Heat Exchanger Distribution Assembly for Layered Two-Phase Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In heat exchangers, such as mini-channel, micro-channel, and brazed-plate types, distributing two-phase fluid flow among many layers and small ports is challenging due to fluid stratification and separation, leading to uneven mass fraction distribution and poor performance.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger distribution assembly with a nozzle and diffuser system that increases fluid velocity through an orifice, separates it into uniform routing paths, and routes it through channel grooves to ensure homogeneous distribution to multiple layers via radially aligned distribution holes, using a combination of a nozzle, diffuser, and orifice ring to manage pressure and flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a piccolo distributor with a closed-end tube and series of holes is used, then the flow can be distributed among many layers and small ports, but the two-phase fluid stratifies and separates causing liquid to pool at the end while vapor leaves through early ports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing a mixing section before the distribution ports that actively mixes the two-phase fluid beforehand. This pre-mixing action ensures that when the fluid reaches the distribution ports, the phases are uniformly distributed, preventing stratification and ensuring consistent mass fraction to each fin passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mixing section between the inlet and the distribution ports. This intermediary component acts as a mediator that transforms the separated two-phase flow into a uniformly mixed flow, allowing the distribution system to function effectively without direct contact between the inlet conditions and the distribution ports.
2Quantity of substance
If the flow is decelerated in the distributor, then the flow can be distributed among many layers, but the two-phase fluid stratifies due to deceleration
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing section performs preliminary mixing before the flow enters the distribution ports. This pre-action ensures that even when the flow decelerates in the distribution section, the phases remain uniformly distributed due to the prior mixing, preventing stratification that would otherwise occur during deceleration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow parameters by introducing a mixing section that alters the velocity distribution and phase arrangement before the flow reaches the distribution ports. This parameter change ensures that the flow maintains uniform phase distribution even as it decelerates through the distribution section.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution ensures a uniform, homogeneous distribution of two-phase fluid to each layer of the heat exchanger, enhancing system performance by preventing stratification and maintaining a consistent mass fraction, thereby improving overall heat exchanger efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
increases fluid velocity through an orifice
Implementation Method 2
increases fluid velocity through an orifice
Implementation Method 3
separates it into uniform routing paths
Implementation Method 4
distributing two-phase fluid flow (liquid and gas)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A heat exchanger distribution assembly (16) includes a channel guide (28) comprising an outer surface (30). Also included is an outer shell (20) comprising a hollow portion (26) and a plurality of distribution holes (48). The channel guide (28) is at least partially disposed within the hollow portion (26). Further included is a plurality of channel grooves (46) disposed between an inner surface (24) of the outer shell (20) and the outer surface (30) of the channel guide (28). The plurality of channel grooves (46) are configured to convert circumferentially spaced flow passages to axially spaced flow passages to route the fluid to a plurality of layers (50) of a heat exchanger (18).