Efficient Mathematical Models for Flow Distribution Prediction in Heat Exchanger Flow Systems Containing Porous Elements

report

English

Two efficient flow distribution models tailored to flow systems containing porous elements are presented. The first model works with a quasi-2D mesh, which generally consists of a very limited number of nodes and edges, and as such it is able to provide results in very short wallclock times. Nonetheless, in spite of its efficiency the model may under certain conditions suffer from convergence problems due to the extent of the implemented simplifications. This, being a significant limiting factor, led to the development of the second model which expects a 3D mesh consisting of cuboid cells and employs less simplified equations in order to improve convergence and solution stability. As a consequence, wallclock times tend to be longer in case of the more complex 3D model but accuracy of solution data and – more importantly – model versatility are greater. Although the choice of the model to be employed is ultimately up to the user (i.e., the process engineer), it is recommended that the 3D model be preferred over the quasi-2D one.

flow distribution, porous elements, CFD

TUREK, V.; JEGLA, Z.; BÉBAR, L.

1. 6. 2016

VUT v Brně, Fakulta strojního inženýrství, Ústav procesního inženýrství

Brno

i

32

32