Optimization of Heat Exchange Plate Geometry by Modeling Physical Processes Using CAD

This article presents the possibility of evaluating the efficiency of the heat exchange element with a special stamping plate, which is based on the results of computer simulation. The method is based on a comparative analysis of convective heat transfer models implemented in ANSYS using a k-ε turbulence model. To conduct the study, 3D models of three different types of cavity geometry formed between two heat exchange plates (flat plate, chevron plate, and plate with conical stampings) were built. Simulation was performed by finite element analysis in ANSYS for channels formed by the three types of plates, one of which is a new configuration. The results of hydrodynamic and heat exchange parameters allowed for establishing the efficiency of convective heat exchange for plates of known structures and to compare them with the proposed one. It was found that the plates with conical stamping form the smallest channels through which the fluid moves. The velocity of the coolant is uniform throughout the cross section of the channel and equal to 0.294 m/s; the value of the heat transfer coefficient is the largest of the three models and is 5339 W/(m K), while the pressure drop is 1060 Pa. Taking into account the simulation results, the best heat transfer parameters were shown by the channel formed by plates with conical stamping and the highest pressure drop. To increase the efficiency, indicated by the ratio of heat transfer coefficients to hydraulic resistance, the geometry of the plate with conical stamping was optimized. As a result of optimization, it was found that the optimal geometric parameters of the heat exchange plate with conical stamping were achieved at a 55° inclination angle and 1.5 mm height for the cone. The results of this study can be used in the design of heat exchange elements of new structures with optimal parameters for highly efficient heating of liquid coolants.