Heat transfer enhancement in a horizontal channel by the addition of curved deflectors

This paper presents the heat transfer and fluid dynamics analysis of a horizontal channel formed by parallel plates with periodic insertions of heated blocks, having curved deflectors to direct the flow. The heat transfer coefficient investigated is compared with that of the horizontal channel without deflectors. The aim of the deflectors is to lead the fluid to the space between the heated blocks increasing the dynamics in this area. This zone will normally, without deflectors, become a stagnant fluid zone in which low energy transfer rate occurs. The results show that the heat transfer coefficient is larger as compared to that of the case without deflectors. The increment in the heat transfer coefficient is due primarily to the fluid motion stirred in the area between the heated block due to the deflectors. However, it must be pointed out, this implementation also increases the pressure drop in the channel.