Dynamic model for investigation of instabilities in microchannel evaporators

Abstract

Microchannel evaporators are widely used for both cooling applications and for vapor generation in process engineering. They allow high heat transfer rates within minimal space. However, the massive changes of the fluids properties during evaporation can trigger different types of instabilities. These mostly undesired effects are caused by complex interactions of heat conduction, heat transfer and fluid flow within the evaporator. A comprehensive dynamic model is developed to obtain a deeper understanding of the effects occurring her. Experimental validations show that the model is capable of correctly predicting the pressure drop behavior of practical microchannel evaporators