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Optimization Design of Closed-Loop Thermosyphons: Experimentation and Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling

Author

Listed:
  • Natthakit Ritthong

    (Faculty of Industrial Education, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10300, Thailand)

  • Sommart Thongkom

    (Faculty of Engineering, Bangkokthonburi University, Bangkok 10300, Thailand)

  • Apichai Sawisit

    (Faculty of Sciences and Liberal Arts, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Nakhon Rachasima 30000, Thailand)

  • Boonyabhorn Duangsa

    (Faculty of Business Administation and Information Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand)

  • Wirote Ritthong

    (Faculty of Engineering, Bangkokthonburi University, Bangkok 10300, Thailand)

Abstract

The well-established practice of integrating heat pipes into thermosyphons is recognized for its efficacy in achieving energy savings. This integration facilitates heat transfer and fluid circulation without requiring additional pumps or energy input, resulting in reduced consumption, lowered operational costs, and an overall improvement in system efficiency. This research explores the energy-saving potential of closed-loop thermosyphons, with a specific focus on their integration in latent heat-based heat pipe technologies in industrial settings. The study systematically investigates the influence of thermosyphon orientation on energy efficiency through a combination of experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Thereby, it results in superior heat transfer rates in forced convection scenarios. A closed-loop thermosyphon heat exchanger undergoes evaluation in three panel installation configurations relative to the ground, taking into consideration factors including copper diameters, coolants (with or without R410a), and temperature conditions. CFD validation identifies an efficient thermosyphon design—a panel oriented perpendicularly to the ground and filled with R410a refrigerant at 90 °C. It utilizes a 19.05 mm copper tube for forced convection. This optimized design demonstrates a commendable heat transfer rate of 1485 W and a heat transfer coefficient of 1252 W/(m 2 ·K), significantly enhancing thermal process efficiency and resulting in notable energy savings.

Suggested Citation

  • Natthakit Ritthong & Sommart Thongkom & Apichai Sawisit & Boonyabhorn Duangsa & Wirote Ritthong, 2024. "Optimization Design of Closed-Loop Thermosyphons: Experimentation and Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-18, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:2:p:527-:d:1323786
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Weng, Ying-Che & Cho, Hung-Pin & Chang, Chih-Chung & Chen, Sih-Li, 2011. "Heat pipe with PCM for electronic cooling," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 88(5), pages 1825-1833, May.
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