Thermal performance of micro-pulsating heat pipe

Abstract

In this study, thermal performance of MPHP is investigated computationally. A case with 0.7mm hydraulic diameter with 7 turns is considered for the study. Simulation is carried out using ANSYS-FLUENT® software by considering water as working fluid with the help of VOF model. Computational study shows the oscillation of fluid inside and formation of new vapor slugs. The heat input is varied from 1.2 W to 4.8 W in the step of 1.2. Flow circulation inside the MPHP is not unidirectional and frequently changes with the pressure disturbance created in the channels. The temperature profile from computational study shows the startup condition is changing with heat input. Thermal resistance of the MPHP decreases with increase in heat input and the corresponding thermal resistance found to be varied from 3.94 to 3.65 K/W.