Steady state and transient analysis of compact plate-fin heat exchanger fins for generation of design data using CFD

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to carry out numerical modeling of single-blow transient analysis using FLUENT porous media model for estimation of heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of offset and wavy fins. Design/methodology/approach – A computational fluid dynamics program FLUENT has been used to predict the design data in terms of j and f factors for plate-fin heat exchanger wavy and offset strip fins, which are widely used in aerospace applications. Findings – The suitable design data in terms of Colburn j and Fanning friction f factors is generated and presented correlations for wavy fins covering the laminar, transition and turbulent flow regimes. Originality/value – The correlations for the friction factor f and Colburn factor j have been found to be good by comparing with other references. The correlations can be used by the heat exchanger designers and can reduce the number of tests and modification of the prototype to a minimum for similar applications and types of fins.