Analyzing gas flow characteristics in a Y-Shaped micro-channel: continuous and discrete regime modeling investigation

In the last decade, there has been a significant rise in the level of attention given to the examination of gas flow, specifically the flow of compressed gas across extended channels. This study examines the gas flow in a microchannel shaped like the letter "Y" while assuming a steady state regime. The primary objective is to investigate the impact of channel widths on the flow characteristics of several gases, including air, hydrogen, argon, and nitrogen. This study enhances the developing field of microfluidics by offering a detailed investigation of gas flow in a Y-shaped microchannel. The discoveries not only deepen our comprehension of the underlying principles that govern the dynamics of gases at a small scale, but also have practical consequences for enterprises aiming to optimise processes, boost efficiency, and progress technologies that rely on accurate control of gas flow. Moreover, the study investigates the impact of reducing size on the Knudsen number, which characterises the flow pattern, as well as the influence of temperature and channel width on the shift between various flow patterns for each of the gases being studied. Additionally, the collision dynamics of argon particles in microchannel flow are investigated using the Monte Carlo method. The increased interest in microchannel is fuelled by the prospective uses of these channels in several industries, spanning from sophisticated manufacturing to energy conversion technologies. Examining gas flow in microchannel is vital for enhancing processes in microfabrication, fuel cell technology, and other applications that need accurate management of gas transport.