FLUID PROCESSING DEVICE AND METHOD

摘要

A fluid processing unit 110 having first 171 and second 152 interleaved flow paths 171 in a cross flow configuration is disclosed. The first flow paths 171 are substantially longer than the second flow paths 152 such that the pressure drop in the second flow paths can be maintained at a relatively low level and temperature variations across the second flow paths are reduced. One or more of the flow paths can be microchannels. When used as a vaporizer and/or superheater, the longer first flow paths 171 include an upstream liquid flow portion 172 and downstream vapor flow portion 176 of enlarged cross sectional area. A substantial pressure drop is maintained through the upstream liquid flow portion for which one or more tortous flow channels 172a can be utilized. The unit is a thin panel, having a width substantially less its length or height, and is manufactured together with other thin units in a bonded stack of thin metal sheets. The individual units are then separated from the stack after bonding.