Nonuniformities in compact heat exchangers—scope for better energy utilization: A review

The present paper deals with a review of the nonuniformities present in compact heat exchangers in terms of temperature and flow and their effect on the performance of different energy transfer equipment. The understandings of flow distribution and flow pattern at the entrance of compact heat exchanger and prediction of the behavior of heat exchanger have also been reviewed. Different models for temperature and flow nonuniformities have been discussed. Investigations on steady state and transient thermal performance due to nonuniformity of temperature and flow have also been discussed. Focus has also been given on design aspects of the inlet headers and distributors mainly responsible for nonuniformities. Experimental studies have been cited to evaluate the effects of distributor׳s configuration parameter on the fluid flow maldistribution in the plate-fin heat exchanger. Effect of nonuniformities on both two- and three-fluid heat exchangers with phase change and with physical property variations has also been reported. The deterioration of thermal performance of a solar collector due to flow nouniformity effect has also been discussed.