Bio-Inspired Segmented Flow: Effect of Particle Elongation on the Heat Transfer

Abstract

This study presents numerical simulations of forced convection heat transfer with parachute-shaped segmented flow. The particles are encapsulated phase-change material flowing with water through a square cross-section duct with iso-flux boundaries. The system is inspired by the gas exchange process in the alveolar capillaries between red blood cells and lung tissue. A numerical model is developed for the motion of elongated encapsulated phase-change particles along a channel in a particulate flow where particle diameters are comparable with the channel height. The heat transfer enhancement for the parachute-shaped particles is compared with that of the spherical particles. Results reveal that the snug movement of the particles has the key role in heat transfer efficiency. The parachute-shaped geometry produces small changes in the heat transfer coefficient compared to a spherical geometry. However, the parachute-shaped particle flow is more robust to changes in particle concentration inside the channel.