Flow Pattern in a Fin-Tube Type Heat Exchanger with Multiple Inlet Ports

Numerical Simulation and Flow Visualization under Isothermal Condition

Abstract

Numerical simulation of air flow in a fin-tube type heat exchanger model has been conducted with particular reference to the flow pattern and flow distribution. The simulation model is two dimensional, and has three inlet ports and one exit port at the lower and upper boundaries, respectively. The flow field is partitioned into several sub-channels by spacers. The insertion of such spacers results in the reduction of recirculation zone, while the flow distribution in each sub-channel between the spacers mainly depends on the inflow rate through the inlet port just upstream the sub-channel. The flow visualization experiment has confirmed the simulation results.