Numerical Investigation of Thermal Performance for Turbulent Water Flow through Dimpled Pipe

Abstract

Dimples are tiny indentations on the surfaces of the body that enhance heat transfer and alter fluid flow characteristics on or within the body. Numerical investigations were conducted to analyse the heat transfer and flow characteristics in a cross-combined dimple tube in the range of Reynolds numbers from 6000 to 14000. The finite volume method recognised a novel enhancement model utilising methods for composite-form surfaces. Compared to a smooth tube working similarly, the effects significantly improve the heat transfer index, performance evaluation criteria, and friction factor. A three-dimensional simulation was conducted to clarify the underlying process by which dimples affect thermal performance. The simulation findings suggest that the dimples effectively enhance heat transfer by altering the temperature distribution and increasing the temperature gradient within the central area of the dimple section. A concave surface profile disrupts the flow and prevents the formation of a stable boundary layer, promoting the mixing of hot and cold fluids. Furthermore, the study investigates how geometric characteristics impact thermal and hydraulic efficiencies, emphasising that larger dimples improve overall thermo-hydraulic performance. Specifically, the heat transfer enhancement achieved an average increase of 17.3%, ranging from 18.03% to 38.6%, surpassing that of the traditional smooth tube.