Theories of the Ranque effect: state-of-the-art critical review

Artem Karpenko

Abstract


The primary objective of this review article is to systematize and critically analyze the main existing theories that attempt to explain the causes and mechanisms of the Ranque vortex effect (the temperature separation phenomenon in a rotating flow). This study examines hypotheses based on the influence of pressure, viscosity, turbulence, secondary circulation, free and forced vortices, convective heat transfer, fluid compressibility, acoustic wind, work of inertia forces, Görtler vortices, and the Maxwellian distribution of molecular velocities on the energy separation of the rotational flow. Despite the abundance of theoretical models, there is currently no universally accepted proof that any of these mechanisms is definitive in the energy separation process within the Ranque–Hilsch tube. A review of the scientific literature reveals that the most frequently cited theoretical models of temperature separation in the vortex tube include secondary circulation (Ahlborn), adiabatic compression and expansion (Ranque), internal friction (Hilsch), free and forced vortex model (Kassner and Knoernschild). Other hypotheses receive significantly less support and validation from scientific sources. This situation highlights the need for further research aimed at experimental and numerical verification of the leading theories to establish their credibility and clarify the mechanisms of energy separation. Interestingly, the theories that have received the most support in the literature are Kassner’s free and forced vortex model and Ahlborn’s secondary circulation concept, despite being based on different physical principles and lacking mutual consistency. Such diverse and sometimes contradictory conclusions from individual studies underscore the complexity of the vortex effect and point to the need for deeper and more systematic experimental and theoretical investigations to adequately describe the physical processes occurring within the vortex tube. A generalized theory must be developed to explain the mechanisms of temperature separation in the Ranque tube – one that is recognized by the scientific community and not limited by the geometric parameters of the vortex tube or its operating conditions.

Keywords


vortex tube; Ranque-Hilsch tube; total temperature separation; energy separation; vortex effect; Ranque effect; Ranque-Hilsch effect; Maxwell’s demon

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.32620/aktt.2025.5.03