Computational Simulation and Experimentation of Fluid Flow Characteristics in Expansion ULoop Model Pipes

Abstract

A pipe’s geometry plays a critical role in determining both flow behavior and structural support performance, making it an essential consideration in industrial piping design. Among the various modifications applied in practice, the expansion U-loop is one of the most significant, as it directly influences the pressure losses, flow distribution, and stress conditions. This study investigates the flow characteristics of U-loop expansion pipes through a dual approach that combines computational simulations and experimental testing. The computational study was carried out using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with ANSYS FLUENT 6.3.26, involving three U-loop models fabricated from galvanized iron, with a wall thickness of 1.2 mm. Two of the models featured equal leg heights, whereas the third employed an asymmetric configuration, with one leg twice the length of the other. To ensure reliability, experiments were conducted under identical boundary conditions at five inlet velocities ranging from 5.0 to 7.0 m/s, with each case repeated three times. Pressure taps were strategically installed along the loop to measure fluid pressure and obtain a detailed distribution profile, particularly at nodes 1, 3, and 7. The results of the simulations and experiments were compared, showing an average validation error of only 3%. The originality of this study lies in combining CFD and direct experimental testing on U-loop models with varied straight-segment lengths, offering valuable insights into the pressure distribution and flow patterns that have not been extensively examined.

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