Numerical study on the improvement of flow distribution uniformity among parallel minichannels

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

Authors

Pistoresi, C.
Fan, Y.
Wei, M.
Luo, L.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

HEFAT

Abstract

Parallel micro or mini-channels are widely used in various devices of process and energy engineering including micro-reactors, compact heat exchangers and fuel cells. Nevertheless, the flow maldistribution due to the improper design of distributor/collector is usually observed, leading to globally poor performances of these devices. The objective of this study is to optimize the shape of the distributor/collector pipes so as to achieve a uniform flow distribution among an array of parallel mini-channels. A Z-type ladder fluid network with 10 mini-channels in parallel having square section is introduced and investigated. Two methods are used to optimize the shape of distributor/collector pipes: a discrete stairway shape optimized according to the scaling relations proposed by Tondeur et al. (2011) and a continuous tapered shape with the inclined angle varying from 0° to 30°. 3D-CFD simulations are carried out using the ANSYS FLUENT code. Numerical results obtained show that a relatively uniform flow distribution may be reached by the discrete stairway shape or by the linear tapered shape under very low flow-rate conditions. Larger inclined angle or fewer channels in parallel are favorable for more uniform flow distribution under higher flow-rate conditions. Nevertheless this implies that the distributor and the collector pipes occupy a large volume so that the entire device is less compact.

Description

Papers presented to the 12th International Conference on Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics, Costa de Sol, Spain on 11-13 July 2016.

Keywords

Flow distribution uniformity, Parallel minichannels

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation