Analysis of heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics of an internally finned tube (Q2875361)

Numerical and experimental investigations have been performed to study fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of a finned tube and a smooth tube. Numerical simulation is based on a \(k-\varepsilon\) model appropriate for the investigation of internally finned tubes. The experimental and numerical values of wall temperature distribution are shown to match better for the finned tube as compared to the plain tube. On the other hand, the local and average Nusselt numbers are better matched for the plain tube as compared to the finned tube. This phenomenon need be explained. In general, the paper presents important contributions towards flow characterization between smooth and internally finned tubes.