Optimal counter-current exchange networks

Compact heat exchangers can be designed to run at low power if the exchange is concentrated in a crumpled surface fed by a fractal network.

Physical Review E 94, 52410 (2016)

R. Farr, Y. Mao

Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"
Image for the paper "Optimal counter-current exchange networks"

We present a general analysis of exchange devices linking their efficiency to the geometry of the exchange surface and supply network. For certain parameter ranges, we show that the optimal exchanger consists of densely packed pipes which can span a thin sheet of large area (an 'active layer'), which may be crumpled into a fractal surface and supplied with a fractal network of pipes. We derive the efficiencies of such exchangers, showing the potential for significant gains compared to regular exchangers (where the active layer is flat), using parameters relevant for biological systems.