Optimization of rectangular pin fin arrays

Abstract

In this project a rectangular pin fin array is numerically studied and optimized using Fluent. Pin fin arrays increase heat transfer by increasing the flow turbulence and through the exposed surface area subjected to the crossing flow. The use of pin fins that are considered of high efficiency in their heat transfer capabilities on certain a surface helps in the increase of the overall heat transfer in that surface. A validation part was done to prove that Fluent can predict the values of Nusselt number that match the results given by the calculations derived from correlations from the literature. Simulations were conducted to detect the effect of varying the gap between pin fins on heat transfer and pressure loss through different arrays for a range of Reynolds numbers between 5 and 160. Rectangular pin fins with circular and rectangular cross sections in aligned and staggered configurations were simulated. Also the gap between the rows of the array was varied in order to choose the optimal tube bank. The temperatures were noted at different locations to find the number of pin fins needed to achieve a complete heat transfer for every case studied. Finally the study was done on an array of three rows of rectangular pin fins with circular cross section to investigate the effect of the gap on the performance of the tube bank.