Design and Optimization of Single-Phase Microchannel Heat Sinks

Prediction of heat transfer and pressure drop in single-phase flow of a liquid or gas through microchannels is discussed, along with an assessment of the applicability of conventional theory developed for larger-scale channels. Methods for device-level and system-level optimization for thermal performance in cooling applications are described. The importance of manifold design is elucidated. A novel approach to hot-spot thermal management using microchannel heat sinks is demonstrated.