Efficiency Improvement of Double Pipe Heat Exchanger by using TiO2/water Nanofluid

Abstract

Heat exchangers are commonly utilized to transfer heat between two fluids in a number of industries. However, parameters such as fluid flow velocity, temperature difference, and thermal conductivity limit their efficiency. Researchers have investigated the use of nanofluids - fluids containing nanoparticles that boost thermal characteristics - to improve the performance of heat exchangers. The use of nanofluids can improve the efficiency of double-pipe heat exchangers. However, research on the influence of TiO2/water nanofluid on the performance of double-pipe heat exchangers is insufficient. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of TiO2/water nanofluid on the efficiency of a double-pipe copper counter-flow heat exchanger. A double-pipe copper counter-flow heat exchanger using cold (room temperature) and hot (70°C) water as working fluids was used in an experimental investigation. They created nanofluids by adding varying concentrations (0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) of TiO2 nanoparticles to water and measuring their heat conductivity and viscosity. They then calculated the overall heat transfer coefficient and efficacy by measuring the input and outlet temperatures as well as the flow rates of both fluids. It was discovered that adding TiO2 nanoparticles to water enhanced its heat conductivity and viscosity substantially. The overall heat transfer coefficient increased up to 0.3% but declined at 0.5% nanoparticle concentration. At a nanoparticle concentration of 0.3%, the maximum effectiveness was attained, with a corresponding increase in efficiency of up to 23%. The scientists found that using TiO2/water nanofluid to improve the efficiency of double-pipe heat exchangers is a viable option.