Improvement of two-phase flow distribution in the header of a plate-fin heat exchanger

The two-phase (liquid and gas) flow distribution in the header of a plate-fin heat exchanger was experimentally investigated. Small mass fractions of the liquid phase in the liquefaction process of natural gas were considered in this study. The liquid and gas flow velocity were measured using optical methods such as PIV/PTV/LIF. The flow maldistribution of liquid and gas flows was quantified and addressing this problem by attaching a porous baffle or modifying the inlet nozzle configuration was studied. The results showed that a vane swirler with a diffuser enhanced the flow distribution of both the liquid and gas phases fluid.