Optimization of MCHX Using CFD and Refrigeration Cycle Simulator

Abstract

Micro channel heat exchangers (MCHX) can be broadly classified as fluidic devices that employ channels of hydraulic diameter smaller than 1 mm. The present study focused on validate the better configuration parameters of louver fin used in MCHX for apply in residential air-conditioner condenser. The study has considered for three different louver angle case, two different louver lengths for better louver angle case and finally two different louver pitches for better louver angle and louver length case. The study indicates that the pressure drop will depends upon the louver angle and pitch. The louver angle i.e. 25deg provides reasonable pressure drop and high heat transfer rate. Thus by changing the length of louver can increase the pressure drop in MCHX. The case ie., 1.2mm louver length have more heat transfer rate. But when comparing to 1mm louver length case Net Heat Transfer rate is high. So the study further continued by having the louver length 1mm and changing the louver pitch. The louver pitch 0.8 and 1.2 has only considered for the study. The length of louver can decrease the pressure drop in MCHX. The variation of net heat transfer rate to changing the louver pitch indicating the importance of number of louver present in the MCHX. Thus the present study indicates the importance of configuration parameters for MCHX. The study also indicates that the increasing the louver length and angle will increase the net heat transfer rate. While increasing the louver pitch is inversely proportional to the net heat transfer rate of MCHX.