Computational heat transfer analysis of a counter-flow heat exchanger with fins

Abstract

A numerical work has been conducted to examine laminar flow and heat transfer characteristics in a two-dimensional isothermal-fluxed circular-duct fitted horizontal with finned tapes. The computations are based on the finite volume method with the SIMPLE algorithm implemented. This paper reports the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling studies on heat transfer, friction factor and thermal performance of a counter-flow heat exchanger equipped with two types of tube insert including fins. The principle of heat transfer enhancement in the core flow of tube has been proposed to improve the temperature uniformity and heat transfer enhancement in the boundary flow of tube. The studied the temperature profile and velocity profile was obtained by the fins inserts with an inclined angle of 90°. The results have also revealed that the difference between the heat transfer rates obtained from two models with fins and without fins. The CFD predicted results were used to explain the observed results in terms of swirl intensity.