Optimization of fin arrangement and channel configuration in an airfoil fin PCHE for supercritical CO2 cycle

•The effects of airfoil fin arrangements on heat transfer and flow resistance are investigated.•Staggered fin arrangement is more suitable than parallel fin arrangement.•The sparse arrangement of fins is recommended.•The flow resistance plays a major role in determining the overall performance of a PCHE.•A modified fin is proposed whose comprehensive performance is effectively improved.

As a new type of discontinuous fin, airfoil fin (AFF) can bring a better thermal-hydraulic performance than Zigzag fin and S-shaped fin when applied to PCHE using supercritical CO2 as a working fluid. In this study, the effects of AFF arrangements on heat transfer and flow resistance are investigated. The results show that a sparser staggered arrangement of fins can lead to a better thermal-hydraulic performance in an AFF PCHE and the flow resistance plays a major role in determining the overall performance. It concludes that reducing the flow resistance needs to be considered first in the optimal design of a PCHE using supercritical CO2 as working fluid. Furthermore, a new fin structure (modified AFF) is proposed for flow resistance reduction and is proved to be better than the AFF.