Patent ID: 6167619
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: B21D,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of assembling a heat exchanger unit, the method comprising the steps of: forming a number of fins and at least one tube having a longitudinal tube portion, each of the fins being formed to include at least one aperture for receiving the tube portion; arranging the fins to form a fin pack so that the apertures of the fins are coaxially aligned to form an aggregate passage through the fin pack; inserting the tube portion into the aggregate passage such that oppositely-disposed end portions of the tube remain outside the fin pack; fixturing the end portions of the tube; and then applying a longitudinal compressive force to the end portions of the tube to radially expand the tube portions into contact with the fins, creating an interference fit between the tube portions and the apertures so as to mechanically secure the fins to the tube portions.