Modelling of two-phase closed thermosyphon based on SINDA/FLUINT

Two-phase closed thermosyphons (TPCTs) are simple and efficient heat exchangers. They have been explored for use in the renewable energy resource utilization marker and low grade thermal energy heat recovery systems. A transient simulation model for a TPCT was established by SINDA/FLUINT with low global warming potential Freon R245fa as working fluid. The TPCT was manufactured from a 40 mm inner diameter (Di), 3 m long smooth copper tube with a wall thickness of 2 mm. It consists of the evaporator, adiabatic and condenser sections with 1 m long for each section. The evaporator section was immersed in a water bath and the condenser section was cooled by recycled water. The effects of water bath temperature Tb and inlet temperature of cooling water Tcw,i were investigated by experimental and simulation methods. The results show the heat transfer rate Q and overall heat transfer coefficient U increase with the increase of Tb, and the decrease of Tcw,i. Good agreement between experimental and simulation results confirms the model is accurate and reliable. The influence of filling ratio (FR) and Di on the performance of TPCT was also investigated. The optimum FR for Di of 30 mm, 40 mm and 50 mm are 15%, 15% and 25% respectively. Moreover performances of 60-150 m long TPCTs were investigated based on the developed model.