HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER OF OILS IN BAFFLED AND FINNED DUCTS

Abstract

This analysis intends to simulate the forced-convection and oil flow characteristics in the turbulent regime (Re = 5000-25000) through rectangular-shaped ducts with staggered, transverse, solid, and flat baffle plates. The study is achieved by using a calculation software based on the finite volume method (FLUENT) with selected SIMPLE, Quick, and k-e model. Two various models of baffled ducts are simulated in this analysis under steady flow conditions. In the first model (Case A), a duct with one upper fin and two lower baffles is examined. However and in the second model (Case B), a duct with two upper fins and one lower baffle is treated. The contour plots of stream-function, number of Nusselt, and coefficient of skin friction are addressed. As expected, the heat transfer rates raised in the second case (Case B), due to the presence of the lower second obstacle that directs the entire oil current towards the hot upper part of the second duct at very high velocities, resulting thus in enhanced heat transfer rates, especially in the case of high Reynolds number values.