2D numerical simulation of a micro scale Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube

In this study, fluid flow and energy separation in a micro-scale Ranque-Hilsch Vortex Tube are numerically investigated. The flow is assumed as 2D, steady, compressible ideal gas, and shear-stress-transport is found to be a best choice for modeling of turbulence phenomena. The results are in a good agreement with the experimental results reported in the literature. The results show that fluid flow and energy separation inside the micro-scale vortex tube is quite similar to those of traditional ones. Moreover, it is found that non-dimensional forms of cold-temperature difference and refrigerating capacity are only dependent on cold mass fraction. In addition, two correlations have been proposed to estimate non-dimensional forms of cold temperature difference and refrigeration capacity in the micro-scale vortex tube.