JP6221677B2 - Piping connection method and piping connection joint - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a pipe connection method and a pipe connection joint, and particularly to a first unit of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having a first unit (for example, an upper unit) and a second unit (for example, a lower unit) assembled vertically. The present invention relates to a connection method and a connection joint between a first pipe provided and a second pipe provided in the second unit.

  Generally, an outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes an upper unit (first unit) and a lower unit (second unit), and the upper unit is connected to an upper portion of the lower unit. The upper unit includes an outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit and the outside air, an upper pipe connected to the outdoor heat exchanger, a number of other parts and pipes, and an upper casing for housing these parts. And have. The lower unit includes a power source such as an engine and a motor, a compressor for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit, a lower pipe connected to the compressor, a number of other components and pipes, and a lower unit that houses these parts. Side casing. The upper unit and the lower unit are partitioned by a partition panel that forms the bottom plate of the upper casing. A communication hole is formed in the partition panel, and the upper pipe in the upper unit and the lower pipe in the lower unit are connected through the communication hole.

  By the way, since the outdoor unit of an air conditioner is generally installed outdoors, there is a possibility that rainwater or the like may enter the outdoor unit. Also, the lower unit of the outdoor unit is equipped with power components, and if rainwater or water generated by condensation of the outdoor heat exchanger in the upper unit flows down from the partition panel and adheres to it, rust or the like is generated. As a result, durability decreases. Therefore, a measure for preventing rainwater from entering the lower unit is desired.

  A main approach path of rainwater into the lower unit is a path through which rainwater or the like accumulated in the partition panel reaches the lower unit through a communication hole formed in the partition panel. Therefore, it is desirable to devise the pipe connection method and the pipe connection joint of the upper pipe and the lower pipe connected through the communication hole, and to block the rainwater ingress path into the lower unit through the communication hole.

  In Patent Document 1, the upper end portion of the lower pipe disposed in the lower unit of the outdoor unit is projected from the communication hole formed in the partition panel, and the protruding end portion is disposed in the upper unit of the outdoor unit. Disclosed is a pipe connection joint in which a lower end portion of an upper pipe provided is joined by brazing (welding), and an umbrella-shaped seal member is disposed on a protruding end portion of the lower pipe. According to this, by closing the gap between the communication hole of the partition panel and the upper pipe with the umbrella-shaped seal member, the rainwater ingress path into the lower unit through the communication hole is blocked. Moreover, since upper piping and lower piping are joined by brazing, it is prevented that rainwater etc. approach into these piping.

Patent No. 4063112

(Problems to be solved by the invention)
In manufacturing an outdoor unit having a two-stage configuration, normally, the upper unit and the lower unit are manufactured by sub lines. In the production line of the upper unit, an outdoor heat exchanger, upper piping, and many other parts and piping are assembled in the upper casing. In the production line of the lower unit, the power source, the compressor, the lower piping, and many other parts and piping are assembled in the lower casing. In the main line, the upper unit and the lower unit are assembled in two upper and lower stages, and the upper pipe and the lower pipe are joined by brazing or the like through a communication hole formed in the partition panel.

  The brazing operation of the upper pipe and the lower pipe in the main line must be performed by sewing a large number of parts and pipes in the upper unit or the lower unit. Therefore, the number of brazing work steps is increased and the work is troublesome. Furthermore, there is a possibility that pipes other than the pipe to be brazed will be melted. Accordingly, a pipe connection method is desired in which the upper pipe and the lower pipe are connected without performing poor workability such as welding in the main line (main assembly step).

  The present invention provides a pipe connection method and a pipe connection joint used therefor, in which an upper pipe and a lower pipe can be connected without performing poor workability such as welding in the main line (main assembly step). The purpose is to provide.

(Means for solving the problem)
The present invention relates to a first pipe (22) disposed in a first unit of an outdoor unit (1) of an air conditioner having a first unit (2) and a second unit (3) assembled vertically. A communication hole (25) formed in a partition panel (24) provided in the first unit to partition the second pipe (33) disposed in the two units from the first unit and the second unit. A pipe connection method for connecting through the first pipe through the opening of one end of the first through hole (H1) formed in the first flange member (41) into the first through hole. A first subassembly step of inserting the first pipe to the first flange member so as to close the gap between the opening of one end of the first through hole and the pipe end of the first pipe; The pipe end of the pipe is formed in the second flange member (42). The second pipe is inserted from the opening at one end of the through hole (H2) into the second through hole and closes the gap between the opening at one end of the second through hole and the pipe end of the second pipe. A second sub-assembly step of joining the second flange member to the second flange member, and a protrusion (423) having a second opening surface (423a) formed in the second flange member and having an opening at the other end of the second through hole. The first through hole is inserted into the communication hole, and the first opening surface (412a) formed on the first flange member and having the opening at the other end of the first through hole is brought into face contact with the second opening surface. The first flange member is disposed on one surface (24a) of the partition panel so that the communication path (P1) that communicates the first pipe and the second pipe is formed by the second through hole and the second through hole. Flange member on the other side (24b) of the partition panel The first main assembly step to be provided and the first flange member disposed on one surface of the partition panel and the second flange member disposed on the other surface of the partition panel by the fastening member (44). A pipe connection method including a second main assembly step of pinching and clamping.

  Moreover, this invention is the 1st piping (22) arrange | positioned in the 1st unit of the outdoor unit (1) of the air conditioner which has the 1st unit (2) and 2nd unit (3) assembled | attached up and down. And a second pipe (33) disposed in the second unit, a communication hole formed in a partition panel (24) provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit ( 25) A pipe connection joint (4) to be connected through, wherein the first through hole (H1) is formed, and the pipe end of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from the opening at one end of the first through hole. In addition, a first flange member (41) disposed on one side (24a) side of the partition panel and a second through hole (H2) are formed, and a pipe end portion of the second pipe is a second through hole. And the other surface of the partition panel ( 4b) a second flange member (42) disposed on the side, a first flange member disposed on one side of the partition panel, and a second flange member disposed on the other side of the partition panel. A first fastening member (44) fastened across the partition panel, wherein the first flange member is formed with an opening at the other end of the first through hole and faces the communication hole from one side of the partition panel. The second flange member has an opening surface (412a), and has a second opening surface (423a) in which an opening at the other end of the second through hole is formed, and is inserted into the communication hole from the other surface side of the partition panel. And a communication passage that communicates the first pipe and the second pipe through the first through hole and the second through hole when the first opening surface and the second opening surface are in contact with each other. Piping configured to form (P1) To provide a connection joint.

  According to the present invention, the pipe end of the first pipe is joined to the first flange member by welding or the like in the subline (first and second subassembly steps), and the pipe end of the second pipe is connected to the second flange member. To be joined by welding. In the main line (first and second main assembly steps), the first flange member is disposed on one surface of the partition panel, the second flange member is disposed on the other surface, and the first flange member is sandwiched between the partition panels. And the second flange member are fastened by a fastening member. In this way, welding such as brazing is not carried out on the main line, and instead, the first flange member and the second flange member are clamped with the partition panel between the fastening members, so that the work such as brazing on the main line is performed. It can be abolished, and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of troubles (increased work man-hours, troublesome work, melting other parts, etc.) due to brazing and the like on the main line. Further, by tightening the flange members through the communication hole of the partition panel, the first pipe and the second pipe are communicated via a communication path formed by the first flange member and the second flange member.

  In the above invention, the seal member (43) may be disposed between the first opening surface and the second opening surface and around the communication path in the first main assembly step. According to this, the fluid in the first pipe and the second pipe (for example, refrigerant) leaks to the outside from between the first opening surface and the second opening surface by sealing the communication path with the sealing member. And it can prevent reliably that an external foreign material (rain water etc.) approachs into 1st piping and 2nd piping from between a 1st opening surface and a 2nd opening surface.

  Moreover, in the said invention, a sealing member is good to apply | coat to the clearance gap between a protrusion part and a communicating hole at a 1st main assembly process. According to this, since the communication hole is filled with the protruding portion and the seal member, it is possible to prevent rainwater from flowing down to the lower unit (for example, the second unit) through the communication hole.

  Moreover, in the said invention, it is good that a fastening member is a volt | bolt. In this case, bolt holes (26, B1, B2) are formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, and the second flange member, respectively, and the partition panel, the first flange member, and the second flange are formed in the first main assembly process. The first flange member is disposed on one surface of the partition panel and the second flange member is disposed so that the bolt holes formed in the flange members are concentrically stacked to form a bolt insertion path (P2). The second main assembly process is arranged on the other surface of the partition panel, and the bolt is inserted into the bolt insertion passage to tighten the first flange member and the second flange member with the partition panel interposed therebetween, and the bolt and bolt insertion passage. It is preferable that the sealing member be applied between the two. According to this, it is possible to prevent rainwater from flowing down to the lower unit (for example, the second unit) through the bolt insertion passage by filling the gap between the bolt and the bolt insertion passage with the seal member.

  Moreover, this invention is the 1st piping (22) arrange | positioned in the 1st unit of the outdoor unit (1) of the air conditioner which has the 1st unit (2) and 2nd unit (3) assembled | attached up and down. And a second pipe (33) disposed in the second unit, a communication hole formed in a partition panel (24) provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit ( 25) A pipe connection method for connecting through the first through hole from the opening of one end of the first through hole (H1) formed in the first flange member (41) to the pipe end of the first pipe. A first subassembly step of joining the first pipe to the first flange member so as to be inserted into the first through hole and closing the gap between the opening of one end of the first through hole and the pipe end of the first pipe; The pipe end of the second pipe is formed on the second flange member (42). The second through-hole (H2) is inserted into the second through-hole from the opening at one end thereof, and the gap between the opening at one end of the second through-hole and the pipe end of the second pipe is closed. A first sub-assembly step for joining two pipes to the second flange member, and a first through hole of the first metal plate (45) in which the third through hole (H3) is formed facing the communication hole. The metal plate is arranged on one surface (24a) of the partition panel, and the second metal plate is formed such that the fourth through hole of the second metal plate (46) in which the fourth through hole (H4) is formed faces the communication hole. The first sub-assembly and the second sub-assembly step of arranging the plate on the other surface (24b) of the partition panel, the first through-hole, the second through-hole, the third through-hole, the fourth through-hole, and the communication hole. The first frame is formed so that a communication path (P1) communicating with the pipe is formed. A first main assembly step in which the first member is disposed on the first metal plate and the second flange member is disposed on the second metal plate; And a second main assembly step of tightening the flange member with the partition panel, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate interposed therebetween.

  Moreover, this invention is the 1st piping (22) arrange | positioned in the 1st unit of the outdoor unit (1) of the air conditioner which has the 1st unit (2) and 2nd unit (3) assembled | attached up and down. And a second pipe (33) disposed in the second unit, a communication hole formed in a partition panel (24) provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit ( 25) A pipe connection joint to be connected through, wherein the first through hole (H1) is formed, and the pipe end portion of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from the opening at one end of the first through hole. The first flange member (41) disposed on the one surface (24a) side of the partition panel and the second through hole (H2) are formed, and the pipe end of the second pipe is one end of the second through hole. And the other surface (24b) of the partition panel. A second flange member (42) disposed on the side, and a third panel having one end facing the communication hole and the other end facing the first through hole, provided between the partition panel and the first flange member. The first metal plate (45) in which the through hole (H3) is formed is provided between the partition panel and the second flange member, and one end faces the communication hole and the other end faces the second through hole. A second metal plate (46) in which a fourth through hole (H4) is formed, a first flange member disposed on one side of the partition panel, and a second disposed on the other side of the partition panel. And a fastening member (44) for fastening the flange member with the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the partition panel interposed therebetween, and the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole, and the fourth through hole. And the communication holes communicate with each other, and the first pipe and the second pipe Configured to form a communication passage (P1) which communicates, provides a pipe connection joint (4).

  According to the present invention, the pipe end of the first pipe is joined to the first flange member by welding or the like in the subline (first and second subassembly steps), and the pipe end of the second pipe is connected to the second flange member. To be joined by welding. In the main line (first and second main assembly steps), the first flange member is disposed on one side of the partition panel via the first metal plate, and the second flange is disposed on the other side via the second metal plate. The members are disposed, and the first flange member and the second flange member are fastened by a fastening member with the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the partition panel interposed therebetween. In this way, welding such as brazing is not performed on the main line, but the first flange member and the second flange member are tightened instead with the fastening member, so that work such as brazing on the main line can be abolished. In addition, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of problems (increasing work man-hours, troublesome work, melting other parts, etc.) due to brazing and the like on the main line. The first pipe and the second pipe communicate with each other through a communication path formed by the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the partition plate.

  According to the present invention, the partition panel is reinforced by disposing the first metal plate on one surface of the partition panel and the second metal plate on the other surface of the partition panel. For this reason, the deformation | transformation (distortion) of a partition panel at the time of attaching a 1st flange member and a 2nd flange member to a partition panel can be prevented. When the first flange member and the second flange member are attached to the partition plate without using such a reinforcing plate, it is difficult to obtain good flatness of the partition panel on the mounting surface because the thin partition plate is distorted. Therefore, sufficient sealability cannot be ensured. On the other hand, when the first flange member and the second flange member are attached to the partition plate via such a reinforcement plate, since the reinforcement plate is attached to a portion to which the flange member is to be attached, distortion of the partition panel is prevented. Good flatness of the partition panel on the mounting surface can be obtained. As a result, piping can be easily connected, and rain water can be effectively prevented from entering from the gap between the partition panel and the metal plate or the gap between the metal plate and the flange member. it can.

  In the above invention, in the third subassembly step, the gap between the partition panel and the first metal plate may be sealed, and the gap between the partition plate and the second metal plate may be sealed. According to this, it is possible to prevent rainwater or the like from reaching the communication path through the gap between the partition panel and the first metal plate or the gap between the partition panel and the second metal plate. In this case, the gap may be sealed by welding the entire circumference of the first metal plate and the second metal plate to the partition panel, or the entire surfaces of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. Alternatively, the gaps may be sealed by attaching them to the partition panel in a state where an adhesive is applied.

  In the above invention, in the first main assembly step, the first seal member (43a) is disposed around the communication path between the opposed surfaces of the first flange member and the first metal plate, and the second main assembly step. A second seal member (43b) may be disposed between the opposing surfaces of the flange member and the second metal plate and around the communication path. According to this, the communication path is sealed with the first seal member and the second seal member, so that the fluid (for example, the refrigerant) in the first pipe and the second pipe is allowed to flow between the first flange member and the first metal plate. Leaking to the outside from between the second flange member and the second metal plate, and external foreign matter (rain water, etc.) is between the first flange member and the first metal plate, or the second flange member. It can prevent entering into the 1st piping and the 2nd piping from between the 2nd metal plate.

  In the above invention, the fastening member may be a bolt. Further, bolt holes (26, B1, B2, B3, B4) are respectively formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate, and a third subassembly step. The first metal plate is disposed on one surface of the partition panel and the second metal so that the bolt holes formed in the partition panel, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate are concentrically stacked. The plate is disposed on the other surface of the partition panel, and the bolt holes formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate, respectively, in the first main assembly step. When the first flange member is disposed on the first metal plate so as to be concentrically stacked to form the bolt insertion passage (P2). The first flange member is disposed on the second metal plate, and the second main assembly step is disposed on the other surface of the partition panel and the first flange member disposed on the one surface of the partition panel by a bolt. The second flange member may be tightened by sandwiching the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the partition panel, and a seal member may be applied between the bolt and the bolt insertion passage. According to this, it is possible to prevent rainwater from flowing down to the lower unit (for example, the second unit) through the bolt insertion passage by filling the gap between the bolt and the bolt insertion passage with the seal member.

It is the schematic which shows the outdoor unit of an air conditioner. It is a disassembled perspective view of the pipe connection joint which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the upper side flange member which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the lower side flange member which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the connection process of the upper side piping and lower side piping which concern on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the upper side piping and lower side piping connected by the piping connection coupling which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the pipe connection joint which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the pipe connection joint which concerns on the other modification of 1st Embodiment. It is a disassembled perspective view of the pipe connection joint which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the upper side flange member which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the lower side flange member which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of an upper side metal plate. It is sectional drawing of a lower side metal plate. It is a figure which shows the connection process of the upper side piping and lower side piping which concern on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the upper side piping and lower side piping connected by the piping connection coupling which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the pipe connection joint which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing of the pipe connection joint which concerns on the other modification of 2nd Embodiment.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a pipe connection method and a pipe connection joint according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outdoor unit of an air conditioner. As shown in FIG. 1, the outdoor unit 1 of an air conditioner includes an upper unit 2 (first unit) and a lower unit 3 (second unit). The upper unit 2 is assembled to the upper part of the lower unit 3.

  The upper unit 2 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 21 for exchanging heat between the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioner and the outside air, and an upper pipe 22 (first pipe) whose one end is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 21. It includes a number of other parts and pipes (not shown) and an upper casing 23 that houses them. The upper casing 23 has a partition panel 24 that is a bottom plate thereof. The upper unit 2 and the lower unit 3 are partitioned by the partition panel 24. As can be seen from FIG. 1, a communication hole 25 is formed in the partition panel 24. A pair of bolt holes 26 and 26 are formed at two locations around the communication hole 25.

  The lower unit 3 includes a gas engine 31 that is a power source of the air conditioner, a compressor 32 for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit, a lower pipe 33 (second pipe) connected to the compressor 32 at one end, and other illustrations. A large number of parts and pipes that are not provided, and a lower casing 34 that accommodates them are provided. The pipe end (the other end) of the upper pipe 22 and the pipe end (the other end) of the lower pipe 33 are connected through a communication hole 25 formed in the partition panel 24.

  FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pipe connection joint 4 for connecting the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the pipe connection joint 4 includes an upper flange member 41 (first flange member), a lower flange member 42 (second flange member), a seal ring 43 (seal member), and a pair of bolts. 44, 44 (fastening member). The upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 24 a (one surface) side of the partition panel 24 and is attached to the pipe end portion (the other end portion) of the upper pipe 22. The lower flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 24 b (the other surface) side of the partition panel 24 and is attached to the pipe end portion (the other end portion) of the lower pipe 33.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the upper flange member 41. As shown in FIG. 3, the upper flange member 41 has an upper cylindrical portion 411 and an upper flange portion 412. The upper cylindrical portion 411 is formed in a cylindrical shape up and down in FIG. The upper flange portion 412 is provided at the lower end of the upper cylindrical portion 411 in FIG. A first through hole H1 is formed so as to penetrate the upper cylindrical portion 411 and the upper flange portion 412 vertically. The upper flange portion 412 extends in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the first through hole H1 with the upper cylindrical portion 411 as a center.

  In the first through hole H1, the pipe end portion of the upper pipe 22 is inserted into the first through hole H1 from the upper end opening (one end opening) in FIG. The lower end (the other end) of the first through hole H1 opens to a flat central lower surface 412a (first opening surface) formed in the upper flange portion 412.

  Bolt holes B <b> 1 and B <b> 1 are formed on both end sides in the extending direction of the upper flange portion 412. The axial directions of the bolt holes B1 and B1 coincide with the axial direction of the first through hole H1. The upper ends (one end) of the bolt holes B1 and B1 open to the upper surfaces 412b and 412b of the upper flange portion 412, and the lower ends (the other end) of the bolt holes B1 and B1 are the lower end surfaces 412c and 412c of the upper flange portion 412. Open to. As can be seen from FIG. 3, end lower surfaces 412c and 412c are formed on both sides of the central lower surface 412a. Further, the vertical position (the position along the axial direction of the first through hole H1) in FIG. 3 of the central lower surface 412a is higher than the vertical positions of the end lower surfaces 412c and 412c. Therefore, the upper flange member 41 is configured such that the opening surface of the first through hole H1 is depressed at the center portion of the lower surface thereof.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the lower flange member 42. As shown in FIG. 4, the lower flange member 42 includes a lower cylindrical portion 421 and a lower flange portion 422. The lower cylindrical portion 421 is formed in a cylindrical shape up and down in FIG. The lower flange portion 422 is provided at the upper end of the lower tube portion 421 in FIG. A second through hole H2 is formed so as to penetrate vertically through the lower cylinder portion 421 and the lower flange portion 422. The lower flange portion 422 extends in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the second through hole H2 with the lower cylindrical portion 421 as a center. In FIG. 4 of the second through hole H2, the pipe end portion of the lower pipe 33 is inserted into the second through hole H2 from the lower end opening (one end opening).

  Bolt holes B <b> 2 and B <b> 2 are respectively formed on both end sides in the extending direction of the lower flange portion 422. The axial directions of the bolt holes B2 and B2 coincide with the axial direction of the second through hole H2. The lower ends (one end) of the bolt holes B2 and B2 open to the lower surfaces 422b and 422b of the lower flange portion 422, and the upper ends (the other end) of the bolt holes B1 and B1 are the upper surface 422c of the end portion of the lower flange portion 422. , 422c.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a protruding portion 423 protruding from the end portion upper surface 422 c is formed at the center portion of the upper surface of the lower flange portion 422. An upper end (one end) of the second through hole H2 in FIG. 4 is opened in the tip end surface 423a (second opening surface) of the protruding portion 423.

  A ring-shaped groove 423b is formed on the front end surface 423a of the protruding portion 423 and around the opening of the second through hole H2. A seal ring 43 is fitted into the ring-shaped groove 423b. Through the seal ring 43, the tip end surface 423 a of the protrusion 423 is brought into contact with the central lower surface 412 a of the upper flange member 41. Note that the diameter of the protruding portion 423 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the communication hole 25 formed in the partition panel 24. Further, the ring-shaped groove may be formed in the central lower surface 412 a of the upper flange member 41.

  As can be seen from FIG. 3, the diameter of the portion formed in the upper cylindrical portion 411 of the first through hole H <b> 1 is larger than the diameter of the portion formed in the upper flange portion 412. Therefore, a step is formed in the middle portion in the axial direction of the inner wall surface forming the first through hole H1. The diameter of the upper portion in FIG. 3 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the upper pipe 22 than this step. The diameter of the portion below the step is smaller than the outer diameter of the upper pipe 22. Accordingly, the tip surface of the upper pipe 22 inserted from the upper end opening of the first through hole H1 is abutted against the step surface in the first through hole H1, so that the upper pipe 22 is connected to the first through hole H1. The above insertion is restricted.

  Similarly, as can be seen from FIG. 4, the diameter of the portion formed in the lower cylindrical portion 421 in the second through hole H <b> 2 is made larger than the diameter of the portion formed in the lower flange portion 422. . Therefore, a step is formed in the middle portion in the axial direction of the inner wall surface forming the second through hole H2. In FIG. 4, the diameter of the lower part is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the lower pipe 33 and the diameter of the upper part is smaller than the outer diameter of the lower pipe 33. Accordingly, the tip surface of the lower pipe 33 that is inserted into the second through hole H2 from its lower end opening is abutted against the step surface in the second through hole H2, so that the second through hole H2 of the lower pipe 33 is reached. Any further insertion is restricted.

  Next, a method of connecting the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 using the pipe connection joint 4 having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. 5 together with an assembling method of the upper unit 2 and the lower unit 3. .

(First subassembly process)
First, the outdoor heat exchanger 21 and the upper pipe 22 are installed in the upper unit 2, and the pipe end of the upper pipe 22 is connected to one end (upper end) of the first through hole H <b> 1 formed in the upper flange member 41. The opening is inserted into the first through hole H1 (see FIG. 5A). And the upper side piping 22 and the upper side flange member 41 are joined by brazing (welding) so that the clearance gap between the pipe end part of the inserted upper side piping 22 and the 1st through-hole H1 may be block | closed. Moreover, the upper unit 2 is manufactured by storing other various components in the upper casing 23 and fixing them if necessary.

(Second subassembly process)
In addition, the gas engine 31, the compressor 32, and the lower pipe 33 are mounted in the lower unit 3, and the pipe end of the lower pipe 33 is formed at one end of the second through hole H2 formed in the lower flange member 42. The second through hole H2 is inserted through the (lower end) opening (see FIG. 5B). Then, the lower pipe 33 and the lower flange member 42 are joined by brazing (welding) so as to close the gap between the pipe end of the inserted lower pipe 33 and the second through hole H2. . Further, the lower unit 3 is manufactured by storing various other components in the lower casing 34 and fixing them if necessary.

(First main assembly process)
Next, the upper unit 2 is assembled to the upper part of the lower unit 3, and the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected using the pipe connection joint 4. In this case, first, the seal ring 43 is disposed in the ring-shaped groove 423b formed in the distal end surface 423a of the protrusion 423 of the lower flange member 42. Then, as shown in FIG. 5 (c), the protrusion 423 is inserted into the communication hole 25 of the partition panel 24 from the lower surface 24 b (other surface) side so that the protrusion 423 protrudes upward from the partition panel 24. The side flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 24 b of the partition panel 24. Further, a seal member such as silicon is applied to the gap between the communication hole 25 and the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion 423. As a result, the communication hole 25 is filled with the protruding portion 423 and the seal member, and the communication hole 25 is covered with the lower flange member 42 from the lower surface 24 b side of the partition panel 24.

  Further, the upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 24 a (one surface) side of the partition panel 24. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5C, the lower surface of the lower flange member 42 projecting upward from the partition panel 24 through the communication hole 25 while the central lower surface 412 a of the upper flange member 41 faces the communication hole 25. The upper flange member 41 is arranged on the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24 so that the front end surface 423a of the protrusion 423 is in contact with the central lower surface 412a and the first through hole H1 is concentrically disposed in the second through hole H2. Set up. Accordingly, the communication hole 25 is covered with the upper flange member 41 from above the partition panel 24, and the first through hole H <b> 1 and the second through hole H <b> 2 communicate with each other through the communication hole 25. Accordingly, the first through hole H1 and the second through hole H2 form a communication path P1 that connects the pipe end of the upper pipe 22 and the pipe end of the lower pipe 33.

  Further, when the lower flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24 in this step, the end upper surface 422c of the lower flange portion 422 is in contact with the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24, and the lower flange The lower flange member 42 is formed on the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24 so that the pair of bolt holes B2 and B2 formed in the portion 422 are disposed concentrically with the pair of bolt holes 26 and 26 formed in the partition panel 24. Arrange. In this process, when the upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, the lower end surface 412c of the upper flange portion 412 is in contact with the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24 and The upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24 so that the formed pair of bolt holes B1 and B1 are disposed concentrically with the pair of bolt holes 26 and 26 formed in the partition panel 24. Thereby, the bolt hole B1 of the upper flange member 41, the bolt hole B2 of the lower flange member 42, and the bolt hole 26 of the partition panel 24 are stacked concentrically, and the bolts 44 are inserted through these holes. A pair of bolt insertion passages P2, P2 is formed.

(Second main assembly process)
Then, as shown in FIG. 5 (d), the bolts 44 and 44 are inserted into the respective bolt insertion paths P2 and P2 and tightened. In this case, female screws are formed on the inner wall surfaces of the bolt holes B2 and B2 of the lower flange member 42, and the bolts are tightened so that the male screw of the bolt 44 is screwed into the female screw of the bolt hole B2. Good. Thus, the upper flange member 41 disposed on the upper surface 24a (one surface) of the partition panel 24 and the lower flange member 42 disposed on the lower surface 24b (other surface) are separated by the bolts 44, 44 from the partition panel 24. It can be tightened with a pinch in between. A gap between the bolts 44 and 44 and the bolt insertion paths P2 and P2 is filled with a sealing material such as silicon. With the above steps, the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected via the pipe connection joint 4. FIG. 6 is a view showing the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 connected by the pipe connection joint 4.

  In the second main assembly step, the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are tightened with the partition panel 24 interposed therebetween, whereby the center lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and the distal end surface of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42 The seal ring 43 disposed between the 423a and the 423a is compressed. Since the seal ring 43 is disposed around the communication path P1, the communication path P1 is sealed by the seal ring 43. Accordingly, rainwater and the like are prevented from entering the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 from the gap between the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42, and the inside of the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 is also prevented. The fluid (refrigerant) is prevented from leaking outside through the gap.

  Further, since the communication hole 25 formed in the partition panel 24 is filled with the protruding portion 423 and the seal member, rainwater can be effectively prevented from entering the lower unit 3 through the communication hole 25. Furthermore, since the sealing member is filled in the gap between the bolt insertion paths P2, P2 and the bolts 44, 44, it is possible to prevent rainwater from entering the lower unit 3 through the bolt insertion paths P2, P2. .

  In the present embodiment, since the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected by bolting in the main assembly process (main line), brazing (welding) is performed in the main assembly process (main line). Compared with the case where the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected, the workability is good, and therefore the number of work steps is not increased. Therefore, the assembly workability is improved and the assembly process time can be shortened.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the central lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and the tip surface 423a of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42 are in contact with each other. These surfaces can be formed as a flat surface having good flatness by cutting or the like. Therefore, the communication path P1 can be reliably sealed by bringing the flat surfaces having such good flatness into contact with each other and closing the gap between them with the seal ring 43.

(Modification 1)
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a pipe connection joint according to a modification of the first embodiment. In the pipe connection joint 4 shown in FIG. 7, between the center lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and the front end surface 423a of the protrusion 423 of the lower flange member 42, and the end lower surface 412c of the upper flange member 41 and the partition panel Between the upper surface 24a of 24, the gasket 48 (a 1st elastic member, a 2nd elastic member) as an elastic member is arrange | positioned. In this case, of the gasket 48, a portion (first elastic member) disposed between the center lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and the front end surface 423a of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42, and the upper flange member A portion (second elastic member) disposed between the end lower surface 412c of 41 and the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24 may be integrally formed as shown in FIG. It may be formed.

  In addition, a ring-shaped groove is formed in the central lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and around the opening of the first through hole H1, and a seal ring 431 is disposed in the groove. The seal ring 431 closes the gap between the central lower surface 412 a of the upper flange member 41 and the gasket 48. Further, a ring-shaped groove is also formed on the tip surface 423a of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42 and around the opening of the second through hole H2, and the seal ring 432 is disposed in the groove. Established. The seal ring 432 closes the gap between the tip surface 423 a of the protrusion 423 of the lower flange member 42 and the gasket 48.

  By arranging the gasket 48 as shown in FIG. 7, the dimensional error in the axial direction of the upper pipe 22 is absorbed by the gasket 48. Therefore, since the dimensional error of the upper pipe 22 is large, deformation of the partition panel 24 when the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected by the pipe connection joint 4 can be prevented. Moreover, since these can be connected, without applying excessive force to the upper side piping 22 and the lower side piping 33, an assembly property is improved.

(Modification 2)
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a pipe joint according to another modification of the first embodiment. In the pipe connection joint 4 shown in FIG. 8, a first gasket 48 a (first elastic member) as an elastic member is provided between the central lower surface 412 a of the upper flange member 41 and the distal end surface 423 a of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42. Furthermore, a second gasket 48b (third elastic member) as an elastic member is provided between the end upper surface 422c of the lower flange member 42 and the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24.

  In addition, a ring-shaped groove is formed in the central lower surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and around the opening of the first through hole H1, and a seal ring 431 is disposed in the groove. The gap between the lower center surface 412a of the upper flange member 41 and the first gasket 48a is closed by the seal ring 431. Further, a ring-shaped groove is also formed on the tip surface 423a of the protruding portion 423 of the lower flange member 42 and around the opening of the second through hole H2, and the seal ring 432 is disposed in the groove. Established. The seal ring 432 closes the gap between the front end surface 423a of the protrusion 423 of the lower flange member 42 and the first gasket 48a.

  As shown in FIG. 8, by arranging the first gasket 48a and the second gasket 48b, the dimensional error in the axial direction of the lower pipe 33 is absorbed by the first gasket 48a and the second gasket 48b. Accordingly, since the dimensional error of the lower pipe 33 is large, deformation of the partition panel 24 when the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected by the pipe connection joint 4 can be prevented. Moreover, since these can be connected, without applying excessive force to the upper side piping 22 and the lower side piping 33, an assembly property is improved.

  The gaskets (48, 48a, 48b) according to the modified examples 1 and 2 are formed, for example, in a thin plate shape, and are used by overlapping a plurality of sheets according to the dimensional tolerance in the axial direction of the pipes (upper pipe 22, lower pipe 33). be able to. In manufacturing this gasket, various materials that can withstand high temperatures and high pressures can be selected. A metal gasket is preferable.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a pipe connection method and a pipe connection joint according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the pipe connection joint according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the pipe connection joint 4 according to the present embodiment includes an upper flange member (first flange member) 41, a lower flange member (second flange member) 42, and an upper seal ring (first seal). Member) 43a, lower seal ring (second seal member) 43b, a pair of bolts (fastening members) 44, 44, an upper metal plate (first metal plate) 45, and a lower metal plate (second metal). Plate) 46. The upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 24 a side of the partition panel 24, and the lower flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 24 b side of the partition panel 24. The upper metal plate 45 is disposed between the upper flange member 41 and the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, and the lower metal plate 46 is disposed between the lower flange member 42 and the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24. Is done. The upper flange member 41 is attached to the pipe end of the upper pipe 22. The lower flange member 42 is attached to the pipe end of the lower pipe 33.

  FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the upper flange member 41. The configuration of the upper flange member 41 according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the configuration of the upper flange member 41 according to the first embodiment, and the difference is the upper side of the upper flange member 41 according to the first embodiment. The central portion of the lower surface of the flange portion 412 is recessed, and the central lower surface 412a is formed in the recessed portion, whereas the lower surface 412d of the upper flange portion 412 of the upper flange member 41 according to the present embodiment is a flat plane. It is a point formed by. The lower end (the other end) of the first through hole H1 and the lower ends of the bolt holes B1 and B1 open to the lower surface 412d. Since the other configuration is the same as the configuration of the upper flange member 41 according to the first embodiment, the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the lower flange member 42. The configuration of the lower flange member 42 according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the configuration of the lower flange member 42 according to the first embodiment, and the difference is that the lower flange member according to the first embodiment. 42, the protrusion 423 is formed on the upper surface of the lower flange portion 422, whereas the lower flange portion 422 of the lower flange member 42 according to the present embodiment has no protrusion, The upper surface 422d of the side flange portion 422 is formed by a flat plane. Then, the upper end (the other end) of the second through hole H2 and the upper ends of the bolt holes B2 and B2 open to the upper surface 422d. Since other configurations are the same as the configuration of the lower flange member 42 according to the first embodiment, the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the upper metal plate 45. The upper metal plate 45 has a flat plate shape having an upper surface 45a and a lower surface 45b. The upper metal plate 45 is formed with a third through hole H3 and a pair of bolt holes B3, B3 penetrating vertically. Further, a ring-shaped groove 451 is formed on the upper surface 45a of the upper metal plate 45 around the opening of the third through hole H3.

  FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the lower metal plate 46. The lower metal plate 46 has a flat plate shape having an upper surface 46a and a lower surface 46b. The lower metal plate 46 is formed with a fourth through hole H4 penetrating vertically and a pair of bolt holes B4, B4. A ring-shaped groove 461 is formed on the lower surface 46b of the lower metal plate 46 and around the opening of the fourth through hole H4.

  Next, a method of connecting the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 using the pipe connection joint 4 having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIG. 14 together with an assembling method of the upper unit 2 and the lower unit 3. .

(First subassembly process)
First, the outdoor heat exchanger 21 and the upper pipe 22 are installed in the upper unit 2, and the pipe end of the upper pipe 22 is connected to one end (upper end) of the first through hole H <b> 1 formed in the upper flange member 41. The first through hole H1 is inserted through the opening (see FIG. 14A). And the upper side piping 22 and the upper side flange member 41 are joined by brazing (welding) so that the clearance gap between the pipe end part of the inserted upper side piping 22 and the 1st through-hole H1 may be block | closed. Moreover, the upper unit 2 is manufactured by storing other various components in the upper casing 23 and fixing them if necessary.

(Second subassembly process)
In addition, the gas engine 31, the compressor 32, and the lower pipe 33 are mounted in the lower unit 3, and the pipe end of the lower pipe 33 is formed at one end of the second through hole H2 formed in the lower flange member 42. The second through hole H2 is inserted through the opening (lower end) (see FIG. 14B). Then, the lower pipe 33 and the lower flange member 42 are joined by brazing (welding) so as to close the gap between the pipe end of the inserted lower pipe 33 and the second through hole H2. . Further, the lower unit 3 is manufactured by storing various other components in the lower casing 34 and fixing them if necessary.

(Third sub-assembly process)
Further, the upper metal plate 45 is attached to the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, and the lower metal plate 46 is attached to the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24 (see FIG. 14C). In this case, as shown in FIG. 14C, the communication hole 25 of the partition panel 24, the third through hole H3 of the upper metal plate 45, and the fourth through hole H4 of the lower metal plate 46 are concentric. Laminated and arranged so that the bolt holes B1 and B1 of the partition panel 24, the bolt holes B3 and B3 of the upper metal plate 45, and the bolt holes B4 and B4 of the lower metal plate 46 are concentrically arranged. The upper metal plate 45 and the lower metal plate 46 are disposed on both surfaces of the partition panel 24, and in this state, the entire circumference of the lower surface 45b of the upper metal plate 45 is welded to the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, and the lower metal plate The entire circumference of the upper surface 46 a of 46 is welded to the lower surface 24 b of the partition panel 24. By these weldings, the gap between the partition panel 24 and the upper metal plate 45 is sealed, and the gap between the partition panel 24 and the lower metal plate 46 is sealed. Note that the thickness (length in the vertical direction) of the upper metal plate 45 may be adjusted so that the upper surface 45a is always higher than the water level of water accumulated in the partition panel 24.

(First main assembly process)
Next, the upper unit 2 is assembled to the upper part of the lower unit 3, and the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected using the pipe connection joint 4. In this case, first, the lower seal ring 43b is disposed in the ring-shaped groove 461 formed on the lower surface 46b of the lower metal plate 46 attached to the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24, and the partition panel 24 The upper seal ring 43a is disposed in a ring-shaped groove 451 formed in the upper surface 45a of the upper metal plate 45 attached to the upper surface 24a.

  Next, the upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 45 a of the upper metal plate 45, and the lower flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 46 b of the lower metal plate 46. In this case, the first through hole H1 of the upper flange member 41 and the second through hole H2 of the lower flange member 42 are arranged concentrically so as to face the communication hole 25 of the partition panel 24, and the upper flange member 41 The upper flange member 41 is disposed on the upper surface 45a of the upper metal plate 45 so that the bolt holes B1, B1 and the bolt holes B2, B2 of the lower flange member 42 are concentrically arranged with the bolt holes 26, 26 of the partition panel 24. At the same time, the lower flange member 42 is disposed on the lower surface 46 b of the lower metal plate 46. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 14D, one end of the third through hole H3 faces the communication hole 25 and the other end faces the first through hole H1. Further, one end of the fourth through hole H4 faces the communication hole 25 and the other end faces the second through hole H2. Then, the first through hole H1, the second through hole H2, the third through hole H3, the fourth through hole H4, and the communication hole 25 are concentrically stacked so that the pipe end of the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are stacked. A communication path P1 that communicates with the pipe end is formed, and the bolt holes P2 and P2 are formed by concentrically arranging the bolt holes.

(Second main assembly process)
Next, as shown in FIG. 12 (e), the bolts 44 and 44 are inserted into the respective bolt insertion passages P2 and P2 and tightened. In this case, female screws are formed on the inner wall surfaces of the bolt holes B2 and B2 of the lower flange member 42, and the bolts are tightened so that the male screw of the bolt 44 is screwed into the female screw of the bolt hole B2. Good. As a result, the upper flange member 41 disposed on the upper surface 24a side of the partition panel 24 and the lower flange member 42 disposed on the lower surface 24b side are connected to the upper metal plate 45, the lower metal by the bolts 44, 44. The plate 46 and the partition panel 24 are sandwiched and tightened. A gap between the bolts 44 and 44 and the bolt insertion paths P2 and P2 is filled with a sealing material such as silicon. With the above steps, the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected via the pipe connection joint 4. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 connected by the pipe connection joint 4 according to the present embodiment.

  In the second main assembly process, the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are tightened with the upper metal plate 45, the lower metal plate 46, and the partition panel 24 interposed therebetween, whereby the upper seal ring 43a and the lower seal are sealed. The ring 43b is compressed. The upper seal ring 43a is disposed between the opposing surfaces of the upper flange member 41 and the upper metal plate 45 in the first main assembly step and around the communication path P1, and the lower seal ring 43b is disposed in the first main assembly. In the process, it is disposed between the opposing surfaces of the lower flange member 42 and the lower metal plate 46 and around the communication path P1. Therefore, the communication path P1 is sealed by compressing these seal rings. As a result, rainwater or the like enters the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 from the gap between the upper flange member 41 and the upper metal plate 45 and the gap between the lower flange member 42 and the lower metal plate 46. In addition to being prevented from entering, the fluid (refrigerant) in the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 is prevented from leaking outside through the gap.

  Further, since the entire circumference of the lower surface 45b of the upper metal plate 45 is welded to the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, the gap between the upper metal plate 45 and the partition panel 24 is completely sealed. In addition, since the entire circumference of the upper surface 46a of the lower metal plate 46 is welded to the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24, the gap between the lower metal plate 46 and the partition panel 24 is also completely sealed. Therefore, rainwater or the like is prevented from reaching the communication path P1 through these gaps. Furthermore, since the sealing material is filled in the gaps between the bolt insertion paths P2, P2 and the bolts 44, 44, it is possible to prevent rainwater from entering the lower unit 3 through the bolt insertion paths P2, P2. .

  In the present embodiment, since the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected by bolting in the main assembly process (main line), brazing (welding) is performed in the main assembly process (main line). Compared with the case where the upper pipe 22 and the lower pipe 33 are connected, the workability is good, and therefore the number of work steps is not increased. Therefore, the assembly workability is improved and the assembly process time can be shortened.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the upper metal plate 45 is disposed on the upper surface 24a of the partition panel 24, and the lower metal plate 46 is disposed on the lower surface 24b of the partition panel 24, whereby the upper flange of the partition panel 24 is disposed. The part to which the member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are attached is reinforced. For this reason, it is possible to prevent deformation (distortion) of the partition panel 24 when the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are attached to the partition panel 24. When the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are attached to the partition panel 24 without using such a reinforcing plate, the thin partition panel 24 is distorted. It is difficult to obtain a flatness, and as a result, the sealing performance of the gap between the partition panel 24 and the flange member is deteriorated. On the other hand, when the upper flange member 41 and the lower flange member 42 are attached to the partition panel 24 via the reinforcing plates (the upper metal plate 45 and the lower metal plate 46) as in the present embodiment, these flange members 41, Since the portion to which 42 is to be attached is reinforced, deformation (distortion) of the partition panel 24 at the attachment portion is prevented. Therefore, good flatness of the partition panel 24 on the mounting surface can be obtained. As a result, the workability is further improved, and rainwater enters more into the gap between the partition panel 24 and the metal plates 45 and 46 or between the metal plates 45 and 46 and the flange members 41 and 42. It can prevent effectively and can connect the upper side piping 22 and the lower side piping 33, ensuring airtightness.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the thickness of the upper metal plate 45 is adjusted so that the height position of the upper surface 45a of the upper metal plate 45 is always higher than the water level of the water accumulated in the partition panel 24. Accordingly, it is possible to more effectively prevent water from entering from the gap between the upper metal plate 45 and the upper flange member 41.

(Modification 3)
In the second embodiment, the example in which the bolt is inserted into the bolt insertion passage from the upper side and tightened with the bolt has been described. However, as shown in FIG. 16, the bolt 44 is inserted into the bolt insertion passage from the lower side and protruded upward. Alternatively, the tip portion may be tightened with a nut 49.

(Modification 4)
Moreover, in the said 2nd Embodiment, although the bolt insertion path P2 is penetrated and formed up and down, as shown in FIG. 17, it forms so that the bolt hole B4 formed in the lower side flange member 42 may not be penetrated. Thus, the bolt insertion path P2 may be formed as a bag path. By comprising in this way, even if the seal | sticker of the clearance gap between the volt | bolt 44 and the bolt insertion path P2 is inadequate, or it did not apply | coat a sealing member in a clearance gap, it entered in the bolt insertion path P2. Rainwater can be prevented from entering the lower unit 3.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, this invention should not be limited to the said embodiment. For example, in the second embodiment, the upper metal plate 45 and the lower metal plate 46 are joined to both surfaces of the partition panel 24 by welding, but for example, the entire lower surface 45b and the lower side of the upper metal plate 45 are arranged. The entire upper surface 46a of the metal plate 46 may be attached to both sides of the partition panel 24 with an adhesive. Further, instead of the seal ring 43, the upper seal ring 43a, and the lower seal ring 43b described in the above embodiment, a seal member such as silicon may be used. Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the connection of the upper side piping 22 and the lower side piping 33 as refrigerant piping, this invention is applicable also to what kind of piping connected on both sides of the partition panel 24. . Thus, the present invention can be modified without departing from the gist thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Outdoor unit, 2 ... Upper unit (1st unit), 21 ... Outdoor heat exchanger, 22 ... Upper piping (1st piping), 23 ... Upper casing, 24 ... Partition panel, 24a ... Upper surface (one side), 24b ... lower surface (other surface), 25 ... communication hole, 26 ... bolt hole, 3 ... lower unit (second unit), 31 ... gas engine, 32 ... compressor, 33 ... lower piping (second piping), 34 ... Lower casing, 4 ... Pipe connection joint, 41 ... Upper flange member (first flange member), 411 ... Upper cylinder portion, 412 ... Upper flange portion, 412a ... Center lower surface (first opening surface), 412b ... Upper surface, 412c ... lower end surface, 412d ... lower surface, 42 ... lower flange member (second flange member), 421 ... lower cylinder portion, 422 ... lower flange portion, 422b ... lower surface, 422c ... upper end surface, 422d ... upper surface , 23 ... Projection, 423a ... Tip surface (second opening surface), 43 ... Seal ring (seal member), 43a ... Upper seal ring (first seal member), 43b ... Lower seal ring (second seal member), 44: bolt (fastening member), 45: upper metal plate (first metal plate), 45a ... upper surface, 45b ... lower surface, 46 ... lower metal plate (second metal plate), 46a ... upper surface, 46b ... lower surface, 48 ... gaskets (first elastic member, second elastic member), 48a ... first gasket (first elastic member), 48b ... third gasket (third elastic member), 49 ... nuts, B1, B2, B3, B4 ... Bolt hole, H1 ... 1st through hole, H2 ... 2nd through hole, H3 ... 3rd through hole, H4 ... 4th through hole, P1 ... Communication path, P2 ... Bolt insertion path

Claims (18)

A first pipe disposed in the first unit of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having a first unit and a second unit assembled vertically; a second pipe disposed in the second unit; A pipe connection method for connecting through a communication hole formed in a partition panel provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit,
The pipe end of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from the opening of one end of the first through hole formed in the first flange member, and at the one end of the first through hole. A first subassembly step of joining the first pipe to the first flange member so as to close a gap between an opening and the pipe end of the first pipe;
The pipe end portion of the second pipe is inserted into the second through hole from the opening of one end of the second through hole formed in the second flange member, and the one end of the second through hole is inserted. A second subassembly step of joining the second pipe to the second flange member so as to close a gap between the opening and the pipe end of the second pipe;
A projecting portion having a second opening surface formed in the second flange member and having an opening at the other end of the second through hole is inserted into the communication hole, and formed in the first flange member and the first flange member. By bringing the first opening surface in which the opening of the other end of the through hole is formed into contact with the second opening surface, the first pipe and the second pipe are formed by the first through hole and the second through hole. A first main assembly in which the first flange member is disposed on one surface of the partition panel and the second flange member is disposed on the other surface of the partition panel so that a communication path communicating with the partition panel is formed. Process,
A second fastening member clamps the first flange member disposed on the one surface of the partition panel and the second flange member disposed on the other surface of the partition panel with the partition panel interposed therebetween. The main assembly process;
Including pipe connection method. The pipe connection method according to claim 1,
A pipe connection method, wherein a seal member is disposed around the communication path between the first opening surface and the second opening surface in the first main assembly step. In the pipe connection method according to claim 1 or 2,
A pipe connection method, wherein a seal member is applied to a gap between the protruding portion and the communication hole in the first main assembly step. In the pipe connection method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The fastening member is a bolt;
Bolt holes are respectively formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, and the second flange member,
In the first main assembly step, the bolt holes formed respectively in the partition panel, the first flange member, and the second flange member are concentrically stacked to form a bolt insertion passage. Disposing the first flange member on one surface of the partition panel and disposing the second flange member on the other surface of the partition panel;
In the second main assembly step, the bolt is inserted into the bolt insertion passage to fasten the first flange member and the second flange member with the partition panel interposed therebetween, and between the bolt and the bolt insertion passage. A pipe connection method, which is a step of applying a seal member between them. A first pipe disposed in the first unit of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having a first unit and a second unit assembled vertically; a second pipe disposed in the second unit; A pipe connection method for connecting through a communication hole formed in a partition panel provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit,
The pipe end of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from the opening of one end of the first through hole formed in the first flange member, and at the one end of the first through hole. A first subassembly step of joining the first pipe to the first flange member so as to close a gap between an opening and the pipe end of the first pipe;
The pipe end portion of the second pipe is inserted into the second through hole from the opening of one end of the second through hole formed in the second flange member, and the one end of the second through hole is inserted. A second subassembly step of joining the second pipe to the second flange member so as to close a gap between the opening and the pipe end of the second pipe;
The first metal plate is disposed on one surface of the partition panel so that the third through hole of the first metal plate in which the third through hole is formed faces the communication hole, and a fourth through hole is formed. A third subassembly step of disposing the second metal plate on the other surface of the partition panel such that the fourth through hole of the second metal plate faces the communication hole;
The first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, and the communication hole form a communication path that connects the first pipe and the second pipe. A first main assembly step of disposing the first flange member on the first metal plate and disposing the second flange member on the second metal plate;
A second main assembly step of tightening the first flange member and the second flange member with a fastening member sandwiching the partition panel, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate;
Including pipe connection method. In the pipe connection method according to claim 5,
A pipe connection method, wherein, in the third subassembly step, a gap between the partition panel and the first metal plate is sealed, and a gap between the partition panel and the second metal plate is sealed. In the pipe connection method according to claim 5 or 6,
In the first main assembly step, a first seal member is disposed around the communication path between the opposing surfaces of the first flange member and the first metal plate, and the second flange member and the A pipe connection method, wherein a second seal member is disposed between the opposing surfaces of the second metal plate and around the communication path. The pipe connection method according to any one of claims 5 to 7,
The fastening member is a bolt;
Bolt holes are respectively formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate,
In the third subassembly step, the first metal plate is disposed so that the bolt holes respectively formed in the partition panel, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate are concentrically stacked. Arranging the second metal plate on the other surface of the partition panel and arranging the second metal plate on the one surface of the partition panel;
In the first main assembly step, the bolt holes formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate are concentrically stacked. Arranging the first flange member overlying the first metal plate and disposing the first flange member overlying the second metal plate so as to form a bolt insertion passage.
The second main assembly step includes, by the bolt, the first flange member disposed on the one surface of the partition panel and the second flange member disposed on the other surface of the partition panel. A pipe connection method, which is a step of tightening the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the partition panel and applying a seal member between the bolt and the bolt insertion passage. A first pipe disposed in the first unit of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having a first unit and a second unit assembled vertically; a second pipe disposed in the second unit; A pipe connection joint for connecting through a communication hole formed in a partition panel provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit,
A first through hole is formed, and a pipe end portion of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from an opening at one end of the first through hole, and is disposed on one surface side of the partition panel. A first flange member,
A second through hole is formed, and a pipe end portion of the second pipe is inserted into the second through hole from an opening at one end of the second through hole and disposed on the other surface side of the partition panel. A second flange member,
A fastening member that clamps the first flange member disposed on the one surface side of the partition panel and the second flange member disposed on the other surface side of the partition panel with the partition panel interposed therebetween;
With
The first flange member has a first opening surface that is formed at the other end of the first through hole and faces the communication hole from one surface side of the partition panel;
The second flange member has a second opening surface in which an opening at the other end of the second through hole is formed, and has a protruding portion that is inserted into the communication hole from the other surface side of the partition panel,
The first opening surface and the second opening surface are in contact with each other, so that the first through hole and the second through hole form a communication path that connects the first pipe and the second pipe. It is composed of a pipe connection joint. In the pipe connection joint according to claim 9,
A pipe connection joint, wherein a seal member is provided between the first opening surface and the second opening surface and around the communication path. In the pipe connection joint according to claim 9 or 10,
A pipe connection joint, wherein a seal member is applied to a gap between the protrusion and the communication hole. In the pipe joint according to any one of claims 9 to 11,
The fastening member is a bolt,
Bolt holes for inserting the bolts are formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, and the second flange member,
The first flange member disposed on one side of the partition panel and the second flange disposed on the other side of the partition panel by inserting the bolt into the bolt hole and tightening the bolt. The member is tightened through the partition panel,
A pipe connection joint, wherein a seal member is applied between the bolt and the bolt hole. A first pipe disposed in the first unit of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having a first unit and a second unit assembled vertically; a second pipe disposed in the second unit; A pipe connection joint for connecting through a communication hole formed in a partition panel provided in the first unit to partition the first unit and the second unit,
A first through hole is formed, and a pipe end portion of the first pipe is inserted into the first through hole from an opening at one end of the first through hole, and is disposed on one surface side of the partition panel. A first flange member,
A second through hole is formed, and a pipe end portion of the second pipe is inserted into the second through hole from an opening at one end of the second through hole and disposed on the other surface side of the partition panel. A second flange member,
A first metal plate provided between the partition panel and the first flange member, and having a third through hole formed with one end facing the communication hole and the other end facing the first through hole; ,
A second metal plate provided between the partition panel and the second flange member, and having a fourth through hole formed with one end facing the communication hole and the other end facing the second through hole; ,
The first flange member disposed on the one surface side of the partition panel and the second flange member disposed on the other surface side of the partition panel are connected to the first metal plate and the second metal. A fastening member for clamping the plate and the partition panel;
With
The first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, and the communication hole communicate with each other to form a communication path that connects the first pipe and the second pipe. A pipe joint that is configured to In the pipe connection joint according to claim 13,
A first seal member provided between the first flange member and the first metal plate and around the communication path;
A second seal member provided between the second flange member and the second metal plate and around the communication path;
A pipe connection joint further comprising: In the pipe joint according to claim 13 or 14,
A gap between the first metal plate and one side of the partition panel is sealed,
A pipe connection joint in which a gap between the second metal plate and the other surface of the partition panel is sealed. In the pipe connection joint according to any one of claims 13 to 15,
The fastening member is a bolt,
Bolt holes for inserting the bolts are formed in the partition panel, the first flange member, the second flange member, the first metal plate, and the second metal plate,
The first flange member disposed on one side of the partition panel and the second flange disposed on the other side of the partition panel by inserting the bolt into the bolt hole and tightening the bolt. A member is clamped via the partition panel, the first metal plate and the second metal plate;
A pipe connection joint, wherein a seal member is applied between the bolt and the bolt hole. In the pipe connection joint according to claim 9,
A first elastic member disposed between the first opening surface of the first flange member and the second opening surface of the second flange member;
A pipe connection joint further comprising: a second elastic member disposed between a surface of the first flange member facing the one surface of the partition panel and the one surface of the partition panel. In the pipe connection joint according to claim 9,
A first elastic member disposed between the first opening surface of the first flange member and the second opening surface of the second flange member;
A pipe connection joint, further comprising: a third elastic member disposed between a surface of the second flange member facing the other surface of the partition panel and the other surface of the partition panel.

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