Pressure-Driven Ranque-Hilsch Temperature Separation in Liquids

Abstract

The temperature separation phenomenon of the Ranque-Hilsch (vortex) tube is not limited to compressible gases and vapors. Theoretical analysis using the Second Law of Thermodynamics establishes that a net entropy producing temperature separation effect is possible when incompressible liquids are used in these devices. Experiments with liquid water in a commercial counterflow Ranque-Hilsch tube designed for use with air verify that significant temperature separation does in fact occur when a sufficiently high inlet pressure is used.