Manifold (fluid mechanics)

In fluid mechanics, a manifold is a pipe fitting or a specially designed chamber with multiple inlets and outlets. Its primary function is to distribute or collect fluid flow. Manifolds are used in a variety of applications to either evenly distribute fluid from a single source to multiple destinations, or to combine fluid flow from multiple sources into a single destination.

The design of a manifold is crucial for its performance. Factors such as the number and size of inlets and outlets, the internal geometry of the manifold, and the material used in its construction all influence the flow distribution, pressure drop, and overall efficiency of the system.

Manifolds can be designed for a wide range of fluids, including liquids and gases, and are commonly found in various industrial processes, such as:

• HVAC systems: Distributing coolant or refrigerant.
• Hydraulic systems: Distributing hydraulic fluid to multiple actuators.
• Process industries: Distributing or collecting chemicals or other process fluids.
• Engine systems: Distributing fuel or exhaust gases.

The performance of a manifold is often evaluated based on parameters such as flow uniformity, pressure drop, and resistance to corrosion or erosion. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are frequently used to optimize the design of manifolds and predict their performance under different operating conditions. The term "manifold" can also refer more generally to a collection point for multiple pipes, even if the primary function isn't precise flow distribution.