Optimization of Flexible Hose for Reducing Flow Maldistribution in Manifolds

Abstract

Coolant Distribution Systems (CDS) are required to be optimally designed to ensure predefined mass flow rate in all parallel channels between exit and collecting manifolds, while maintaining low-pressure drop across them. Even small change in the pressure drop at component level will result in maldistribution of flow rate and increase in overall pressure drop of CDS. Numerical and experimental study had been carried out in the work proposed for change in pressure drop due to deformation of end connector’s bend cross section, in a flexible hose. The methodology for optimum modelling of the problem on CFD tool using sub-structuring method is also suggested. In sub-structuring method a part of complete hose (henceforth referred as sub-structured model), has been used instead of complete model of flexible hose. Results of sub-structuring model were compared with that of a complete model of a flexible hose. Numerical values obtained from simulation were validated with experimental results. Optimum bend cross section for avoiding maldistribution in parallel channels and increase in pressure drop of CDS were calculated. Substantial reduction in computation cost was achieved with negligible loss of accuracy in pressure drop values.