Performance and Optimization Analysis for Fins of Straight Taper With Simultaneous Heat and Mass Transfer

An analytical method based on Frobenius power series expansion has been developed for the performance prediction of fully wet fins. Fins of different geometries, namely, longitudinal, annular and spine having both trapezoidal and triangular profiles have been considered. Unlike dry fins, the efficiency and effectiveness of wet fins depend on the fin base temperature and psychrometric condition of the ambient air. A generalized criterion has been derived for the optimization of wet fins having the above geometries. A method for constructing design curves for the optimum fins has also been discussed.