Variable tube geometry micro channel heat exchanger (MCHX) using analytical and CFD analysis

The aim of this study is to improve condenser performance by incorporating unique tubes and shapes that control the volume of refrigerant. Analytical calculations were performed to determine hydraulic diameters for various tubes and port shapes. The heat and pressure drop across the condenser were estimated using the calculated hydraulic diameters. The refrigerant pressure drop correlation was chosen based on its advantages, and the findings were compared to experimental data (component calorimeter results). For the first time, two-phase density was calculated analytically, and its impact on heat transfer was investigated. The analytical results were compared to CFD simulation and experimental data. The findings demonstrated that an analytical method may be employed in the early stages of design during the development of automotive cooling units and that it could then be correlated with experimental data. This will eliminate the cost of developing prototype parts and shorten the lead time to market.