Patent ID: 7198095
Filing Date: 2007-04-03
Classification: F28F

Abstract:
1. A heat exchanger module suitable for use in a motor vehicle, comprising: a plurality of tubes and corrugated fins connected to one another to form a heat exchanger block; at least one header tank connected to ends of the tubes; and two side parts which frame the heat exchanger module on opposite sides of the block, wherein at least one predetermined breaking region is provided on at least one side part, wherein the side parts comprise a base portion and marginal regions; wherein the marginal regions of the side parts are bent through approximately 90° to form flanges along the longitudinal edges of the side part and at least one of the flanges along the longitudinal edge is interrupted by a cutout; wherein the cutout completely interrupts the flange along the longitudinal edge of the side part and penetrates partially into the base portion of the side part, and wherein the cutout cooperates with at least one aperture in the base portion of the side part to define between the cutout and the aperture a predetermined breaking point, and wherein the predetermined breaking point is adapted to break when subjected to thermally-induced stress caused in the tubes during operation of the heat exchanger.