Predicting the flow field inside a close-coupled catalyst—the effect of entrance losses

Abstract

A methodology is described for improving the prediction of the flow distribution in automotive close-coupled catalysts using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Steady and pulsating flow simulations have been performed and compared with measurements obtained on an isothermal flow rig. By incorporating an extra pressure loss due to oblique entry at the monolith improved flow predictions are obtained. This work extends the methodology that has previously been developed for axisymmetric systems.