Experimental investigation of the effectiveness of ultrasounds on increasing heat transfer coefficient of heat exchangers

In this study, the result of installing an ultrasonic transducer at the walls of the heat exchanger on improving the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) of distilled pure water is investigated. Ultrasonic transducers with powers of 35 W and 50 W were used on the wall of heat exchanger to produce ultrasonic waves. The results indicate that using ultrasonic transducer increases heat transfer coefficient. Unlike previous studies, in the current study, ultrasonic transducer was placed on the heat exchanger and with direct contact with the fluid which increased the effectiveness of ultrasonic waves. HTC increased with increase in flow rate, heater power and ultrasonic power. Furthermore, the effectiveness of ultrasonic waves on heat transfer decreased by increasing flow rate.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates that installing an ultrasonic transducer on the walls of a heat exchanger can increase the heat transfer coefficient. The effectiveness of ultrasonic waves decreases with increasing flow rate.