Flow distribution analysis.

Flow distribution systems in various mechanical and chemical engineering applications are studied. In these small scale systems, it is desirable to have a uniform flow distribution in the branch lines. Throttling devices can be used to tune for a uniform distribution in the various branch lines. However, throttling requires valves or tuned orifices that are not economical. The method to achieve a uniform flow distribution is to add the momentum of the branch flow to the flow of the collector pipe, accomplished by inclining the flow of the branch lines when they enter the collector pipe. This paper develops an analysis based on a continuous model substituting the results for the discrete flow distribution system. Various flow inclinations are graphically evaluated and the critical variables found that affect the non-uniformity of the flow distribution. (from author's abstract)