Numerical study of curved pin-fin cross-sections for enhanced thermal–hydraulic performance in microchannel cooling

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dc.contributor.authorKaewchoothong, Natthaporn
dc.contributor.authorOo, Ye Min
dc.contributor.authorGonsrang, Sarawut
dc.date.accessioned2026-08-06T10:55:10Z
dc.date.available2026-08-06T10:55:10Z
dc.date.issued2026-04-01
dc.description.abstractEfficient heat dissipation is crucial for modern high-heat-flux systems, where microchannel cooling offers compactness and high surface–area density. This study numerically investigated the thermal–hydraulic performance of air-cooled microchannels equipped with curved pin-fins featuring four cross-sectional shapes: a smooth circular baseline (C1) and multi-convex profiles containing 2, 3, and 4 lobes (C2–C4). Simulations were performed for Reynolds numbers of 200–1000 under uniform heat flux applied to both the endwall and fin surfaces, and the resulting flow structures, heat-transfer behavior, and pressure losses were evaluated using local and area-averaged Nusselt numbers, friction factors, and thermal-performance factors ( TPF ). The results showed that introducing cross-sectional convexity substantially modified the internal flow by enhancing impingement, strengthening secondary vortices, and suppressing wake regions. Among the tested designs, the two-convex geometry (C2) showed the greatest heat-transfer enhancement, whereas the three-convex configuration (C3) provided the most favorable thermal–hydraulic balance and consistently yielded the highest TPF . These findings clarified the governing mechanisms associated with curvature-induced mixing and demonstrated how tailored cross-sectional shaping can improve energy efficiency in microchannel-based cooling systems. The work provided practical geometric guidelines for advanced thermal management in battery modules, compact heat exchangers, and high-power electronics.
dc.identifier.citationApplied Thermal Engineering, 292, 2026
dc.identifier.doi10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2026.130428
dc.identifier.issn13594311
dc.identifier.other2-s2.0-105031638219
dc.identifier.urihttps://dspace.kmitl.ac.th/handle/123456789/18011
dc.sourceApplied Thermal Engineering
dc.subjectCross-sectional configuration
dc.subjectCurved pin-fins
dc.subjectMicrochannel cooling
dc.subjectNusselt number
dc.subjectThermal performance factor
dc.titleNumerical study of curved pin-fin cross-sections for enhanced thermal–hydraulic performance in microchannel cooling
dc.typeArticle

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