DESIGN MODIFICATION OF A PARALLEL FLOW HEAT EXCHANGER FOR LABORATORY USE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study reports the design, fabrication and performance evaluation of a parallel flow heat exchanger for laboratory use. The system integrates transparent polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the outer pipe to enable visual observation and copper tubes arranged in both straight and coiled configurations as the primary heat transfer medium. Experimental investigations were conducted with water as the working fluid, and inlet and outlet temperatures as well as flow rates were measured to assess thermal performance. The results demonstrated that the coiled copper tube achieved superior heat transfer efficiency owing to its larger surface area and enhanced turbulence, whereas the straight tube offered reduced fabrication complexity and higher flow rates. Theoretical predictions showed close agreement with experimental results, confirming the reliability of the design. By combining affordability, durability and instructional value, this PVC and copper configuration provides an effective educational tool for demonstrating fundamental principles of heat transfer and for bridging theoretical concepts with practical experimentation.
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