Performance enhancement of punched holes streamlined winglet pair vortex generator for fin-and-tube heat exchanger

A new type of perforated streamlined winglet pair vortex generator (PSWVG) has been proposed and used to enhance the performances of some fin-and-tube heat exchangers (FTHE). The effects of the diameter of the hole and the angle of attack of the PSWVG on the performances have been investigated. The results show that compared with that by the streamlined winglet pair vortex generator (SWVG), the comprehensive performance of the FTHE enhanced by the PSWVG is better. Punching holes on the SWVG can reduce the area of the reverse pressure region behind the VG, which will reduce the pressure loss and improve the overall performance of the FTHE. The optimal diameter of the hole and the angle of attack of the PSWVG obtained by using response surface analysis method are 4.59 mm and 43.8°, respectively.