Heat transfer and flow resistance performance of nonuniform distributed serrated fins

Abstract

This article numerically investigates the behavior of nonuniform distributed serrated fins including equaled, shortened, lengthened, short on both sides, and long on both sides. In outputs, not only the temperature field and velocity contour but also the synergy field were examined. The results show significant advantages of nonuniform fins, having certain characteristics, in improving the overall heat transfer performance. At the near entrance of nonuniform fin type, heat transfer can be improved by increasing fin length gradually, while it becomes worsened by decreasing fin length. The length of the first fin in the near inlet region has a great influence on the distribution of the temperature field. For the best array compared with the uniform case, the Colburn j factor increased by 9.1 − 16.8%. Either uniform or nonuniform fin type deteriorates the flow resistance while heat transfer capability is enhanced. From the perspective of synergy between temperature gradient and velocity, the local field synergy angle at the near inlet region, and the windward side of the fin has a decisive effect on the heat transfer performance.