Flow Distribution and Pressure Drop in Micro-channel Manifolds

Abstract

The primary objective of this project is to establish an understanding of the flow field in a manifold distributing two-phase refrigerant flow into a series of micro-channels.Preliminary studies have been performed using two-phase flow of air and water.Fifteen aluminum microchannel tubes are set in a linear array in an experimental header distribution system.Air distribution, water distribution, and pressure profiles are obtained along the length of the header.Physical models are then employed to predict distribution.