Title: 3D Printing a Tortuous Network for Use as a Heat Exchanger

Authors: John P. Chandler IV, Joseph J. Thalakkottor, N. Krishnan P. Veluswamy , Davin Kahler, Orian Welling , and David R. Salem

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/c.24.0342

Abstract: 3D printed tortuous networks have convenient properties to be used to efficiently heat fresh air for enclosed spaces in cold environments as a cost-effective HVAC solution. This is done by drawing outside air with a negative interior pressure through a network of microchannels in a heated panel which conducts heat into the incoming air. This study discusses the optimization of the channel tortuosity and diameter of a 3D printed panel for use as a heat exchanger. 3D printing these panels is an ideal solution due to its ability to create complex internal geometries. This was done by first creating a model of a micro channel network that can vary the channel tortuosity and diameter. Next, the efficiency of the vascular heat exchangers was evaluated using multiphysics simulation software. Lastly, the results of the simulations were verified by manufacturing a series of vascular panels and performing physical tests using the same boundary conditions. The vascular heat exchangers were evaluated using then Effectiveness-Number of Transfer Units (ε-NTU) which quantifies the efficiency of a heat exchanger by comparing the actual heat transfer and the theoretical maximum heat transfer. The vascular heat exchangers were manufactured using a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer.

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Conference: CAMX 2024 | San Diego CA

Publication Date: 2024/9/9

SKU: TP24-0000000342

Pages: 10

Price: $20.00