Parametric study and optimization of H-type finned tube heat exchangers with honeycomb arrangement using Taguchi method

Enhancing the efficiency of flue gas waste heat utilization is an important way to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. In this paper, a three-dimensional numerical model of an H-type finned tube heat exchanger with honeycomb arrangement is developed. Firstly, the effects of five parameters are analyzed using the control variable method, including the oblique tube pitch, the ratio of fin height to oblique tube pitch, fin pitch, fin thickness and slit width. Then, the Taguchi method was used to investigate the interaction effects of the five geometric parameters. Numerical simulations of 27 cases with different parameter combinations were carried out and the heat transfer and flow friction characteristics and their overall performance were discussed in detail. The results show that oblique tube pitch has the most significant effect on heat transfer capacity, fin pitch has the most significant effect on overall performance, and slit width has the least effect on both. Finally, the optimum parameter combinations were obtained. When inlet velocity ranges from 5 m/s to 10 m/s, heat transfer performance is increased by 46.3 %-52.1 %, pressure drop is increased by 5.7 %- 11.3 %, and the overall performance PEC is improved by 63.5 %-105.9 %. The results of the study contribute to the development and optimization of new flue gas heat exchangers.