Application of computational fluid dynamics to the optimization of heat and momentum transfer in an industrial air blast-freezing tunnel

Abstract

Forced convection is the main heat exchange mechanism in an air-blast freezing tunnel. Knowledge of the air distribution in the equipment is important for establishing the best operating conditions. Computational techniques can be used to predict the velocity and temperature fields in such equipment. The insertion of baffles was used to change the geometry of an air-blast freezing tunnel. Various numbers of trolleys and trolley configurations were also considered. The simulations were related to the temperature variation at the beginning of the freezing process. The presence of baffles favored a better air distribution, and there was a 15% decrease in the temperature rate with time. In addition, the repositioning of the trolleys caused the air to reach temperatures similar to that of the tunnel with only one trolley, as well as demonstrating the possibility of inserting two more trolleys in the boundary conditions.