Flow Distribution Behavior in Condensers and Evaporators

In this article, flow distribution behavior of two-phase mixture at header-channel junctions, commonly found in evaporators and condensers, is reviewed systematically. The first part of this paper introduces flow configuration at single T-junctions that can be considered as unit elements of the header-channels assembly of heat exchangers. Experimental observations and appropriate models for prediction of flow split to the branch are introduced. Then the effect of the flow interaction between two neighboring channels (branches) on the flow split pattern is considered. In the latter part, to simulate practical shape of the header-channels assembly of compact heat exchangers, the test results with a partitioned header connected to multiple parallel channels are presented. Dependence of the flow distribution pattern on various operating conditions and headerchannels configurations are examined. Finally, practical techniques to achieve even distribution of two-phase flow from the header to the parallel channels are introduced and the future research issues are presented.

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