Parametric analysis of thermal performance of Ranque-Hilsch Vortex Tube

Abstract

Vortex tube separates pressurized fluid into hot and cold fluid streams simultaneously. Geometrical and operational parameters affect this separation. The study deals with experimental investigations of effect of geometrical and operational parameters. L/D ratio (15, 16, 17 and 18), number of nozzles (2, 4 and 6), nozzle geometry (straight and Spiral), divergence angle (0, 2, 3, 4 and 5), valve angles (30 to 90 deg. in steps of 15 deg.) and cold orifice diameter (5, 6 and 7mm) are variables. For all the experiments, air is working fluid. Airflows at different pressures ranging from (200 to 600 kPa in steps of 100kPa).CMF variation is in the range from 0 to 1 for all geometries. The effects on energy separation were analyzed with respect to CMF and Mach number. The results are expressed in percentage rise and drop. Similarity relation is developed and results are compared with literature.