Effect of square pin-fin twist on thermo-hydraulic performance of a rectangular channel in forced convection

Due to the gradual escalation of operating temperatures, the heat dissipation of equipment such as electronic components, etc., needs to be further improved. This study dealt with an experimental/numerical investigation to manage the thermo-hydraulic performance of a heat sink with square pin-fins at various θ and Re. An experimental platform, which utilized ambient air as a cooling medium, was established. Steady-state liquid crystal thermography was employed to determine the Nu of the heated surface. Through simulations and experiments at Re = 11,400–19,000, it was observed that the overall performance of rectangular channels with square pin-fins was significantly better than that of flat rectangular channels. As Re increased, the thermal resistance of the cases with square pin-fins decreased. In addition, the Nu increased with an increase in the twist angle. For θ = 90° and θ = 180°, the friction factor reached a minimum value at Re = 15,200, while the performance factor attained a maximum value at Re = 15,200. For Re = 19,000 and θ = 180°, the cooling channel with square pin-fins demonstrated optimal heat dissipation effects. Furthermore, twist fins at α = 0° and α = 45° exhibited distinct local heat transfer performances within the cooling channel.