Comparison of CFD predictions and experimental correlation based computer program results for gasketed plate heat exchangers

Abstract

In this study, thermal and hydraulic characteristics of a chevron type Gasketed Plate Heat Exchanger (GPHE), with 30 degrees of chevron angle, is predicted by the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and compared with experimental correlation based computer program (ETU HEX) results. New Nusselt and friction factor correlations, based on experimental data, were derived for the plates with different sizes. The correlations were used to code ETU HEX. With the help of ETU HEX, comparison between experimental results and CFD predictions will be carried out rapidly and easily. For CFD analyses, two different HEX designs are made using the ETU HEX program. These two cases include 3-plated GPHE with different inlet temperatures and mass flow rates. The CFD model includes a hot and a cold volume which are separated by a virtually thickened plate. Outlet temperatures and pressure drops of hot and cold sides will be predicted by CFD. The results will be compared with the ETU HEX results and will be presented in the final paper.