Structural Optimizations of U‐ and Z‐Type Manifolds for Uniform Flow Distribution by Applying an Increaser and Baffle Plates

Abstract

Based on previous experiments for U‐ and Z‐type manifolds, numerical models were established; then, investigations were conducted on the effect of the optimized designs on the flow distribution. An increaser and baffle plates were attached to the distribution header for the U‐ and Z‐type manifolds, respectively, considering various configurations and sizes. The results indicate that an increaser could markedly reduce the non‐uniformity with a simultaneous decrease of the pressure drop, and baffle plates could also drastically improve the flow distribution, but at the cost of a slight pressure drop increase. By comprehensively applying an increaser and baffle plates in the Z‐type manifold, this adverse effect could be eliminated.

Flow Distribution and Mass Transfer of Gas–Liquid Flow in Parallel Microchannels with Different Tree-Shaped Distributors: Halving-Width versus Constant-Width

“…20 Xie et al investigated the flow distribution of U-type manifolds. 21 The results showed that the flow distribution in parallel microchannels with these structures is not satisfactory. Fortunately, Bejan generalized the parallel microchannels with the treeshaped distributor as the most effective reactor for its uniform flow distribution.…”

“…The effects of an inclined angle and the number of branches on the flow distribution were analyzed . Xie et al investigated the flow distribution of U-type manifolds . The results showed that the flow distribution in parallel microchannels with these structures is not satisfactory.…”