Abstract

An apparatus for electrohydrodynamic augmentation of heat transfer with a working fluid comprising a heat transfer surface, said surface being formed with fins extending from a side of said surface in contact with the working fluid, said fins defining at least one channel having confronting sidewalls; an elongated, electrically conductive electrode disposed in the channel in relatively closely spaced relation between the sidewalls for carrying a current and producing an electric field for interacting with the working fluid to enhance heat exchange with the surface. At least one insulator disposed for engaging the channel in longitudinal spaced apart locations therealong. The insulator for supporting the electrode in the spaced standoff relation with the sidewalls for preventing excessive current flow between the electrode and the heat exchange surface through the working fluid and the longitudinal spacing of the insulator facilitating convective and conductive heat transfer of the working fluid with the surface.

Other References

• M.M. Ohadi, Elecrohydrodynamic Enhancement of Heat Transfer in Heat Exchangers, Dec. 1991, ASHRAE Journal, 13 pages
• C.A. Geppert, Electrohydrodynamically Enhanced Heat Transfer in Pool Boiling, Jul. 1994, a thesi