Two-phase flow distribution properties of disc-shaped and annular distributors on the shell-side of spiral-wound heat exchangers

The mass flow distribution of two-phase fluids on the shell side of each layer spiral tube could affect the heat transfer performance of spiral-wound heat exchangers, especially during oscillatory circumstances. However, there is no correlation to precisely predict the mass flow distribution on the shell side of each layer spiral tube. To address these issues, both experimental measurements and visualization technology were utilized to study the impact of flow and oscillatory factors on the mass flow distribution behavior. The correlation is developed to predict the mass flow distribution behavior on the shell side of each layer spiral tube. The distribution performance of the two distributors is also studied, and their suitable application condition is proposed. The research indicates that for the disc-shaped distributor, when the oscillatory angle or oscillatory period rises, the mass flow on the shell side of the outer layer spiral tubes increases, whereas the mass flow on the shell side of the inner layer spiral tubes decreases, exacerbating flow maldistribution. Ninety-six percent of the experimental data for the disc-shaped distributor correlation falls within an error tolerance of ± 25 % of the predicted value. Excluding roll conditions, the disc-shaped distributor outperforms the annular distributor at vapor quality levels below 0.2; with a vapor quality of 0.2, the annular distributor outperforms the disc-shaped distributor. It is advisable to employ a disc-shaped distributor when the vapor quality is below 0.20, and an annular distributor when the vapor quality is 0.20.