Performance Analysis of a Compact Offset Strip Fin Heat Exchanger for Lubrication System in Aero Engine

Abstract

As a typical fuel-oil heat exchanger, the offset strip fin heat exchanger (OSFHX) can ensure the efficient and stable operation of the aero engine lubrication system. The paper establishes 20 kinds of numerical models of OSFHX that are verified by experiments. The heat transfer characteristics of oil inside the OSFHX are systematically studied. Based on dimensional analysis, the prediction model which can describe the whole performance of the OSFHX is obtained. The results show that with the decrease of s, l, h, t, and α, the heat transfer performance of the OSFHX is enhanced and the resistance is increased. With the decrease of s and h, and the increase of t and α, the comprehensive performance of the OSFHX is enhanced. When l = 4 mm, the comprehensive performance of the OSFHX is the best. For the heat transfer performance and comprehensive performance of the OSFHX, the α has the most significant effect, followed by h, and s, l, and t are the weakest. The average error of j factor and f factor prediction models is 4.09% and 5.31% respectively which can realize the theoretical calculation of the performance of the OSFHX for aviation.