US Patent 8397797 Low thermal strain multi-cooler

A heat exchanger with multi-flow capabilities includes a pair of intermediate tanks located between a pair of header tanks. An open gap is provided between the two intermediate tanks. A first plurality of tubes extend between the header tanks. A second plurality of tubes extend between one of the header tanks and one of the intermediate tanks. A third plurality of tubes extend between the other header tank and the other intermediate tank. In a two flow system, the two intermediate tanks are in fluid communication through a flexible jumper tube. In a three flow system the two intermediate tanks are isolated from each other. The open gap between the intermediate tanks allows for the uneven heat expansion between the various fluid flows.