A Generalized Prediction of Heat Transfer Surfaces

Abstract

A new way of presenting the heat transfer data is shown. This leads to a dimensionless performance plot between a “heat transfer performance factor” and a “pumping power factor” with a nondimensional “flow length between major boundary layer disturbances” as a varying parameter. This approach leads to the possibility of approximately presenting all surface geometries on a single “idealized” performance plot, the nondimensional “flow length” being a geometrical characteristic of each surface. The method can be used to predict approximately the heat transfer performance characteristics of a new, untested surface. The plot permits the rapid assessment and comparison of various heat transfer geometries for a given application. The performance plot is valid only in the turbulent flow regime. The method will prove invaluable in optimizing a design accounting for space limitations, economic restraints, and system considerations such as pumping power and effectiveness tradeoffs.