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Analysis of the multiple geometric parameters on the performance of vortex tubes and a synergistic expansion optimization strategy.

Author(s) : XU X., YAO J., ZHOU J., GUO X., GAO N., YE B., CHAN G., LI N.

Type of article: IJR article

Summary

Vortex tube performance is governed by complex interactions among multiple geometric and operational parameters, critically influencing energy separation efficacy. Current research lacks comprehensive exploration of the coupled effects of multiple geometric parameters on separation performance and mechanism. This study employs an integrated Taguchi-SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations)-CFD methodology with interdisciplinary analysis to investigate key geometric parameter influences. Results identify the geometric swirl number (Sgeo) – defined as the ratio of angular momentum divided by tube radius to axial momentum – as the dominant performance factor. Optimized parameters are Sgeo = 12.7, Lvt/Dmain = 30, Dmain = 25 mm, and Dc/Dmain = 0.5. Crucially, SHAP analysis quantifies the individual enhancing or suppressing influence of each parameter across its operational range. Flow dynamics analysis reveals that while reduced Sgeo increased Dmain, and enlarged nozzle diameter raise inlet mass flow rates, lower Sgeo concurrently decreases nozzle-exit Mach numbers, reducing tangential velocities in the main tube and impairing energy separation. Relationships between performance degradation/optimization and flow-field characteristics are elucidated. A novel synergistic expansion optimization strategy (combining localized nozzle expansion with sustained main tube expansion) is proposed. Efficient primary expansion achieves optimal nozzle-exit Mach numbers, amplifying tangential velocities and velocity gradients. Concurrent sustained secondary expansion in the main tube generates steeper pressure, temperature, and velocity gradients along reverse flow boundaries, further enhancing energy separation. This work demonstrates the critical importance of multi-parameter synergistic optimization for advancing vortex tube performance, providing fundamental insights for future design and enhancement strategies. 

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Details

  • Original title: Analysis of the multiple geometric parameters on the performance of vortex tubes and a synergistic expansion optimization strategy.
  • Record ID : 30034347
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: International Journal of Refrigeration - Revue Internationale du Froid - vol. 179
  • Publication date: 2025/11
  • DOI: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrefrig.2025.08.020

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