Analysis of thermo-hydraulic performance and entropy generation characteristics for laminar flow through triangular corrugated channel

Abstract

We analyse the thermo-hydraulic performance and entropy-generation characteristics for laminar flow through triangular corrugated channel. Results are presented in terms of heat transfer, pressure drop and entropy generation for different values of amplitude of waviness of the channel, wavelength and Reynolds number in the range of 5–500. It is found that the rate of heat transfer is augmented with both Reynolds number and amplitude of the wall waviness, together with increase in pressure drop. The enhancement in heat transfer and pressure drop as compared to equivalent straight channel are also assessed by performance factor combining the enhancement in heat transfer and corresponding increase in pressure drop. There is an intricate interplay between the geometrical parameters of the channel and the flow parameters in dictating the performance factor. Thermal entropy generation is dominant over the fluid friction for lower Reynolds number. The total entropy generation increases rapidly up to critical Reynolds number (Recri), after which it either remains almost constant or decreases gradually, and moreover Recri depends on the wavelength of the channel. The outcomes of the present work may be helpful to design the efficient and economic thermal devices and systems.