Vortices, generators and heat transfer

Abstract

Longitudinal vortices are more efficient for heat transfer enhancement than transverse vortices. A survey is given on triangular and rectangular protrusions from a heat transfer surface which generate mainly longitudinal vortex systems. Wings and winglets are considered in boundary layer and channel flow, either by themselves, or in a single row transverse to the flow direction, or in a two dimensional array. Local and global heat transfer are studied as a function of the major parameters. For channel flows also the pressure losses are given. Winglets are superior to wings, but winglet form is of minor importance. In laminar flow, heat transfer enhancement increases with Reynolds number. Heat transfer enhancement increases for constant winglet aspect ratio with angle of attack up to a maximum angle of attack. But it increases also up to limiting values with winglet height relative to transverse and streamwise winglet spacing and relative to channel height or boundary layer thickness. The nonlinear character of fluid mechanics does not allow simple predictions.