A critical review on Colburn j-factor and f-factor and energy performance analysis for finned tube heat exchangers

This study provides an extensive analysis of the key parameters impacting the air-side heat transfer and frictional pressure drop performance in Finned Tube Heat Exchangers (FTHEs). The study considers parameters such as fin spacing, fin height, and different fin patterns and their role in shaping the thermal and hydraulic characteristics of the exchangers. Both experimental and numerical Colburn j-factor and f-factor correlations reported in the literature are compared for different fin types, and the most effective parameters are evaluated. Furthermore, new correlations were developed based on the fin spacing, tube pitches, and the number of tube rows based on the existing literatures. This review introduces a novel energy performance parameter (EPP) for each FTHE type. The EPP, which represents the ratio of the heat transfer rate to the pumping power, provides a useful tool for comparing various fin configurations under different operating conditions. The EPP analysis concludes that spiral fins display the highest EPP, whereas wavy fins exhibit the lowest EPP when compared to a plain fin reference. This comprehensive review not only provides a detailed understanding of FTHEs' performance but also introduces a new framework for optimizing heat exchanger design and operation for practical applications.