Numerical and experimental analysis of a tube-and-fin cross-flow heat exchanger with a controlled non-uniform inflow of gas

The paper presents results of numerical and experimental analyses a fin-and-tube air-water heat exchanger. analysed device is one-row exchanger with finned elliptical tubes. aim the to investigate impact controlled non-uniform inflow air on performance. was modelled numerically using ANSYS Fluent program. developed model applied simulate operation in conditions uniform air. Cases an uncontrolled gas were investigated experimentally, purpose-designed test station. On station effect also achieved by placing appropriately shaped inserts inlet duct, directing partially region water header. By controlling inflow, it possible significantly enhance multivariate conducted for adopted parameters mediums (air volumetric flow rates temperature) show that performance can be improved up almost 5% compared variant natural taking place under consideration.