Optimisation of perforated plate matrix heat exchanger surfaces using Taguchi and analysis of variance method

Determining the basic heat transfer and flow friction characteristics of heat transfer surfaces of matrix heat exchanger will help to understand the basic mechanisms involved for its development. In this paper, the effect of different dimensionless parameters such as Reynolds number (Re), porosity (p), perforation perimeter factor (Pf), plate thickness to pore diameter ratio (l/d), spacer thickness to plate thickness ratio (s/l) on heat transfer and flow friction characteristics are analysed using Taguchi signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) method. Taguchi method and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were utilised to determine the optimal heat transfer and flow friction parameters. Through multivariable linear regression analysis, correlations for Colburn factor, j and friction factor, f with the dimensionless parameters. A model was generated and a good approximation was achieved in comparing the experimental data and the predicted data obtained from the model.