Exploring CFD Solutions for Coexisting Flow Regimes in a T-Piece

This paper presents computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models of the flow of a Newtonian fluid in a T-piece configuration. A number of modeled flows are compared and supported by experimental work carried out using a test rig. The flows vary from laminar to turbulent, and a comparison among various kinds of mesh and models is made. The results are summarized in a mathematical expression that describes the temperature distribution down the central axis of the vertical arm as a function of known parameters of the process. Product can accumulate in stagnant unhygienic geometries and may allow growth of microorganisms that can contaminate the product flow through mass transfer. Therefore, adequate velocity and heat treatment must be ensured in these areas. Flow in such domains is difficult to solve numerically since more than one flow regime can coexist depending on the location in the domain. CFD can offer a good insight into such flows.)