Thermal performance and optimization of hyperbolic annular fins under dehumidifying operating conditions – analytical and numerical solutions

Abstract

The thermal performance of hyperbolic profile annular fins subjected to dehumidifying operating conditions is studied. An analytical solution for completely wet fin is derived using an approximate linear temperature–humidity relationship. A numerical solution using actual psychrometric relationship for completely and partially wet operating conditions is then obtained to account for the actual temperature–humidity ratio psychrometric relationship under both partially and fully wet operating conditions. An excellent agreement is observed between analytical and numerical solutions for completely wet fin. The fin optimization is presented based on the analytical solution of completely wet fin. Finally, a finite element formulation is used for studying the two-dimensional effects of orthotropic thermal conductivity on the thermal performance of fin under partially and fully wet operating conditions.