Flow and thermal characteristics of offset branching network

Abstract

Inspired by natural branching systems such as tree canopy, leaves, plant root, river basins, mammalian circulatory and respiratory systems, branching networks have been suggested for electronic component cooling. However, previous studies of tree-like branching networks have focused on symmetric structures although most natural tree-like branching systems are asymmetric. Furthermore, leaf-like branching networks have been rarely used and discussed. A three-dimensional model was formulated to compare the flow and heat transfer characteristics of symmetric/asymmetric tree-like branching networks and symmetric/asymmetric (offset) leaf-like branching networks. Results show that the influence of the asymmetry is very small for tree-like branching network at low branching number. Offset in leaf-like branching networks can reduce pressure drop significantly while maintaining maximum temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the flowing fluid. © 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.