Numerical study of flow and thermal characteristics of pulsed impinging jet on a dimpled surface

Abstract

This research comprehensively investigates the flow and thermal characteristics of a pulsating impinging jet over a dimpled surface. It analyzes the impact of key parameters (e.g., inlet velocity pulsation functions, pulsation frequency, amplitude, dimple pitch, dimple depth, Reynolds number) on flow patterns and heat transfer. Validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the Re-Normalization Group (RNG) turbulence model are employed to accurately simulate complex turbulent flow behavior. Local and average heat transfer coefficients are calculated and compared to steady impingement cases, revealing the potential benefits of pulsation for heat transfer enhancement. The study also examines how pulsation-induced flow modulation and thermal mixing affect heat transfer mechanisms. Results indicate that combining fluctuating flow with a dimpled surface can improve heat transfer rates. In summary, increasing pulsation amplitude consistently enhances heat transfer, while the effect of frequency varies between impinging and wall jet zones.