Publication Date:
2013-03-08
Description:
A numerical investigation on flow distribution and pressure drop characteristics in a plate-fin heat exchanger is presented. Influences from length and width of the distribution channel were particularly investigated. Flow distribution in the studied model was improved by increasing the length or reducing the width of the distribution channel, but at the cost of an increased pressure drop. The relationship of flow distribution and pressure drop was analyzed by the porous medium approach. A dynamic balance phenomenon was observed and further studied. Based on the results, a novel strategy for the attainment of flow uniformity, which causes negligible pressure drop variation, was proposed. Finally, a performance effectiveness factor was developed for predicting the effect of the proposed strategy on the performance of plate-fin heat exchangers. Flow distribution and pressure drop characteristics in a plate-fin heat exchanger are studied for the first time. Based on the effects of distribution channel dimensions, a new strategy for improving the performance of the heat exchanger is proposed. A performance effectiveness factor was developed for predicting the effect of the proposed approach.
Print ISSN:
0930-7516
Electronic ISSN:
1521-4125
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
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