Numerical and experimental investigation on the realization of target flow distribution among parallel mini-channels

This paper presents a numerical and experimental investigation on the realization of target flow distribution among parallel mini-channels, using the optimized baffle insertion method. A 15-channel fluidic network integrated with the distributor and the collector is fabricated and tested. Various perforated baffles are optimized and fabricated corresponding to different target distributions (uniform, ascending and descending). PIV technique is used for the flow distribution measurement while CFD simulations are also performed for comparison. CFD results and PIV data show that different target distributions could be successfully achieved by the optimized baffle insertion method. The robustness of the optimized baffle for uniform distribution is also evaluated and discussed to provide some guidelines for future applications.