CFD simulation of fluid flow distribution in distributor of plate-fin heat exchanger

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) program FLUENT has been used to predict the fluid flow distribution in plate-fin heat exchanger. At the same time, a mathematical equation is developed to generate different types of fluid flow velocity maldistribution models considering the possible deviations in fluid flow. The fluid flow maldistributions are calculated for different configurations and operating conditions by using these flow models. It is found that the fluid flow maldistribution is very serious in plate-fin heat exchanger. The computational results also show that nonuniform inlet velocity, inlet angle and orifice diameter on the fin are the main factors affecting the distribution performance of distributor. The fluid flow distribution in plate-fin heat exchanger can be effectively improved by changing the distributor configuration.