Overview
The Finned Tube Heat Exchanger apparatus demonstrates the use of extended surfaces (fins) on tubes to enhance the air-side heat transfer coefficient in cross-flow or forced-convection configurations. Hot water or steam flows inside finned tubes while air flows over the fins, simulating automotive radiator and HVAC coil operation. Students evaluate the effect of fin geometry, fin pitch, and air velocity on the overall heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop. The apparatus bridges theory of extended surface heat transfer with practical design considerations for compact heat exchangers used in refrigeration, automotive, and HVAC industries.
Specifications
| Fin material | aluminium |
| Tube material | copper |
| Air side velocity | 1 to 6 m/s |
| Hot water temperature | up to 80 degrees C |
| Water flow rate | 1 to 5 LPM |
| Temperature sensors | thermocouples, 4 to 6 points |
| Fan | centrifugal with speed control |
| Power supply | 220V AC, 50 Hz |