Optimization of bend cross section for reduction of pressure drop in pipe

Abstract

Liquid distribution system needs to be optimally designed for low-pressure drop to ensure low energy consumption by pump. There may be other constraints as well like, pressure handling capacity of few components of system may restrict maximum pressure gradient that may be allowed. For such systems, even a slight variation in the pressure drop of any component may not be acceptable. This may result in large increase in pressure drop of complete system. The proposed work presents numerical and experimental study of variations in the pressure drop due to the change in cross section of geometry at bend location in pipe. The numerical study has been done with the help of CFD simulation. Numerical results thus obtained have been validated with the experimental data.