Flow fields in a simulated axisymmetric terminal aneurysm with symmetric and asymmetric outflows

Laser-Doppler velocimetric measurements and flow visualization were performed in a glass axisymmetric aneurysm model with symmetric and asymmetric outflows through the branches. The bifurcation angle was fixed at 140°, and the Reynolds number based on the steady bulk average velocity and diameter of the affarent conduit was 500. The flow characteristics such as flow separation in the afferent conduit and flow activity inside the aneurysm for the symmetric and asymmetric outflow cases were compared in detail, and the case that is susceptible to thrombosis was identified. In addition, the onset of transition from laminar to turbulent flow inside the aneurysm was evidenced by the presence of vortex breakdown and the steep increase in the fluctuation level. Finally, the effect of pulsation on the flow pattern in the aneurysm was examined.     

Investigation of nanofluids on heat transfer enhancement in a louvered microchannel with lattice Boltzmann method

Numerical studies of laminar forced convective heat transfer and fluid flow in a 2D louvered microchannel with Al₂O₃/water nanofluids are performed by the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). Eight louvers are arranged in tandem within the single-pass microchannel. The Reynolds number based on channel hydraulic diameter and bulk mean velocity ranges from 100 to 400, where the Al₂O₃ fraction varies from 0 to 4%. A double distribution function approach is adopted for modeling fluid flow and heat transfer. Code validations are performed by comparing the streamwise Nusselt number (Nu) profiles and Fanning friction factors of the present LBM and those of the analytical solutions. Good agreements are obtained. Simulated results show that the louver microstructure can disturb the core flow and guide coolant toward the heated walls, thus enhancing the heat transfer significantly. Furthermore, the addition of nanoparticles in microchannels can also augment the heat transfer, but it creates an unnoticeable pressure loss. With both the louver microstructure and nanofluid, a maximum overall Nu enhancement of 7.06 is found relative to that of the fully developed smooth channel.