Performance analysis of a compact heat exchanger with offset strip fin by non-uniform uninterrupted fin length

Ozturk M. M., DOĞAN B., ERBAY L. B.

APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING, vol.159, 2019 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 159
  • Publication Date: 2019
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2019.113814
  • Journal Name: APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Keywords: Strip fin, Flat tube, Compact heat exchanger, Non-uniform uninterrupted fin length, THERMAL-HYDRAULIC CHARACTERISTICS, PRESSURE-DROP, PRANDTL NUMBER, SERRATED FINS, FLOW, FRICTION, CHANNEL
  • Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

In this particular work, the flat tube with mini-channel compact heat exchangers with offset strip fins by non-uniform uninterrupted fin length are investigated experimentally. The tests are performed by four different types of flat tube compact heat exchangers. The tests are conducted in the range of 600 < Re-a < 2000, while water as the heat transfer fluid is circulated at the inlet of the heat exchanger and regulated by a water bath at a temperature of 42 degrees C. The performance of the heat exchangers is assessed by using Colburn j-factor, friction factor f, area goodness factor j/f and volume goodness factor j/f(1/3). According to the obtained outcomes, the compact heat exchanger with bigger pass number provides better heat transfer. Two different types of strip fins with non-uniform uninterrupted fin length have been tested. The heat exchanger group with 1.55 m length of flat tube shows almost 40% higher performance than the heat exchanger group with 1.20 m length of flat tube.