Numerical Assessment of Vortex Generators for Enhancing Thermal Performance in Corrugated Tubes

The effectiveness of triangular baffles in enhancing heat transfer within corrugated tubes is examined numerically in this study. Two key parameters influencing performance are examined: baffle placement (staggered and aligned) and their angles of attack (0 degrees, 15 degrees, 30 degrees, and 45 degrees). Heat transfer, friction, as well as performance metrics are comprehensively examined and compared for both configurations. The finite element method (FEM) implemented in CFD software COMSOL Multiphysics 6.1 is employed for simulations across a range of Reynolds numbers (100-400). Results reveal significant heat transfer improvements due to the proposed baffle configurations. Notably, aligned baffles with a 30 degrees angle of attack achieve a 43.6% increase the heat transfer when compared to the baffle-free scenario. Staggered baffles with a 15 degrees angle of attack demonstrate a superior 55.3% improvement compared to the baseline. A comprehensive evaluation of performance criteria identifies staggered baffles with a 30 degrees angle of attack as the optimal configuration for maximizing heat transfer within corrugated tubes.