Computational Fluid Dynamic Studies of Autothermal Spiral Reactor

Abstract

This research applied the fundamental concept of spiral heat exchanger to design a new reactor for autothermal coupling endo- and exothermic reactions. The autothermal coupling endo- and exothermic reactor can be used when heat have to be removed from exothermic reactions (heat source). Such heat is then used for endothermic reactions (heat sink) that requires high operating temperature. This brings various benefits in terms of energy saving, economics and environment. In this study, the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was utilized to predict the performance of the spiral heat exchanger. The optimal operating conditions i.e. pressure drop, velocity and temperature distribution were studied. Low fluid velocity was observed without dead and hot spot zone along the radius flow of the channel and good temperature distribution was noticed.