SUCTION-CAPILLARY TUBE ASSEMBLY AND REFRIGERATION CYCLE APPARATUS EQUIPPED WITH SAME

Abstract

A suction-capillary tube assembly which comprises a main pipe including a suction hole formed inside the main pipe along a longitudinal direction of the main pipe and a capillary hole formed inside the main pipe along the longitudinal direction of the main pipe; a first terminal suction pipe disposed at one end of the suction hole of the main pipe to communicate with the suction hole; and a first terminal capillary pipe disposed at one end of the capillary hole of the main pipe to communicate with the capillary hole.

Claims

1. A suction-capillary tube assembly comprising: a main pipe including a suction hole formed inside the main pipe along a longitudinal direction of the main pipe and a capillary hole formed inside the main pipe along the longitudinal direction of the main pipe; a terminal suction pipe to be disposed at one end of the suction hole of the main pipe to communicate with the suction hole; and a terminal capillary pipe to be disposed at one end of the capillary hole of the main pipe to communicate with the capillary hole.

2. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the terminal suction pipe is a first terminal suction pipe and the terminal capillary pipe is a first terminal capillary pipe, and the suction-capillary tube assembly further comprises: a second terminal suction pipe to be disposed at another end of the suction hole of the main pipe to communicate with the suction hole; and a second terminal capillary pipe to be disposed at another end of the capillary hole of the main pipe to communicate with the capillary hole.

3. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a first sealing portion, at one end of the main pipe, configured to seal joint portions of one end of the main pipe, the first terminal suction pipe, and the first terminal capillary pipe; and a second sealing portion, at another end of the main pipe, configured to seal joint portions of the other end of the main pipe, the second terminal suction pipe, and the second terminal capillary pipe.

4. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 3, wherein the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion are formed of any one of silicone, paint, shrinkage tube, and hot melt shrinkage tube.

5. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the suction hole of the main pipe is larger than a diameter of the capillary hole.

6. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 5, wherein the diameter of the suction hole is 4 mm to 20 mm, and the diameter of the capillary hole is 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

7. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the terminal suction pipe is a first terminal suction pipe and the terminal capillary pipe is a first terminal capillary pipe, and the suction-capillary tube assembly includes a second terminal suction pipe and a second terminal capillary pipe, the main pipe is formed of aluminum, and the first terminal suction pipe and the second terminal suction pipe and the first terminal capillary pipe and the second terminal capillary pipe are formed of aluminum or copper.

8. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the terminal suction pipe is a first terminal suction pipe and the terminal capillary pipe is a first terminal capillary pipe, and the suction-capillary tube assembly includes a second terminal suction pipe and a second terminal capillary pipe, the first terminal suction pipe and second terminal suction pipe and the first terminal capillary pipe and the second terminal capillary pipe are joined to both ends of the main pipe by welding or caulking.

9. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the main pipe comprises: a main portion formed with a circular cross-section, in which the suction hole is formed; and a protruding portion protruding radially from an outer surface of the main portion, in which the capillary hole is formed.

10. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 9, wherein the protruding portion comprises a plurality of protruding portions formed at regular intervals on the outer surface of the main portion.

11. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 2, wherein both ends of the capillary hole of the main pipe are provided with a first expanded portion and a second expanded portion having a diameter larger than the diameter of the capillary hole, and the first terminal capillary pipe is inserted into the first expanded portion, and the second terminal suction pipe is inserted into the second expanded portion.

12. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 2, wherein the main pipe comprises: a first cut portion, formed at a certain depth at one end of the main pipe, configured to divide one end of the main pipe into a first protruding portion having the capillary hole and a first main portion having the suction hole; and a second cut portion, formed at a certain depth at the other end of the main pipe, configured to divide another end of the main pipe into a second protruding portion having the capillary hole and a second main portion having the suction hole.

13. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 12, wherein the first terminal capillary pipe and the second terminal capillary pipe include enlarged portions into which the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion of the main pipe are inserted, respectively.

14. The suction-capillary tube assembly of claim 11, wherein the first terminal suction pipe is insertable into one end of the suction hole, and the second terminal suction pipe is inserted into another end of the suction hole.

15. A refrigeration cycle apparatus comprising: a compressor; an evaporator; a condenser to be connected to the compressor; and the suction-capillary tube assembly according to claim 1, which connects the compressor and the evaporator, and connects the evaporator and the condenser.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line A-A according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a main pipe of the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line B-B according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line C-C according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line D-D according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a partial enlarged perspective view illustrating one end of the suction-capillary tube assembly of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example in which a terminal capillary pipe and a terminal suction pipe of a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure are connected to a main pipe by caulking.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a shrinkage tube is disposed at joint portions of a main pipe, a terminal capillary pipe, and a terminal suction pipe of a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 11 a view illustrating an example of a shrinkage tube used in a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a main pipe of a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe and a first terminal suction pipe are connected to the main pipe of FIG. 12 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe of a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe is connected to the main pipe of FIG. 14 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe and a first terminal suction pipe are connected to a main pipe of a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including two capillary holes.

[0042] FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including three capillary holes.

[0043] FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including four capillary holes.

[0044] FIG. 20 is a view illustrating a refrigeration cycle apparatus having a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a refrigeration cycle apparatus having a suction-capillary tube assembly according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0047] Various embodiments of this document and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0048] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used for similar or related components.

[0049] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the above item, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] In this document, each of phrases such as A or B, at least one of A and B, at least one of A or B, A, B, or C, at least one of A, B, and C, at least one of A, B, C may include any one of the items listed together with the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof.

[0051] The term and/or includes any element of a plurality of related described elements or a combination of a plurality of related described elements.

[0052] Terms such as first, second, primary, or secondary may be used simply to distinguish one component from other components, and do not limit the corresponding components in other respects (e.g., importance or order).

[0053] In addition, terms such as front surface, rear surface, upper surface, lower surface, side surface, left side, right side, upper side, lower side, and the like used in the disclosure may be defined based on the drawings, and forms and locations of each element are not limited by these terms.

[0054] Terms such as include or have are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the embodiment, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combination thereof.

[0055] When a component is said to be connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with another component, this means not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or contacted, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or contacted through a third component.

[0056] When a component is said to be located on other component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where another component exits between the two components.

[0057] Hereinafter, a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1 taken along line A-A. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a main pipe 10 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1 taken along line B-B.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include a main pipe 10, a first terminal suction pipe 20, a second terminal suction pipe 30, a first terminal capillary pipe 40, and a second terminal capillary pipe 50.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the main pipe 10 may include a suction hole 11 and a capillary hole 12. The suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 may be formed to penetrate the main pipe 10 in the longitudinal direction of the main pipe 10. The suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 may be formed parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction of the main pipe 10. Therefore, the suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 may be formed at both ends of the main pipe 10.

[0061] A refrigerant discharged from an evaporator 103 (see FIG. 20) through the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 may move to a compressor 101 (see FIG. 20). The refrigerant discharged from a condenser 102 (see FIG. 20) may move to the evaporator 103 through the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10. The pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the condenser 102 may be reduced while passing through the capillary hole 12.

[0062] The cross-section of each of the suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 may be formed in a circular shape. The diameter of the suction hole 11 may be formed larger than the diameter of the capillary hole 12.

[0063] For example, the diameter of the suction hole 11 may be about 4 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the diameter of the suction hole 11 may be about 4.86 mm to 8.04 mm. The diameter of the capillary hole 12 may be about 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Preferably, the diameter of the capillary hole 12 may be about 0.65 mm to 0.95 mm. In other words, the suction hole 11 may have a diameter that is about 2 to 40 times the diameter of the capillary hole 12.

[0064] As the diameter of the suction hole 11 increases, the amount of refrigerant moving to the compressor 101 may increase. As diameter of the capillary hole 12 increases, the pressure drop of the refrigerant passing through the capillary hole 12 may be increase. The diameter of the suction hole 11 and the diameter of the capillary hole 12 may be appropriately defined according to the compressor 101, the condenser 102, and the evaporator 103 included in the refrigeration cycle apparatus.

[0065] Referring again to FIG. 2, the main pipe 10 may include a main portion 13 and a protruding portion 14.

[0066] The main portion 13 may be formed in a circular cross-section, and the suction hole 11 may be formed in the center of the main portion 13. For example, the main portion 13 may be formed in an approximately circular pipe shape.

[0067] The protruding portion 14 may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the main portion 13. For example, the protruding portion 14 may be formed to protrude radially from the outer surface of the main portion 13. The protruding portion 14 may have the capillary hole 12. The protruding portion 14 may be formed along the entire length of the main portion 13.

[0068] The protruding portion 14 may be formed to have a width smaller than the diameter of the main portion 13. The tip of the protruding portion 14 may be formed in an arc shape. For example, the tip of the protruding portion 14 may be formed as a curved surface having a curvature corresponding to the capillary hole 12. The protruding portion 14 may be made as narrow as possible in width so that the capillary hole 12 can be formed in the protruding portion 14 and the terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 can be joined to the protruding portion 14.

[0069] The main portion 13 and the protruding portion 14 of the main pipe 10 may be formed as a single body. In other words, the main pipe 10 may be formed as a single body having a long length, and may include the suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 formed in the longitudinal direction of the body.

[0070] The main pipe 10 may be formed by molding aluminum. For example, the main pipe 10 may be formed by extruding or drawing aluminum. However, the method of molding the main pipe 10 is not limited thereto. The main pipe 10 may be manufactured in various ways as long as the main pipe 10 can be formed to have the main portion 13, the protruding portion 14, the suction hole 11, and the capillary hole 12.

[0071] The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be disposed at one end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 so as to be in communication with the suction hole 11. In other words, the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be disposed so that the hollow 21 thereof is arranged in a straight line and communicates with the suction hole 11. The second terminal suction pipe 30 may be disposed at the other end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 so as to be in communication with the suction hole 11. In other words, the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be disposed so that the hollow 31 thereof is arranged in a straight line and communicates with the suction hole 11. Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow through the first terminal suction pipe 20, the suction hole 11, and the second terminal suction pipe 30.

[0072] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed so as to be in communication with the capillary hole 12 at one end of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10. In other words, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed so that the hollow 41 thereof is arranged in a straight line and communicates with the capillary hole 12. The second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be disposed so as to be in communication with the capillary hole 12 at the other end of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10. In other words, the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be disposed so that the hollow 51 thereof is arranged in a straight line and communicates with the capillary hole 12. Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow through the first terminal capillary pipe 40, the capillary hole 12, and the second terminal capillary pipe 50.

[0073] The first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 and the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 may be disposed at both ends of the main pipe 10 in various ways.

[0074] For example, the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 may be disposed by inserting them into the capillary hole 12, and the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 may be disposed by inserting them into the suction hole 11.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the main pipe 10 may include a first expanded portion 121 and a second expanded portion 122. The first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed at both ends of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10. In other words, the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed at both ends of the protruding portion 14. The first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the capillary hole 12. The first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed to correspond to one ends of the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50, respectively. Accordingly, the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 may be inserted and fixed into the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122, respectively.

[0076] The diameters of the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed to correspond to the outer diameters of the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50, respectively. The diameters of the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed smaller than the width of the protruding portion 14. The first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed to have a length that stably supports the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 inserted into the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 of the main pipe 10, respectively. The length of each of the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 may be formed shorter than the length of the capillary hole 12.

[0077] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed in the first expanded portion 121 of the main pipe 10, and the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be disposed in the second expanded portion 122. The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be disposed in one end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, and the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be disposed in the other end of the suction hole 11.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1 taken along line C-C. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1 taken along line D-D. FIG. 8 is a partial enlarged perspective view illustrating one end portion of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 of FIG. 1.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, and 8, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be inserted into the first expanded portion 121 of the main pipe 10. The outer diameter of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be formed to have a size such that the first terminal capillary pipe 40 is inserted into the first expanded portion 121 in a tight fit or a transition fit.

[0080] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be welded to one end of the main pipe 10, that is, one end surface of the protruding portion 14 around the first expanded portion 121.

[0081] The inner diameter of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12.

[0082] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be formed of aluminum AL or copper Cu.

[0083] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be connected to a first capillary pipe 105 (see FIG. 20). The first capillary pipe 105 may be connected to the outlet of the condenser 102 (see FIG. 20). Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the condenser 102 may be introduced into the first terminal capillary pipe 40 through the first capillary pipe 105.

[0084] The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be inserted into one end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, that is, the first end of the suction hole 11. The outer diameter of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be formed to have a size such that the first terminal suction pipe 20 is inserted into the first end of the suction hole 11 in a tight fit or a transition fit.

[0085] The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be fixed by welding to one end of the main pipe 10, that is, one surface of the main pipe 10 around the first end of the suction hole 11.

[0086] The inner diameter of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be smaller than the diameter of the suction hole 11.

[0087] The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be formed of aluminum AL or copper Cu.

[0088] The first terminal suction pipe 20 may be connected to a first suction pipe 108 (see FIG. 20). The first suction pipe 108 may be connected to the inlet of the compressor 101 (see FIG. 20). Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be introduced into the compressor 101 through the first suction pipe 108.

[0089] In the above, the case where the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 are joined by welding to the main pipe 10, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be fixed to the main pipe 10 by caulking.

[0090] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example in which a first terminal capillary pipe 40 and a first terminal suction pipe 20 of a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure are joined to a main pipe 10 by caulking.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 9, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be inserted into the first expanded portion 121 of the main pipe 10, and the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be inserted into one end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10. Then, when a caulking groove 19 may be formed on the outer surface of the main pipe 10 using a caulking tool, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be joined to the main pipe 10. In this case, the caulking groove 19 may be formed at the portion where the first terminal suction pipe 20 and the first terminal capillary pipe 40 overlap with the main pipe 10.

[0092] In the case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, two caulking grooves 19 are formed on the outer surface of the main pipe 10. However, the number of caulking grooves 19 may not be limited thereto. Depending on the lengths of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 inserted into the main pipe 10, one or three or more caulking grooves 19 may be formed.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 8, a first sealing portion 60 may be provided at one end of the main pipe 10. The first sealing portion 60 may be formed to seal the joint portions of one end of the main pipe 10, the first terminal suction pipe 20, and the first terminal capillary pipe 40. In detail, the first sealing portion 60 may be provided to cover a welding portion W12 that joins one end surface of the protruding portion 14 with the first terminal capillary pipe 40 inserted into the first expanded portion 121 of the main pipe 10, and a welding portion W11 that joins one end surface of the main portion 13 with the first terminal suction pipe 20 inserted into the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0094] The first sealing portion 60 may be provided to prevent corrosion from occurring due to a potential difference when the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 are formed of a different metal from the main pipe 10. The first sealing portion 60 may be formed to prevent air from penetrating between the joint portion between the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the main pipe 10 and the joint portion between the first terminal suction pipe 20 and the main pipe 10. Therefore, when the first sealing portion 60 is formed, corrosion may be prevented from occurring at the joint portions of the main pipe 10, the first terminal capillary pipe 40, and the first terminal suction pipe 20 formed of different metals.

[0095] The first sealing portion 60 may be formed by applying silicone or paint to the joint portion. For example, the first sealing portion 60 may be formed by applying silicone or paint to the welding portion W12 that joins one end surface of the protruding portion 14 with the first terminal capillary pipe 40 inserted into the first expanded portion 121 of the main pipe 10, and the welding portion W11 that joins one end surface of the main portion 13 with the first terminal suction pipe 20 inserted into the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0096] However, the first sealing portion 60 that covers the joint portions of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 is not limited thereto. As another example, the first sealing portion 60 may be formed of a shrinkage tube 80.

[0097] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a shrinkage tube 80 is disposed at joint portions of a main pipe 10, a first terminal capillary pipe 40, and a first terminal suction pipe 20 of a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 10, the shrinkage tube 80 may be disposed to cover one end portion of the main pipe 10 and portions of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 that protrude from one end of the main pipe 10.

[0099] For example, when the shrinkage tube 80 is positioned to cover one end portion of the main pipe 10 and the portions of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20, and heat is applied to the shrinkage tube 80, the shrinkage tube 80 may shrink and come into close contact with one end portion of the main pipe 10 and the portions of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20, as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0100] At this time, the welding portions W11 and W12 that join the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 to the main pipe 10 are wrapped by the shrinkage tube 80, so that the joint portion of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the main pipe 10 and the joint portion of the first terminal suction pipe 20 and the main pipe 10 may be prevented from being corroded.

[0101] The shrinkage tube 80 may be formed of polyvinyl chloride PVC that shrinks by heat. As another example, the shrinkage tube 80 may be formed of a hot melt shrinkage tube having a hot melt applied to the inner surface thereof.

[0102] FIG. 11 a view illustrating an example of a shrinkage tube 80 used in a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 11, the shrinkage tube 80 may be formed in a two-layer structure. In other words, the shrinkage tube 80 may include an outer tube 81 and an inner tube 82. The outer tube 81 may be formed of polyvinyl chloride. The inner tube 82 may be formed of hot melt.

[0104] When the first sealing portion 60 is formed of the hot melt shrinkage tube 80, the sealing and adhesive properties of the first sealing portion 60 may be improved.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be inserted into the second expanded portion 122 of the main pipe 10. The outer diameter of the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be formed to have a size such that the second terminal capillary pipe 50 is inserted into the second expanded portion 122 in a tight fit or a transition fit.

[0106] The second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be welded to one end of the main pipe 10, that is, one end surface of the protruding portion 14 around the second expanded portion 122.

[0107] The inner diameter of the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12.

[0108] The second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be formed of aluminum AL or copper Cu. The second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be formed the same as or similar to the first terminal capillary pipe 40.

[0109] The second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be connected to a second capillary pipe 106 (see FIG. 20). The second capillary pipe 106 may be connected to the inlet of the evaporator 103 (see FIG. 20). Therefore, the refrigerant passing through the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10 may flow into the second capillary pipe 106 through the second terminal capillary pipe 50.

[0110] The second terminal suction pipe 30 may be inserted into the other end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, that is, the second end of the suction hole 11. The outer diameter of the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be formed to have a size such that the second terminal suction pipe 30 is inserted into the second end of the suction hole 11 in a tight fit or a transition fit.

[0111] The second terminal suction pipe 30 may be fixed by welding to the other end of the main pipe 10, that is, one end surface of the main pipe 10 around the second end of the suction hole 11.

[0112] The inner diameter of the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be smaller than the diameter of the suction hole 11.

[0113] The second terminal suction pipe 30 may be formed of aluminum AL or copper Cu. The second terminal suction pipe 30 may be formed the same as or similar to the first terminal suction pipe 20.

[0114] The second terminal suction pipe 20 may be connected to a second suction pipe 107 (see FIG. 20). The second suction pipe 107 may be connected to the outlet of the evaporator 103 (see FIG. 20). Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 103 may be introduced into the second terminal suction pipe 30 through the second suction pipe 107.

[0115] As another example, the second terminal capillary pipe 50 and the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be fixed to the main pipe 10 by caulking, similar to the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20 described above.

[0116] A second sealing portion 70 may be provided at the other end of the main pipe 10. The second sealing portion 70 may be formed to seal the joint portions of the other end of the main pipe 10, the second terminal suction pipe 30, and the second terminal capillary pipe 50.

[0117] In detail, the second sealing portion 70 may be provided to cover a welding portion W22 that joins the other end surface of the protruding portion 14 with the second terminal capillary pipe 50 inserted into the second expanded portion 122 of the main pipe 10, and a welding portion W21 that joins the other end surface of the main portion 13 with the second terminal suction pipe 30 inserted into the other end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0118] The second sealing portion 70 may be provided to prevent corrosion from occurring due to a potential difference when the second terminal capillary pipe 50 and the second terminal suction pipe 30 are formed of a different metal from the main pipe 10. The second sealing portion 70 may be formed to prevent air from penetrating between the joint portion between the second terminal capillary pipe 50 and the main pipe 10 and the joint portion between the second terminal suction pipe 30 and the main pipe 10. Therefore, when the second sealing portion 70 is formed, corrosion may be prevented from occurring at the joint portions of the main pipe 10, the second terminal capillary pipe 50, and the second terminal suction pipe 30 formed of different metals.

[0119] The second sealing portion 70 may be formed by applying silicone or paint to the joint portion. For example, the second sealing portion 70 may be formed by applying silicone or paint to the welding portion W22 that joins the other end surface of the protruding portion 14 with the second terminal capillary pipe 50 inserted into the second expanded portion 122 of the main pipe 10, and the welding portion W21 that joins the other end surface of the main portion 13 with the second terminal suction pipe 30 inserted into the other end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0120] As another example, the second sealing portion 70 may be formed of the shrinkage tube 80. In other words, the shrinkage tube 80 may be disposed to cover the other end portion of the main pipe 10 and portions of the second terminal capillary pipe 50 and the second terminal suction pipe 30 that protrude from the other end of the main pipe 10. The formation of the second sealing portion 70 using the shrinkage tube 80 may be the same as or similar to the first sealing portion 60 described above, so a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0121] In the above, the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 are inserted and joined into the first and second expanded portions 121 and 122 of the main pipe 10, and the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 are inserted and joined into both ends of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10. However, the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0122] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a main pipe 10 of a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe 40 and a first terminal suction pipe 20 are connected to the main pipe 10 of FIG. 12.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 12, the main pipe 10 may include a capillary hole 12 and a suction hole 11.

[0124] The capillary hole 12 may be formed with the same diameter throughout the entire length of the main pipe 10. The suction hole 11 may be formed with the same diameter throughout the entire length of the main pipe 10.

[0125] The main pipe 10 may be identical to the main pipe 10 of suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to the above-described embodiment, except that it does not include the first expanded portion 121 and the second expanded portion 122 formed at both ends of the capillary hole 12.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 13, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed on one end surface of the protruding portion 14 of the main pipe 10. For example, one end of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be fixed by welding to one end surface of the protruding portion 14 in which the capillary hole 12 is formed. In this case, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed so that the center line of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 coincides with the center line of the capillary hole 12. The inner diameter of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10.

[0127] In addition, the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be disposed on one end surface of the main portion 13 of the main pipe 10. For example, one end of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be fixed by welding to one end surface of the main portion 13. In this case, the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be disposed so that the center line of the first terminal suction pipe 20 coincides with the center line of the suction hole 11 of the main portion 13. The inner diameter of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be the same as the diameter of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0128] A first sealing portion 60 may be formed at the joint portions of the main pipe 10, the first terminal suction pipe 20, and the first terminal capillary pipe 40. The first sealing portion 60 may be the same as that of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to the above-described embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0129] Although not illustrated, a second terminal capillary pipe 50 and a second terminal suction pipe 30 may be disposed at the other end of the main pipe 10 in the same manner as the first terminal capillary pipe 40 and the first terminal suction pipe 20. A second sealing portion 70 may be formed at the joint portions of the main pipe 10, the second terminal suction pipe 30, and the second terminal capillary pipe 50.

[0130] FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe 10 of a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe 40 is connected to the main pipe 10 of FIG. 14.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 14, the main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include cut portions 91 and 92.

[0132] In detail, the main pipe 10 may include a main portion 13, a protruding portion 14, a first cut portion 91, and a second cut portion 92.

[0133] The main portion 13 may be formed in a circular cross-section, and a suction hole 11 may be formed in the center. For example, the main portion 13 may be formed in an approximately circular pipe shape.

[0134] The protruding portion 14 may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the main portion 13. For example, the protruding portion 14 may be formed to protrude radially from the outer circumferential surface of the main portion 13. A capillary hole 12 may be formed in the protruding portion 14. The protruding portion 14 may be formed along the entire length of the main portion 13.

[0135] The protruding portion 14 may be formed to have a width smaller than the diameter of the main portion 13. The tip of the protruding portion 14 may be formed in an arc shape. For example, the tip of the protruding portion 14 may be formed as a curved surface having a curvature corresponding to the capillary hole 12.

[0136] The main portion 13 and the protruding portion 14 of the main pipe 10 may be formed as a single body. In other words, the main pipe 10 may be formed as a single body having a long length, and may include the suction hole 11 and the capillary hole 12 formed in the longitudinal direction of the body.

[0137] The first cut portion 91 may be formed at one end of the main pipe 10. For example, the first cut portion 91 may be formed at one end of the main pipe 10 at a certain depth. The first cut portion 91 may be formed so that the main portion 13 and the protruding portion 14 are separated from each other by a certain length. In other words, the first cut portion 91 may divide one end portion of the main pipe 10 into a first protruding portion 141 provided with the capillary hole 12 and a first main portion 131 provided with the suction hole 11. Therefore, the first protruding portion 141 and the first main portion 131 may be spaced apart from each other by a certain distance.

[0138] The outer surface of the first protruding portion 141 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The outer surface of the first main portion 131 may also be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0139] The second cut portion 92 may be formed at the other end of the main pipe 10. The second cut portion 92 may be formed in the same manner as the first cut portion 91 formed at one end of the main pipe 10.

[0140] For example, the second cut portion 92 may be formed at the other end of the main pipe 10 at a certain depth. The second cut portion 92 may be formed so that the main portion 13 and the protruding portion 14 are separated from each other by a certain length. In other words, the second cut portion 92 may divide the other end portion of the main pipe 10 into a second protruding portion 142 provided with the capillary hole 12 and a second main portion 132 provided with the suction hole 11. Therefore, the second protruding portion 142 and the second main portion 132 may be spaced apart from each other by a certain distance.

[0141] The outer surface of the second protruding portion 142 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The outer surface of the second main portion 132 may also be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0142] Accordingly, the first protruding portion 141 and the second protruding portion 142 having a certain length may be formed at both ends of the protruding portion 14. The first main portion 131 and the second main portion 132 having a certain length may be formed at both ends of the main portion 13.

[0143] A first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be disposed at the first protruding portion 141. The first protruding portion 141 may be inserted into the first terminal capillary pipe 40. For this purpose, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may include an enlarged portion 401.

[0144] The enlarged portion 401 may be formed at one end of the first terminal capillary pipe 40. The inner diameter of the enlarged portion 401 may be defined so that the first protruding portion 141 is inserted into the enlarged portion 401 in a tight fit or a transition fit. The inner diameter of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10.

[0145] As illustrated in FIG. 15, one end of the enlarged portion 401 of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 into which the first protruding portion 141 is inserted may be fixed to the first protruding portion 141 by welding.

[0146] A second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be disposed at the second protruding portion 142. The second protruding portion 142 may be inserted into the second terminal capillary pipe 50. For this purpose, the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may include an enlarged portion.

[0147] The enlarged portion may be formed at one end of the second terminal capillary pipe 50. The inner diameter of the enlarged portion may be defined so that the second protruding portion 142 is inserted into the enlarged portion in a tight fit or a transition fit. The inner diameter of the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10.

[0148] One end of the enlarged portion of the second terminal capillary pipe 50 into which the second protruding portion 142 is inserted may be fixed to the second protruding portion 142 by welding.

[0149] A first terminal suction pipe 20 and a second terminal suction pipe 30 may be disposed at both ends of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10. The installation of the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 at both ends of the main pipe 10 is the same as in the above-described embodiment, so a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0150] FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a first terminal capillary pipe 40 and a first terminal suction pipe 20 are connected to the main pipe 10 of a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 16, the main pipe 10 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include a capillary hole 12 and a suction hole 11.

[0152] A first expanded portion 121 may be formed at one end of the capillary hole 12. The first expanded portion 121 may be formed with a diameter larger than the diameter of the capillary hole 12. The first expanded portion 121 may be formed at the protruding portion 14 of the main pipe 10.

[0153] The first expanded portion 121 may be formed so that the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be inserted thereinto. The inner diameter of the first expanded portion 121 may be formed so that the first terminal capillary pipe 40 is inserted into the first expanded portion 121 in a tight fit or a transition fit. The inner diameter of the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be the same as the diameter of the capillary hole 12.

[0154] The first terminal capillary pipe 40 inserted into the first expanded portion 121 may be fixed by welding to one end surface of the protruding portion 14 of the main pipe 10.

[0155] A first suction expanded portion 111 may be formed at one end of the suction hole 11. The first suction expanded portion 111 may be formed with a diameter larger than the diameter of the suction hole 11. The first suction expanded portion 111 may be formed in the main portion 13 of the main pipe 10.

[0156] The first suction expanded portion 111 may be formed so that the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be inserted into the first suction expanded portion 111. The first suction expanded portion 111 may be formed to have an inner diameter so that the first terminal suction pipe 20 is inserted into the first suction expanded portion 111 in a tight fit or a transition fit. The inner diameter of the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be the same as the diameter of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0157] The first terminal suction pipe 20 inserted into the first suction expanded portion 111 may be fixed by welding to one end surface of the main portion 13 of the main pipe 10.

[0158] Although not illustrated, the other end of the main pipe 10 may be formed with a second expanded portion 122 and a second suction expanded portion. The second expanded portion 122 and the second suction expanded portion may be formed in the same manner as the first expanded portion 121 and the first suction expanded portion 111 as described above, and therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0159] The suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure having the above-described structure may be simple to manufacture because the main pipe 10 in which the capillary hole 12 and the suction hole 11 are formed may be manufactured at once by a molding process such as extrusion.

[0160] In addition, because the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure has a structure in which the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 and the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 are connected to both ends of the main pipe 10, the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be easy to manufacture. As a result, the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may have the advantage of simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0161] In addition, in the case where the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure has the main pipe 10 formed of aluminum, and the first and second terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50 and the first and second terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 formed of copper, the joint portions of the main pipe 10, the terminal capillary pipes 40 and 50, and the terminal suction pipes 20 and 30 may be sealed by the sealing portions 60 and 70, so that corrosion due to the heterogeneous joint may be prevented.

[0162] In the above, the case where the main pipe 10 has a single protruding portion 14 in which the capillary hole 12 is formed has been described, but the main pipe 10 may not be limited thereto. The main pipe 10 may include a plurality of protruding portions 14. The capillary hole 12 may be formed in each of the plurality of protruding portions 14. The plurality of protruding portions 14 may be formed at regular intervals on the outer surface of the main portion 13.

[0163] The main pipe 10 including a single protruding portion 14 in which the capillary hole 12 is formed may be used in a mono cooling refrigeration cycle apparatus having one evaporator 103. The main pipe 10 including the plurality of protruding portions 14 in which the capillary holes 12 are formed may be used in a refrigeration cycle apparatus including a plurality of evaporators 103.

[0164] Hereinafter, a main pipe 10 including a plurality of protruding portions 14 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19.

[0165] FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including two capillary holes 12.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 17, the main pipe 10 may include one main portion 13 and two protruding portions 14.

[0167] The two protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the main portion 13. The two protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude in the radial direction of the main portion 13. The two protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at a certain interval. For example, the two protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at a 180-degree interval.

[0168] Each of the two protruding portions 14 may be provided with a capillary hole 12. Accordingly, the main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include one suction hole 11 and two capillary holes 12.

[0169] A terminal capillary pipe may be disposed in each of the two capillary holes 12. A terminal suction pipe may be disposed in one suction hole 11.

[0170] The main pipe 10 according to this embodiment may be used in a twin cooling refrigeration cycle apparatus using two evaporators.

[0171] FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including three capillary holes 12.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 18, the main pipe 10 may include one main portion 13 and three protruding portions 14.

[0173] The three protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the main portion 13. The three protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude in the radial direction of the main portion 13. The three protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at a certain interval. For example, the three protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at 120-degree intervals.

[0174] Each of the three protruding portions 14 may be provided with a capillary hole 12. Accordingly, the main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include one suction hole 11 and three capillary holes 12.

[0175] A terminal capillary pipe may be disposed in each of the three capillary holes 12. A terminal suction pipe may be disposed in one suction hole 11.

[0176] The main pipe 10 according to this embodiment may be used in a refrigeration cycle apparatus having three evaporators.

[0177] FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view illustrating a main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure including four capillary holes 12.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 19, the main pipe 10 may include one main portion 13 and four protruding portions 14.

[0179] The four protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude from the outer surface of the main portion 13. The four protruding portions 14 may be formed to protrude in the radial direction of the main portion 13. The four protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at a certain interval. For example, the four protruding portions 14 may be spaced apart at 90-degree intervals.

[0180] Each of the four protruding portions 14 may be provided with a capillary hole 12. Accordingly, the main pipe 10 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include one suction hole 11 and four capillary holes 12.

[0181] A terminal capillary pipe may be disposed in each of the four capillary holes 12. A terminal suction pipe may be disposed in one suction hole 11.

[0182] The main pipe 10 according to this embodiment may be used in a refrigeration cycle apparatus having four evaporators.

[0183] Hereinafter, a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 using a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 20.

[0184] FIG. 20 is a view illustrating a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 having a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 20, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 may include a compressor 101, a condenser 102, a capillary pipe, and an evaporator 103. A refrigerant may circulate through the compressor 101, the condenser 102, the capillary pipe, and the evaporator 103, and the phase of the refrigerant may change to absorb heat from the surroundings and cool the surrounding air.

[0186] The suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may be disposed between the evaporator 103 and the condenser 102 and between the evaporator 103 and the compressor 101.

[0187] In other words, the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10 may form a portion of the capillary pipe connecting the evaporator 103 and the condenser 102. In addition, the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 may form a portion of the suction pipe connecting the evaporator 103 and the compressor 101.

[0188] In detail, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be connected to the outlet of the condenser 102. Because the first capillary pipe 105 is connected to the outlet of the condenser 102, the first terminal capillary pipe 40 may be connected to the first capillary pipe 105.

[0189] The second terminal capillary pipe 50 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be connected to the inlet of the evaporator 103. Because the second capillary pipe 106 is connected to the inlet of the evaporator 103, the second terminal capillary pipe 50 may be connected to the second capillary pipe 106.

[0190] As a result, the first capillary pipe 105, the first terminal capillary pipe 40, the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10, the second terminal capillary pipe 50, and the second capillary pipe 106 may form the capillary pipe. The capillary pipe may connect the condenser 102 and the evaporator 103.

[0191] Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the condenser 102 may be introduced into the evaporator 103 through the first capillary pipe 105, the first terminal capillary pipe 40, the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10, the second terminal capillary pipe 50, and the second capillary pipe 106.

[0192] Because the high-temperature liquid refrigerant is discharged from the condenser 102, the high-temperature liquid refrigerant may flow through the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10.

[0193] The first terminal suction pipe 20 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be connected to the inlet of the compressor 101. Because the first suction pipe 108 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 101, the first terminal suction pipe 20 may be connected to the first suction pipe 108.

[0194] The second terminal suction pipe 30 of the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be connected to the outlet of the evaporator 103. Because the second suction pipe 107 is connected to the outlet of the evaporator 103, the second terminal suction pipe 30 may be connected to the second suction pipe 107.

[0195] As a result, the first suction pipe 108, the first terminal suction pipe 20, the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, the second terminal suction pipe 30, and the second suction pipe 107 may form the suction pipe. The suction pipe may connect the evaporator 103 and the compressor 101.

[0196] Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 103 may be introduced into the compressor 101 through the second suction pipe 107, the second terminal suction pipe 30, the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, the first terminal suction pipe 20, and the first suction pipe 108.

[0197] The compressor 101 may be connected to the condenser 102 through a connecting pipe 104. One end of the connecting pipe 104 may be connected to the outlet of the compressor 101, and the other end of the connecting pipe 104 may be connected to the inlet of the condenser 102. Therefore, the refrigerant coming out of the compressor 101 may be introduced into the condenser 102 through the connecting pipe 104.

[0198] Because the low-temperature gaseous refrigerant is discharged from the evaporator 103, the low-temperature gaseous refrigerant may flow through the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10.

[0199] The capillary hole 12 and the suction hole 11 may be formed parallel to each other in the main pipe 10 formed of aluminum. Therefore, heat exchange between the high-temperature liquid refrigerant passing through the capillary hole 12 and the low-temperature gaseous refrigerant passing through the suction hole 11 may be effectively performed.

[0200] When heat exchange between the refrigerants passing through the capillary hole 12 and the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 is effectively performed, the liquid refrigerant flowing through the capillary hole 12 may be cooled and supercooled, and the gaseous refrigerant flowing through the suction hole 11 may be heated and completely evaporated. When the liquid refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 103 is supercooled and the gaseous refrigerant flowing into the compressor 101 is completely evaporated, the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 may be improved.

[0201] In the above embodiment, the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 has the structure in which the terminal suction pipes and the terminal capillary pipes are disposed at both ends of the main pipe 10. In detail, the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may include the first terminal suction pipe 20 and the first terminal capillary pipe 40 disposed at one end of the main pipe 10, and the second terminal suction pipe 30 and the second terminal capillary pipe 50 disposed at the other end of the main pipe 10.

[0202] However, as another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 21, a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 may be formed in a structure in which the terminal suction pipe 20 and the terminal capillary pipe 40 are disposed only at one end of the main pipe 10.

[0203] FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0204] Referring to FIG. 21, a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure may include a main pipe 10, a first terminal suction pipe 20, and a first terminal capillary pipe 40.

[0205] The suction-capillary tube assembly 1 illustrated in FIG. 21 is identical to the suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to the above-described embodiment except that the second terminal suction pipe 30 and the second terminal capillary pipe 50 are not disposed at the other end of the main pipe 10, and therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0206] FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a refrigeration cycle apparatus having a suction-capillary tube assembly 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 22, the other end of the main pipe 10 may be connected to the second suction pipe 107 and the second capillary pipe 106 disposed in the evaporator 103. In other words, the other end of the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10 may be connected to the second suction pipe 107 of the evaporator 103, and the other end of the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10 may be connected to the second capillary pipe 106 of the evaporator 103.

[0208] The second suction pipe 107 and the second capillary pipe 106 may be connected to the other end of the main pipe 10 in the same or similar manner as the second terminal suction pipe 30 and the second terminal capillary pipe 50 according to the above-described embodiment.

[0209] Then, the refrigerant coming out of the condenser 102 may be introduced into the evaporator 103 through the first capillary pipe 105, the first terminal capillary pipe 40, the capillary hole 12 of the main pipe 10, and the second capillary pipe 106.

[0210] The refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 103 may be introduced into the compressor 101 through the second suction pipe 107, the suction hole 11 of the main pipe 10, the first terminal suction pipe 20, and the first suction pipe 108.

[0211] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure having the above-described structure may be used in a refrigerator, a freezer, a showcase, an air conditioner, etc.

[0212] In the foregoing, the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments. However, it is understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.