Parametric study on the heat transfer characteristics in a circular tube with helical tape insert under laminar flow conditions

In the present study, the effect of a helical coiled tape on the heat transfer characteristics in a tubular heat exchanger has been studied. Numerical analysis is carried out in a tubular heat exchanger with a helical coiled tape insert under laminar flow conditions. The heat transfer characteristics, like Nusselt number (Nu) and friction factor (f), have been determined. Numerical modeling is undertaken and validated using analytical results. To study the parametric variation, simulation is carried out for different width ratios (WR) and twist ratios (TRs). It is observed that Nu increases as the WR is increased and the TR is reduced. The thermohydraulic performance index (THPI) is measured and found to be higher for a combination of a higher WR and a higher TR. From the tested values, it is seen that for a combination of WR = 3 and TR = 1.25, the maximum THPI was observed. It is concluded that both the tape width and pitch will significantly influence the thermohydraulic characteristics in a tubular heat exchanger with a helical tape insert inserted.