Course No.
: ME 494
DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A HEAT PIPE USING
REFRIGERANT LPG AS A WORKING FLUID
A thesis proposal is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Bachelor of Science
In
Mechanical Engineering
Submitted by
MOHAMMAD AYUB ADAR
ID: 1703126
Supervised By:
Professor Dr. Jamal Uddin Ahamed
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology, Chattogram-4349, Bangladesh
CHITTAGONG UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY,
CHATTOGRAM
(PROJECT AND THESIS)
COURSE NO.: ME 494
Title of the Project: Design and fabrication of a heat pipe using refrigerant LPG as a
working fluid
Name of the Student: MOHAMMAD AYUB ADAR
Student ID: 1703126 Session: 2020-2021
Name of the Department: Mechanical Engineering Program: B. Sc. Engg.
Name of the Supervisor:
Dr. Jamal Uddin Ahamed
Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering, CUET
Signature of the Student
Signature of the Supervisor
Abstract
The heat pipe is an easy-to-use, highly thermally efficient device with no moving components
that can move a lot of heat by absorbing and releasing latent heat through a working fluid that
changes phases. In this experiment, LPG was used as a refrigerant which contains 24.4% of
propane, 56.4% of butane, and 17.2% of iso-butene. It is stored in a cylinder with high pressure
of 80psi. A heat pipe is a subject of interest to researchers because it offers advantages over
conventional procedures in applications involving heat transmission. It also continues to get
better every day. LPG was used as the working fluid to design and construct a straightforward
heat pipe. The effectiveness of the heat pipe was then contrasted with that of natural cooling.
i
Acknowledgment
All the praises to Almighty Allah. Here I would like to take this opportunity to express my
deepest gratitude to my supervisor Dr. Jamal Uddin Ahamed, Professor, Department of
Mechanical Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology (CUET), for his
continuous guidance, constant support, supervision, inspiration and encouragement throughout
this work. I am thankful to my reverend supervisor.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all other Teachers and staff of the
Department of Mechanical Engineering, CUET. I also wish to thank my friends, beloved and
respectful parents who gave me encouragement and cutaneous support.
Date: 11.05.2023 Author
Mohammad Ayub Adar
ID: 1703126
ii
Table of Contents
Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………… i
Acknowledgment……………………………………………………………………………. ii
List of Figures……………………………………………………………………………….. v
Chapter 1: Introduction……………………………………………………………………. 1
1.1 Background………………………………………………………………………. 1
1.2 Objective of the study……………………………………………………………… 2
1.3 Scope of the study ………………………………………………………………… 3
Chapter 2: Literature Review………………………………………………………………. 4
Chapter 3: Methodology……………………………………………………………………. 7
3.1 Introduction…………………………………………………………………………….. 7
3.2 Structural parameters of the heat pipe………………………………………………….. 8
3.3 Mechanism of the system………………………………………………………………. 8
3.4 Experimental setup…………………………………………………………………….. 9
3.5 Working principle of LPG refrigeration system……………………………………….. 9
3.5.1 LPG Cylinder………………………………………………………………………. 10
3.5.2 High-Pressure Pipe…………………………………………………………………. 11
3.5.3 Capillary Tube……………………………………………………………………… 11
3.5.4 Heat Pipe……………………………………………………………………………. 12
3.5.5 Pressure Gauge …………………………………………………………………….. 13
3.5.6 High-Pressure regulator……………………………………………………………. 13
iii
Chapter 4: Conclusion……………………………………………………………………… 15
References …………………………………………………………………………………… 16
iv
List of Figures
Fig 3.4: Experimental setup…………………………………………………………………… 9
Fig 3.5.1: LPG Cylinder……………………………………………………………………… 10
Fig 3.5.2: High-Pressure Pipe…………………………………………………………………. 11
Fig 3.5.3: Capillary Tube……………………………………………………………………… 12
Fig 3.5.5: Pressure Gauge………………………………………………………………………13
Fig 3.5.6: High-Pressure Regulator…………………………………………………………… 14
v
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
Heat pipes are passive heat transfer devices that move heat from one location to another by
employing the working fluid's latent heat of vaporization. Aerospace, energy conversion
systems, electronics cooling, and other fields all employ heat pipes extensively.
A heat pipe's fundamental functioning concept entails heat transfer between a wick structure and
a working fluid. The working fluid evaporates and flows to the cooler end of the heat pipe when
heat is applied to one end of the pipe; there, it condenses and releases the latent heat of
vaporization. The heat transfer is then completed when the condensed working fluid returns to
the heated end of the pipe due to capillary action in the wick structure. Due to its low boiling
point, high heat transfer coefficient, and good compatibility with materials often used in heat
pipe construction, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a refrigerant that is frequently employed in
heat pipes. LPG, which is frequently used as a fuel for cooking and heating, is a blend of propane
and butane. The heat load, operational temperature range, and material selection must all be
carefully taken into account when designing and fabricating a heat pipe that uses LPG as the
refrigerant. Assembling the wick structure, cutting and shaping the heat pipe, and sealing the
heat pipe are typical steps in the fabrication process. Another crucial step is to test the heat pipe
to make sure it performs as intended and safely and consistently.
The ozone depletion potential of the refrigerants hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) and
chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) is significant. Ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming
potential (GWP) hence contributing to both global warming and ozone layer depletion.
Numerous studies' findings indicate that the ozone layer is thinning. The most widely accepted
theory for what caused this catastrophe is that Ozone is removed from the environment by free
chlorine radicals, and as time goes on, chlorine atoms continue to turn more ozone into oxygen.
The migration of substances containing chlorine is what causes chlorine to be present in the
1
stratosphere. This behavior is common throughout a vast class of compounds, including
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Although HFCs like
R134a have no ozone depletion potential (ODP), they do have a relatively high ODP.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants are now being
considered as working fluids in refrigeration as a result of concerns over ozone layer depletion
and global warming. The hydrocarbon used as a refrigerant has a number of advantageous
properties, including very low global warming potential, non-toxicity, no ability to deplete the
ozone layer, and good compatibility with the materials often used in refrigeration systems. HFC
134a has 1300 over 100-year GPP, CFC 12 has 2125 over 100-year GPP, and LPG has 11 over
100-year GPP. In order to address the aforementioned issues, this study will compare LPG's
performance characteristics to those of the current refrigerant. The ideal refrigerant to replace
CFC and HFC, which harm the ozone layer and contribute to global warming, is LPG.
This research investigates the use of LPG as a cooling medium in a refrigerator, namely the
evaporator and capillary tube, in place of traditional refrigerants (CFC or HCFC). It operates
under the premise that LPG expands as it is transformed into a gaseous form. This expansion
causes a pressure decrease and an increase in LPG volume, which together cause a drop in
temperature and generate a refrigerating effect. It is possible to exploit this refrigerating effect
for cooling. This project so replaces refrigerant producers who contribute to global warming
while also providing refrigeration for socially relevant requirements. The high-pressure LPG in
this refrigeration system expands as it moves through a capillary tube, changing its phase from
liquid to gas. It then moves through the evaporator, where it absorbs the latent heat of the stored
product and exerts the cooling effect. Following the evaporator, it goes via the where it burns and
can also be fed into the generator to create electricity.
1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
To design a heat pipe with LPG as the working fluid, taking into account material
choices, heat pipe sizing, and evaporator and condenser designs.
2
To evaluate LPG's working fluid thermodynamic characteristics and
appropriateness for usage in a heat pipe.
To determine whether employing LPG as a working fluid in heat pipes for
particular applications, such as in refrigeration or heat transfer systems, is
practically feasible.
To assess and synthesize the body of knowledge on the working fluids and heat
pipe design, particularly LPG as a refrigerant.
To evaluate LPG's working fluid thermodynamic characteristics and
appropriateness for usage in a heat pipe.
1.3 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The design and construction of a single heat pipe using LPG as the working fluid may be
the main focus of the investigation. Heat transfer rate, thermal resistance, and overall
efficiency are just a few examples of variables that can be examined while analyzing
thermal performance. The study might also look at whether utilizing LPG in heat pipes
makes sense practically for particular uses like refrigeration or heat transfer systems. It is
crucial to remember that the thesis's breadth will rely on the goals of the investigation,
the resources at hand, and the time restrictions.
3
Chapter 2
Literature Review
Mr. Venkatessh S. Kasat [1] et. al. describes the use of LPG for cooling. Naturally, it produces a
lot of pressure, and this pressure can be employed to cool things down. With boiling values of
just 24.4% propane, 56.4% butane, and 17.2% isobutene, LPG is a byproduct of petroleum
refineries. The driving chamber's heat is absorbed by the flowing gas. The evaporator coil in this
study experiences the most phase changes with the use of a capillary tube, which causes the
temperature in the evaporator portion to drop. Reducing mechanical losses and benefiting the
environment by emitting fewer hazardous pollutants are two advantages of using LPG as a
cooling fluid.
A review of development in heat pipe science and technology is provided by Amir Fagri [2].
There are descriptions of various heat pipe designs along with comparisons between them. The
heat pipe can be any size or shape and is mostly used to convey heat. A sealed container, a wick
structure, and a little amount of working fluid in equilibrium with its own vapor make up a heat
pipe. Depending on the needed operating temperature, several working fluids can be utilized in
heat pipes. The evaporator portion, the adiabatic section, and the condenser section are its three
distinct sections. The latent heat of vaporization can also be constantly transferred from the
evaporator to the condenser section via the heat pipe.
Using LPG as a refrigerant, Velkumaran et al.[3] develop and construct a refrigerator in this
[Link] is a hydrocarbon with a number of qualities, including low ozone depletion potential,
high compatibility, and non-toxicity. It operates under the premise that as LPG is expanded and
turned into a gas, the pressure will drop, increasing the amount of LPG as a result. This results in
a decrease in LPG temperature and a cooling effect. LPG has the advantage of producing a
cooling effect without the use of power, and it may be utilized as the refrigerant in the
refrigerator at a significantly lower cost than other refrigerators. Additionally eco-friendly.
M. Rasti et. al. [4], have investigated the enhancement of local fridge's vitality proficiency list
utilizing a hydrocarbon blend refrigerant and planted that R436A (a blend of R290 and R600a
with a mass proportion of 56/44) in a 238 L single evaporator local fridge without any
4
adjustment in the refrigeration cycle. The fridge's blower was accused of various measures of
R436a. In examination with R134a, the charge measure of R436a is diminished by 48%; the on
time proportion is diminished by 13%; the vitality utilization is diminished by 5.3% in 24 h; the
evaporator channel temperature is diminished by 3.5°C. The outcomes demonstrated that the
TEWI of R436a is 11.8% under R134a. According to our outcomes and known ecological
effects, R436a gives off an impression of being an appropriate trade for R134a.
Analysis of a Vertical Heat Pipe for Free and Forced Convection Using R-22 as Working Fluid
by Zahidul et al.[5] The heat pipe is preferable to conventional techniques in applications
involving heat transmission. The researcher is interested in it, and it is becoming better every
day. Additionally, the overall thermal contact resistance for both free and forced convection was
calculated and compared. Forced convection was employed in the experiment at air speeds of 2.4
and 3.2 m/s with a constant power input of 7.84 watts. Forced convection is said to take between
67% and 70% less time than free convection. After design and fabrication, the author of this
paper compared the performance of the heat pipe with natural cooling and also compared with
free and forced convection.
According to Y.H. Yau et al [6], using a heat pipe for heat transfer is preferable to using more
conventional methods. In a constant state of operation, it can have an extraordinarily high
thermal conductivity. Additionally, it functions by absorbing and rejecting latent heat. As a
result, it can transmit a lot of heat across a considerable distance with a relatively tiny
temperature change. However, only a small amount of research has been done on the use of
horizontal configuration heat pipe heat exchangers in air conditioning systems, despite the fact
that there are many worthwhile studies on the effects of heat pipe heat exchangers on energy
consumption and dehumidification enhancement of air conditioning systems in the topics. Even
better solid metallic conductors like copper and silver can't match the thermal conductivity of a
heat pipe. Furthermore, the design and production of heat pipes are straightforward. As a result,
it has gained popularity with its distinctive qualities in a variety of heat transfer applications.
Although Gaugler [7] first proposed the concept of a heat pipe in 1942, Grover [8] independently
developed the device, and it was only then that the heat pipe's significance was understood. Since
then, other experimental research has been conducted to gather information on heat pipe
operation, establish standards for the verification of theoretical models, and create databases for
5
design purposes. In order to make the models and the problem-solving process simpler, several
theoretical analyses have also included empirical or semi-empirical connections. Additionally, it
discusses how to simulate the functioning of heat pipes using existing numerical methods and
how to create a simplified numerical model for typical wicked/wickless heat pipes using an
analysis of existing modeling techniques. Heat transfers through the liquid–wick region and wall
region were computed by solving a one-dimensional wicked heat equation. [9].
It is crucial to choose the right wick construction and working fluid for a certain application in
order to obtain the maximum performance out of a heat pipe. Only certain temperature ranges
allow a certain working fluid to operate. The working fluid selection should take into account
how the fluid will interact with the heat pipe container and wick [10]. In this investigation, the
wick structure was made of wire mesh, and the working fluid was R 22. A
hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), also known as R-22 or chlorodifluoromethane, is a colorless
gas that is frequently employed as a propellant and refrigerant. In place of the extremely ozone-
depleting CFC-11 and CFC-12, R-22 is frequently employed [11].
6
Chapter 3
Methodology
3.1 INTRODUCTION
In this experimental work, a simple heat pipe was designed and fabricated using refrigerant LPG
as the working fluid. A heat pipe is essentially a conserved slender tube containing a wick
structure lined on the inner surface and a small amount of fluid such as water in the saturated
state. The heat pipe is divided into three sections namely the evaporator section, the adiabatic
section, and the condenser section. The heat pipe has been and currently is being, studied for a
wide variety of applications, covering almost the complete spectrum of temperatures encountered
in heat transfer processes. Some of the major application areas of the heat pipe are energy
storage systems, chemical reactors, aircraft and spacecraft, energy conservation and renewable
energy, preservation of permafrost, melting and de-icing of snow, food industry.
7
3.2 STRUCTURAL PARAMETERS OF HEAT PIPE:
Diameter of pipe 25.4 mm
Wall Thickness 1 mm
Length of condenser 170 mm
Length of evaporator 140 mm
Length of Adiabatic 140 mm
Section
Fin Dimension (150 mm×70 mm)
Number of Fin 5
Working fluid LPG
Fill ratio 58%
Wick Type Wire mesh
Insulator for adiabatic Glass wool
section
3.3 MECHANISM OF THE SYSTEM:
At first, the water was heated to 460C using a heater and then allowed to cool. The temperature of
the hot water was measured by a mercury thermometer and recorded periodically. Then again the
water was heated to 460C and the heat pipe was dipped in the mug. The temperature of the
condenser section of the heat pipe was measured by a K-type thermocouple and recorded
periodically.
8
3.4 EXPERIMENTAL SETUP
A schematic diagram of the experimental setup is shown in Fig.3.4. It is made up of a heater, a
mug filled with hot water into which the heat pipe's evaporator section was dipped, a k-type
thermocouple, and a mercury thermometer. A copper tube was used to build the heat pipe. The
tube measured 450mm in length and 25.4mm in diameter. The wick structure was made out of
wire mesh. The evaporator, adiabatic, and condenser sections all have lengths of 170mm,
140mm, and 140mm, respectively. Glass wool and tape were used as insulation in the adiabatic
portion. Tin rectangular fins measuring 150×70 mm were incorporated into the condenser
section. The evaporator's temperature was thought to be the same as the water's temperature. The
condenser temperature was measured using a K-type thermocouple, and the hot water
temperature was measured using a mercury thermometer, which is the temperature of the
evaporator.
Thermocouple
Fig 3.4: Experimental setup
3.5 WORKING PRINCIPLE OF LPG REFRIGERATION SYSTEM
9
Liquefied petroleum gas is stored in the Cylinder with high Pressure. A regulator is connected to
a gas cylinder, and when it is opened the LPG passes through the Pipe connected with at high
pressure. This high-Pressure LPG then entered into a capillary tube which is already connected
to the high-pressure pipe. As the capillary tube has a small diameter the pressure of LPG drops
and also temperature reduces. As a result, a phase change occurs from liquid to vapor. At that
time evaporation takes place. The Low pressure and low-temperature vapor absorb heat from the
evaporator section.
3.5.1 LPG Cylinder
Liquefied Petroleum gas is stored in a cylinder at a high pressure of about 12.5 bar or 80 psi.
LPG is mainly composed of Butane (C4H10) and propane. Both of two can be stored separately
or in a mixture form. LPG is a fuel for household cooking, also it is a side product of refineries.
It is cheaper and available in all of the areas of our country. The cost of LPG is reasonable, it is
environment friendly and transportation is easy. LPG cylinders are available in a variety of
shapes and weights, from small home cylinders at 5 kg to big industrial cylinders weighing 50 kg
or more. The 14.2-kilogram cylinder is the most widely used size in homes. High pressure is
used to fill LPG cylinders, and a regulator linked to the cylinder is used to release the gas. LPG
cylinders are a well-liked and practical fuel source due to their simplicity of use and portability.
However, they must be handled carefully since if not utilized correctly, they can be harmful.
Additionally, it's critical to store them away from ignition sources in a space that is well-
ventilated.
10
Fig 3.5.1: LPG Cylinder [12]
3.5.2 High-Pressure Pipe
LPG should have to be passed in high pressure by a pipe. A high-Pressure pipe is used which is
basically a steel pipe having fixed steel spheres at two terminals. These spheres are used to
connect with the LPG cylinder and capillary tube without any leakage. High-pressure fluids or
gases can be handled using high-pressure pipes. Steel, stainless steel, or alloys that can withstand
high pressure are frequently used to make these pipes. They are frequently employed in
commercial and industrial contexts for tasks such as the transfer of natural gas, the operation of
hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and the production of oil and gas.
11
Fig 3.5.2: High-Pressure Pipe[12]
3.5.3 Capillary Tube
It is the most important part of the system. As we know when liquid passes through a small
diameter pipe its pressure drops and expansion takes place. So we are using the capillary tube for
this purpose. It is made of copper and has a comparatively small diameter. The ability of a liquid
to move through small openings without the aid of outside forces like gravity is known as
capillary action, and this is the basis for how capillary tubes function. Due to the attraction of the
liquid molecules to the tube walls, when a capillary tube is dipped into a liquid, the liquid is
dragged up the tube.
Fig 3.5.3: Capillary Tube[12]
12
3.5.4 Heat Pipe
The heat pipe is a highly efficient heat transfer device that utilizes the principles of phase change
and thermodynamics to transfer heat from one point to another. It consists of a sealed tube or
pipe containing a small amount of fluid, such as water, ethanol, or ammonia, which undergoes a
phase change from liquid to vapor and back again to transfer heat. The heat pipe operates by
absorbing heat at the evaporator end, where the fluid is vaporized, and then transferring the heat
to the other end, where the vapor condenses and releases the heat. The condensed fluid then
flows back to the evaporator end due to capillary action, and the cycle continues. Evaporation
and condensation serve as the foundation for how heat pipes function. At one end of the pipe, the
working fluid is heated, which causes it to evaporate and flow to the cooler end of the pipe. The
vapor returns to a liquid state at the cooler end, where it releases the heat that was absorbed at the
hotter end. The process then again when the liquid returns to the pipe's heated end.
3.5.5 Pressure Gauge
Numerous procedures have been created for the estimation of weight and vacuums. Instruments
used to quantify weight are called weight checks or vacuum measures. An instrument used to
gauge the pressure of gases or liquids is a pressure gauge. The conventional setup includes a
gauge face with pressure units marked on it, a dial with a pointer, and a mechanism that
translates pressure into a mechanical movement of the pointer on the dial. Applications for
pressure gauges are numerous and include industrial operations, automobile systems, and
medical equipment.
13
Fig 3.5.5: Pressure Gauge [12]
3.5.6 High-Pressure regulator
This kind of controller is utilized to send high-weight gas from the chambers. These are
predominantly utilized in capacities for Bhatti stoves. Single-stage or dual-stage high-pressure
regulators are both possible. A dual-stage regulator reduces pressure in two steps rather of one
step, producing an output pressure that is more consistent. A single-stage regulator reduces
pressure in one step. In order to guard against overpressure situations, certain high-pressure
regulators additionally include built-in safety mechanisms such as pressure relief valves.
High-pressure regulators, which offer secure and dependable management of high-pressure gases
and liquids, are essential parts of numerous industrial applications.
14
Fig 3.5.6: High-Pressure regulator[12]
15
Chapter 4
Conclusion
Designing and making a heat pipe with refrigerant LPG as the working fluid is a crucial
operation that needs to carefully take into account a number of variables. Finding the system's
heat load is one of the important factors to take into account because it will influence the heat
pipe's design. The heat load and the working fluid's characteristics, such as its boiling point and
latent heat of vaporization, will also affect the heat pipe's size. Another crucial factor is selecting
the right operating fluid. Due to its low boiling point and high latent heat of vaporization, which
enable it to effectively transfer heat, LPG is an excellent choice for a heat pipe. However,
working with LPG can be hazardous and calls for the right precautions. Overall, when working
with LPG, it is crucial to use qualified personnel and follow the proper safety precautions. A
well-made heat pipe, however, can deliver dependable and efficient heat transfer in a range of
applications. However, working with LPG can be hazardous and calls for the right precautions.
Overall, when working with LPG, it is crucial to use qualified personnel and follow the proper
safety precautions. But a properly constructed and engineered heat pipe may deliver effective
and dependable heat transfer in a variety of applications.
16
References
1. Kasat, M.V.S., Kargule, M.S.G., Shinde, M.H., Ghogare, M.A. and Kumar, M.S., 2018.
Design and Fabrication of Cooling System by Using LPG in Automobile. International
journal, 3(5).
2. Faghri, Amir. "Review and advances in heat pipe science and technology." Journal of
heat transfer 134, no. 12 (2012).
3. [Link]
4. [Link], [Link] Kumar, [Link] / International Journal of
Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) ISSN: 2248-9622 [Link] Vol.
2, Issue 6, November- December 2012, pp.268-271
5. Islam, M.Z. and Salam, B., Analysis of a Vertical Heat Pipe for Free and Forced
Convection using Refrigerant R-22 as Working Fluid.
6. Yau, Y. H., & Ahmadzadehtalatapeh, M. (2010). A review on the application of
horizontal heat pipe heat exchangers in air conditioning systems in the tropics. Applied
Thermal Engineering, 30(2), 77-84.
7. R.S. Gaugler, US Patent 2350348. Applied 21 December 1942, Published 6 June 1944
8. G.M. Grover, T.P. Cotter, G.F. Erickson, Structures of very high thermal conductance, J.
App. Phys. 35 (1964) 1990.
9. Development of a simplified heat pipe numerical model and case study/experimental
validation using a long ‘wicked heat pipe. International journal of energy research,
28(14), 1293-1311.
10. Peterson, G. P. (1994). An introduction to heat pipes: modeling, testing, and applications.
11. Ismail, K. A. R., & Miranda, R. F. (1997). Two-dimensional axisymmetrical model for a
rotating porous wicked heat pipe. Applied thermal engineering, 17(2), 135-155.
12. [Link]
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