Research Update: Using CFD Simulation to Assess HTRI Predictions for Non-Newtonian Fluids

Designing effective heat exchangers requires understanding flow and heat transfer characteristics of fluids. Heat exchangers frequently use non-Newtonian fluids, and HTRI has conducted research to increase our knowledge of their behavior. 

In this webinar, we discuss the basics of non-Newtonian fluids and using power law to model the behavior. The timeline of non-Newtonian fluids research at HTRI is showcased, with highlights of research projects such as the experiments in 2019 using ketchup as a working fluid. HTRI used the collected experimental data to develop correlations for heat transfer and pressure drop, as well as to construct and validate a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. We also tested the HTRI correlation for a pseudo-plastic fluid 0.2% wt. Carbopol, using experimental data from literature. These data are then compared with HTRI correlations, using CFD. This study enhanced our understanding of non-Newtonian fluids, providing a clear path forward for additional research.