Numerical prediction of fluid flow and heat transfer in a parallel plate channel with baffles

Periodically fully developed fluid flow and heat transfer in a two dimensional passages are numerically analyzed for constant property laminar flow. The passage is formed by two parallel plates with baffles positioned in the central' part of the passage. Both the plates are maintained at a constant temperature, while the baffles are perfectly conductive and adiabatic respectively. Computations are carried out for different geometric parameters, Reynolds numbers and Prandtl numbers. Moderate enhancement in the Nusselt number can be obtained at the cost of the pressure drop increasing greatly, compared with the corresponding values for a straight duct. The logarithmic average heat transfer coefficient; (<(Nu)over bar>), generally gets a raise with increasing Re, Pr and the height of baffles, and with decrease in the distance between baffles. Moreover, streamline patterns and local heat transfer performances are presented.