01. Experimental/Computational Fluid Dynamics

This work presents a numerical simulation of water-water plate-type heat exchanger with corrugations using ANSYS simulation software considering various parameters such as corrugation angle, press depth, and pitch. The depth of the press, manipulated, spans from 2.35 mm to 2.8 mm. The study also considers the pitch of the sine curve from 9.25 mm to 11 mm, holding all other influencing factors constant and a range of corrugated angles spanning from 110 to 130 degrees. A range of mass flow rates spanning from 0.1418 kilograms per second to 0.1618 kilograms per second, is also considered with all other pertinent factors held constant throughout the simulation. Traditional modelling software often uses equations to define geometric shapes, which offers precision for basic and standardized forms but is limited when dealing with complex or variable geometries like sine curves. This work explores Python scripting as a more flexible and dynamic method for geometry creation in software environments. Python scripting supports algorithmic design and parametric modelling, making it particularly effective for non-standard shapes also significantly reducing the computational time during geometry creation. The study also investigates the impact of press depth variations on pressure drop, finding that increased press depth reduces pressure drop due to a larger inlet area and decreased turbulence. Conversely, an increase in corrugation angle increases resistance and pressure drop. Minor backflow could negatively affect pressure drop and heat transfer rates, and zero velocity observed near the consecutive holes could lead to sedimentation.

Vishal Indalkar

Mr.