ACTIVE VORTEX GENERATOR TO IMPROVE HEAT TRANSFER IN HEAT EXCHANGERS

摘要

An active vortex generator adapts to a flow rate of fluid through and/or a heat flux applied through a heat exchanger channel to improve the heat transfer rate of the heat exchanger. In some implementations, the movement of the active vortex generator may be induced by the fluid flow through the heat exchanger channel. In some implementations, the movement of the active vortex generator may be induced through an externally applied force on the active vortex generator. An actuated active vortex generator is particularly suited to heat exchangers with high heat flux dissipation requirements. Locating an actuated active vortex generator proximate to such high heat flux dissipation locations provides for improved heat transfer that can be activated when needed, such as upon operation of a high heat flux component.