Numerical Simulation of Hydrodynamic Effects of Internal Structural Parameters in a Steam-Water Mixing Heater

Steam-water injectors are widely utilized in various industrial applications and production processes, particularly for their ability to enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, lower energy consumption, and facilitate energy reuse. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is employed to investigate the impact of internal geometric parameters on the performance of steam injectors. Key internal flow characteristics are analyzed, focusing on the effects of the orifice injection angle, dilatation inclination, throat size, and the presence of a porous medium within the mixing chamber. The results reveal that an injection angle of 45°, a dilatation inclination between 0.9° and 1.1°, and a throat diameter of 14–16 mm significantly enhance steam-water phase mixing, leading to superior heat exchange efficiency. While including a porous medium does not improve heating performance, it substantially reduces noise levels within the system. By optimizing the full set of internal geometric parameters, the study demonstrates a marked improvement in the injector’s entrainment capacity. These findings provide a valuable reference for the continued research, development, and optimization of steam–water mixing heaters, offering practical insights for enhancing performance in industrial applications.