Thermo Fluid Dynamics of an Array of Impinging Ionic Jets in a Crossflow

Abstract

Laminar to weakly turbulent mixed convection in a square duct heated from the bottom side is highly strengthened by ionic jets generated by an array of high voltage points, opposite to the heated strip. Negative ion injection is activated within the dielectric liquid HFE7100. Local temperatures on the heated wall are measured by liquid crystal thermography. Distributions of the Nusselt number are obtained at different forced flow rates, applied heat flows, and transiting electrical currents. In correspondence of the point emitters, higher Nusselt numbers in the impingement areas are measured and an analogy with the thermofluid dynamic behavior of an array of submerged impinging jets in a crossflow is drawn. The diameter of the ionic jets is evaluated and an electrohydrodynamic Reynolds number is employed for correlation and similarity purposes. Potential applications of the technique are highefficiency compact heat exchangers and heat sinks.