Multiple tube bank heat exchange unit with manifold assembly

Abstract

A multiple bank, flattened tube heat exchange unit includes a first tube bank including a plurality of flattened tube segments extending longitudinally in spaced parallel relationship between a first manifold and a second manifold and a second tube bank including a plurality of flattened tube segments extending longitudinally in spaced parallel relationship between a first manifold and a second manifold, the second tube bank disposed behind the first tube bank. The second manifold of the first tube bank and the second manifold of the second tube bank form a manifold assembly wherein an interior volume of the second manifold of the first tube bank and an interior volume of the second manifold of the second tube bank of the manifold assembly are internally connected in fluid communication.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of forming an integral manifold assembly for a multiple bank heat exchanger, comprising:
 extruding a dual-barrel manifold having a first tubular barrel and a second tubular barrel in spaced parallel relationship and a central web member interconnecting the first and second tubular barrels;   forming an opening in a wall of one of the first and second tubular barrels opposite the central web member;   inserting a drill bit through said opening and drilling a hole transversely through the central web member to form a bore opening in fluid communication with an interior volume of the first tubular barrel and an interior volume of the second tubular barrel; and   plugging said opening after withdrawing the drill bit.