Modeling and Optimization of the Vortex Tube with Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis

Abstract

Problem statement: This study illustrated the influence of the Length to Diameter (L/D) on the fluid flow characteristics inside the counter-flow Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube predicted by Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) and validated through experiment. Approach: The swirl velocity, axial velocity, radial velocity component and also secondary circulation flow (back-flow) along with the pressure within the vortex tube were simulated and proved. Results: The standard k-epsilon turbulence model which is one of the standard turbulence models of FLUENT^TM was being used. As a first step, results of simulation will be presented also with varying amounts of cold faction. Conclusion/Recommendations: In the present study, the velocity and the pressure were investigated along the axial and radial directions to understand the flow behavior inside the tube.