A Numerical Study of Plate-Fin Heat Sink Cooling by Fractal Induced Turbulence

Chang, Choon Zheng (2024) A Numerical Study of Plate-Fin Heat Sink Cooling by Fractal Induced Turbulence. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

In the realm of heating and cooling systems, finned-tube heat exchangers hold a vital role in facilitating efficient heat transfer between various fluids. The pressing need for energy conservation in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems has led to a significant focus on improving heat exchanger efficiency. This study explores the innovative concept of fractal-induced turbulence as a means to substantially enhance the performance of plate-fin heat sinks, particularly in cooling applications. Fractal-induced turbulence, known for its ability to create chaotic flow patterns with diverse length scales, offers a promising avenue for improving heat transmission. This investigation numerically examines the interplay of key factors, including fractal grid thickness, iteration complexity, and intake flow velocity, in the context of plate-fin heat sink thermal performance using ANSYS Fluent. The primary objective is to elucidate how different fractal shapes influence heat transmission and pressure drop properties through numerical simulations. It also explores the intricate trade-off between intensified heat transfer and pressure drop penalties, ultimately presenting design that balances these factors expertly. The anticipated outcomes of this research promise valuable insights for designing and optimizing plate-fin heat sinks across diverse applications. To ensure the accuracy of realizable