A Comprehensive Review and Comparative Study of Various Rib Configurations Used in Rectangular Duct for Heat Transfer Enhancement

Abstract

This research study provides a comprehensive review of various heat transfer enhancement techniques that are being used by various researchers for enhancing heat transfer rate and overall thermal performance factor of the heat exchangers. Based on the present review study, it can be concluded that intensive study has been carried out by various researchers to determine the effect of various rib geometries on the heat transfer enhancement and friction factor characteristics of rectangular duct. The enhancement in the heat transfer rate is obtained by introducing the blockages or restrictions in the fluid flow path by providing various rib turbulator configurations. This research paper puts highlights on the various heat transfer enhancement techniques are used for increasing overall thermal performance factor in the heat exchangers. Introduction of ribs as flow disturber results not only into increase in heat transfer surface area but also into increased turbulence, recirculation of working media, viscous effect and secondary flow that results into swirl. The interruptions or blockages created by ribs provided in the flow channel results into increased pressure drop and disruptions in boundary layer development. Provision of ribs also causes secondary flow which ensures enhanced thermal contact between working fluid and surfaces of the flow channel. This results into increase in heat transfer coefficient and thermal performance of heat exchanger respectively.