CFD simulations of heat transfer in internally helically ribbed tubes

Abstract

Heating surfaces in power boilers are exposed to very high heat flux. For evaporator protection against overheating, internally helically ribbed tubes are used. The intensification of the heat transfer and the maintenance of the thin water layer in the intercostal space, using ribbed tubes, enables better protection of the power boiler evaporator than smooth pipes. Extended inner surface changes flow and thermal conditions by influencing the linear pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient. This paper presents equations that are used to determine the heat transfer coefficient. The results of total heat transfer, obtained from CFD simulations, for two types of internally ribbed and plain tubes are also presented.