Numerical investigations for the optimization of serrated finned-tube heat exchangers

Helical serrated finned-tubes are well established in many thermal systems. This paper presents the results of numerical calculations carried out for the performance improvement of these devices. The work is divided into three main investigations conducted for Reynolds numbers between Re = 600 and 2600. The first investigation shows the effect of the fin serration, where a comparison between performances of finned tubes with and without fin serration is presented. Another main investigation is conducted on the effect of fin twisting of the outermost part of the fin on the performance of the serrated finned-tubes. Here, twisting angles considered are between β = 0° and 25°. The third investigation deals with the effect of the number of fin segments per period.

Research highlights► Modelling of serrated finned-tube heat exchangers. ► Performance assessment of heat exchangers. ► Optimization of heat exchangers. ► Investigation of the effects of several parameters.