Prediction of the behavior of a Two-Phase ClosedLoop System Coupled with a Single-Phase Cooling System

This study discusses a flow network code that has been developed to simulate flow and heat transfer in compressible and incompressible single-phase and two-phase flow applications. The goal of this paper is to evaluate the performance and prediction capabilities of the code in designing two-phase flow systems. Specifically, we applied it to a two-phase closed-loop system filled with R1234YF as the working refrigerant. The closed loop system is in contact with a separate single phase open loop with water as its operating fluid. The closed loop system includes two-phase components that have unique purpose and physics of operation, such as a tank, sub-cooler, pump, evaporator/cold plate, condenser, and connecting components. The code is used to investigate the impact of various design parameters (e.g., single phase coolant temperature, coolant mass flow rate and feedback controller logic) on the hydraulic and thermal behavior of the system.