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

Abstract As a typical fuel-oil heat exchanger, an 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 effects of different structural parameters on the performance of lubricating oil in OSFHX were systematically studied. Based on dimensional analysis, the prediction model which can describe the overall performance of the OSFHX is obtained. The results show that with the decrease of fin distance (s), fin length (l), fin height (h), fin thickness (t), and fin shape angle (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. The OSFHX exhibits the optimal performance when l = 4 mm. α has the most significant effect on the comprehensive performance of the OSFHX, successively followed by h, s, t, and l. The average error of Colburn factor (j) and friction factor (f) prediction models is 4.09% and 5.31%, respectively, which can realize the theoretical calculation of the performance of the OSFHX for aviation.