, and with a rotatable valve disc connecting to the valve seat and provided with openings.

14. The recuperator as claimed in claim 13, wherein at least one bypass channel is arranged in the housing and that the bypass channel is connected to openings arranged in both valve seats.

15. The recuperator as claimed in claim 13, wherein the valve seats are provided with closed parts and that the valve discs are movable into a position in which the openings in the valve discs are closed by closed parts of the valve seat.

16. The recuperator as claimed in claim 13, wherein the valve discs are movable in axial direction and that the recuperator is provided with a control member configured to move the valve in axial direction away from the valve seat prior to a change in the position of the valve and to move the valve toward the valve seat after a change in the position of the valve.

17. The recuperator as claimed in claim 13, wherein the rotatable valves are provided with an outward extending, substantially cylinder jacket-like wall part which connects to the valve disc and is co-rotatable with the valve disc, that the valve seats are each connected to a substantially cylinder jacket-like fixed wall part which is in contact with the associated rotatable wall part, that in both wall parts openings are arranged which, depending on the position of the valve disc, can be brought into overlap and that the openings arranged in the fixed wall part are connectable to the surrounding area or to the indoor space.

18. The recuperator as claimed in claim 17, wherein the substantially cylinder jacket-like parts of the rotatable valves and the parts of the housing connecting thereto take a slightly conical form.

19. The recuperator as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plates are provided with guide means for guiding the change in direction of the airflows entering and exiting the channels.

20. The recuperator as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plates are provided on at least one side with a layer of SiO.sub.2.

Description

[0028] The invention will be elucidated hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of plates and heat-exchanging channels formed by the plates in a prior art configuration;

[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of plates and heat-exchanging channels formed by the plates in a first configuration according to the invention;

[0031] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of plates and heat-exchanging channels formed by the plates in a second configuration according to the invention;

[0032] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a recuperator with channels according to a third configuration according to the invention;

[0033] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a recuperator with channels according to a fourth configuration according to the invention;

[0034] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the positioning of a recuperator in a round housing;

[0035] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the positioning of a recuperator in a configuration with insulation of cold channels;

[0036] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of a recuperator with rotating valves which is placed obliquely in a round hole in a wall, with flows entering and exiting axially;

[0037] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in a first option of the recuperator shown in FIG. 8;

[0038] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a recuperator with rotating valves which is placed obliquely in a round hole in a wall, with flows entering and exiting axially;

[0039] FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in a second option of the axial-axial inflow and outflow;

[0040] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a seal of the valve on the tube and recuperator with mechanism for preventing friction during rotation;

[0041] FIG. 13 shows a configuration with a single valve;

[0042] FIG. 14 shows a configuration with axial and radial inflow and outflow option 1;

[0043] FIG. 15 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in option 1 of the axial-radial inflow and outflow;

[0044] FIG. 16 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in option 2 of the axial-radial inflow and outflow;

[0045] FIG. 17 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in option 3 of the axial-radial inflow and outflow;

[0046] FIG. 18 is a schematic representation of the position of the valves in option 4 of the axial-radial inflow and outflow;

[0047] FIG. 19 shows sealing of the axial-radial valves;

[0048] FIG. 20 shows an enthalpy recuperator in a window frame; and

[0049] FIG. 21 shows a cross-section of recuperator and housing with therein the thickened portion of the tube and the vanes at the inflow and outflow of the heat-exchanging channels.

[0050] FIG. 1 shows schematically a limited number of plates 9 of a prior art recuperator 7 which is dimensioned for placing in a passage with a diameter of 150 mm in a wall with a thickness of 300 mm. For the sake of simplicity the housing of the recuperator is not shown. Plates 9 close heat-exchanging channels of respective first and second sorts 5 and 6. The heat-exchanging channels of the two sorts 5, 6 are separated by plates 9. Plates 9 can all be corrugated, although it is also possible for plates 9 to be alternately corrugated and flat. Plates 9 continue outside the actual heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 into so-called header plates 10, 11. The mutually stacked header plates 10, 11 form headers 63, 64 on either side of the recuperator unit. In the present application headers 63, 64 have a triangular form and the heat-exchanging channels 5 of the first sort debouch in a first surface of headers 63, 64 and the heat-exchanging channels of the second sort 6 debouch in a second surface of headers 63, 64. Header 63 has on the right an opening which connects to a channel 1 and through which indoor air flows into the recuperator to channels 5 of the first sort, and on the left an opening which connects to channel 2 and through which air flows in from channels 6 of the second sort. Header 64 has on the left an opening which connects to a channel 3 and through which air from channels 5 of the first sort exits the recuperator to the outside and on the right an opening which connects to a channel 4 and through which outside air flows to channels 6 of the second sort.

[0051] Because channels 5 of the first sort and those 6 of the second sort are intimately coupled thermally to each other, heat transfer takes place between the gas flows flowing through channels 5, 6 while a separation between the gas flows is maintained. It will be apparent from the shown configuration that channels 5, 6 extend in the longitudinal direction of recuperator 7 and are thus relatively long; they are considerably longer than the width or the height of recuperator 7, whereby the flow resistance is relatively great. Such recuperators are known from the prior art.

[0052] FIG. 2 shows in the same way as FIG. 1 the configuration of a recuperator 7 according to the invention. This recuperator is also constructed from plates 9 which define heat-exchanging channels 5, 6. The detail view here shows the configuration of plates 9 and the heat-exchanging channels 5, 6. Plates 9 extend here perpendicularly of the longitudinal direction of the housing of the recuperator and thereby substantially of the main flow direction. Plates 9, and thereby channels 5, 6, are therefore considerably shorter than those in the prior art recuperator shown in FIG. 1, and the number of channels 5, 6 is therefore considerably greater. The recuperator according to the invention also has triangular prismatic headers 63, 64. This configuration requires that supply and discharge ducts connecting to headers 63, 64 extend over the length of the recuperator.

[0053] FIG. 2 also shows a supply duct 1 extending from indoors to the recuperator and connecting to the left-hand surface of upper header 63, a discharge duct 3 extending outside from the recuperator and connecting to the right-hand surface of lower header 64, a supply duct 4 extending from the outside to the recuperator and connecting to the left-hand surface of lower header 64 and a discharge duct 2 extending indoors from the recuperator and connecting to the right-hand surface of upper header 63. Supply ducts 1, 4 have a cross-sectional area decreasing in the flow direction and discharge ducts 2, 3 have a cross-sectional area increasing in the flow direction so that the flow speed of the medium in the supply and discharge ducts is as far as possible always the same. Supply duct 1 and the adjoining discharge duct 2 are separated by a baffle 12, and supply duct 4 and discharge duct 3 are separated by a baffle 13.

[0054] FIG. 3 shows schematically a second embodiment of the invention. Plates 9 extend parallel here to the main flow direction, or the longitudinal direction, of recuperator 7 while the heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 extend transversely of the longitudinal direction thereof as in the first embodiment. Since plates 9 generally have a width smaller than the length of recuperator 7, a number of plates 9 is placed mutually in line. In other words, a number of recuperator elements are placed successively in the recuperator. Four of these recuperator elements are present in the shown embodiment. Each of these has on its upper and underside a respective prismatic header 63, 64. At variance with the first embodiment however, the axis of symmetry of these headers 63, 64 extends transversely of the longitudinal axis of the recuperator. The connection of the supply and discharge ducts is therefore more complicated than in the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, two supply ducts 1, 4 and two discharge ducts 2, 3 are present which are likewise separated by a respective baffle 12, 13, although the different headers are also mutually separated by transverse baffles 14 which connect to baffles 12, 13 and which extend transversely of the longitudinal direction of recuperator 7. Separating baffles 15 extending transversely of the direction of heat-exchanging channels 5, 6, in each case over half the width of a header 10, 11, separate the ingoing and outgoing airflows. These separating baffles 15 are placed in a checkerboard pattern. In this second embodiment of the invention the average cross-sectional area of the supply ducts also decreases in the flow direction and the average cross-sectional area of the discharge ducts increases in the flow direction, albeit in less regular manner than in the first embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 4 shows a third configuration wherein heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 extend in radial direction perpendicularly of the main flow direction and are placed together in the form of a ring. Heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 have a width increasing with the radius, whereby the flow remains in the entry zone over the whole channel length. This increases the heat transfer, but also the pressure drop.

[0056] In the interior of the array of heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 arranged in the form of a ring a supply duct 4 and a discharge duct 3 are formed by placing a baffle 13 extending between the two channels. A tubular distributor which fulfils the function of header is placed between channels 3, 4 on the one hand and the heat-exchanging channels on the other. Plates 9, between which the heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 are formed, extend here in radial direction in this tubular distributor as far as supply duct 4 and discharge duct 3, and here form plate parts 11. The spaces between these plate parts 11 are alternately connected to discharge duct 3 or to supply duct 4. The common outer wall 65 of supply duct 4 and discharge duct 3 is therefore interrupted alternately on the underside and on the upper side so that supply duct 4 is connected in each case to every second space between plate parts 11, and discharge duct 3 is connected in each case to the remaining spaces between plate parts 11.

[0057] Placed on the outer side of the heat-exchanging channels 5,6 arranged in the form of a ring is an elliptically shaped baffle 12, so that a supply duct 1 and a discharge duct 2 are also created here. The air from the room flows via channel 1 to the space between plates 16 and 17 through heat-exchanging channel 6 and then to the outside via channel 3. The air from outside flows via channel 4 to heat-exchanging channel 5 and via channel 2 to the room. Walls 16, 17 are preferably of the same form, wherein each successive surface is rotated axially through 180 relative to the adjacent wall. Injection moulding of these components and connection of the sealing surfaces by means of for instance ultrasonic welding are then possible.

[0058] According to a variant of this embodiment, the heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 extend axially. This configuration is shown in FIG. 5, wherein only a segment of two heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 is shown for the sake of clarity. Since the plates of finite thickness cannot run as far as the centre, the central space is used as bypass channel 18, the function of which will be elucidated below. The air coming from the indoor space flows via annular channel 1 to the space between header plates 10 and then via heat-exchanging channels 5 to the space between header plates 11 and via annular channel 3 to the outside. The air coming from outside flows via annular channel 4 to the space between header plates 11, via heat-exchanging channels 6 to the space between header plates 10 and via annular channel 2 to the room. The inner and outer diameters of channels 1, 2, 3, 4 have to be chosen such that the pressure drop in headers 10, 11 is mainly equal. Less pressure drop and more heat-exchanging surface area can be obtained by making header surfaces 10, 11 triangular, wherein the header tapers from the inflow and outflow to a height of zero on the other side.

[0059] As already elucidated above, the recuperator according to the invention is particularly suitable for application in a single space. It is then recommended that the recuperator is placed in the wall. A round hole has to be drilled for this purpose in an outer wall. Usually a hole is drilled with a diameter of 150 mm and the wall has a thickness of 300 mm. The hexagonal prismatic housing of recuperator 7 is then placed in the hole, wherein the array of heat-exchanging channels preferably extends obliquely in the longitudinal direction of the circular cylindrical housing, whereby space is automatically created for supply and discharge ducts. Space for channels, such as bypass channels, is also created at the sides of the recuperator inside the housing. Control equipment can also be accommodated in this space.

[0060] FIG. 6 shows such an embodiment in a circular cylindrical housing 19. The array 20 of heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 with the configuration of a hexagonal prism according to the first embodiment is placed in housing 19 in an inclining position. The two triangular prismatic headers 10, 11 are here placed connecting to the substantially rectangular array 20 of heat-exchanging channels 5, 6, and supply and discharge ducts 1-4 are arranged. These supply and discharge ducts 1-4 are all bounded by the respective surface of header 10, 11, housing 19 and baffles 12, 13. Also present are four baffles 21 which extend in substantially radial direction between headers 10, 11 and housing 19 and which further bound the supply and discharge ducts 1-4. Formed between the pairs of baffles 21 are secondary channels 18 which are not essential for the primary function of the recuperator, so that they can be used as bypass channel or as space for placing equipment.

[0061] A drawback of the thus formed channels when placed in a hole arranged in an outer wall is that the cold air coming from outside is carried as far as the inner cavity wall 23, whereby the inner cavity wall 23 can cool and fall below the condensation point, which results in heat loss and possibly in the forming of a wet patch. FIG. 7 shows an embodiment wherein the supply duct 4 coming from outside is insulated. FIG. 7 shows the inner cavity wall 23, insulating layer 24, ventilation gap 25 and outer cavity wall 26. An insulating layer 27 is arranged on the underside of housing 19, whereby the above stated drawbacks are avoided.

[0062] The warm supply and discharge ducts 2, 3 can also heat the outer cavity wall 26. This can also be insulated, although the heat loss is so small that it is not usually deemed necessary to apply insulation for this purpose. If a larger hole in the wall is not a problem, the pipe can be enclosed by a layer of insulating material, for instance stiff foam.

[0063] For the purpose of maintaining comfort in the indoor space moisture transfer between the outgoing and incoming airflow is necessary, this being achieved by periodically alternating the heat-exchanging channels of these airflows without changing in the external airflows themselves. Accordingly, to a preferred embodiment, valves are arranged on the outer and inner side of the recuperator here having the configuration of an enthalpy recuperator. These valves can be controlled to open and close so as to thus realize the alternation of the channels. For the valves it is attractive to make use of valves with a round configuration. This makes it possible to alternate the airflows in the recuperator by rotating the valves relative to the recuperator.

[0064] In a large number of cases it is possible to suffice with four different positions of the valves, these being: a first and a second position, which are taken up alternately during normal use for the purpose of enthalpy recuperation; a bypass position so as not to recover heat, and a closed position of the recuperator in the case of calamities or when there is no wish for ventilation.

[0065] FIG. 8 shows a further embodiment wherein round, rotatable valves 28, 29 are placed on both sides of the recuperator. These valves 28, 29 are configured for axial entry and exit of the airflows. Valve 28 is subdivided into four axial segments, three of which are numbered 30, 31, 32, and a central segment 33. Valve 29 is subdivided into four axial segments, three of which are numbered 34, 35, 36, and a central segment 33. Axial segments 30, 31 and 34, 35 are open and the axial radial segments 32, 36 are closed, as are both central segments 33. Open segment 30 of valve 28 is connected to the airflow from the room, open segment 31 of valve 28 is connected to the airflow to the room, open segment 34 of rotating valve 29 is connected to the airflow to the outside, open segment 35 of valve 29 is connected to the airflow from the outside. The external channels and fans co-rotate with the associated valve. FIG. 8 shows the valves in the second position.

[0066] As already elucidated with reference to FIG. 6, four supply and discharge ducts 1, 2, 3, 4 and two bypass channels 18 are present in housing 19 of the recuperator. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 the valves 28, 29 are identical.

[0067] The different positions of valves 28, 29 are shown schematically in FIG. 9. The figures in the left-hand column here show the end surfaces of recuperator 7 and the subsequent columns show the relevant valve in the above elucidated positions. The upper series of figures shows the end surface and valve 29 of the recuperator on the outer side and the lower series of figures shows the end surface and valve 28 on the inner side. Each of the figures shows the view or cross-section as seen from the inside.

[0068] The figures in the second column show the first position of valves 28, 29. This shows how the discharge air from the dwelling flows through open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 1 and the supply air to the dwelling flows from channel 2 via an open segment 31. The outside air flows through channel 4 to the recuperator via an open segment 35. The used air from the dwelling leaves the recuperator via channel 3 and an open segment 34. This is the first position of the enthalpy recovery.

[0069] The figures in the third column of FIG. 9 show the second position of valves 28, 29. Valve 28 on the inner side has been rotated two segments)(144 relative to the first position, whereby the supply air from the dwelling flows via open segment 31 to channel 1 and flows via open segment 30 from channel 2 out of the room. Valve 29 on the outer side is also rotated two segments)(144 relative to the first position. The outside air is supplied via open segment 35 to channel 3 and the air from channel 4 is carried outside via open segment 34. The flows inside the actual recuperator are alternated here so that ice and condensation formed in the heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 in the previous position sublimates and evaporates.

[0070] The third position or the bypass position is shown in the right-hand column of FIG. 9. Valve 28 is further rotated two segment parts)(144 relative to the first position, whereby the air from indoors flows through segment 30 to channel 2 and the air from bypass channel 18 flows indoors through segment 31. Valve 29 has been rotated one segment relative to the first position 1 (72) as seen from the same side as valve 28. The outside air is carried through segment 35 to bypass channel 18 and the flow exiting channel 4 flows through segment 34 to the outside. The flow from outside to inside hereby passes through the recuperator via bypass channel 18, while the flow from inside to outside moves through the recuperator but cannot absorb any heat, since there is no flow on the other side of the recuperator. With this configuration of the valves the recuperator cannot be closed.

[0071] As elucidated with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, it is also possible to close the recuperator in a fourth position by reducing to one segment, close to valve 28, the segment 30 through which the air from indoors flows into the recuperator and by increasing to two segments 32 the closed part in the segment where the air flows inside from the recuperator, and by reducing to one segment 34, close to valve 29, the segment where the air from outside flows to the recuperator and by increasing to two segments 36 the closed part in the segment where the air flows to the outside from the recuperator.

[0072] FIG. 11 also shows in the first column the views of the end walls and in the other columns the views of valves 28, 29. FIG. 10 and the second column of FIG. 11 show the first position of valves 28, 29. The discharge air from the dwelling to the recuperator flows through an open segment 30 to channel 1 and leaves the recuperator through channel 3 and open segment 34. The air from outside flows via open segment 35 to channel 4 of and leaves the recuperator through channel 2 and flows to the dwelling through open segment 31.

[0073] The second position of valves 28, 29 is shown in the third column of FIG. 11. Valve 28 has been rotated one segment (+72) relative to position 1 and valve 29 has not been rotated. Indoor air flows via an open segment 30 of valve 28 into channel 2 and exits the recuperator through channel 4 via open segment 35 of valve 29 to the outside. Air from outside flows via open segment 35 into channel 3 of the recuperator and the airflow from channel 1 enters via an open segment 31. The flows have now been alternated relative to position 1. On the outer side the fresh and discharge air therefore flows through a different segment than in position 1. This implies that the fans have to be arranged in the indoor space because, in the case of one fan indoors and the other one outdoors, they are connected to each other via one channel and act counter to each other, while the other channel has no fan.

[0074] The third position of the valves is shown in the fourth column of FIG. 11. Valve 28 has been rotated one segment)(72 counter-clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has been rotated two segments (144) clockwise. Indoor air flows via an open segment 30 of valve 28 to the left-hand bypass channel 18 and exits the recuperator via open segment 34 of valve 29 to the outside. Air from outside enters channel 3 via open segment 35 of valve 29 and the air exits channel 1 to indoors via open segment 31 of valve 28. The outgoing air passes through the recuperator and the fresh air flows via the recuperator, but no heat is transferred since there is no flow on the other side.

[0075] Finally, the fifth column of FIG. 11 shows the fourth position of the valves. Valve 28 has been rotated two segments)(144 counter-clockwise relative to the first position, while valve 29 has not been rotated relative to the first position. The two closed segments 32 close the access to channels 1 and 2. Bypass channels 18 are open on the side of valve 28. The two closed segments 36 of valve 29 close bypass channels 18. All channels are closed in this valve position so that no air can be exchanged between inside and outside.

[0076] Valves 28 and 29 are preferably driven individually by motors 41, which can be accommodated in central segments 33 of the valves.

[0077] In order to prevent leakage the seal between baffles 37 and outer wall of valves 28, 29, housing 19 and the associated parts of the recuperator has to be continuous. Sealing on the plane perpendicularly of the axis of rotation between the valve and the tube with baffles and recuperator is not precluded, but requires great dimensional accuracy. An improvement is possible by applying an O-ring 38 or a similar seal in a groove following the sealing line in combination with a spring, which makes the valve compress the seal. In order to eliminate the friction with the seal during the rotation, the valve is moved in axial direction by having it run over a radial cam track (65, 66), wherein the valve is pressed onto the seal in the five rest positions and, outside these positions, is raised axially such that there is no further contact with the seal, as shown in FIG. 12. The seal is planar and the lifting movement of the valve is perpendicular to this plane, so that a very good seal can be realized.

[0078] In the above elucidated embodiment with axial inflow and outflow the fans and the channels on the inner side and the outer side co-rotate with the valve. This can be a drawback in some applications. By allowing the air to flow in and out both axially and radially as shown in FIG. 14, an embodiment is obtained wherein the channels and the fans can be stationary. The housing of the recuperator is provided on both sides with an extension 42, 43 in which ports 44, 45 for radial inflow and outflow are arranged. Valves 28, 29 are provided with a collar which extends parallel to the extension and in which are arranged ports 46, 47 which can be brought into overlap with ports 44, 45. As in the foregoing embodiments, valves 28, 29 are each divided into segments by baffles 37. The segment of the valve which is parallel to the cover of the recuperator is open or closed.

[0079] Another embodiment has one valve, valve 28, as shown in FIG. 13. The housing of the recuperator is provided with an extension 42 in which port 44 for radial inflow and outflow is arranged. Valve 28 is provided with a collar which extends parallel to the extension and in which are arranged ports 46 which can be brought into overlap with port 44. As in the foregoing embodiments, valve 28 is divided into segments by baffles 37. The segment of the valve which is parallel to the cover of the recuperator is open or closed.

[0080] Within the above elucidated preconditions the present invention provides four different secondary embodiments: [0081] A first secondary embodiment with two identical valves and on either side two ports which are the same, wherein the movement of valves is independent and wherein the fans can be placed on both sides of the recuperator. [0082] A second secondary embodiment with two identical valves and two ports on one side and three ports on another side, wherein the valves are not coupled and the fans can be placed on both sides or on a single side. [0083] A third secondary embodiment with two different valves and two ports on one side and three ports on another side, wherein the movement of valves is independent and the fans are placed on both sides or on one side. [0084] A fourth secondary embodiment with one valve and two ports on one side, wherein both fans are placed on the side of the valve.

[0085] FIG. 15 shows similarly to FIGS. 9 and 11 the first embodiment in the first position in the second column. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 2 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator axially through open segment 34 of valve 29 via channel 4. The flow from outside to inside moves radially via the open port 45 of the extension and the radial open port 47 of valve 29 to channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator through channel 1 via an open segment 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0086] In the second position valves 28 and 29 are both rotated one segment counter-clockwise relative to position 1. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 1 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator axially through open segment 34 of valve 29 via channel 3. The flow from outside to inside moves radially via port 45 in the extension and open port 47 of valve 29 to channel 4 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator through channel 2 radially via open port 46 of valve 28 and radially via port 44 of the extension.

[0087] In the third position, the bypass position, valve 28 has been rotated 144 counter-clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has been rotated 72 clockwise. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to the left-hand bypass channel 18, exits this channel axially through open segment 34 of valve 29. The flow from outside to inside moves radially via ports 45 of the extension and open ports 47 of valve 29 to channels 4 and 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator radially through channels 1 and 2 via radial ports 46 of valve 28. This embodiment uses the two heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 in parallel, whereby the pressure drop is halved.

[0088] In the fourth position, the closed position, valve 28 has been rotated 144 clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has also been rotated 144 clockwise. Since channels 1 and 2 on the inner side as well as channel 3 on the outer side are closed here, no air can move through the recuperator. The two bypass channels 18 are also closed on both sides.

[0089] FIG. 16 shows in the same way as FIG. 15 the second embodiment in all positions. This is a variation of the first embodiment, wherein two identical valves are used in which one segment is axially open and three segments are radially open. In the first position the flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 2 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 4 and then radially through a port 47 of valve 29 and port 45 of the extension. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 in the extension.

[0090] In the second position valve 28 has been rotated 72 counter-clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has been rotated 72 clockwise. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 1 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator through channel 3 and then radially through port 47 of valve 29 and port 45 of the extension. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 4 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 2 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0091] In the third position valve 28 has been rotated 144 counter-clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has not been rotated. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to bypass channel 18 and exits this channel radially through port 47 of valve 29 and port 45. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0092] In the fourth position valve 28 has been rotated 144 clockwise relative to position 1 and valve 29 has been rotated 144 counter-clockwise. The respective open segments 30 and 34 of valves 28 and 29 have been rotated in front of the closed segment of the recuperator, whereby no air flows in. Port 44 of the extension and open segment 46 of valve 28 is connected to channel 2 of the recuperator and thereby to channel 4, where the closed segment of valve 29 does not allow any connection to the outside. Port 45 of the extension of valve 29 is connected to channel 3 of the recuperator and thereby to channel 1, where the segment of valve 28 is closed. An airflow between inside and outside is hereby blocked.

[0093] The third embodiment applies when the valves are coupled or when only the recuperator is rotated. In this embodiment the valves are different, wherein valve 28 has two open radial segments and one axial segment, while valve 29 has three open radial segments and two axial segments, as shown in FIG. 1. In the first position the flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 1 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 3 and then radially through port 47 of valve 29 and port 45 of the extension. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 4 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 2 via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0094] In the second position valve 28 has been rotated 72 clockwise relative to the first position and valve 29 is coupled so that it has also been rotated 72 clockwise, as shown in FIG. 17. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 2 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 4 and radially via port 47 of valve 29 and port 45 of the extension. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0095] In the third position valve 28 has been rotated 72 counter-clockwise relative to the first position and valve 29 has also been rotated 72 counter-clockwise. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to the left-hand bypass channel 18 of the recuperator and exits this bypass channel radially through port 47 of valve 29 and port 45. The flow from outside to inside moves axially via open segment 34 of valve 29 to channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0096] In the fourth position, the closed position, valve 28 has been rotated 144 counter-clockwise relative to the first position, and valve 29 has also been rotated 144 counter-clockwise. Open segment 30 of valve 28 has been rotated in front of the closed segment of the recuperator, whereby no air flows in. Open segments 46 of valve 28 do not connect to ports in the extension of the housing. The open radial segments 47 of valve 29 are only connected to channels 3 and 4 of the recuperator and thereby to channels 1 and 2, which connect to closed radial segments of valve 28. An airflow between inside and outside is hereby blocked.

[0097] The fourth embodiment applies when one valve is used, or when only the recuperator is rotated. In this embodiment valve 28 has two open radial segments, as shown in FIG. 18. In the first position the flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 1 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 3. The flow from outside to inside moves via channel 4 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 2 via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0098] In the second position valve 28 has been rotated 72 clockwise relative to the first position, as shown in FIG. 18. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to channel 2 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 4. The flow from outside to inside moves via channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0099] In the third position valve 28 has been rotated 72 counter-clockwise relative to the first position. The flow from inside to outside moves axially via open segment 30 of valve 28 to the left-hand bypass channel 18 of the recuperator. The flow from outside to inside moves via channel 3 of the recuperator and exits the recuperator via channel 1 and radially via port 46 of valve 28 and port 44 of the extension.

[0100] In position 4, the closed position, valve 28 has been rotated 144 counter-clockwise relative to the first position. Open segment 30 of valve 28 is rotated in front of the closed segment of the recuperator, whereby no air flows in. Open segments 46 of valve 28 do not connect to ports in the extension of the housing. An airflow between inside and outside is hereby blocked.

[0101] As is the case with seal 38 of the valves with axial-axial operation, a seal 38 can, in the case of the valves with axial-radial operation, be arranged on the cover of the recuperator with the same cam mechanism in order to lift the valve slightly during rotation so that friction is avoided. An O-ring 48 can then also be arranged on the other side of the valve for the purpose of the seal on the tube, as shown in FIG. 19. For the seal of the valve on the periphery of the tube, between the ports, it suffices for the two parts to be produced with sufficient precision. If valve and tube are insufficiently round, the fit can be made slightly conical 50, 51. Should this still result in too much leakage, an O-ring-like seal 49 can then be arranged in axial direction between the ports. This seal is also released during rotation by lifting the valve sufficiently in axial direction using the proposed cam mechanism.

[0102] Application in window frames has the advantage that the recuperator can already be arranged in the window frame factory and need no longer be installed on site. Nor does a hole need to be drilled, as in the solution through the wall. In addition to replacing an old frame with a frame provided with a recuperator, as will take place mainly in larger renovations, it is also possible to place a casing with recuperator at the location where fan gratings are now placed (usually above the windows).

[0103] Since the width of window frames is usually the largest dimension, the recuperator is preferably also placed in the width direction, wherein according to the invention the plates of the recuperator are placed perpendicularly of the contact surface and the stacking direction is substantially in the same direction as the longitudinal direction of the tube in which it is placed. The supply and discharge ducts extend over the recuperator perpendicularly of the plates and run in cross-sectional area substantially proportionally to the distance to the end of the channel. The plates in the recuperator are preferably connected to each other in each case with the same translation, so that an oblique stack results with the same angle as the intended supply ducts.

[0104] It is attractive to also provide these recuperators with enthalpy valves 28, 29 and radial ports 44, 45, 46, 47. The same valves can be applied here as in the initially described recuperator for wall mounting. The first embodiment is recommended, wherein the number of radial ports on both sides of the recuperator amounts to two, the two ports lie adjacently of each other and are rotated through 180 relative to each other so that, by rotating the recuperator through 90, it falls within a rectangle, the shortest side of which is equal to the diameter of valves, whereby frame casing 60 can be given a compact construction. FIG. 20 shows an arrangement in a frame casing above the window.

[0105] The enthalpy valve with axial and radial inflow and outflow according to the first embodiment is applied here, although other embodiments are also possible. The fan for the supply of fresh air 52 is placed on the inner side, as is the fan for discharge 53. This prevents clogging of the fan at temperatures far below freezing point by snow formed from condensate. The supply duct for fresh air to space 55 is provided with sound-damping material. The discharge duct for indoor air 54 has an angle and is provided with sound-damping material. A filter 58 is arranged in the supply duct for outside air 57 in order to exclude contaminants from outside. The discharge duct for outside air 56 can be provided with sound-damping material.

[0106] The air which leaves the recuperator enters the discharge duct with a velocity component perpendicular to the main flow in this channel. This results in a concentration of the airflow at the wall of the channel. The high velocity gradient at the wall results in an additional pressure drop relative to that in the supply duct, where the flow is divided almost logarithmically over the cross-section. The amount of air flowing through the recuperator channels is distributed unevenly because of this asymmetric pressure distribution. An ideal recuperator has to have a uniform distribution of the flow through the channels, since the effectiveness would otherwise decrease.

[0107] In order to convert the velocity component toward the wall to a component in the main flow direction in the discharge duct it is recommended to apply vanes (61) at the beginning and end of plates 9 of recuperator 7. The flow is hereby deflected, whereby the velocity component in the main flow direction is greater than that toward the wall of the discharge duct.

[0108] Although the vanes at the inflow are less important than at the outflow, they are however important when the flow is reversed, since inflow then becomes outflow. In addition to the vanes at the beginning and end of the recuperator plates, guide vanes can also be placed in the inflow and outflow channels, whereby the pressure drop is distributed more uniformly over the length of the channels.

[0109] In inflow channels 1, 4 the axial impulse of the air is converted to dynamic pressure during inflow into heat-exchanging channels 5, 6. In the case of outflow channels 2, 3 the air from heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 has to be accelerated in axial direction, for which purpose the dynamic pressure is used. The overall pressure drop in outflow channels 2, 3 hereby becomes greater than that in inflow channels 1, 4. This difference in pressure drop causes a non-uniform flow through heat-exchanging channels 5, 6. The difference can be compensated to a significant extent not only by having the hydraulic diameter of channels 1, 2, 3, 4 vary in linear manner, but also by having the diameter decrease more sharply along the distance to the zero point. In FIG. 21 this is shown with reference to a cross-section of the tube and the recuperator. In the narrow part of supply and discharge ducts 1, 2, 3, 4 the wall of tube 19 is provided with a thickened portion 62, whereby the speed and the dynamic pressure of the medium increase locally so that the pressure drop over heat-exchanging channels 5, 6 becomes more uniform along the length of the recuperator, the flow through these channels comes more equal and the effectiveness of the recuperator increases. The same effect can be obtained by providing the stack of plates with a corresponding form.

[0110] Moistening of the plates is important for a good operation of the enthalpy recuperation and for the purpose of forming condensation when it becomes too humid indoors. This prevents droplets partially or wholly blocking a channel. The pressure drop due to condensate is hereby limited and the condensate is discharged better under the influence of gravitational force. A plastic such as impact-resistant polystyrene is preferably used for the recuperator plates. The surface tension of most plastics is high, so that drops adhering to the surface are formed. Mechanical surface roughening only provides for a small decrease in the surface tension and is difficult to apply in the required fine roughness. The roughness usually disappears wholly or partially during the subsequent thermoforming. In order to obtain the desired nanostructure the surface is preferably treated with a PCVD process, wherein SiO.sub.2 is applied in a layer thickness of between 10 and 100 nm. Because the PCVD process takes place in a vacuum chamber the plasma can cover the whole channel, which would not be possible atmospherically. The thus formed very thin, oriented SiO.sub.2 layer is very hydrophilic, so that a water droplet is quickly spread over the surface. In the case of condensation a water layer is formed which has a maximum thickness in the order of 100 m and which flows out of the recuperator under the influence of gravitational force. Tests show that pressure drop, which doubles in the case of untreated material, now increases by only 15%. In the enthalpy position not a droplet escapes, and all the condensation evaporates in the subsequent cycle. The switching time of the enthalpy cycle can be increased owing to the better moistening, which reduces the virtual leakage during switching.

[0111] The structure of the SiO.sub.2 layer is such that water vapour is also adsorbed on the wall below the condensation temperature, whereby the enthalpy transfer is increased. It is also possible to make use of materials other than SiO.sub.2.