| Abstract: |
Compact heat exchangers play a crucial role in modern thermal management systems across various industrial applications. This experimental study investigates the enhancement of thermal performance in compact heat exchangers through the integration of nanofluids and surface modification techniques. The primary objective is to analyze the synergistic effects of Al₂O₃-water nanofluid at varying concentrations (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%) combined with modified surface geometries including dimpled, finned, and micro-channeled configurations. The methodology employs a systematic experimental approach using a counter-flow compact heat exchanger test rig with precise instrumentation for temperature and pressure measurements. The hypothesis posits that combined nanofluid application and surface modifications will yield superior heat transfer coefficients compared to conventional working fluids and plain surfaces. Results demonstrate that 1.5% Al₂O₃ nanofluid with dimpled surface configuration achieved maximum heat transfer enhancement of 47.3% with a pressure drop penalty of 18.6%. Statistical analysis reveals significant improvements in Nusselt number and overall heat transfer coefficient across all modified configurations. The study concludes that optimal thermal performance is achieved through balanced nanoparticle concentration and appropriate surface modification selection, providing valuable insights for industrial heat exchanger design optimization. |
