Structural Optimizations of U- and Z-Type Manifolds for Uniform Flow Distribution by Applying an Increaser and Baffle Plates

摘要

Based on previous experiments for U- and Z-type manifolds, numerical models were established; then, investigations were conducted on the effect of the optimized designs on the flow distribution. An increaser and baffle plates were attached to the distribution header for the U- and Z-type manifolds, respectively, considering various configurations and sizes. The results indicate that an increaser could markedly reduce the non-uniformity with a simultaneous decrease of the pressure drop, and baffle plates could also drastically improve the flow distribution, but at the cost of a slight pressure drop increase. By comprehensively applying an increaser and baffle plates in the Z-type manifold, this adverse effect could be eliminated.