Flow field predictions in a model heat exchanger (Q1115760)

A numerical study of the two-dimensional isothermal steady flow distribution of an incompressible fluid in the shell side of an experimental heat exchanger is described. Computations are performed with and without tubes present in the model, for Reynolds numbers up to 10,000. Baffles and tube bundles are modelled by incorporating the ``porous medium'' concept in the governing equations. The resulting equations described in primitive variables are solved using a semi- implicit predictor-corrector type scheme. A Multi-Grid technique is employed to solve the linearized pressure correction equation which links momentum and continuity equations. Predictions with the proposed scheme indicate good qualitative agreement when compared with experimental measurements.