Computational analysis has been conducted to examine the flow and heat transfer characteristics in a two-dimensional iso-thermal-fluxed circular-duct fitted with fins. The computations are based on finite volume methods employed with the simple algorithm. Paper reports are based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling studies on laminar flow heat transfer, friction factor and thermal performance of a counter-flow heat exchanger equipped with two types of tube insert, one including fins. The principle of heat transfer enhancement due to modulation of the core flow in the tube has been proposed to improve the temperature uniformity and heat transfer enhancement at the boundary. The study includes variation in pitch ratio (Pr) for fins inserted with an inclined angle of 90°. The predicted results of the study have revealed that the comparison between the heat transfer rates that are obtained from the models one with fins tothe other without fins, show improvement in thermal performance characteristics. These improvementsare explained in terms of swirl intensity created by the fins. Keywords: Heat transfer, counter-flow heat exchanger with fins, pitch ratio Cite this Article Anirban Roy, Suvanjan Bhattacharyya, Niladri Ghoshet al.Hydraulic and thermal performances of a counter-flow heat exchanger with fins. Journal of Thermal Engineering and Application. 2015; 2(3): 14–20p.
