Characterization of a novel metal surface modification for enhanced convective heat transfer

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NUCAP has developed a manufacturing process which creates high aspect ratio metal features on metal**surfaces and wish to explore the potential of this unique surface geometry for enhanced convective heat**transfer from metal heat exchanger fins. The objectives of this research project are to characterize the**thermo-fluidic performance of these heat exchangers and to develop design tools which can be used to**optimize these features for given customer requirements.**The research team will develop the test facilities and characterize both water-to-air and air-to-air heat**exchangers fabricated using conventional methods and NUCAP's surface enhancements. This work is**innovative in that it represents the first time convective heat transfer from these unique structures will be**quantified and compared to existing heat exchanger technologies. Recently developed pin-fin models will be**reviewed and modified as necessary to the unique geometries here. A 3D surface reconstruction technique will**be employed to support geometric analysis and subsequent numerical models for heat transfer from these**features.**This project will benefit NUCAP by quantifying the heat transfer enhancement offered by their fabrication**technique and to support the development of a new product line and revenue stream for NUCAP. It will further**provide the modelling and design tools to improve their designs and meet the needs of a wide range of potential**customers. A positive outcome of this research project will contribute to creation of more jobs at NUCAP's**manufacturing facility in Toronto. It will further facilitate the development of a novel heat exchange**technology for Canadian industries such as energy storage, HVAC, and solar thermal collectors.