Numerical Simulation of Flow Characteristic in Microchannel between Parallel Flat Plates

A mathematical model was developed in describing flow behaviors of a microchannel between two parallel flat plates. The model was solved numerically using the commercial software, Fluent, and the effect of microchannel size and structure on the transition Reynolds number (Rec) was analyzed. Comparison between model prediction and experimental data in literature shows a good agreement, which verifies the reliability of the model. The results also show that the equivalent diameter has little effect on Rec. The magnitude of the Rec depends largely upon the contraction ratio. Consequently, the Recs under different contraction ratios were determined, which provides a theoretical basis for performance analysis and optimization of microchannel.