Abstract
A series of numerical simulations based on a spectral element formulation of compressible Navier-Stokes equations are performed for gas flows through micro-constrictions, and the thermal/fluidic transport through these devices is studied in detail. The dependence of flow characteristics on Knudsen number, Reynolds number and Mach number is investigated. Analyses of these simulation results show that rarefaction causes velocity slip on the constriction walls, resulting in increased mass flowrate. Shear stresses and the pressure distribution on the surface are decreased due to rarefaction, causing reduction in both the form- and viscous-drag. Compressibility also plays an important role for high inlet to outlet pressure ratio cases. It is also found that the work done by the viscous stresses significantly affects the heat transfer characteristics.
Ahmed, Imtiaz (2001). Simulation of gas flows through micro-constrictions. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -2001 -THESIS -A342.