The flow of fluids through manifolds is a ubiquitous phenomenon in various industrial processes. This flow is particularly necesary in situations where a large amount of fluid flow needs to be distributed into several parallel flow paths and then collected into a single discharge stream, such as fuel cells, plate heat exchangers, radial flow reactors, and irrigation systems. . Manifolds can generally be divided into several different types: splitter, combining, Z-type and U-type manifolds. Faced with such flow organization, the key issue is how to achieve uniform distribution of flow and reduce pressure loss.
Traditionally, most theoretical models are based on the Bernoulli equation and take into account the effect of friction losses.
In these early models, friction losses were usually described using the Darcy-Weisbach equation, resulting in a key equation describing the split flow. Such basic knowledge is crucial to understanding manifold and network models. For example, a T-junction can be represented by two Bernoulli equations, corresponding to the flow conditions at the two outflow points. However, experimental results indicate that fluids tend to flow in a straight line much more than vertically, again challenging the assumptions of traditional models.
The inertial effect of the fluid causes the flow to prefer a straight-flow direction, which has been explained by Wang's research.
Wang conducted an in-depth exploration of flow distribution in his research, emphasizing the relationship between flow, pressure loss, and structural configuration by integrating the main models into a unified theoretical framework and developing the most general model. Direct relationship. In particular, Wang pointed out that the assumption of equal flow rates can only be achieved in two flow channels with the same diameter in the case of low-speed laminar flow.
By preserving the balance of mass, momentum, and energy, Wang unravels the mysteries of flow in the manifold.
Recently, Wang conducted a series of studies and discovered the basic equations for flow-dividing, flow-collecting, U-shaped and Z-shaped arrangements. His research showed that mathematical relationships can be established between these flow patterns, allowing designers to adjust process configurations based on different needs.
These master models are actually just special cases of a broader set of equations, which provides important insights for design applications.
To concretize these theories, Wang proposed analytical solutions for each flow model. These nonlinear ordinary differential equations are called equations. For more than 50 years, the analytical solution of these equations has been a deep challenge for academics. . Thanks to Wang's efforts, these solutions were finally revealed in 2008, which has important implications for flow distribution balance and pipeline design.
Wang not only established a set of theories, but also proposed a series of effective design processes, measurement standards, and design tools and guidelines to ensure uniform traffic distribution.
These studies not only help to understand the fluid operation model through the manifold, but also provide support for future design innovations. Faced with increasingly complex flow demands, how will future research further advance the theory and practice of fluid dynamics to meet the challenges of real-world applications?