Desing of Energy-Efficient Pipe-Size Expansion

Abstract

Fluid flow is analyzed through a two‐stage conical diffuser used to reduce the velocity of pipe flow. An analytical approach is described for determining the optimum diameter at the interface between the first stage, a conical diffuser, and the second stage, an abrupt enlargement, such that, for given approach and exit diameters and for a given diffuser length, the energy loss coefficient is the lowest possible. Over a practical range of diameter and length ratios (ratios of exit diameter and diffuser length, respectively, to approach diameter), the analysis demonstrates that the optimal internal planar angle varies from