Impact of Fillet Geometry on Flow Patterns in Seawater Cooling System T-Type Tee Junctions of Multi-Purpose Support Vessel

Abstract This research investigates the effect of fillet geometry on the flow pattern in a T-type tee junction of a seawater cooling system. Emphasising the rarity of research on converging flow in seawater cooling systems, the study addresses cavitation corrosion tendencies and damaging effects. This research evaluates velocity, pressure, and turbulence energy parameters using Pipe Flow simulation software and SolidWorks software. Simulations in three different fillet radii (0 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm) were tested to simulate the flow behaviour in T-type tees commonly used in multipurpose support vessels (MPSVs). The results show fillet geometry significantly affects flow separation, recirculation zone, and pressure drop characteristics in T-type tee junctions. Larger fillet radii were found to reduce flow behaviour, pressure loss, and turbulent energy, leading to more efficient seawater cooling system performance.