Computational Modeling of Two-Phase Cooling Systems for Future Generation Electronics

The overall objective of the proposed research is to develop a comprehensive, efficient, and well-validated computational method for the prediction of thermodynamic and hydrodynamic performance of various types of two-phase cooling systems for next generation electronics. In order to address the unique features of two-phase systems, the computational method will use a novel two-level approach that involves a system-level solution with an embedded component-level calculation. The component-specific solution of the conservation equations subject to the prevailing inlet conditions and thermal boundary conditions will be used for determining the overall flow and thermal characteristics. The system-level solution will utilize these component characteristics along with mass balance constraints to predict the system performance in a generalized manner. Component models will be developed for Tube Flow components (such as finned-tube condensers, evaporators, cold plates, and microchannel heat sinks), Spray Cooled Devices, Compressors and Pumps, and Phase Separation Valves. The method will also address non-ideal fluid properties. The accuracy of the method will be validated with reference to experimental measurements. Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of developing the computational method and its utility through its application to the analysis of practical Refrigeration and Microchannel-Heat-Sink-Based two-phase systems.