Role of impregnated lubricant in enhancing thermosyphon performance

Peng Zhang, Fengyong Lv, Alex Askounis, Daniel Orejon, Biao Shen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We report on the optimal configuration for enhanced heat transfer performance of a two-phase closed thermosyphon (TPCT), incorporating a superhydrophilic (SHi) evaporator with a slippery lubricant-infused porous surface (SLIPS) condenser (TPCT-SHiSL). For the conditions examined, the overall heat transfer performance of the TPCT-SHiSL was enhanced by as much as 28.9% compared to the other configurations proposed. This enhancement is attributed to the use of SLIPS as the condenser, which promotes the condensation heat transfer and the overall heat transfer performance. Moreover, we illustrate the importance of pairing the SLIPS condenser with a SHi evaporator, in order to minimize lubricant absorption at the evaporator. Additionally, the heat transfer performance of the TPCT-SHiSL was evaluated over time and consistent results were observed even after 16 experimental runs (192 h in 90 days), demonstrating good durability of the TPCT-SHiSL.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1229-1238
Number of pages10
JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer
Volume109
Early online date19 Mar 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Boiling and condensation
  • Heat transfer enhancement
  • SLIPS
  • Superhydrophilic surface
  • Superhydrophobic surface

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