Heat Transfer Enhancement of Radiators Using Various Approaches: Review

Abstract

This paper reviews heat transfer enhancement of radiators using different approaches. It has been found that different method of heat transfer augmentation has been employed in different radiator design. These methods ranging from fin design modification, increasing core depth of radiator, change of tubes type, increasing surface area of radiator core, change of fin material, change of flow arrangement and changing the different types of fluid and mixture concentration. The performance of a radiator depends on its thermal and hydrodynamic performance. Certain parameters are of importance to the radiator performance such as; convective heat transfer co-efficient, pressure drop, inlet and outlet coolant temperature, air and coolant mass flow-rates, fin type, fin dimension and material. The various approaches are considered, depending on the application requirement and utilizing range. Radiator design modification such as increase in number of fins and tubes, material substitution have their limitations with certain negative consequences like added cost and weight with low efficient thermal performance compare to utilization of Nano-fluid approach. The engine life and its performance depend on coolant temperature. The application of nano-fluid in automobile radiator as coolant greatly affects the performance of the engine which in turn enhances its life span and fuel consumption. This paper attempts to review literature related to various heat transfer enhancement methods in vehicle radiator with different design, and compares the most effective approach amongst the methods taking into consideration cost, weight and thermal efficiency.