Performance Analysis and Optimization of Eccentric Annular Disk Fins

Abstract

In the first part of the paper, a semi-analytical method has been described for solving the two-dimensional heat conduction equation in an eccentric annular disk fin circumscribing a circular tube, subjected to convective cooling. Analysis has been done considering both convective and insulated conditions at the fin tip. The effects of surface and tip heat transfer coefficients and eccentricity on the performance of the fin have been studied. Comparative studies have also been made between the performance of concentric and eccentric fins with same radius ratio. Next, the optimum dimensions for eccentric annular fins have been determined using Lagrange multiplier technique. In the scheme, either the fin volume or the heat transfer duty can be taken as the constraint. Finally, it has been shown that when space restriction is imposed on one side of the tube, eccentric annular fins can be designed to have lesser volumes compared to concentric annular fins above a certain heat transfer duty.