In this paper, the D3Q19 multiple-relaxation-time (MRT) lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) for large eddy simulation (LES) was employed to optimize the shape of the vortex generator in a triangular vortex flowmeter. The optimization process focused on the vortex shedding frequency, lift force per unit area, and symmetry of the vortex street. The optimal shape of the vortex generator was determined to feature a 180° incoming flow surface, a concave arc side with a curvature radius of 25 mm, and a fillet radius of 4 mm at the end. Numerical simulations revealed that the optimized vortex generator achieves a 2.72~13.8% increase in vortex shedding frequency and a 17.2~53.9% reduction in pressure drop and can adapt to the flow conditions of productivity fluctuations (6.498 × 105 ≤ Re ≤ 22.597 × 105) in the gas well production. The results demonstrated significant advantages, including low pressure loss, minimal secondary vortex generation, high vortex shedding frequency, and substantial lift force. These findings underscore the robustness and efficiency of the LBM-LES method in simulating complex flow dynamics and optimizing vortex generator designs.
The Super-long Gravity Heat Pipe (SLGHP) is an efficient geothermal energy utilization technology that can transmit thermal energy by fully utilizing natural temperature differences without external energy input. This study focuses on the high-altitude geothermal environment of Mount Meager, Canada, and employs numerical simulations and dynamic thermal analysis to systematically investigate the thermal transport performance of the SLGHP system under both steady-state and dynamic operating conditions. The study also examines the impact of various structural parameters on the system’s performance. Three-dimensional CFD simulations were conducted to analyze the effects of pipe diameter, length, filling ratio, working fluid selection, and pipe material on the heat transfer efficiency and heat flux distribution of the SLGHP. The results indicate that working fluids such as CO2 and NH3 significantly enhance the heat flux density, while increasing pipe diameter may reduce the amount of liquid retained in the condenser section, thereby affecting condensate return and thermal stability. Furthermore, dynamic thermal analysis using a three-node RC network model simulated the effects of diurnal temperature fluctuations and variations in the convective heat transfer coefficient in the condenser section on system thermal stability. The results show that the condenser heat flux can reach a peak of 5246 W/m2 during the day, while maintaining a range of 2200–2600 W/m2 at night, with the system exhibiting good thermal responsiveness and no significant lag or flow interruption. In addition, based on the thermal output of the SLGHP system and the integration with the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system, the power generation potential analysis indicates that the system, with 100 heat pipes, can provide stable power generation of 50–60 kW. In contrast to previous SLGHP studies focused on generalized modeling, this work introduces a site-specific CFD–RC framework, quantifies structural sensitivity via heat flux indices, and bridges numerical performance with economic feasibility, offering actionable insights for high-altitude deployment. This system has promising practical applications, particularly for providing stable renewable power in remote and cold regions. Future research will focus on field experiments and system optimization to further improve system efficiency and economic viability.