The optimization heat performance for different liquid metals in enhanced shape of narrow rectangular channel

The design of narrow rectangular channels is critical for achieving high-efficiency heat transfer in liquid metal systems, widely used in advanced energy and thermal management applications. This study evaluates the influence of channel geometry and liquid metal type on thermal–hydraulic performance in both straight and wavy configurations. Numerical simulations are conducted for five liquid metals—two heavy (lead-bismuth eutectic, LBE; lead-lithium, PbLi) and three light (potassium, sodium, lithium)—and validated against experimental data for lithium and PbLi. Results show that parallel wavy channels with small amplitude ratios achieve the highest performance evaluation criterion (PEC), whereas symmetric wavy channels behave similarly to straight channels due to negligible transverse flow. High thermal conductivity of liquid metals minimizes temperature stratification, while mixing is enhanced with increased wave amplitude. Non-uniform heating reduces Nu compared to uniform double-wall heating. Forced convection dominates across all Reynolds numbers, and inclination variations (30°, 60°, 90°) cause minor changes (<1 %) in heat transfer and pumping efficiency. These findings offer guidance for designing optimized channels for both heavy and light liquid metals, with potential improvements for industrial heat transfer systems.