Numerical Analysis of Energy Loss Coefficient in Pipe Contraction Using ANSYS CFX Software
Abstract: The purpose of this
study is the numerical analysis of energy loss coefficient in pipe contraction
using ANSYS CFX software. To this end, the effect of the dimensionless
parameters of Euler number, Reynolds number, and relative roughness on energy
loss coefficient has been investigated and eventually an overall formula to
determine the energy loss coefficient in these transitions has been provided.
In order to solve the fluid turbulence equations in the pipe, standard
K-Epsilon model has been used. For this purpose, first the geometry of pipe
transitions was designed in 3-D, using Solid Works software, and then the
transitions were meshed by ANSYS MESHING. The initial simulation of transitions
including boundary conditions of outlet, inlet and wall, was carried out by a
pre-processor called CFX-PRE. Furthermore, to solve the equations governing the
fluid flow in the pipes (Navier-Stokes equations) the CFX-SOLVER was used. And
finally, the results were extracted using a post-processor called CFD-POST.
The results indicated that the energy loss coefficient, contrary to the
findings of previous researchers, is not only related to transition geometry,
but also is dependent on the Reynolds number, relative roughness of the wall
and Euler number. By increasing the Reynolds Number and turbulence of fluid
flow in transitions, the energy loss coefficient is reduced. Moreover, by
increasing the relative roughness in the transition’s wall the energy loss
coefficient is reduced. The increase in pressure fluctuation causes the
increase of Euler number which leads to the linear increase of energy loss
coefficient.
Author: Kourosh Nosrati, Ahmad
Tahershamsi, Seyed Heja Seyed Taheri
Journal Code: jptsipilgg170022
