Heat exchanger fin element with dog-bone type pattern of corrugations

摘要

An improved fin element adapted for use in a fin and tube type heat exchanger core assembly, the improved fin element having a plurality of tube openings extending therethrough and having a "dog-bone" type pattern of corrugations extending substantially over the entire planar surface thereof, the corrugated pattern forming a uniform, discontinuous, six-sided configuration about each respective tube opening for altering the fluid flow characteristics across the fin in such a manner as to enhance its heat transfer capability. The particular pattern of corrugations utilized on the subject fin element effectively induces turbulent flow thereacross; it causes circulation of the fluid medium flowing thereacross to the downstream side of the tubes extending therethrough; and, it effectively reduces the thickness of the boundary layer associated therewith to achieve increased heat transfer performance without a corresponding increase in fluid flow resistance.