Analysis of turbulence models in a cross flow pin fin micro-heat exchanger

摘要

In this study, several turbulence models are analyzed in a 3-D finite element model of a micro-heat exchanger. The micro-heat exchanger consists of a narrow planar flow passage between parallel walls with small cylindrical pin fins spanning these walls with axes perpendicular to the direction of flow. Turbulence model performance is compared with baseline experimental data available in the literature that cover a range of low turbulent Reynolds numbers and spacing configurations. The metric for these comparisons is an array averaged Nusselt Number. Adjustments made to the coefficients in the turbulence models are explained in terms of their physical significance to the complex flow environment of a pin fin, cross flow, micro-heat exchanger. Applications of this research include cooling of turbine blades and of closely spaced electronics.