Computational Study on Entropy Generation Minimization of Pipe Bending

Abstract

This project presents solution of a simple optimization problem of flow through circular bent channels. Six different bending angles of the pipe were taken for finding the effect of bending angle on the pressure drop. The diameter and length of all the pipes were taken same irrespective of the bending angles. The CFD model equations were solved to predict the hydrodynamic behaviour of pipe. The models were solved by ANSYS Fluent 15.0 solver. The CFD models were validated by comparing the computed pressure drop with the analytically computed pressure as given in the previous literature. The entropy generation rate was compared and the optimum bending angle was found by taking pressure drop across the pipe as reference. The entropy generations in both isothermal and non-isothermal conditions were studied and compared mutually for a particular flow rate. An EGM analysis was carried out and a thermodynamically optimal solution was identified. It was also observed that as the bending angle increases the entropy generation decreases for a particular flow rate.